EPL 3-Ball
Written by James Kempton (follow him on twitter @ukbettingpro)
Manchester United host Stoke City as they look to continue their push to regain their EPL crown. This fixture has always been one where United excelled as they are yet to lose to Stoke in their eight EPL meetings. Stoke has not even been able to grab a point yet from the four trips to Old Trafford however, this year more than ever they will travel in hope given United’s apparent defensive frailties in the early part of the season. Six of United’s seven games have seen the over 2.5 goal ticket cash. In contrast Stoke have been frugal with just one of their seven games hitting three or more goals. I do feel that Stoke, with their more direct style, will cause the United backline some issues. Dead ball situations in particular are an area that Stoke could over power United and look to capitalize. United should be able to dominate the possession though and this should ensure plenty of chances are created by the home team. I take Stoke to score in this game though and given the obvious goal threat United possess I love the over 2.5 goal ticket to be one you can expect to cash.
West Ham entertain newly promoted Southampton at Upton Park. The home side have had an excellent start to the season and they are strong favourites to build on that start in this game. The 1.90 (-110 for those on the other side of the pon) being offered for the home win is appealing as their manager, ‘Big’ Sam Allardyce, will be targeting opponents such as Southampton for three points. However, I would rather look towards the goals market in this game for the best bet. Six of Southampton’s seven games have gone over 2.5 and all of these have actually cashed an over 3.5 goal ticket. The one game that did not hit the three goal mark was their 2-0 home defeat at the hands of Wigan. The Southampton defense is sieve like and I see the aggressive West Ham forward line pressing them and creating plentiful chances. Southampton are explosive on the counter attack and will cause West Ham’s defense problems all night long. All the ingredients are there for an exciting high scoring game in East London. Four or five goals scored is not an improbability in this game given the individual match ups so back the goals and enjoy a high flying shootout.
Our final 3 ball selection comes from Arsenal’s travel to Carrow Road for the lunchtime kick off this Saturday afternoon, kick off 1235pm EST. The hosts have only three points on the board after seven games, all earned through draws. Norwich has only scored more than one goal in one of their seven games so far this season and now face an Arsenal team here who have seemingly clicked into gear in front of goal after a relatively slow start. The excellent playing surface at Norwich should allow the Gunners to exert their passing style over the hosts. Expect the ball to be dominated by the Londoners and they will create a large number of goal scoring opportunities. This will be of great concern to Chris Hughton and his Norwich team given the fact they shipped five goals at home to Liverpool last time out at home and four away at Chelsea in their last league game. Arsenal won 3-1 away at West Ham in their last away game and I take them here to repeat the feat. Take Arsenal to win on the road and cover the handicap at (-1, even).
Before I go I have one stand out trend to pass on to you good folk. Nine of the last fifteen meetings between Fulham and Aston Villa have ended in a draw. Just remember that before you place a wager this weekend and whether you choose to follow the above advice or not, good luck with your betting weekend.
