Ipswich Town vs Maidstone United FC Prediction & Betting Tips - FA Cup

Prediction published on 25/01/2024, 06:30  by Ian John | Modified on 26/01/2024 at 23:30 in FA Cup Prediction

High-flying Championship promotion hopefuls Ipswich Town face semi-professional outfit Maidstone United of the National League South, the sixth level of English football in this intriguing FA Cup Fourth Round tie. The Tractor Boys come into this game with home advantage and having beaten AFC Wimbledon 3-1 in the previous round of the competition. They also snatched a crucial draw away to Leicester City in midweek, thanks to Jeremy Sarmiento's late goal. The on loan winger has only made two appearances since joining from Brighton in the January transfer window, but that goal could have him in with a chance of starting this game. Runner's up in League One last season, Ipswich have continued their great form this season to lie second in the Championship under boss Kieran McKenna, giving them a chance of back to back promotions. However, this weekend they will be looking to advance to the Fifth Round of the FA Cup.

Standing in their way are National League South 4th placed team Maidstone United. Manager George Elokobi, the former Wolves defender, is trying to lead his side back into the National League at the first attempt after they finished bottom of that division last season. A good FA Cup run, which has seen them defeat Chesham United, then League Two Barrow and League One Stevenage gives them an opportunity to take on a Championship outfit. Maidstone can call upon striker Timmy Abraham, the brother of England and AS Roma striker Tammy, although the striker is yet to find the net in seven games this season. Maidstone's form at home has been solid of late, but their away form is poor having lost five of their last six on the road, drawing the other.