Mission Impossible may be an over-exaggeration for Saturday's trip to Bournemouth but not many will be expecting Bristol City to pull off an upset.
In a way, that could play into the hands of the Robins with the pressure off and as we know with the unpredictability of the Championship, a surprise result is never too far around the corner.
Bournemouth head into the contest having won six of their last 10 matches but have only won four of their last eight at home. The downside is that the Robins have only won one of their last 13 away from Ashton Gate.
While City have little to play for except improving on their points tally from last season (they are seven behind), the Cherries won't be resting on any laurels as they sit second in the Championship with a return to the Premier League firmly in sight.
An inevitable promotion back to the top flight won't come as a surprise to many, no less than Nigel Pearson who described them as a Premier League outfit after the reverse fixture 2-0 defeat in October and the best team he had come across this season.
However, there are some glimmer of hopes for City if they can stick to a solid, disciplined game plan and hit Bournemouth on the counter as Jacob Tanswell, AFC Bournemouth correspondent for Dorset Live, detailed below.
How do Bournemouth fans rate their season so far?
I think it has been a strange one to gauge. While the team's position is excellent and the improvements the club has made in strengthening the squad is mightily impressive, there has been a slight disconnect between Scott Parker and the fans, largely due to the style of football being implemented.
They've tended to come unstuck against sides who have sat in low blocks and almost played exclusively on the counter. As a result, football has lacked purpose and led to frustration from the stands.
How are they likely to set up against Bristol City on Saturday?
Bournemouth will undoubtedly play a 4-3-3, with Dominic Solanke key to nearly every facet of their game. They will employ a high line, dominate possession and circumvent most of their attacks out wide through their overlapping full-backs, wide wingers and number 8s pushing up and supporting Solanke upfront.
What will be their game plan, how will they approach the fixture?
With trips to West Brom, Sheffield United and Blackburn coming up, this is a game where Bournemouth will look to turn around their inconsistent home form. Starting fast is a critical component to Bournemouth putting Bristol City on the back foot and ultimately suffocating them until they crack.
How can City exploit any Bournemouth weaknesses to pull off an unlikely result?
If Bristol City can break up Bournemouth's rhythm through stoppages, counter-pressing at the right times and generally interfering Bournemouth from being able to sustain attacks, then they have the potential to thwart the home side.
Maximising counter-attacking opportunities will be crucial in exploiting the space on either side of Lloyd Kelly and Nat Phillips at the back.
Thoughts on Scott Parker?
Parker is a highly detailed, meticulous coach who gives players clarity when they step out on the pitch. When his brand of football is
in full flow and are up against teams who press high but leave space in-behind, then the 4-3-3 shape is extremely pleasing to watch.
Currently, he is performing his remit under the obvious pressure of Bournemouth requiring instant promotion this year, so full credit to
him.
And finally, what's your prediction?
If Bournemouth are able to sustain momentum, intensity and attacks they should win in a similarly dominant fashion to the first game. It just depends if old habits come back to bite. My prediction is a 3-0 win for the Cherries.
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