Sporting had a great start to the season, but they have won only two games from their last eight. The hosts were defeated 3-0 by Mallorca away from home in the 25th round. Other sides now know what to expect from them in the top division. The key to the game with Athletic will be to play very well in defence, because I think the visitors will have the chances, and Gijon want to retain their Primera Division status at the season's end.

Athletic still put their faith in a Basque-born squad which fights for the cause. Bilbao stay in 7th place after they beat Valladolid 2-0 last weekend. They will try to get at least one point against Sporting, but it will be a hard task. Coach Caparrós will look to get as much as he can out of his team this season, as he did so successfully last year when reaching the Copa Del Rey final. There is real talent in their squad.
I believe it will be a draw.