Barnsley vs Lincoln Prediction & Betting Tips (29 December)

Barnsley approach this League One meeting with Lincoln knowing their form has been unpredictable in recent weeks, highlighted by a heavy 3–0 defeat to Exeter City and a far more spirited 3–2 win over Leyton Orient shortly afterFotMob. Their December schedule has been intense, and the club has been dealing with squad rotation as they try to stabilise their campaign. One of the more notable talking points from the past two months has been the continued influence of Davis Keillor‑Dunn, who remains one of their most productive attacking players, scoring ten league goals so far this seasonESPN. Barnsley’s challenge has been consistency, especially away from home, but returning to Oakwell gives them a platform to reset and push for a stronger second half of the campaign.

Lincoln, meanwhile, enter this fixture with confidence after a strong run that includes a 2–1 win over Cardiff City, a 1–0 victory against Port Vale, and a resilient 2–2 draw away at BlackpoolFotMob. Their most eye‑catching result in the past two months remains the 3–1 win over Barnsley on 9 December, where Reeco Hackett‑Fairchild scored twice and Tom Bayliss added another in a dominant displayFootball Web Pages+1. That performance reinforced Lincoln’s growing reputation as one of the division’s most organised and tactically disciplined sides. Their defensive structure has tightened considerably, and their midfield balance has improved, giving them a strong foundation heading into this rematch.

The head‑to‑head dynamic adds another layer of intrigue. Lincoln have beaten Barnsley twice in their last two meetings, including a 2–0 win in the EFL Trophy in November and the aforementioned 3–1 league victory in DecemberESPN. Barnsley, however, have shown they can respond after setbacks, as seen in their away win at Peterborough United and their ability to grind out results when neededFotMob. Both sides have been dealing with fixture congestion, but Lincoln appear to have handled the physical demands slightly better, with their midfield trio showing improved cohesion and their forwards pressing with renewed intensity. Barnsley will need to be sharper in transition and more clinical in the final third if they want to reverse the recent trend.

With both teams showing contrasting but compelling form lines, this match promises to be far more competitive than their December encounter. Barnsley’s home advantage, combined with their need to respond to recent defeats, should push them to play with greater urgency, while Lincoln’s confidence and tactical clarity will ensure they remain dangerous throughout. The balance of form, motivation, and tactical matchups suggests a tight contest, and our prediction leans toward a narrow Barnsley win. We are settling on a 2–1 correct score, mentioned here as requested.