Preview: Blackpool -Vs- Hull City

Hull City will go in search of their first win on New Year`s Day for the first time since 2007 when they travel to Blackpool this afternoon.

Steve Bruce, who has steered his City side to second position at the turn of the year, heads to Bloomfield Road in confident mood having seen his side complete a stunning victory over Leeds United in their last outing and having won four in a row away from the KC Stadium.

Despite Blackpool recording a 3-2 win at the KC Stadium earlier in the season, Blackpool have since seen Ian Holloway leave for Crystal Palace while also seeing their own league standing drop as they join a host of sides chasing a Play-Off place. Both teams enter in contrasting forms with Blackpool having lost 4-2 at Middlesbrough on Saturday and City retaining their automatic promotion position.

They may have to do so without Ahmed Elmohamady who has a calf strain, although the Sunderland player has travelled to Blackpool. Bruce has no other injury concerns so apart from the potential introduction of Liam Rosenior, Steve Bruce may choose an unchanged side before the FA Cup 3rd round provides an opportunity to rest first-team regulars. City will also be able to call upon Alex Bruce who has served a three game suspension for his sending off against Huddersfield Town.

Blackpool will use Tom Ince despite his rumoured departure from Bloomfield Road to Anfield but are without Matt Phillips and Ian Evatt.

Vital Hull Prediction: Blackpool 1 - 2 Hull City

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