Middlesbrough U21 desperately need points on Friday, Feb 5 at 8:00 PM in the Premier League 2. With the team sitting in the bottom three, this is quickly becoming a must-win situation.

Sunderland U21 come into this fixture in good form (3W 0D 1L recently). Middlesbrough U21 travel out of form (0W 2L recently), which may hand the initiative to the hosts.

In 4 previous meetings, Sunderland U21 lead 1–3 with 0 draws. Their last encounter ended in Sunderland U21 won 3–2. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 5.5 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: The gulf in league position makes Sunderland U21 clear favorites, but Middlesbrough U21 have shown they can grind out results. Expect Sunderland U21 to take the points, potentially without being at their best.