EPL Preview

FA Cup matches over the weekend forced some of the league’s biggest clubs into mid week fixtures.  Table topping implications on the line especially in a Manchester Derby where both City and United are vying for a UCL birth.  James Kempton shares his thoughts on the complete slate.

Chelsea v Southampton
Chelsea -1.25 and 2.75 goals

The blueprint is out on how to stop Chelsea, nullify Hazard and Pedro and the job is done. Well that’s easier said than done as only certain teams have the personnel to do such a number on them. Southampton may have just the players capable of doing that. I will take a piece of the away team to at least stay within striking distance on what could be a nervous evening at Stamford Bridge.

Arsenal v Leicester City
Arsenal -1 and 3 goals

The first meeting of the sides this season finished goalless but last season Arsenal did the double over the Foxes including a last gasp 2-1 win in this fixture against just ten men. Can you really see Arsenal adapting to the threats that the Foxes pose? No, me neither but that didn’t bother them last season when Leicester won the title. They are riding the crest of that FA Cup wave and seem to have the Foxes number. Home team or pass. 

Middlesbrough v Sunderland
Middlesbrough -0.5 and 2.25 goals

Middlesbrough won 2-1 at the Stadium of Light earlier this season but that game seems a long time ago now. Who is really going to bet this game as both teams are doomed to relegation. I have no clue or interest as to what happens in this match of the north east losers. 

Crystal Palace v Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham -0.75 and 2.75 goals

Under 2.5 goals is 6-2 in all meetings of the teams since August 2013. Palace had that great win at Anfield on Sunday and big Sam has worked his magic once more. Three quarters of a goal is a big line for Spurs to cover and despite their great play in that cup semi final against Chelsea that resulted in a loss, are they going to wobble again like they did last season? Home dog or pass for me. 

Manchester City v Manchester United
Man City -0.5 and 2.75 goals

Under 2.5 goals is 4-2 in all meetings since November 2014 and the last two league meetings on this ground have ended in a 1-0 win for Utd last season and for City the year before. Jose will look to grind out a result out in this game and in view of that I will have a little piece of the unders.