REF’s picks

Middlesbrough return to the Riverside holding second place in the table and showing strong attacking momentum, making a multi-goal victory against struggling Cardiff City a solid angle at fair odds. Boro's recent matches have seen plenty of goals, including a thrilling 3-2 win at Stoke, but their defensive vulnerabilities could still give the visitors a route into the match.

1. 1Middlesbrough sit high in the Championship in great form with multiple wins in their last outings.
2. 2Cardiff City are lingering near the relegation zone and have struggled defensively on their travels.
3. 3Defensive lapses from the hosts could allow Cardiff to stay competitive and threaten the handicap margin.

REF's own opinion, not a guarantee — nothing here is financial or betting advice, and the call is always yours.