Premier League High Return Accumulator 02/02/13

QPR V Norwich: QPR

Reading v Sunderland: Draw

Wigan v Southampton: Draw

22/1

Norwich’s loss to Luton was the first time since 1987 that a non-league team has knocked out top-flight opposition.  You may need to overlook the fact that Luton have been FA Cup semi-finalists since then to really enjoy that fact – but it does help to build a case for Norwich being not very good at the moment.  They may have managed to hold Tottenham to a draw in their midweek meeting but we still don't see them as clear winners against QPR  - who have made some impact signings in the transfer window.

          Norwich have at home been one of the sides responsible for upsets that have overshadowed their own last weekend – having beaten Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham at Carrow Road this season, but there has been a notable lack of wins recently.

          We feel that QPR, having also been knocked out of the FA Cup by lower league opposition, will redouble their efforts and the new signings made may be enough to kick start their survival campaign.  Having just been able to hold Manchester City to a goalless draw, after conceding four to MK Dons, we feel a corner has been turned.

          Sunderland’s predictable draw with Swansea was their eighth of the season and we think that this trip to Reading could be another to add to their tally.  Reading have the advantage of being at home, but the visitor’s have had an extra day’s rest.  This game is likely to be one of the closest of the weekend, so there’s more than a good chance of a draw being the outcome.

          Half of Southampton’s last twelve games have been draws and the same has been the case for three of Wigan’s last seven games.  We expect this fixture to be a cautious affair at the end of a very busy period for both sides and have added them as a stalemate to our high-risk treble this week.

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Premier League Low Risk Accumulator 02/02/13

Everton v Aston Villa: Everton

Fulham v Manchester United: Manchester United

Manchester City v Liverpool: Manchester City

3/1

A midweek draw to QPR is exactly what the doctor didn’t order for Roberto Mancini.  His comparisons of Balotelli to Messi seem to have served as a sales pitch for Milan – and he needs to reasons to be able to lavish praise on some of his other players now the limelight is available for others that have been equally deserving of it this season. 

          Tuesday’s stalemate against QPR has dented Manchester City’s title chances – allowing one or two liverspotted Scottish fingers to grip the handles of the league trophy.  If Manchester City fail to take three points from Liverpool this weekend they may as well walk the thing round to Old Trafford at full time.

          Manchester United were comfortable victors against Fulham in the FA Cup last weekend – and Fulham won’t be looking forward to facing such an in-form side as United at this stage in the season.  Expect a Manchester United win – but Fulham could well give them more of an argument than they were able to last week, with a change of line-up expected.

          Everton, albeit now stretched, have been one of the successes of the season and their performances and league position offers a striking contrast to Aston Villa.  Aston Villa aren’t just starting relegation in the face now – they’re kissing it with tongues.  Bets are already being placed on them being relegated to League One next season – at 33/1.

           Expect Everton to take advantage of the opportunity to continue to work towards Champions League qualification.

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High Return Premier League Accumulator 29/01/13

High Return

Newcastle v Aston Villa Draw

Everton

Fulham v West Ham Draw

18/1

Fulham will leapfrog West Ham in the table should they win this fixture – leaving the Hammers looking over their shoulder at Southampton and the other teams towards the bottom of the table.

          Fulham are the favourites heading into this match, but we think West Ham, who have seven wins to Fulham’s six, will be able to come away with a point at the very least.

        This could well be the one of the least exciting games of the midweek fixture list and we don’t expect a big scoreline and we’re tipping a draw.

         Newcastle, having made some new – and notably French – signing will be expected to better an Aston Villa side that has been bundled out of both domestic cups by lower league opposition last week.  This is a game that neither side can afford to lose.  Newcastle are certainly the favourites, but we think a draw might be achieveable for Aston Villa – they’re due a result of some sort and we think this may well be it for them.  

          Everton are at home, where they’ve been their most comfortable, to West Brom – who have been struggling to collect points of late.  We fancy Everton to be the better of the two sides tonight, in spite of recent pleas for funds from David Moyes, who has been noticeably stretched since the Christmas fixture list.

          We recommend a patent backing, spreading the three backings over seven – but for the same stake you were willing to part ways with.

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Low Risk Premier League Accumulator 29/01/13

Low Risk

Chelsea

Manchester United

Arsenal v Liverpool BTTS

2/1

Liverpool and Arsenal have scored ten goals between them in their last respective outings, which gives us confidence they will be goals for each side in this fixture, although we wouldn’t be expecting a scoreline that reflects those of the last week.  We’re expecting a home win, narrowly, but we’re drawn towards the idea of both teams finding the net rather than the outright result.

          Southampton have lost fewer games this year than Barcelona and the credit for that has to be given to Nigel Adkins, who will be notably absent for Southampton this weekend, having been asked to make way for their new Argentinean manager Pochettino – who has yet to learn to speak English to the Premier League team with the most English speaking players.  A home win is more than expected in which is considered to be the safest backing of the week.

          Chelsea have yet another recovery ahead of them, having been upset by Swansea over two-legs in the Capital One Cup and Brentford, who managed to hold them to a draw in the FA Cup – but we think they’ll cope against Reading, in spite of the sense of occasion.  Hazard, who was a little bit kicky in the Capital One Cup second leg, will be absent and Victor Moses and Jon Obi Mikel are yet to return from the Africa Cup of Nations.

         

         

Aston Villa v Newcastle: Preview and Predictions

Newcastle’s visit to Aston Villa will be one of the talking points of the weekend – with both teams desperate to distance themselves from the relegation zone, which becomes more of a fretful reality as each week goes by.

          Aston Villa sheepishly allowed West Brom back into the game last weekend and the same can be said for Newcastle against Reading.  The similar form of the two teams has led to them dropping league positions and this fixture comes at a pivotal time for each club; the winner may gain the impetus to clamber towards the middle of the table and the loser will find a recovery even harder to come by.

          Alan Pardew, the proud owner of an eight year contract at Newcastle, has only two wins with Newcastle since October to boast about and his numerous critics are publicly tiring of poor results.  This is a six point game and one he will be desperate to win, more than any other fixture of his Newcastle career, perhaps.

          Aston Villa have the home advantage and are favoured by most to win the fixture – but we think the game may become a cautious affair late on should both sides be drawing.  The fear of defeat may tempt the two sides to settle for a draw.  Should the result be otherwise, one of these two clubs has a very steep and certain upward struggle ahead of them.

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Aston Villa v Newcastle: Verdict – Draw 23/10

QPR v Manchester City: Preview and Predictions

One of the things that makes the Premier League arguably the most exciting league in the world is the ability of clubs towards the bottom of the table to cause upsets, which is something QPR have already shown they’re capable of against Chelsea.

          Manchester City are the current Premier League titleholders and are involved in another title race this season – so their visit to Loftus Road to face the team at the bottom of the table should be relatively straightforward, although we’re not so sure it will be.

          QPR have the biggest battle ahead of them of all of the teams that should be worried about relegation this season, and their fans certainly deserve more to smile about in home fixtures, where luck has gone against them so often this season.  With new signings and a visibly new approach for QPR this month, we think this is the sort of fixture that could provide an upset for Mancini.

          If Manchester City haven’t given QPR the respect they are showing they deserve now, they could well come unstuck.  We predict an away win, but we don’t think this is a game to be too certain about.

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QPR v Manchester City: Verdict – Manchester City 8/15

Stoke v Wigan: Preview and Predictions

Stoke, who have drawn more games than any other Premier League side this season, seem to have yet to find their feet again after having lost their eleven month undefeated record to Chelsea recently.

          Last weekend Swansea were able to breeze past Stoke and their supporters will be expecting some points from this fixture to make up for travelling heartache and the loss of their home record. 

          Wigan were outperformed by Sunderland for most of the match, in spite of their almost successful attempt to mount a comeback.  Wigan will be desperate to improve on their last league performance, but their away form leaves a lot to be desired – they’ve only won three away games in the Premiership this season.

          A home win, which is something Stoke fans have only been able to celebrate once in the Premier League since November, is exactly what Pulis needs to regain momentum – and we expect Stoke to do so.

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Stoke v Wigan: Verdict – Stoke 11/10

Sunderland v Swansea: Preview and Predictions

Sunderland’s hosting of Swansea is one of the hardest Premier League fixtures to call.    

          Swansea are in fine form and Sunderland, who should have been much better than they have been this season, seem as though they might just be finding their feet in the second half of the season.

          It’s hard to see Sunderland turning their backs on the fine performance that led to them taking three points away from Wigan, but it’s just as hard to envisage Swansea being easily brushed aside.

          Expect a close fought game, and we expect a draw to be the final result.

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Sunderland v Swansea: Verdict – Draw 23/10

Everton v West Brom: Preview and Predictions

West Brom may have mounted a comeback against Aston Villa, and may be sat comfortably in the top half of the table, but they’ve been underwhelming for a while now.

          Lukaku’s goals and the points taken in the first half of the season have allowed a dip in form to go unnoticed by most.  They’ve only had two wins in their last twelve fixtures and haven’t won a game this month, which is why we think Everton – who have only lost once at home this season – are the likely winners in this meeting.

          Only Stoke have drawn more games than Everton, so this game could well follow the trend they’ve set at home, but Everton are favoured by us as this game means so much to them.  They’re a team that has sights set on, somewhat secretly, Champions League qualification.

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Everton v West Brom: Verdict Everton 4/6

Norwich v Tottenham: Preview and Predictions

Tottenham were upset by Norwich in their league cup meeting and their last trip to Carrow Road, where Manchester United and Arsenal have both been defeated this season.

          The last Premier League fixture for Tottenham was their snowy draw with the league-leaders and they showed a great depth and strength of character to press for an equaliser so late on. 

          The return of Grant Holt may liven the spirits of fans, but it’s important to bear in mind the defeat they suffered at the hands of Liverpool.

          Chelsea were able to better Norwich over the course of ninety minutes, a game that will have been studied carefully by Villas Boas – we expect Tottenham to follow suit.

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Norwich v Tottenham: Verdict – Tottenham 7/8

 

Fulham v West Ham: Preview and Predictions

Fulham will leapfrog West Ham in the table should they win this fixture – leaving the Hammers looking over their shoulder at Southampton and the other teams towards the bottom of the table.

          Fulham are the favourites heading into this match, but we think West Ham, who have seven wins to Fulham’s six, will be able to come away with a point at the very least.

        This could well be the one of the least exciting games of the midweek fixture list and we don’t expect a big scoreline.

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Fulham v West Ham: Verdict – Draw 12/5

Manchester United v Southampton: Preview and Predictions

A visit to Old Trafford, regardless of the successes of other Premiership sides in the last decade, is a first-time experience held in esteem over any other in domestic football by visiting players and managers.

          Nigel Adkins deserved to lead Southampton out at Old Trafford.

          This is going to be a home win, but one that will only serve to disillusion Southampton fans further.  Their season was never expected to be determined by this result, but it should have been a time to reflect on the achievements of the club over the past few seasons – something their new manager has had no part of.

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Manchester United v Southampton; Verdict – Manchester United 3/10

Reading v Chelsea: Preview and Predictions

Reading have just beaten Newcastle away from home in the Premier League and before that were able to mount a comeback against West Brom having gone 2-0 down.

          This fixture, for a newly promoted team, is one of the most hotly anticipated games of the season – especially seeing as Chelsea are the current European champions.  It’s fair to say you can expect a sense of occasion.

          Some still feel that Chelsea could mount a title challenge this season – although we feel second place is probably still a somewhat unrealistic target for Chelsea.  Nonetheless, we expect Chelsea, who have just turned a corner by beating Arsenal at home, to continue to enjoy strong form away from home by taking three points from Reading.

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Reading v Chelsea: Verdict – Chelsea 1/2

FA Cup Fourth Round Accumulator

Brentford v Chelsea: Verdict – Chelsea

Norwich v Luton: Verdict – Norwich

Manchester United v Fulham: Verdict – Manchester United

Middlesbrough v Aldershot: Verdict Middlesbrough

Leeds v Tottenham: Verdict - Tottenham

4/1

          The third round of the FA Cup was a lucky weekend for us.  We recommended avoiding teams such as Wigan and Newcastle and called a comfortable fivefold.

The fourth round of the FA Cup is more than bound to throw up some unlikely results this weekend, and our first point of order is to recommend treading carefully as far as stakes are concerned.  Chelsea, even as the team having won the most FA Cup titles over the last decade, have been known to falter against lower league opposition in the early rounds. Brentford could well force a replay against Chelsea, which would be a huge financial gain to the club.

          However, Chelsea, with the league all but confirmed by the club to be unachievable, will be looking at the FA Cup, tucked neatly away in their cabinet, with a renewed sense of enthusiasm.  A loss to Brentford seems hugely unlikely, although not outside of the realms of possibility given Chelsea’s start to the year.

          Norwich have been fairly strong at home this season but, just as Luton will see themselves in this fixture, they are FA Cup underdogs.  Luton have given Premier Leauge sides, most notably Liverpool, a good run for their money in recent years but with the FA Cup being the only chance of silverware for Norwich this season, we don’t expect them to bow out just yet.

          Middlesbrough are a club that will be eyeing up a fifth round FA Cup tie with a Premiership side to show they can still compete at the highest domestic level – having been labouring in the Championship for some time now.  We expect them to show the determination that’s been responsible for placing them in a strong position to earn a chance at promotion this season against Aldershot, who have relegation to the conference to worry about.

          Fulham are unlikely to be able to better Manchester United at Old Trafford, although Leeds were able to upset Manchester United in the competition a couple of seasons back in the cup’s early stages.  You should expect a home win from a team keen to win having been frustrated by Tottenham late on at White Hart Lane.

          Tottenham are 4/5 to beat Leeds, which we think it an excellent price considering Tottenham’s form this season and Leeds’ lack of consistency.  Chelsea were able to break Leeds down over the course of ninety minutes when they met in the Capital One Cup this season and we expect the same to be the case in this match, with a tense first half leading to a clear display of strength and grit from the Premiership side in the second half.  If however, you do see Leeds having more than a slim chance to force a replay you can leave them out of the line-up for a shortened price of 9/5.

          There are several notable teams who have escaped our attention heading into the fourth round.  Arsenal are away to Brighton, who could well force a replay if they take advantage of the poor starts to games made by Arsenal this season.  Stoke’s tie with Manchester City is one we don’t fancy backing and the same can be said of Wigan’s trip to Macclesfield – although seemingly straightforward, they are bound to some upsets somewhere, which is why the FA Cup is still such a popular and prestigious competition.

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Low Risk Premier League Accumulator

Low Risk Accumulator:

Liverpool

Manchester City

Tottenham v Manchester United BTTS

7/5

Liverpool face a Norwich team who will be looking to undo some of the damage done in the previous league meeting, where five goals were conceded by the Canaries and one buck-toothed South African was able to convert one of the most memorable hat-tricks of Premier League history.

          We expect Liverpool, who were pedestrian last weekend, to regain some pride at home against Norwich and although we don’t think the scoreline will match the last outing’s, we think Liverpool will be the winners come the final whistle.

          The safest backing of the weekend features for us in our low-risk treble – which is Manchester City, bolstered by the unsuspended Kompany, against Fulham, who have been underwhelming recently.  Expect Fulham to lose both halves, let alone the match.

          Manchester United have been picked out by us as the outright winners against Tottenham, but we think a safer bet, in a game that is only to be overshadowed by the Chelsea match against Arsenal, is for both teams to score.

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High Return Premier League Accumulator

High Return Accumulator:

Manchester United

Wigan v Sunderland Draw

Swansea v Stoke Draw

24/1

This is one of the most ambitious trebles we’ve tipped – and the highest priced treble we’ve suggested since a 33/1 backing – which landed – in October, when Liverpool drew at home to Stoke.

          Stoke have drawn a huge amount of their games recently – they’ve drawn six of their last eight, and not just at the Britannia.  Swansea, at home, are one of the strongest sides in the Premier League, having lost only twice in all competitions this season – which is reason enough to think that Stoke aren’t likely to claim the points with ease this weekend.

          Both teams, having played mid-week fixtures, are likely to approach this game with a element of caution and we predict a low scoring draw between the two of them.  It’s statistically a lot more likely, looking at the recent form of the two sides, than the odds suggest.

          Sunderland have been woeful of late and some of you may decide against our advice this weekend and plump for a Wigan win, now that Di Santo has ended a fourteen game goal drought that was worn around the neck of the club like an Egyptian curse.  Wigan had a long midweek journey to the south coast this week and Sunderland, having been upset by Bolton in the FA Cup, will be looking to stretch the home side.  Cautious play between two sides that have struggled to find goals in abundance will lead to a stalemate – and we expect the two to cancel each other out over the ninety.

          Manchester United lost to Tottenham at home in the previous league meeting – but we think Manchester United, with returning players such as Wayne Rooney, have a good chance of coming away with all three points.  We expect Manchester United to be stronger in the second half of the season, and we think Tottenham may struggle to find the form that led to Andre Villas Boas being awarded the Manager of the Month award in the first half of it.

          Spread your stake for these three backings across a patent (three singles, three doubles and a treble) to guarantee profit if any two land.

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Southampton v Everton: Preview and Predictions

Rickie Lambert, who has scored over thirty penalties now without a miss, was the difference between Aston Villa and Southampton last weekend.

          Southampton’s confidence is starting to build and they’re still every chance they’ll be able to work their way out of the relegation zone.

          Everton are by far the stronger side, but it’s important to consider the size of the squad Moyes has – the potentially tired team looked stretched this weekend and they seem to us unlikely to find their visit to the coast plain sailing.

          Southampton have been able to hold Arsenal to a draw immediately after they’d put seven past Newcastle and their home games are going to have to harvest points if they’re to survive.

          Everton are the favourites with the bookmakers are far as starting prices are concerned, but we expect that to have changed by the time the final whistle is blown.

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Tottenham v Manchester United: Preview and Predictions

Andre Villas Boas was able to gain the attention of his critics when his Tottenham side better Manchester United in their away fixture with them earlier on in the season.

          Tottenham have been relatively consistent this season and the form found by Jermain Defoe is something that the United defence will have to prepare itself well for.  A corner may have been turned by Manchester United, although they weren’t able to stop Liverpool from scoring, as we’d expected, they were able to stop them from creating any convincing opportunities in the first half.

          With the title race heating up now that Manchester City have been able to beat Arsenal away from home for the first time in 37 years, we expect Manchester United, who are notoriously hard to break down in the second half of the season, to be able to take away the points from Tottenham – who underperformed at QPR last weekend.

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Tottenham v Manchester United: Verdict – Manchester United 27/20

Chelsea v Arsenal: Preview and Predictions

The repeat fixture last season was one of the low points of Chelsea’s last campaign.  Robin van Persie, who will be notably absent this weekend, scored a hat-trick and Theo Walcott, who Arsenal will rely on this weekend, was also able to add to Chelsea’s woes as they conceded five goals.

           This weekend is expected by us to be a different story and we think that the Arsenal visit is exactly what’s needed for Chelsea to divert attention away from the unpopularity of Rafael Benitez.

          The last two home games for Chelsea have been losses, which will give Arsenal confidence.  Chelsea are in dire need of something to celebrate at home and, as was the case in the Stoke game, this is a game players will have to focus for.

          The return of John Terry to the side may bolster their defence and give Chelsea some leadership, which is something they’ve been lacking.

          Regardless of your disposition, its hard to see Arsenal repeating last season’s performance.

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Chelsea v Arsenal: Verdict – Chelsea 19/20

Wigan v Sunderland: Preview and Predictions

Sunderland were able to put three past West Ham last weekend, which is something that would have been unthinkable a few months ago.

          Having recently beaten Manchester City we think Sunderland may be turning a corner and heading towards a mid-table finish, out of the grasp of the relegation battle.

          Should they lose to Wigan this weekend, some may not be so certain.  An important game, but one we think Martin O Neill’s side will be well prepared for, in spite of being the underdogs heading into the fixture.

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Wigan v Sunderland: Verdict – Draw 12/5

West Brom v Aston Villa: Preview and Predictions

West Brom haven’t won a game since Boxing Day – their league position and the form of Romelu Lukaku has kept them out of the headlines – but they’ve clearly, and quite significantly, dipped.

          Both teams have only the one win to brag about since the Christmas period, which means they’ve got similar form heading into this match.

          Historically, Aston Villa have been the most successful side in this Midlands derby – but on this occasion West Brom are considered favourites and have the positional advantage in the league.

          This is the most important match of the season so far for Aston Villa, who have relished in their neighbour’s relegations in recent years.  Should West Brom be able to better them this weekend, as we fear they might, Aston Villa may find recovery overwhelming.

          A huge game for Aston Villa, yet the same was said and considered prior to their game with Southampton at home last week, which they lost.

          A win for either side will be a huge achievement given recent form, which is why we think a draw may be settled on.

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West Ham v QPR: Preview and Predictions

If West Ham is the question then Chamakh is unlikely to be the answer – although he will be looking to silence his critics should he get the opportunity to this weekend.

          West Ham were expected to at least compete with Sunderland last weekend, who had similar form before the start of play.  Their underwhelming performance last weekend is the reason we don’t see them bettering QPR, who held Tottenham to a draw in their last fixture.

         It’s hard to write West Ham off entirely, seeing as at home this season they’ve held Manchester United to a draw and have beaten Chelsea – but it’s also hard to expect QPR to dominate play from the onset. 

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West Ham v QPR: Verdict – Draw 5/2

Swansea v Stoke: Preview and Predictions

Swansea have drawn drawn most of their home games this season and Stoke have drawn nearly half of all their games in total – which means a draw seems like the likely outcome in this fixture.  If you look at Stoke’s recent outcomes they’ve drawn six of their last eight fixtures in all competitions!

          Both teams have both recently played against Chelsea, with Swansea upsetting them at home and Chelsea ending Stoke’s record of nearly a year at the Britannia without having lost a league match.  Pulis and Laudrup will have studied each other’s performances intently, but in spite of that, we still expect a stalemate – and one that may not be as entertaining as some of the recent games played by either side.

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Swansea v Stoke: Verdict Draw 12/5

Newcastle v Reading: Preview and Predictions

Some sides seem to now have accepted the challenges of being in a fight for Premiership survival – and there seems to be a little more urgency about Reading than is the case with sides like Aston Villa.

          The comeback that Reading mounted, having gone 2-0 down, shows that they’re not to be counted out just quite yet.  Whilst Reading where enjoying what is likely to be considered the highlight of their season, Newcastle were trundling their way through the most pedestrian fixture of the weekend.

          This fixture is more than a hard one to call at this stage of the season.  Newcastle are struggling to come to terms with the fact they’re not half as effective as they were last season and Reading have come to terms with the fact they have treat every single Premier League game as if it’s their last.

          We expect this game to be close and we hope it’ll make up for the lack of goals in the previous Newcastle fixture.  Expect both teams to score, and although we predict a draw, expect a close game with points that could be taken by either side.

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Newcastle v Reading: Verdict  - Draw 11/4

Liverpool v Norwich: Preview and Predictions

Liverpool v Norwich: Preview and Predictions

Daniel Sturridge has shown that he’s unlikely to struggle to find goals at Liverpool, in spite of continuing to hammer most of his shots towards the side netting.  There certainly doesn’t seem to be a huge change in the player, who had a face like a prisoner’s passport picture, for most of the first half of the game against Manchester United, clearly expecting to be started.

          Norwich have provided us with some remarkable upsets this season, having beaten some quite unlikely opposition – but their subpar performance against a lolloping Newcastle side this weekend makes us think Liverpool are a relatively safe backing.

          Expect Liverpool to have reflected on their first half performance against Manchester United, where a lack of precision in passing cost them large spells of possession.

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Liverpool v Norwich: Verdict – Liverpool 4/11

Manchester City v Fulham: Preview and Predictions

Manchester City v Fulham: Preview and Predictions

Vincent Kompany, having marginally left the ground to challenge Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere, begins his suspension, leaving Manchester City without their captain.

          Statistically speaking, Fulham should be expected to have a better second half to their campaign, but that’s hard to believe given their recent form.  Fulham haven’t been holding on to leads and the chances of them getting one to start with this weekend are slim.

          Your washing machine is more likely to offer to make you breakfast than Fulham are to beat Manchester City this weekend, which bookmakers have priced as the safest Premier League backing of the weekend.

          Expect a comfortable win for the home side, and an afternoon of despondency for Fulham reflected in the looks upon the puglike face of Martin Jol.

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Manchester City v Fulham: Verdict – Manchester City 3/10

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Premier League High-Return Accumulator

Aston Villa v Southampton: Verdict –Draw

Stoke v Chelsea: Verdict – Chelsea

Sunderland v West Ham – Verdict – West Ham

Chelsea. 

           The West London side, since having won the European title last season, have been routinely inconsistent and their turbulent results have just about put them out of the title race – and now perhaps the lesser-sought Capital One Cup.

          This weekend Chelsea travel to Stoke to face a side that hasn’t lost a home league game for nearly a year on the back of a loss at home to Swansea and a loss to QPR, seen by some as the very the soil below the barrel, in their last league game.  Most will expect a draw and will see a Stoke victory as an upset, but we’re still going to side with Chelsea.  We expect a better performance after a clearly lacklustre display in order to avoid further turmoil at a club battling against suggestions of a crisis.  For the exact same odds, if you don’t favour this backing, then head for a home win in the game between Manchester United and Liverpool – if you think that’s a safer backing.

          If you overlook the five-goal embarrassment at the hands of Chelsea in the FA Cup, you credit Southampton with some very impressive results against strong sides such as Arsenal and Stoke.   Three of their last five fixtures have been draws and we expect this one to follow suit.

          With the Premier League table looking as it does, this is a six pointer for the two sides involved – but we feel that a draw might be settled on late-on.

          This is one of our most ambitious three-folds to date with some very challenging backings – none more so than West Ham.

          If you overlook the five-goal embarrassment at the hands of Chelsea in the FA Cup, you credit Southampton with some very impressive results against strong sides such as Arsenal and Stoke.   Three of their last five fixtures have been draws and we expect this one to follow suit.

          With the Premier League table looking as it does, this is a six pointer for the two sides involved – but we feel that a draw might be settled on late-on.

          If you are going to place a backing on this treble we recommend opting for a patent.  Spread your stake over seven bets (the threefold, three doubles and three singles) because if two should land you’ll find yourself in profit.

         

18/1

Premier League Low Risk Accumulator

Premier League Low Risk Accumulator:

Manchester United v Liverpool: Verdict Manchester United

Norwich v Newcastle: Verdict Both Teams to Score

QPR v Tottenham: Verdict BBTS

Ninety percent of Premier League games involving Norwich have seen both teams scoring and the same has been the case in the majority of Newcastle fixtures.  It’s statistically likely that both teams will find the net.  Norwich are expected winners, but the both teams to score backing seems a safer one.

          QPR v Tottenham is one of the hardest games to call of the weekend.  Tottenham are the favourites, but Redknapp could cause an upset against a squad that largely represented by players he purchased whilst at the club.  This is one of the most anticipated games of the season for the neutral, which is why it features this weekend.  We’re hoping that the game will live up to expectation and both teams will find the net.

          Manchester United are priced at 4/5 to win at home this weekend and, if you overlook ropey defensive performances, that’s a price worth taking against any team in the Premier League at the moment.  Liverpool, having added Sturridge to their ranks, will be hoping to reinvigorate their campaign with a win over their closest rivals – something we feel is easier said than done.

          The absence of Rooney this weekend will only serve to slightly quell the tension in what is likely to be the most viewed Premier League fixture.  The game will be tense and fast paced from the onset. We expect, however, that it will be Manchester United that edge the victory.

          If you put an equal stake on this backing and the high-return patent we’re suggesting, which we recommend, then any single result in the high-return threefold will put you in the profit margin. 

19/5

QPR v Tottenham: Preview and Predictions

QPR’s bettering of Chelsea at Stamford Bridge has been their only win in their last five matches, but that may be enough to convince some they have a chance against Tottenham this weekend.

          It will be an emotive occasion for Redknapp who faces his former players for the first time since taking charge of the QPR – and the team in many ways still resembles a Redknapp outfit. 

          Jermain Defoe will have a point to prove against his former boss this weekend and could be one to opt for as an anytime goalscorer; Redknapp was known for favouring his other options over Defoe at Tottenham and the forward will be more than keen to show how he’s returned to form in this fixture.

          This is going to be a tightly contested match and we don’t see either team running away with the points in the first half – which is why we’re going to reluctantly predict a draw.  Both teams to score seems like a much better backing than the outright in this fixture.

QPR v Tottenham: Verdict – Draw 14/5

Arsenal v Manchester City: Preview and Predictions

Arsene Wenger, at the time of writing, has yet to make any substantial signings and has promised only to spend money on ‘real quality.’  Meanwhile, Manchester City, according to Napoli, have been setting their sights on £45 million Edinson Cavani.

          Arsenal need to strengthen their squad to be able to compete with teams like City for places at the top of the table and need some comparable players.  David Villa will be a potentially strong addition to the side, but it’s hard to argue they’ve replaced Van Persie, or have come close to it.

          Arsenal continue to frustrate, racking up tennis-like scores one minute before drawing to teams at the bottom end of the table the next.

          Manchester City have shown that they can be exposed on the break in their recent loss to Sunderland away from home, but we think this will be a game they’re much more likely to be better prepared for.

          If Manchester City underperform then instability and too much talk of spending will likely be blamed – things that Arsenal should try for themselves.

          Expect an away win – Arsenal simply don’t have the options that Manchester City do on this occasion.

         

Arsenal v Manchester City: Verdict – Manchester City 7/4

Manchester United v Liverpool: Preview and Predictions

Manchester United had a close encounter with West Ham this weekend – but Van Persie’s late involvement secured their inevitable comeback.  If you overlook Michu’s price tag it’s hard to argue that he’s not been the player the most value for money in the Premiership this season.

          Daniel Sturridge has silenced his critics, for the time being, with a debut goal and this game could be a chance to see him linking up with Suarez.  Or rather the other way round – Daniel Sturridge wasn’t really known for his linking up with anyone when he was at Chelsea.  Perhaps, now the pressure is off and he can envisage himself having a place in the team at Liverpool, Daniel Sturridge will be able to develop his team play.  This is a huge game, much unlike last week’s trip to Mansfield, and Sturridge should consider this to be his real debut in a Liverpool shirt.

          Wayne Rooney is unavailable for this fixture, but that gives fringe players, such as Javier Hernandez, an opportunity to prove their worth.

          Manchester United have collected more of their points in the second halves of recent seasons and winning this fixture will signal to winning of the title for many.

          Expect a home win.

            

Manchester United v Liverpool: Verdict – Manchester United 4/5

Aston Villa v Southampton: Preview and Predictions

Few clubs can boast of having a defence as unreliable as Aston Villa can do of late, having conceded a monstrous eighteen gaols in their last five games.

          Villa’s draw to Swansea and bettering of Ipswich may have convinced some that a corner’s been turned by Paul Lambert’s side – who have now found themselves being considered as relegation contenders - but we’re not convinced they’ll be able to brush Southampton aside in this meeting, a team who have shown that they’re capable of finding goals on their travels. 

          If you overlook the five-goal embarrassment at the hands of Chelsea in the FA Cup, you credit Southampton with some very impressive results against strong sides such as Arsenal and Stoke.   Three of their last five fixtures have been draws and we expect this one to follow suit.

          With the Premier League table looking as it does, this is a six pointer for the two sides involved – but we feel that a draw might be settled on late-on.

         

Aston Villa v Southampton: Verdict – Draw 12/5

Everton v Swansea: Preview and Predictions

Everton were impressive in their approach to Newcastle in their last Premier League game and Leighton Baines, if a few defensive wobbles are overlooked, exhibited a world-class performance.

          Swansea came close to bettering Arsenal at home but drew to a weary Aston Villa beforehand, making them one of the hardest teams to call of late.  In Michu this season they have one of the best forwards in Europe and his form shouldn’t be underestimated by the home side this weekend.

          Everton have one of the strongest home records in the Premier League and for that reason, alongside the fact they’ve only lost once since mid-November, we’re backing them to beat Swansea.

Everton v Swansea: Verdict – Everton 4/6

Sunderland v West Ham: Preview and Predictions

West Ham have won only two of their last ten fixtures – one of them being their home win over Chelsea, likely to be the highlight of their season.

          West Ham have been one of the most inconsistent sides in the league lately, betting top opposition one week and then floundering to teams facing relegation the next.

          Most will be expecting Sunderland to brush West Ham aside with ease – but we think this fixture could be a exhibition of what West Ham are capable of, which they managed to demonstrate in their FA Cup tie against Manchester United.

          Joe Cole has returned to his former club as a very important time for West Ham.  His side will be hoping to have a stronger second half to the season and this game is the perfect opportunity to show their long term intent.

          Sunderland have also won only two in ten, but they have a recent beating of the Premier League title holders to boast about.

         This is going to be a close match, but we think a 21/1 starting price is just unfair to the visitors – and an opportunity.

         

Sunderland v West Ham: Verdict – West Ham 21/1

Stoke v Chelsea: Preview and Predictions

Next month Stoke will be able to boast having not lost a league match at home for a year – a record a select few teams in the history of the Premier League have achieved.

          Chelsea, in their last league match, were bettered by QPR and that will give Stoke added confidence; after all, they came very close to gaining a point at Stamford Bridge earlier this season and matched Chelsea for most of the encounter.

           Demba Ba having signed for Chelsea has strengthened the squad will give opportunities to rest the heavily criticised Torres.  Chelsea, in spite of inconsistency this season, are the European Champions and have players fighting for places, and in the case of  Frank Lampard, pride.

          After a solid display in the FA Cup against a recently solid Southampton, evens for an away win seems a relatively fair price to play with, regardless of the Stoke record – which has to be broken at some stage.  Stoke will have to be defensively minded to keep hold of their record, but the performance against Man City recently suggests Chelsea may be able to come away with a win if they can perform as a team.

        

Stoke v Chelsea: Verdict – Chelsea Evens