17:00 (EET) SOUTHAMPTON - CHELSEA
History: 17-15-26
SOUTHAMPTON:
Third straight draw for the "saints" who were better than Arsenal, but
held eventually a 1-1 draw at Saint Mary’s. Gaston Ramirez gave the lead
to the home team on 35 minutes, coming as a trailer, after a confusion
in Arsenal’s defense, but 6 minutes later the gunners equalized with an
own goal by do Prado. They have been defeated just once in their last 5
games in Premier and remained outside the relegation zone, marginally
above the line, tying with Wigan at 18 points. The 7 out of the last 8
games were under 2.50 goals. Southampton will be without defender
Nathaniel Klein (15/1/2) and captain Adam Lallana (16/2/4). Adkins will
probably use the regular starting lineup.
Last 5 games: 1W-3D-1L
CHELSEA:
A shock defeat for Chelsea, who lost at home to QPR by 0-1. They had
control of the game and good opportunities to open the score, but they
gradually gave space to the visitors and eventually paid it, conceding a
goal at 78'. Back to the negative results, after 4 consecutive wins in
Premier. Tottenham is in 3rd place and one point ahead, with
Everton having reduced the difference by two points, although the blues
have a game less. Chelsea’s striker Sturridge (7/1) has been transferred
to Liverpool for 14 millions €. Chelsea signed the promising Brazilian
footballer Wallace for £4.8 million, and also grabbed a great deal by
bringing to Stamford Bridge Demba Ba from Newcastle for a fee of 9
millions €. Finally, Yossi Benayoun has return after a six months loan
at West Ham. Chelsea has not been defeated in their last 6 meetings with
Southampton (4-2-0). Goalkeeper Petr Cech (16), defender John Terry
(7/1), midfielders Oriol Romeu (6), Yossi Benayoun will miss the match,
while midfielder Obi Mikel (14) is still not 100% ready.
Last 5 games: 4W-0D-1L
Prediction betting:
Southampton looks more organized in the last matches, but we expect to
see an open game against Chelsea, who is very strong offensively. (Over 2.50 goals bet365.com).