Saturday, 30th September 2006
Just picking winners no score line predictions and no goal outcomes. Take it to your bookie at your own risk.
Bolton v Liverpool,
Bolton’s playing style is quite hard to break down and having just beaten Portsmouth, they will fancy their chances against the Reds. Rafa will include Momo, Riise and probably Hyppia after the midweek rest. The greatest challenge will be the strike force to go with. Crouch just bagged a brace and Kuyt is looking real good. Garcia has been instrumental in the last 2 games and playing him could prove decisive. Liverpool ought to win and I’m putting my money on that. Having said that their record at the Reebok is awfull but the Wanderers’ strikers are all misfiring and Nolan and Speed will have their work cut out in Midfield.
Charlton v Arsenal, 15:00
This should be a piece of cake for the gunners. Henry is back and the Fabregas – Rosicky combination in midfield is quite effective. Everything that could possibly go wrong for Dowie has – Injuries, losses, poor form etc – It makes no difference to play at home, they just dont have ideas. Arsenal should win easily. This should be the highest scoring match.
Chelsea v Aston Villa
This isn’t as easy as expected as Villa have had a near perfect start this season. Chelsea conceded in the champions league and Villa will take the game to them. However in this case the Chelsea midfield is far too strong for Villa and Chelsea haven’t lost a league game in the Bridge in 3 seasons now. Expect a Chelsea win.
Everton v Man City
City havent won at Goodison since 1992. Everton love winning by the odd goal and the Cahil Johnson partnership has worked pretty well so far.
Everton to win this probably 2-1.
Sheff Utd v Middlesbrough
Boro have great players but it’s questionable whether they can get toghether and produce something here. With Boateng and Downing back, their midfield problems are solved. I expect a win here.
Sunday, 01 October 2006
Blackburn v Wigan
Blackburn are quite strong at home and their midweek win uplifts them. Wigan have had mixed results so far, their away record is not so bad
Man Utd v Newcastle
This will probably be as Quizeros predicted: a stunner. At the back, Newcastle have Bramble and Babayaro suspended and Given injured. Upfront, the only available striker is Obafemi Martins. It’s really a question of how many chances United can put away.
Tottenham v Portsmouth
Portsmouth started off quite well banging in goals and with Lualua back, things can only get better. Tottenham have had problems home and away and dont seem to have rhythm. I expect Pedro Mendes and O’neil to control the game and a win for Portsmouth shouldn’t be so difficult.
West Ham v Reading,
It’s a really tough call. West Ham were great last season but their cohesiveness as a team has reduced. Reading are what West Ham was last season. Coming off a draw with United, I will fancy them to get something here.
Monday, 02 October 2006
Watford v Fulham
Fulham should step up for this game if they intend to finish above mid table. Their performance against Chelsea wasn’t so bad so I expect them to find the keep the ball more but with Boa Morte out, finding the net will be pretty hard. A draw is my prediction.
