Category Archives: EPL Football Betting Tips

Tottenham v Everton Preview: Spurs stars sidelined as Moyes sweats on Mirallas

tottenham-hotspurTottenham Hotspur v Evertoneverton

White Hart Lane, Sunday April 7th; kick off 14:05. Ref: Andre Marriner
Live on ESPN

Spurs have a mini-crisis after Gareth Bale’s ankle injury, Jermain Defoe still sidelined, and Aaron Lennon and William Gallas recovering from injuries they also suffered against Basel on Thursday night.  For Everton, it’s more of a suspension crisis as star players Fellaini and Pienaar sit out, while last week’s match-winner Kevin Mirallas could recover from a groin injury suffered against Stoke.

In their last meeting at Goodison Park, Everton managed to score two late goals to win the match at the death.  The same thing happened again to Tottenham just down the road away to Liverpool. The Lilywhiltes are in a great position to finish in the top 4 and need to get their momentum going again for the run in.

Everton have now won three consecutive Premier League matches for the first time since January 2010, with all of those games being at Goodison.  Only the Manchester teams have a better home record than Everton (33 points from 16 games).  In contrast, David Moyes’ team have not won in their last three matches away from home in the Premier League (lost 2, drawn 1).

At this same stage last season, Harry Redknapp’s Spurs were a point better off than this season under AVB.  Everton’s Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic likes playing against Tottenham, having scored in both of his appearances against Spurs, but just the once in his last 14 Premier League matches.

Spurs will again be leggy from a Thursday night Europa League match, so the Toffees will have a better chance of emulating Fulham’s rare win at White Hart Lane.  The injuries to Bale, Lennon and Gallas could prove to be decisive.  Spurs will also need to contain the dangerous and in-form Leighton Baines.  Everton look good value for an away win.

Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1 Everton 2
Betting odds on full time result: Tottenham win 2.25, Draw 3.30 Everton win 3.30
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Probable line-ups:
Tottenham (4-4-1-1): Lloris; Walker, Dawson, Vertonghen, Assou-Ekotto; Sigurdsson, Parker, Livermore, Dembele; Holtby, Adebayor.
Everton (3-5-2): Howard; Heitinga, Jagielka, Distin; Coleman, Gibson, Mirallas, Osman, Baines; Anichebe, Jelavic.

Chelsea v Sunderland Preview: Ba set to return as Blues welcome Di Canio to Bridge

Chelsea v Sunderland Premier League match and betting odds preview.

chelseaChelsea v Sunderlandsunderland

Stamford Bridge, Sunday April 7th; kick-off 15:00. Ref: Neil Swarbrick

Chelsea striker Demba Ba should return for Sunday’s match after being cup-tied for the Rubin Kazan game, probably replacing Fernando Torres at the front.  Defenders Gary Cahill and Ashley Cole remain injured.  Sunderland will wait on David Vaughan and Carlos Cuellar who will undergo fitness tests (groin, ankle respectively) for Paolo Di Canio’s first game in charge.

Chelsea will be glad to be back at Stamford Bridge, having failed to win any of their last four away games. The Blues’ away form (over five games) is actually worse than both Queens Park Rangers and Villa’s.  But Sunderland is a rich source of points for Chelsea – they’ve won 15 of their last 16 Premier League clashes with Sunderland. They tend to score plenty against them at home, netting 36 goals in 9 EPL games against Sunderland at Stamford Bridge.

Paolo Di Canio, who has already had to contend with a torrid media frenzy over non-football issues,  inherits a Sunderland side who have the worst record in the Premier League in the last 8 matches – just three points gained. He is the fifth manager to start his time in a Premier League job with a trip to Stamford Bridge. None of the previous four have won there.

It’s a big ask for Sunderland to win against the might of this expensively assembled Chelsea outfit who rarely lose two in a row.  Will the ‘new manager effect’ kick in for the Black Cats?  Good betting odds if it does, but perhaps not where the smart money will be.

Prediction: Chelsea 4 Sunderland 0
Betting odds on full time result: Chelsea win 1.33, Draw 5.00 Sunderland win 10.00
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Probable line-ups:
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech, Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Luiz, Bertrand, Ramieres, Mikel, Oscar, Mata, Hazard, Ba.
Sunderland (4-4-2): Mognolet; Gardner, O’Shea, Bramble, Rose; Johnson, N’Diaye, Larsson, McClean; Graham, Wickham.

Newcastle v Fulham Preview: Gouffran returns for Magpies as Fulham’s Dejagah misses out

Newcastle v Fulham Premier League match and betting odds preview.

newcastle-unitedNewcastle v Fulhamfulham

St. James’ Park, Sunday April 7th; kick-off 15:00. Ref: Kevin Friend

Yoan Gouffran is available for Alan Pardew and Mathieu Debuchy while Cheick Tiote are doubtful (both hamstring).  Fulham will miss Steve Sidwell in the midfield (suspended) as well as Ashkan Dejagah and striker Mladen Petric.

The Magpies will be glad to be back at St James’ – Only Reading have a worse away record than Newcastle this season. 25 of Newcastle’s 33 points have been picked up at home and the Magpies have won only once in 16 games away from St. James’ Park.  If they win this, it’ll be 4 straight home wins.

For Fulham, Dimitar Berbatov is on top form, having provided 8 of Fulham’s 13 shots on target in their last four Premier League games (against Stoke, Sunderland, Spurs and QPR) and scoring in every one of them.  The Cottagers have won 5 of their last 7 Premier League games against the Magpies and have only lost once in their last 5 away games.

Given Newcastle’s league table position (just 3 points above the relegation places), they should come out hungrier than Fulham (39 points and in 10th position) who do not have as much to play for this season now.  Or will fresher Fulham have too much for their Europa League travelling opponents – after all, Tottenham recently came undone at White Hart Lane in similar circumstances against the men from Craven Cottage.

Prediction: Newcastle 2 Fulham 1
Betting odds on full time result: Newcastle win 2.05, Draw 3.40 Fulham win 3.60
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Probable line-ups:
Newcastle (4-4-2): Elliot, Simpson, Yanga-M’Biwa, S Taylor, Cabaye, Sissoko, Anita, Gutierrez, Obertan, Cisse, Gouffran.
Fulham (4-2-3-1): Schwarzer, Riether, Senderos, Hangeland, Riise, Frimpong, Karagounis, Duff, Ruiz, Emanuelson, Berbatov.

QPR v Wigan Athletic Preview: McManaman back for relegation dogfight

QPR v Wigan Premier League match and betting odds preview.

queens-park-rangersQPR v Wigan Athleticwigan-athletic

Loftus Road, Sunday 7th April 2013, kick-off 16:10. Ref: Phil Dowd
Live on Sky Sports 1

Wigan striker Callum McManaman (of ‘that tackle’ infamy) is sure to play after being passed fit.  For Queens Park Rangers, Shaun Wright-Phillips is out for the season following his ankle surgery with Traore and Fabio set to undergo tests.

Harry will need to tell his players to look at Wigan’s fighting spirit if they are going to do a Houdini themselves. Redknapp’s team have the worst shot conversion rate in the Premier League at under 10%.  One one hand, QPR have conceded fewer goals (51) than at the same stage of last season (54).  On the other, they have scored seven fewer (28 v 35).  Winning just the one home game in the last seven at Loftus Road is worrying.

For Wigan, Arouna Koné has scored 6 EPL goals in his last eight appearances as the Latics traditional late push gather momentum.  They have lost only one of their last five Premier League away matches, winning two of these.  Will the great escape experts win this six-pointer?  The stats suggest that they just might.

Most bookies have QPR as favourites though, with the best returns for a draw or a Wigan win.

Prediction: QPR 1 Wigan Athletic 2
Betting odds on full time result: QPR win 2.30, Draw 3.40 AWAY win 3.10
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Probable team line-ups:
QPR (4-2-3-1): Cesar, Bosingwa, Samba, Hill, Traore, Jenas, Mbia, Remy, Taarabt, Townsend, Zamora.
Wigan (3-4-3): Robles, Scharner, Alcaraz, Figueroa, Boyce, McCarthy, Gomez, Beausejour, Maloney, McManaman, Kone.

Manchester United v Manchester City preview: Rooney set to return for United

Manchester United v Manchester City Premier League match and betting odds preview.

manchester-unitedManchester United v Manchester Citymanchester-city

Old Trafford, Monday April 8th; kick-off 20:00.  Ref: Mike Dean.
Live on Sky Sports 1

Wayne Rooney should return for the big derby clash with City on Monday, while Scholes (knee) and Fletcher (bowel condition) are ruled out.  For the visitors, Maicon, Richards (knee) and Rodwell (hamstring) are also out of contention.

Although still mathematically possible that United could be pipped to the Premier League title by City again, this is the game that City simply must win to keep any faint back-to-back title hopes alive.  But it would be some feat.  Manchester United will be aiming to keep their seventh Premier League clean sheet in a row, having not conceded for an impressive 627 minutes.  It seems Fergie’s warning about never again losing the title on goal difference was heard loud and clear.

And with United having dropped only 3 points from a possible 51 against bottom-half opposition this season, it’s clear to see how they’ve got so far ahead of the chasing pack.

For City, they have to go for it, so expect to see an attacking game with United looking for opportunities on the counter.  David Silva is a key man, having created more chances per match than any other player in the Premier League this season (3.3). A City win would certainly make for an interesting finish to the season – and for better returns on against the bookies.

Prediction: Manchester United 2 Manchester City 3
Betting odds on full time result: Man Utd win 2.20, Draw 3.40  Man City win 3.25
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Probable team line-ups:
Manchester United (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Jones, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Carrick, Anderson; Valencia, Kagawa, Young; Van Persie.
Manchester City (4-2-3-1): Hart; Zabaleta, Kompany, K Toure, Clicky; Y Toure, Barry; Silva, Tevez, Nasri; Aguero.

Premier League Preview & Tips April 6,7,8th April 2013

Reviews of all upcoming English Premier League fixtures from 6th to 8th April 2013.  Last week we gave predictions on the 8 Saturday games and got 5 correct results with 1 perfect score.

Sat 6 Apr 2013 – English Premier League

readingReading v Southamptonsouthampton

Madejski Stadium, Saturday 6th April 2013, kick-off 12:45

Reading are in deep trouble, having picked up just 5 points from 16 games away from home this season.  It doesn’t take a genius to work out that this is a must-win at home for the Royals if they have any realistic hope of avoiding returning to the Championship.  They’ve now lost 6 Premier League matches in a row.

The Royals have made a habit of putting themselves in difficult positions early on in games, conceding the first goal 19 times this season already.

Southampton are coming off a fantastic win at home against Chelsea and will be full of confidence. The Saints have scored more times than any other team outside the top seven (44 goals) but they have not yet won away from home under Mauricio Pochettino in 4 EPL games.

Reading will be desperate to give themselves some hope of climbing off the bottom of the table but if they concede first again in this game it could signal the beginning of the end of the Royals’ Premier League survival battle.

Prediction: Reading 1 Southampton 3
Betting odds on full time result: Reading win 3.20, Draw 3.50 Southampton win 2.20
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norwich-cityNorwich City v Swansea Cityswansea-city

Carrow Road, Saturday 6th April 2013, kick-off 15:00

Norwich City’s form over the last 14 games is the worst in the Premier League, with the Canaries collecting just 9 points.  Against Swansea they have won all 3 of their Premier League meetings though, which have all been high scoring affairs.  Captain Grant Holt will be looking to add to his tally of 3 goals in his last 2 appearances against the Swans.

Swans goal machine Michu has scored an amazing 39% of Swansea’s goals this Premier League season. This is bettered only Christian Benteke.  However, in 2013 Michu has not once found the net away from the Liberty Stadium.
Fact: Swansea have not won a single Premier League match in the 2012/13 season after they have gone behind.

Prediction: Norwich City 2 Swansea City 3
Betting odds on full time result: Norwich City win 2.60, Draw 3.25 Swansea City win 2.75
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stoke-cityStoke City v Aston Villaaston-villa

The Britannia Stadium, Saturday 6th April; kick-off 15:00

Stoke aren’t exactly on fire at the moment, 34 points from 31 matches being their worst in five seasons in the EPL.   The Potters have just one win from their last 6 league matches played at the Britannia Stadium, very unlike the Stoke of seasons gone by.  They need to get more shots on target, as they’ve the lowest statistic in the league (together with Reading, 94 shots on target).

On Saturday, they come up against an Aston Villa team who are in even worse form, with the silver lining being the goal-scoring form of Christian Benteke (9 in 11 Premier League games).  Villa have sunk steadily lower in the table as the season has worn on and haven’t kept a clean sheet for 15 Premier League games.  Conversely, if Premier League matches ended at half-time, Aston Villa would be sixth in the table – above Tottenham, Liverpool and Arsenal.  Unfortunately, they don’t and Villa aren’t – so if they go ahead in the first half on you may know what to expect.

Difficult to predict, this one.  A low scoring draw could be on the cards.

Prediction: Stoke City 1 Aston Villa 1
Betting odds on full time result: Stoke City win 2.10, Draw 3.30 Aston Villa win 3.60
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west-bromwich-albionWest Bromwich Albion v Arsenalarsenal

The Hawthorns, kick off 15:00 on Saturday

West Brom host a confident Arsenal side in what is shaping up to be one of the games of the day.

The Gunners had an impressive 26 shots against Reading on Saturday although only six were on target.  And although Arsenal have won their last 3 EPL games against West Brom, Steve Clarke’s men have won back-to-back matches at The Hawthorns against Sunderland and Swansea.

For the hosts, Shane Long is due a goal – he has not scored in his last 430 minutes of football.  The same can be said of Theo Walcott who has zero goals in his last 5 matches.

Arsenal are on a fine run of form and have a knack of scoring late goals this season. In fact, no other team has scored more goals after the 76th minute (The Gunners have netted 15).
The Baggies are no easy beats and they will be out to avenge their loss at West Ham last week by halting Arsenal’s great run towards a top four finish.

The Gunners are the favourites to win this with the bookies.

Prediction: West Bromwich Albion 2 Arsenal 2

Betting odds on full time result: West Brom win 3.75, Draw 3.60 AWAY win 1.95
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Sun 7 Apr 2013 – Premier League

liverpoolLiverpool v West Hamwest-ham-united

Anfield, Sunday April 7th, 2013; kick off 13:30

Following his 4 shots on Sunday, Luis Suarez has produced the most shots on-target (60) in the Premier League this season.  Liverpool have won 6 of their last 8 Premier League games against West Ham and will fancy themselves to overpower them on Sunday, too. The Reds’ home form is excellent with five wins from their last six at Anfield.

For the Hammers, Andy Carroll has scored four times in his last six EPL games, but will be unavailable to play here which significantly blunts the Hammers’ attacking options and aerial strength.

Some pretty good odds on a draw on this one, and massive returns for a rare Hammers win at Anfield.  Stranger things have happened in sport…

Prediction: Liverpool 3 West Ham 0
Betting odds on full time result: Liverpool win 1.33, Draw 5.25 AWAY win 9.00
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tottenham-hotspurTottenham Hotspur v Evertoneverton

White Hart Lane Stadium, Sunday April 7th; kick off 15:00

In their last meeting at Goodison Park, Everton managed to score two late goals to win the match at the death.  The same thing happened again to Tottenham just down the road away to Liverpool. The Lilywhiltes are in a great position to finish in the top 4 and need to get their momentum going again for the run in.

Everton have now won three consecutive Premier League matches for the first time since January 2010, with all of those games being at Goodison.  Only the Manchester teams have a better home record than Everton (33 points from 16 games).  In contrast, David Moyes’ team have not won in their last three matches away from home in the Premier League (lost 2, drawn 1).

At this same stage last season, Harry Redknapp’s Spurs were a point better off than this season under AVB.  Everton’s Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic likes playing against Tottenham, having scored in both of his appearances against Spurs, but just the once in his last 14 Premier League matches.

Spurs will again be recovering from Thursday’s Europa League match with Basel, so the Toffees will have a better chance of emulating Fulham’s rare win at White Hart Lane.  Injuries to Gareth Bale, Aaron Lennon and William Gallas in the Basel game could prove to be decisive.  Spurs will also need to contain the dangerous and in-form Leighton Baines.  Everton look good value for an away win.

Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 1 Everton 2
Betting odds on full time result: Tottenham win 2.25, Draw 3.30 Everton win 3.30
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chelseaChelsea v Sunderlandsunderland

Stamford Bridge, Sunday April 7th; kick-off 15:00

Chelsea will be glad to be back at Stamford Bridge, having failed to win any of their last four away games. The Blues’ away form (over five games) is actually worse than both Queens Park Rangers and Villa’s.  But Sunderland is a rich source of points for Chelsea – they’ve won 15 of their last 16 Premier League clashes with Sunderland.

Paolo Di Canio, who has already had to contend with a torrid media frenzy over non-football issues,  inherits a Sunderland side who have the worst record in the Premier League in the last 8 matches – just three points gained. He is the fifth manager to start his time in a Premier League job with a trip to Stamford Bridge. None of the previous four have won there.

It’s a big ask for Sunderland to win against the might of this expensive and superior Chelsea team who rarely lose two in a row.  Will the ‘new manager effect’ kick in for the Black Cats?  Good betting odds if it does, but perhaps not where the smart money will be.

Prediction: Chelsea 4 Sunderland 0
Betting odds on full time result: Chelsea win 1.33, Draw 5.00 Sunderland win 10.00
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newcastle-unitedNewcastle v Fulhamfulham

St. James’ Park, Sunday April 7th; kick-off 15:00

The Magpies will be glad to be back at St James’ – Only Reading have a worse away record than Newcastle this season. 25 of Newcastle’s 33 points have been picked up at home and the Magpies have won only once in 16 games away from St. James’ Park.  If they win this, it’ll be 4 straight home wins.

For Fulham, Dimitar Berbatov is on top form, having provided 8 of Fulham’s 13 shots on target in their last four Premier League games (against Stoke, Sunderland, Spurs and QPR) and scoring in every one of them.  The Cottagers have won 5 of their last 7 Premier League games against the Magpies and have only lost once in their last 5 away games.

Given Newcastle’s league table position (just 3 points above the relegation places), they should come out hungrier than Fulham (39 points and in 10th position) who do not have as much to play for this season now.  Or will fresher Fulham have too much for their Europa League travelling opponents – after all, Tottenham recently came undone at White Hart Lane in similar circumstances against the men from Craven Cottage.

Prediction: Newcastle 2 Fulham 1
Betting odds on full time result: Newcastle win 2.05, Draw 3.40 Fulham win 3.60
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queens-park-rangersQPR v Wigan Athleticwigan-athletic

Loftus Road, Sunday 7th April 2013, kick-off 16:10

Harry will need to tell his players to look at Wigan’s fighting spirit if they are going to do a Houdini themselves. Redknapp’s team have the worst shot conversion rate in the Premier League at under 10%.  One one hand, QPR have conceded fewer goals (51) than at the same stage of last season (54).  On the other, they have scored seven fewer (28 v 35).  Winning just the one home game in the last seven at Loftus Road is worrying.

For Wigan, Arouna Koné has scored 6 EPL goals in his last eight appearances as the Latics traditional late push gather momentum.  They have lost only one of their last five Premier League away matches, winning two of these.  Will the great escape experts win this six-pointer?  The stats suggest that they just might.

The bookies have QPR as favourites though, with the best returns for a draw or a Wigan win.

Prediction: QPR 1 Wigan Athletic 2
Betting odds on full time result: QPR win 2.30, Draw 3.40 AWAY win 3.10
See our review of the best betting sites and apps including free bets on signup.

 

Mon 8 Apr 2013 – Premier League

manchester-unitedManchester United v Manchester Citymanchester-city

Old Trafford, Monday April 8th; kick-off 20:00

Although still mathematically possible that United could be pipped to the Premier League title by City again, this is the game that City simply must win to keep any hope alive.  But it would be some feat.  Manchester United will be aiming to keep their seventh Premier League clean sheet in a row, having not conceded for 627 minutes.  It seems Fergie’s warning about never again losing the title on goal difference was heard loud and clear.

And with United having dropped only 3 points from a possible 51 against bottom-half opposition this season, it’s easy to see how they’ve got so far ahead of the chasing pack.

For City, they have to go for it so expect to see an attacking game with United looking for opportunities on the counter.  Man City’s Silva has created more chances per match than any other player in the Premier League this season (3.3). A City win would certainly make for an interesting finish to the season – and for better odds on this game.

Prediction: Manchester United 2 Manchester City 3
Betting odds on full time result: Man Utd win 2.20, Draw 3.40  Man City win 3.25
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Everton v Stoke City match preview & odds

Match preview for Everton v Stoke City on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

evertonEverton v Stoke Citystoke-city

Goodison Park, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 17:30 GMT

With Everton stars Pienaar and Fellaini both missing this match through suspension, this game is a close one to call.  The Toffees have found it hard going in recent history against the Potters’ style of play, having won none of the last four meetings – 2 drawn and 2 Stoke wins.

Having said that, Stoke look to be in the mid-table safety zone – not suggesting that is their only ambition – but Everton are just six points from a Champions League place.  They are a dark horse but not to be discounted.

Stoke seem to have become a little complacent of late and have only managed one win in 2013, and with Everton craving to finish ahead of Liverpool as usual, they should overwhelm Stoke.

Prediction: Everton 3 Stoke 1 (Correct Score odds of 13.00)

Betting odds on full time result: Everton win 1.65, Draw 3.8, Stoke win 6.50

Wigan v Norwich City match preview & odds

Match preview for Wigan Athletic v Norwich City on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

wigan-athleticWigan v Norwich Citynorwich-city

DW Stadium, Saturday, 30 March, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Look out Norwich – Wigan are at it again.  It’s nearing the end of the season and the masters of the great escape are on a mission.  Will defender Alca(T)raz return this week to aid this jailbreak?  (Sorry).  That said, Wigan have the worst home record in the league and will look to change that when the Canaries visit the DW Stadium on Saturday.

Norwich are wanting to secure another Premier League season too, and although they are safer at the moment they also need a win to make sure of things.  However, with the Canaries having won only one of their last thirteen Premier League games (six drawn, six lost) and with no away wins from their last six attempts away from home these clubs could swap positions before the end of the season if Wigan win today.

Prediction: Wigan 2 Norwich 1 (Correct Score odds of 8.50)

Betting odds on full time result: Wigan win 1.9, Draw 3.6, Norwich win 4.5

West Ham v West Bromwich Albion match preview & odds

Match preview for West Ham v West Bromwich Albion on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

west-ham-unitedWest Ham v West Bromwich Albionwest-bromwich-albion

Upton Park, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Olympic Stadium-bound West Ham United have lost three out their last four whilst the Baggies are looking for their best ever Premier League finish. West Ham are not quite safe from the drop zone yet and at home should be fired up to get the points that lift them away from the relegation places.

Although the Baggies have less to play for now until the end of season, they are a solid and skilful unit and their playmakers could well tip the scoreline in their favour.  These two clubs have recorded draws in their last four meetings and this one could follow suit. The bookies make the Hammers favourites to win this one.

Prediction: West Ham 2 West Brom 2 (Correct Score odds of 13.00)

Betting odds on full time result: West Ham win 2.25, Draw 3.40, West Brom win 3.50

Swansea City v Tottenham Hotspur match preview & odds

Swansea City v Tottenham Hotspur match preview & odds

Swansea City v Tottenham Hotspur match preview & odds

Match preview for Swansea City v Tottenham on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

swansea-citySwansea City v Tottenhamtottenham-hotspur Hotspur

Liberty Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Swansea are hoping to welcome back Flores back with Augustien a doubt while Lennon and Dawson are likely to return for the visitors.  This is very difficult game to predict.  Tottenham were world-beaters just a few games back and then their confidence seemed to vanish after snatching defeat from the jaws of victory against Liverpool.

Swansea have revelled in winning their first major silverware and have all but secured another season in the Premier League.  Cast your mind back to Tottenham’s League Cup over Chelsea in 2008 – the rest of that EPL season under Juande Ramos was very ordinary.  Swansea appear to be in a similar position this season and have little to play for now.

On the other hand, Spurs’ Bale, Defoe, Dempsey and Sigurdsson all scored for their countries during the international break and AVB will be hoping to see that form continue as every game from now on is a Champions League survival fight.  Arsenal are now breathing right down Tottenham’s neck and Chelsea and Man City are unlikely to give any respite.  Spurs to edge it.

Prediction: Swansea 1 Tottenham 2 (Correct Score odds of 9.00)

Betting odds on full time result: Swansea win 3.25, Draw 3.4, Tottenham win 2.37

Southampton v Chelsea match preview & odds

Match preview for Southampton v Chelsea on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

southamptonSouthampton v Chelseachelsea

St Mary’s Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Another fixture with relegation candidates taking on top four chasing opposition.  Southampton are up against it but are at least at St Mary’s for this Easter weekend clash.  The Saints have showed some spirit under the management of Mauricio Pochettino and their mettle will be severely tested on Saturday as the Blues juggernaut looks to roll on.

The big question is, which Chelsea will turn up?  Interim Manager Benitez (how he loves that title) needs to complete his mission of securing Champions League qualification and this is looking an increasingly likely scenario as the weeks go by.  Should José Mourhino and his ego return next term, surely a top 4 finish will be an important factor to this decision.  Or maybe just the pay packet?  In any event, Blues fans would be on cloud nine.

The Saints have been scoring a good number of goals but Chelsea have kept clean sheets in their last two matches.  This could be set up for a terrific fight and hopefully the goals flow once again.

Prediction: Southampton 2 Chelsea 2 (Correct Score odds of 12.00)

Betting odds on full time result: Southampton win 3.5 , Draw 3.6, Chelsea win 2.15

Manchester City v Newcastle United match preview & odds

Match preview for Manchester City v Newcastle United on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

manchester-cityManchester City v Newcastle Unitednewcastle-united

Etihad Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

With the title race now effectively over as conceded by Roberto Mancini, City are now playing for the automatic Champions League qualification place for next season.  They are looking for their seventh win on the trot in games against Newcastle.

City have the best defence in the league this season (13 clean sheets & 26 goals conceded) whilst the Magpies have shocking away form.   Everything points a Citizens win.

Stranger things have happened and a Newcastle win is priced at 12.00 over at bet365.  Probably the safest bet is a home win.

Prediction: Manchester City 2 Newcastle United 1 (Correct Score odds of 9.5)

Betting odds on full time result: Man City win 1.3, Draw 5.75, Newcastle win 12.00

Arsenal v Reading preview & odds

Match preview for Arsenal v Reading on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

arsenalArsenal v Readingreading

Emirates Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

New Reading manager Nigel Adkins has an uphill battle in visiting the Emirates after seeing his former club Southampton thumped 6-1 earlier in the season there. With Walcott, Wilshere and Diaby now out of this game through injury, the Gunners’ depth will be tested against relegation-threatened Royals.  Not many will think it possible for Reading to leave with any points from this one, but they need to produce something now on the back of five successive defeats in the premier league.

With Arsenal having won four out their last five, they also have their own motivation in overhauling Tottenham for that coveted Champions League place.  Given that the Gunners have won every match they’ve ever played against Reading, a draw could be about the most realistic odds to put a fiver on.

Prediction: Arsenal 1 Reading 1 (Correct Score odds of 11.00)

Betting odds on full time result: Arsenal win 1.25, Draw 6.5, Reading win 15.00

Sunderland v Manchester United preview & odds

Sunderland v Manchester United preview & odds

Sunderland v Manchester United preview & odds

Match preview for Sunderland v Manchester United on 30th March 2013 Easter weekend, plus betting odds.

  sunderlandSunderland v Manchester Unitedmanchester-united

Stadium of Light, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 12:45 GMT

It goes without saying that it’s a tough one for Sunderland this week.  The Black Cats have only beaten United once in the Premier League, way back in 1997 – their maiden EPL season.

Manchester United have not conceded a goal for an astounding 537 minutes in the League and have now matched the most ever wins after 29 matches in a season (24), equalling the feats of Tottenham Hotspur in1960-61 & Chelsea in 2005-06.  United want to bring home the title early and the form of these two opponents indicates that they will more than likely take one step closer to achieving that goal.

Prediction: Sunderland 0 Manchester United 2 (Correct Score odds of 7.00)
Betting odds on full time result: Sunderland win 6.00, Draw 3.9, Man Utd win 1.66
EPL Tips – Sunderland Man Utd Arsenal Reading Man City Newcastle Southampton Chelsea Swansea Tottenham West Ham West Brom Wigan Norwich Everton Stoke

EPL Tips – Sunderland Man Utd Arsenal Reading Man City Newcastle Southampton Chelsea Swansea Tottenham West Ham West Brom Wigan Norwich Everton Stoke

EPL Tips – Sunderland Man Utd Arsenal Reading Man City Newcastle Southampton Chelsea Swansea Tottenham West Ham West Brom Wigan Norwich Everton Stoke

EPL Tips and betting odds for 30th March 2013 Easter weekend.

  sunderlandSunderland v Manchester Unitedmanchester-united

Stadium of Light, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 12:45 GMT

It goes without saying that it’s a tough one for the Black Cats this week.  Sunderland have only beaten United the one time in the Premier League, way back in their maiden EPL season of 1997.

United have not conceded a goal for an incredible 537 minutes in the Premier League and have now equalled the most ever wins after 29 matches in a season (24), matching Tottenham (1960-61) and Chelsea (2005-06).  United want to sew up the title early and the form of these two opponents indicates that they will more than likely take one step closer to achieving that goal.

Prediction: Sunderland 0 Manchester United 2 (Correct Score odds of 7.00)
Betting odds on full time result: Sunderland win 6.00, Draw 3.9, Man Utd win 1.66 

arsenalArsenal v Readingreading

Emirates Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

New Reading manager Nigel Adkins has an uphill battle in visiting the Emirates after seeing his former club Southampton thumped 6-1 earlier in the season there. With Walcott, Wilshere and Diaby now out of this game through injury, the Gunners’ depth will be tested against relegation-threatened Royals.  Not many will think it possible for Reading to leave with any points from this one, but they need to produce something now on the back of five successive defeats in the premier league.

With Arsenal having won four out their last five, they also have their own motivation in overhauling Tottenham for that coveted Champions League place.  Given that the Gunners have won every match they’ve ever played against Reading, a draw could be about the most realistic odds to put a fiver on.

Prediction: Arsenal 1 Reading 1 (Correct Score odds of 11.00)
Betting odds on full time result: Arsenal win 1.25, Draw 6.5, Reading win 15.00

manchester-cityManchester City v Newcastle Unitednewcastle-united

Etihad Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

With the title race now effectively over as conceded by Roberto Mancini, City are now playing for the automatic Champions League qualification place for next season.  They are looking for their seventh win on the trot in games against Newcastle.

City have the best defence in the league this season (13 clean sheets & 26 goals conceded) whilst the Magpies have shocking away form.   Everything points a Citizens win.

Stranger things have happened and a Newcastle win is priced at 12.00 over at bet365.  Probably the safest bet is a home win.

Prediction: Manchester City 2 Newcastle United 1 (Correct Score odds of 9.5)

Betting odds on full time result: Man City win 1.3, Draw 5.75, Newcastle win 12.00

 

southamptonSouthampton v Chelseachelsea

St Mary’s Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Another fixture with relegation candidates taking on top four chasing opposition.  Southampton are up against it but are at least at St Mary’s for this Easter weekend clash.  The Saints have showed some spirit under the management of Mauricio Pochettino and their mettle will be severely tested on Saturday as the Blues juggernaut looks to roll on.

The big question is, which Chelsea will turn up?  Interim Manager Benitez (how he loves that title) needs to complete his mission of securing Champions League qualification and this is looking an increasingly likely scenario as the weeks go by.  Should José Mourhino and his ego return next term, surely this will be an important factor to this decision.

The Saints have been scoring a good number of goals but Chelsea have kept clean sheets in their last two matches.  This could be set up for a terrific fight and hopefully the goals flow once again.

Prediction: Southampton 2 Chelsea 2 (Correct Score odds of 12.00)

Betting odds on full time result: Southampton win 3.5 , Draw 3.6, Chelsea win 2.15

 

swansea-citySwansea City v Tottenhamtottenham-hotspur Hotspur

Liberty Stadium, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Swansea are hoping to welcome back Flores back while Augustien is a doubt while Lennon and Dawson are likely to return for the visitors.  This is very difficult to predict game.  Tottenham were world-beaters just a few games back and then their confidence just seemed to vanish after snatching defeat from the jaws of victory against Liverpool.

Swansea have revelled in winning their first major silverware and have all but secured another season in the Premier League.  Cast your mind back to Tottenham’s League Cup over Chelsea in 2008 – the rest of that EPL season under Juande Ramos was very ordinary.  Swansea appear to be in a similar position this season and have little to play for now.

On the other hand, Spurs’ Bale, Defoe, Dempsey and Sigurdsson all scored for their countries during the international break and AVB will be hoping to see that form continue as every game from now on is a Champions League survival fight.  Arsenal are now breathing right down Tottenham’s neck and Chelsea and Man City are unlikely to give any respite.  Spurs to edge it.

Prediction: Swansea 1 Tottenham 2 (Correct Score odds of 9.00)

Betting odds on full time result: Swansea win 3.25, Draw 3.4, Tottenham win 2.37

 

west-ham-unitedWest Ham v West Bromwich Albionwest-bromwich-albion

Upton Park, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

The Olympic Stadium-bound Hammers have lost three out their last four whilst the Baggies are looking for their best ever Premier League finish. West Ham are not quite safe from the drop yet and at home should be fired up to get the points that take them away from the drop zone.

Although the Baggies have less to play for now until the end of season, they are a good unit and their skill could well balance the scoreline.  These two clubs have recorded draws in their last four meetings and this one could follow suit.

Prediction: West Ham 2 West Brom 2 (Correct Score odds of 13.00)

Betting odds on full time result: West Ham win 2.25, Draw 3.40, West Brom win 3.50

 

wigan-athleticWigan v Norwich Citynorwich-city

DW Stadium, Saturday, 30 March, Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Looks like Wigan are at it again.  It’s nearing the end of the season and the masters of the great escape are on a mission.  Will defender Alca(T)raz return this week to aid this jailbreak?  (Sorry)  Wigan have the worst home record in the league and will look to change that when the Canaries visit the DW.

Norwich are looking to secure another Premier League season too, and although they are safer at the moment they also need a win to make sure of things.  However, with the Canaries having won only one of their last thirteen Premier League games (six drawn, six lost) and with no away wins from their last six attempts away from home these clubs could swap positions before the end of the season if Wigan win today.

Prediction: Wigan 2 Norwich 1 (Correct Score odds of 8.50)

Betting odds on full time result: Wigan win 1.9, Draw 3.6, Norwich win 4.5

 

evertonEverton v Stoke Citystoke-city

Goodison Park, Saturday, 30 March 2013, Kick-off: 17:30 GMT

With Everton stars Pienaar and Fellaini both missing this match through suspension, this game is a close one to call.  The Toffees have found it hard going in recent history against the Potters’ style of play, having won none of the last four meetings – 2 drawn and 2 Stoke wins.

Having said that, Stoke look to be in the mid-table safety zone – not suggesting that is their only ambition – but Everton are just six points from a Champions League place.  They are a dark horse but not to be discounted.

Stoke seem to have become a little complacent of late and have only managed one win in 2013, and with Everton craving to finish ahead of Liverpool as usual, they should overwhelm Stoke.

Prediction: Everton 3 Stoke 1 (Correct Score odds of 13.00)
Betting odds on full time result: Everton win 1.65, Draw 3.8, Stoke win 6.50
Sunday Best – EPL Tips for 17/03/2013 Sunderland Norwich Tottenham Fulham Chelsea West Ham WIgan Newcastle

Sunday Best – EPL Tips for 17/03/2013 Sunderland Norwich Tottenham Fulham Chelsea West Ham WIgan Newcastle

Sunday Best – EPL Tips for 17/03/2013 Sunderland Norwich Tottenham Fulham Chelsea West Ham WIgan Newcastle

Last Sunday both results were correct.  Here are reviews for the this Sunday’s Premier League fixtures:

Sunderland v Norwich 13:30

A tough one to call.  At home Sunderland should win it, although they have just 2 points from the last 6 games and cannot afford a run in like last season where they could not muster a solitary win from the last 8 EPL matches.

Norwich are in poor form too, only having registered one victory in 12 matches.  The Canaries do not score many goals and way from home it will be difficult.

Sunderland 2 Norwich City 1

Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham 15:00

Back at White Hart Lane the jitters are being felt as Arsenal and Chelsea keep the pressure on for the final finishing positions. Spurs looked certain to beat Liverpool last week until mistakes saw a likely win turn to a late defeat.  Tottenham need a steadying win and although the history books suggest Fulham don’t win away often, they will be looking to take advantage of a 2 week rest while their counterparts have just come back on Thursday night from a draining Europa League tie with Inter Milan that went for 120 minutes.  One man who will not be so drained is Gareth Bale, who of course missed that match through suspension and this could work well considering what a talisman the Welsh wonder has been lately.

Tottenham Hotspur 2 Fulham 1

Chelsea v West Ham 16:00

The Stamford Bridge faithful will be looking forward to this match as it looks on the surface to be an opportunity for a routine win against the relegation-threatened Hammers.  That said, West Ham have been in good form, winning 2 of their last 4.  However, despite beating Stoke away, WHUFC’s away record is pants.  Add to that the fact that he Hammers have not won successive matches in the Premier League  since February-March 2011, this one has Blues all over it.

Chelsea 4 West Ham 0

Wigan v Newcastle 16:00

Who knows what Wigan will do from week to week.  Now, with one eye on their FA Cup semi-final against Milwall they could go either way until then.  Wigan have a great record against Newcastle at home but Newcastle are having a great run, having won 4 of their last 6.

That said, with the Magpies having kept just the one clean sheet in the last 11 matches and a very poor away record this season this one looks likely to go the way of Wigan although a draw may be the most likely result.

Wigan Athletic 2 Newcastle 2

EPL Tips – Sunday 10th March 2013 Newcastle, Stoke, Liverpool, Tottenham

Our quick betting tips for today’s football in the Premier League:

Newcastle United v Stoke City, 15:00 kickoff

These two teams have had their ups and downs this season, with the Potters just three points ahead of the Magpies.

Stoke are looking for their second double in three seasons after they grabbed a 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture at the Britannia, with two goals from Walters and Jerome in the final nine minutes to complete a memorable comeback win.  The Potters have suffered 1-0 defeats in three of their last four matches.

Newcastle on the other hand have won their last two matches at St James’ Park, scoring seven goals, although they have kept just the one clean sheet in the last ten league games.  New boy Moussa Sissoko has scored three goals in two Premier League matches at St James’ Park.

Tony Pulis’s team have conceded in every one of their previous 10 games and this looks set to continue – prediction is a Newcastle win at home in a relatively high scoring affair.

Newcastle United 3 – Stoke City 2.

 

Liverpool v Tottenham Hotspur, 16:00 kickoff

Things are looking much better for Liverpool in recent weeks, and things are just getting better with news that Daniel Sturridge and Martin Skrtel are both available following injury lay-offs.  On the Spurs side, pacy winger Aaron Lennon is a doubt after a new hamstring injury, as are Clint Demspey and Tom Huddlestone.

This is therefore a lot more of a contest than the table positions suggest.  Tottenham are flying high in third and Liverpool are below West Brom in 8th.  Desperate to climb into the top 4, the Reds will be giving it all in front of a home crowd hungry to end Tottenham’s unbeaten run.

Spurs have been irresistible form of late and will no doubt be looking to keep their run going but Liverpool at Anfield will be a massive challenge today.  We think a draw is on the cards at best for Spurs and a Liverpool win more likely.  Surely Gareth Bale cannot score yet again?

Liverpool 3 – Tottenham Hotspur 1

Premier League Tips – EPL football tipping March 2 & 3, 2013

Premier League Tips – EPL football tipping March 2 & 3, 2013

Premier League Tips – EPL football tipping March 2 & 3, 2013

A preview the pick of the EPL’s matches this weekend.

Premier League : Man Utd v Norwich match preview

Last EPL meeting: Norwich 1 Manchester United 0

With United streaking away with a seemingly insurmountable lead of 12 points at the top of the table, they have every reason to want to get closer to yet another title and silence the noisy neighbours.  Having said that, one of the few games the Red Devils have lost this campaign was to Norwich. A single Anthony Pilkington goal settled it back in November but we can’t see past revenge for Manchester United.

Of course there is the small matter of Real Madrid coming to town on Tuesday night so there may be some squad rotation to rest key players who will likely be warming the bench in case of emergency.

Norwich City have a good record against teams up the table though, having done well against the likes of Arsenal, Stoke, Spurs and Everton.   But against the might of Manchester United?  They are almost un-backable for this game so perhaps a cheeky few quid on the Canaries could pay off at about 10 to 1.

Tip: Manchester United 4 Norwich City 1

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Premier League: Tottenham v Arsenal match preview

Last EPL meeting: Arsenal 5 Tottenham 2

A tricky one for both teams, this.  Spurs know that they must keep winning to maintain the gap against their North London rivals as well as Chelsea but will remember what happened last season only too well.  Could it happen again?  Arsenal have been winning ugly and will throw everything at this one at White Hart Lane.
Expectations will be high of Gareth Bale given his incredible form and the timing of his goals of late, but Spurs must get more from Emmanuel Adebayor now and he showed glimpses of form against West Ham on Monday night.  Tottenham have lost one game at home to the Gunners out of the last seven played at White Hart Lane.  Wenger’s team are looking to make it three wins on the trot against Spurs and have scored 10 goals against them in the last two encounters combined.

There will be goals in this match and we reckon both teams will be cautious.  Spurs are slight favourites to win this at home with most bookies but the Gunners will up their game for certain.

Whatever happens, all eyes will be on this Sunday 4pm kick off.

Tip: Tottenham 2 Arsenal 2

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