Preview: Cambridge United vs. Barnsley - prediction, team news, lineups

The two sides are separated by two points in the table, with Barnsley trailing the play-off places by a single point.

Match preview

Despite being billed as one of the favourites for relegation once again during pre-season, Cambridge continue to punch above their weight under the guidance of Mark Bonner.

The 37-year-old is becoming a club legend after helping the U's return to the third tier since 2002, with this season now being their third in a row at this level.

Four wins from their opening six matches has seen them open up an eight-point gap ahead of the relegation places after playing just nine matches, with Bonner likely to have his eyes on pushing for a top half finish rather than being too concerned about the bottom of the table.

Cambridge proved that they can mix things with the big boys in the division by claiming a 0-0 draw away to Derby County on Saturday, with yet another stubborn defensive display showcasing their organisation and resolve under Bonner.

Barnsley, on the other hand, are one of League One's great entertainers having scored more goals than any other side so far this campaign, but they fell out of the play-off spots after losing 1-0 at home to Blackpool at the weekend.

The Tykes came desperately close to returning to the second tier under Michael Duff last season, but they had their hearts broken by Sheffield Wednesday in the play-off final, with Josh Windass' injury-time strike in extra-time seeing the Owls promoted at their Yorkshire rivals' expense.

Former Tampa Bay Rowdies boss Neill Collins has taken the reigns following Duff's summer move to Swansea City, with five wins from their opening 10 league games suggesting they have enough quality to claim a play-off spot once again.

However, if they are to challenge for automatic promotion and avoid relying on another trip to Wembley Stadium, their defence will need tightening up and Collins will be hoping to witness that process in action in East Anglia on Tuesday.

Cambridge United League One form:

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Cambridge United form (all competitions):

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Barnsley League One form:

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Barnsley form (all competitions):

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Team News

Given that Cambridge kept a clean sheet at Derby - who are considered to be one of the favourites for promotion - Bonner may persist with the experienced duo of Michael Morrison and Ryan Bennett at the heart of his defence.

As such, Jubril Okedina may have to be patient to win his place back, but he is likely to be called upon alongside the likes of Adam May and Gassan Ahadme at some stage of proceedings.

Barnsley, meanwhile, could make a few changes after suffering defeat last time out, with Nicky Cadden and Sam Cosgrove likely to start.

Corey O'Keefe and Jack McAtee could make way to accommodate the duo, with Cosgrove hoping to make an impact alongside his in-form strike partner Devante Cole.

Cambridge United possible starting lineup:

Mannion; L Bennett, R Bennett, Morrison, Andrew; Digby, Thomas; Brophy, Lankester, Kachunga; Okenabirhie

Barnsley possible starting lineup:

Roberts; Williams, De Gevigney, McCart; Styles, Russell, Kane, Chapman, Cadden; Cosgrove, Cole

We say: Cambridge United 1-1 Barnsley

Cambridge have proven tough to beat under Bonner once again this season, and they are likely to target Barnsley in the form of a direct approach on Tuesday.

The visitors are still finding their feet under Collins' tutelage, but we expect their slick play in possession to help them come away from the Abbey Stadium with a share of the spoils.

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