19/20/21 DECEMBER RESULTS

Portsmouth v Liverpool

Liverpool’s poor season hit another bump when they lost to bottom of the log Portsmouth. The 2-0 defeat will be a blow to the Red’s faithful but of bigger concern will be Javier Mascherano’s straight red card. The Argentinean will have to sit out the next three matches of this busy Christmas period. Portsmouth didn’t look anything like a bottom of the table side as Nadir Belhadj and Frederic Piquionne secured a famous win for Pompey. Nadir Belhadj’s goal was the 500th Barclays Premier League goal of the season.
My Prediction: 2-1 Portsmouth
Actual Result: 2-0 Portsmouth

Aston Villa v Stoke City

Aston Villa kept their Top 4 hopes alive with victory over Stoke. John Carew scored the only goal of the game in the 64^th minute. Victory in the tightly contested match lifts Villa ahead of Arsenal for the time being. The Gunners play Hull City later in the day. Ashley Young will be hoping to get on the plane to England and his cause would have been helped as he proved a decent ball for Carew to latch onto.
My Prediction: 2-0 Villa
Actual Result: 1-0 Villa

Blackburn Rovers v Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs became just the second side to win at Ewood park this season when they beat Rovers 2-0. Peter Crouch scored both of Spurs’ goals. The lanky English striker scored on the brink of half time before sealing the win 7mins from the whistle. Rovers showed great attacking ability lead by a brilliant display from Benni McCarthy. The South African forward was unlucky to be denied by the post.
My Prediction: 3-0 Spurs
Actual Result: 2-0 Spurs

Fulham v Manchester United (featured match)

Last year Manchester United went down 2-0 at Craven Cottage with 2 men sent off. This years’ trip wasn’t any better for the reigning champions. Sir Alex doesn’t have much to choose from in defense but it’s unlikely that his ‘back 3’ formation will make another appearance anytime soon. United were left horribly short at the back as Carrick, Fletcher and De Laet struggled to keep Fulham at bay. Danny Murphy,  Bobby Zomara and Damien Duff all striking major blows to United’s title defense.
My Prediction: 2-0 United
Actual Result: 3-0 Fulham

Manchester City v Sunderland

Manchester City and Sunderland gave those in the City Stadium a very exciting game. 7 goals were scored as City came out winners. Roque Santa Cruz (twice), Carlos Tevez and Craig Bellamy were all on target for City as they hang on to hopes of Europe. Sunderland ran the hosts close as John Mensah, Jordan Henderson and Kenwyne Jones each found the back of the net for the Black Cats.
My Prediction: 2-1 City
Actual result: 4-3 City

Arsenal v Hull City

City were beaten 3-0 in a fiery affair on a cold winters night in Hull. The game sparked into controversy when Nasri seemed to kick out at a Hull player. The Tigers were not amused and their mood would have gone even further south when Arsenal were awarded a free kick just outside the box after Diaby seemed to have slippped. Denilson converted the free kick to give the Gunners the lead going into half time. Geovanni saw his second half penalty attempt saved by Manuel Almunia before the Gunners closed out the game through Eduardo and Abou Diaby.
My Prediction: 2-0 Arsenal
Actual Result: 3-0

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Burnley

Mick McCarthy’s decision to rest 10 of his first team regulars against Manchester United paid off when his side secured victory over Burnley on Sunday. Goals by Milijas and Kevin Doyle ensured Wolves moved out of the bottom three for Christmas. This was the third win in four matches for Wolves.
My Prediction 2-2
Actual Result: 2-0 Wolves

Everton v Birmingham City

Everton will be disappointed with a draw after they dominated much of the match. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov scored in just the sixth minute as David Moyes’ men looked to gain their first win in 6 matches. Sebastian Larsson brought the visiting side level with Birmingham’s first real attack of the game. Everton continued to pressure City’s goal but were unable to gain the vital breakthrough to secure all three points.
My Prediction: 2-1 Everton
Actual Result: 1-1

West Ham United v Chelsea

Both West Ham and Chelsea needed spot-kicks to score as the Blues missed an opportunity to pull away from their title rivals. Carlo Ancelotti has spoken about the impact Alessandro Diamanti could have on the game and it was the fiery Italian that gave the home side the lead from the spot. Frank Lampard had an opportunity to bring the title leaders level after a foul in the box by Matthew Upson. Referee Mike Dean made Lampard retake the penalty three times after seeing players encroaching. That didn’t distract the England star as he slotted home to save his side from a major upset. The point also kept West Ham off the very bottom of the log.
My Prediction: 2-0 Chelsea
Actual Result: 1-1

Wigan Athletic v Bolton Wanderers

Matched postponed due to bad weather.
My Prediction: 2-1 Bolton
Actaul Result:  Match postponed

15/16 DECEMBER RESULTS

Sunderland v Aston Villa

Aston Villa achieved exactly what they would have wanted when they arrived at the Stadium of Light: 3 points. All the pressure now rests on Spurs when they face Man City tonight. With the World Cup drawing closer, players are eager to secure themselves a plane ticket to South Africa. One man who is staking a real claim is James Milner. The England midfielder produced a fine display, first setting up fellow England hopeful Emile Heskey before adding the second in the 64^th min. Andy Reid missed an opportunity to score when it was 1-0. The Black Cats made the task of coming back even harder for themselves when they went down to ten men in the 78^th minute.
My Prediction: 2-0 Villa
Actual Result: 2-0 Villa

Birmingham City v Blackburn Rovers

Birmingham secured a fifth win in a row against Rovers midweek – a feat they haven’t achieved in 36 years. That result pushes them up into the top 6. Alex McLeish will be a hot favourite for manager of the month! Cameron Jerome did all the scoring for the Blues, one after 12mins and the other 3mins into the second half. Ryan Nelsen managed to pull one back for the visitors but they were always second best on the day.
My Prediction: 1-0 City
Actual Result: 2-1 City

Bolton Wanderers v West Ham United

Bolton squeezed themselves out of the relegation zone with a win over bottom of the log neighbours West Ham. Three goals, three points for Gary Megson’s men. Chung-Yong Lee, Ivan Klasnic and Gary Cahill were all on the score sheet for Bolton. Alessandro Diamanti made the score 1-1 after Lee’s strike but their joy ran out there. The unfortunate midfielder, Kieron Dyer had another injury blow and had to be subbed after just 23mins of play.
My Prediction: 2-1 Wanderers
Actual Result: 3-1 Wanderers

Manchester United v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Mick McCarthy came under serious fire after he made 10 changes to the side that beat Spurs on the weekend. The fresh legs did little to stop a rampant United, who were fired-up after their weekend loss to Aston Villa. De Laet and Carrick started alongside Vidic and Evra in the depleted defence. Darren Gibson was given another start as he continues to impress while Obertan also got handed his first league start at Old Trafford. Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Antonio Valencia all found the back of the net as United moved level with Chelsea for the day.
My Prediction: 2-0 United
Actual Result: 3-0 United

WEDNESDAY NIGHT

Burnley v Arsenal

Graham Alexander is making a name for himself as a quality penalty taker. The Burnley midfielder scored from the spot to secure The Clarets a point at home against Arsenal. The Gunners took the lead early on through skipper Cesc Fabregas. Arsenal had to win their games in hand to go level on points with second placed Manchester United. A frustrating draw would have left Aresne Wenger rueing their missed opportunities.
My Prediction: 2-0 Arsenal
Actual Result: 1-1

Chelsea v Portsmouth

Portsmouth were just 11mins away from leaving Stamford Bridge with a point before a poor tackle from Wilson gifted Chelsea a penalty. Anelka had given The Blues the lead after 22min before Piquionne brought the visiting side level. Frank Lampard made up for his miss against Manchester City by slotting home from the spot to secure Chelsea all three points and give them their first win in 5 matches.
My Prediction: 1-0 Chelsea
Actual Result: 2-1 Chelsea

Liverpool v Wigan Athletic

Liverpool eased the pressure on themselves by securing a much needed three points. David Ngog gave the reds the lead after 10 mins. Fernando Torres scored Liverpool’s second in the 78^th min. It wasn’t the prettiest goal he has ever scored but Liverpool will take what they can get at this stage. Wigan did mange to pull one back through N’Zogbia but it was too little too late.
My Prediction 3-2 Wigan
Actual Result: 2-1 Liverpool

Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City (featured match)

Spurs stayed in touch with the top four after a dominating display against Manchester City. Niko Kranjcar scored twice as City proved to have little resistance. The Croatian opened the scoring on 38mins when the ball fell kindly to him. Jermain Defoe continued his rich vein of scoring when he pounced onto a flick-on from Peter Crouch. Kranjcar proved his class with a brilliant individual effort in stoppage time.
My Prediction: 3-2 Spurs
Actual Result: 3-0 Spurs

12/13 DECEMBER RESULTS

Stoke City v Wigan Athletic

Stoke City hosted Wigan Athletic and the result set the tone for the rest of the day. Wigan went ahead early-on, when Emmerson Boyce headed the visitors in front. Tuncay Sanli scored his first goal since moving from Middlesbrough, to bring Stoke level. A stunning strike from inside his own half will give Figueroa a good shout at goal of the season. He put Wigan back in the lead in the 72 min with his superbly struck free-kick. Ryan Shawcross then brought the hosts level for the second time. Wigan had a chance to win it in the last minute of normal time when Hugo Rodallega stepped up to take a penalty. Thomas Sorensen proved to be the hero however as the Stoke stopper helped secure his side a point.
My Prediction: 2-1 Stoke
Actual Result: 2-2

Birmingham City v West Ham

Lee Bowyer was once again on the score sheet as Birmingham continued their charge up the table. The single goal would be the difference as City added another 3 points to their tally. West Ham now slip back into the bottom three. City’s win was one of only 3 results from the weekend.
My Prediction: 2-1 Birmingham
Actual Result: 1-0 City

Bolton Wanderers v Manchester City

Craig Bellamy did his side no favours when he was sent off for diving after 64 mins. City looked set to face defeat before Carlos Tevez scored a vital goal to give City a point. Ivan Klasnic scored twice while Gary Cahill added the third. Tevez was City’s two goal hero. Micah Richards also netted for City. Bolton and City traded blows with Bolton always leading the way. A blow for Mark Hughes who sees his side fail to build on an impressive win over Chelsea last week. Yet another draw this term for City…
My Prediction: 3-0 City
Actual Reslut: 3-3

Burnley v Fulham

All the goal scoring happened in a ten minute spell. It was Fulham who went ahead in the 50^th minute thanks to Bobby Zamora. They had enjoyed plenty of chances before that however. Their inability to convert those chances came back to haunt them just 10 minutes later when Wade Elliott secured a point for Burnely. Not a win, but that home record still looks very good for the Clarets.
My Prediction: 1-1
Actual Result: 1-1

Chelsea v Everton

Carlo Ancelotti will hardly be pleased with his sides’ defending when Everton visited The Bridge. Petr Cech handed Everton the lead after 12 min thanks to an own-goal. Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka made up for the mistake however. Chelsea looked to be heading into the break with the lead before Yakubu scored for the visitors during injury time. Luck fell kindly for Louis Saha. The Frenchman slotted home to earn Everton a draw after Drogba had scored his second in the 58 min.
My Prediction: 2-0 Chelsea
Actual Result: 3-3

Hull City v Blackburn Rovers

Hull City will feel slightly robbed. They were not awarded a clear penalty after Jozy Altidore was fouled in the box. Neither side were swimming in chances and it is the second week in a row that Rovers will arrive at training on Monday after a 0-0 draw.
My Prediction: 1-0 Rovers
Actual Result: 0-0

Sunderland v Portsmouth

Sunderland and Portsmouth played out to the 6^th draw of the day. Chelsea and Manchester City both saw 6 goals scored in their respective games. Only 2 were scored at the Stadium of Light. Darren Bent was back amongst the goals again and the Black Cats seemed to have done enough to secure all three points as injury time approached. Younes Kaboul didn’t execute the greatest wisdom 3 mins into injury time. The defender had been booked earlier for a tackle and after scoring a vital goal to earn his side a point, he removed his shirt in celebration and was promptly shown his second yellow, and red.
My Prediction: 2-1 Sunderland
Actual Result: 1-1

Tottenham Hotspur v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Spurs again failed to put pressure on third place rivals Arsenal when they were dealt a blow to their Champions league hope with a loss to Wolves. Kevin Doyle got his head onto Nenad Milijas’ corner to put Wolves in front after just 2 mins. The following 88 mins saw a brilliant defensive effort as Wolves withstood everything that Spurs threw at them, including a fit-again Luka Modric. Not quite the pounding many (including me) expected to see Wolves receive…
My Prediction: 3-o Spurs
Actual Result: 1-0 Wolves

Manchester United v Aston Villa

Aston Villa scored their first win at Old Trafford after 28 years thanks to a first half goal from Gabbi Agbonlahor. Sir Alex started with just Rooney up front, a decision he seemed to regret by the end when his side failed to score, despite having brought on Owen and Berbatov. United did have a lot of possession but despite all their efforts weren’t able to break down the Villa defence. A great victory for Martin O’Neil’s men as they hunt for Champions League football.
My Prediction: 2-1 United
Actual Result: 1-0 Villa

Liverpool v Arsenal (featured match)

Liverpool left Anfield with more questions than answers after hosting Arsenal. Things looked to be going to plan when Dirk Kuyt gave the Reds the lead in the first half. There have been some doubts over Glen Johnson’s defensive abilities and those came under the spotlight again this evening. The England full-back first helped the visitors come level with an own-goal before he was easily beaten by Arshavin who put the Gunners in the lead. It finished 2-1 and Arsenal now have a great to chance to go second if they win their game in hand. Liverpool’s biggest worry will be the fact they lost, at home, with a full strength side. Not a good sign for a side who are fighting to regain a place in the top 4.
My Prediction: 3-2 Arsenal
Actual Result: 2-1 Arsenal

5/6 DECEMBER RESULTS

Unfortunately due to some technical errors, we were not able to post any reviews yesterday for Premier League matches. We do apologise. Please find below the reviews of all the action that has taken place this weekend.

Portsmouth v Burnley

Portsmouth took three valuable steps closer to moving off the bottom of the table.  They made the most of Burnley’s inability to travel by wining 2-0 at Fratton Park. Aruna Dindane missed an opportunity from the spot to put the hosts in front after half an hour. Portsmouth seem unable to capitalize on all the penalties they are being awarded. He did make up for it later however, when he scored Pompey’s second, courtesy of a Jamie O’Hara cross. Hermann Hreidarsson set Portsmouth on their way with a fine finish after a brilliant ball from Kanu.
My Prediction: 2-1 Portsmouth
Actual Result: 2-0 Portsmouth

Arsenal v Stoke City

The Gunners missed an early opportunity from the spot when Arshavin was brought down in the box by Richie Delap, only for Cesc Fabregas’s effort to be saved. Arshavin starred for the Gunners and put the hosts in front with a fine finish on 25 mins. Substitute, Aaron Ramsey then sealed all three points with a low drive from the edge of the box. A great way for Arsene Wenger’s men to bounce back after a disappointing loss last week to Chelsea.
My Prediction: 3-1 Arsenal
Actual Result: 2-0 Arsenal

Aston Villa v Hull City

Aston Villa put pressure on Spurs, as they hunt for 4^th spot, with a fine display against Hull. Villa are now level on points (albeit a game behind). James Milner staked a claim for a spot in the England squad after a performance that saw him score and create. Richard Dunne opened the scoring, thanks to Milner’s setup play, before the England winger made it 2-0. John Carew added the finishing touches just minutes from time. The biggest blow for Hull was Jimmy Bullard’s injury which saw the play-maker limp off after just 18 mins with knee damage.
My Prediction: 2-1 Villa
Actual Result: 3-0

Blackburn Rovers v Liverpool

Blackburn welcomed back manager Sam Allardyce after recovering from heart surgery. A point against Liverpool would have cheered up his day after his side played out to a goalless draw. Rafa Benitez had an almost full strength 11. The only one missing was Fernando Torres. The Spanish hitman was sorely missed again as few chances were created and David Ngog failed to make the most of the best ones. Liverpool’s drive up the table stalled again as the Reds remain 12 points behind log leaders Chelsea.
My Prediction: 1-1
Actual Result: 0-0

West Ham United v Manchester United

Manchester United arrived with a makeshift back four which saw Gary Neville and Wes Brown as the central pairing with Evra and Fletcher on the flanks. That lasted just over half an hour before Neville’s old legs gave in and he pulled up with a groin strain. Carrick was deployed as a central defender with the Reds looking very shaky. West Ham had injury problems of their own when Hines slowed to a walking pace. Scholes made the most of a poor clearance in the box after a corner, to send the visitors into the changing rooms with a slender lead. United had more injury troubles at the end with Brown being forced off. That left the back four being comprised of Fletcher, Carrick, Evra and Giggs. Defensive troubles didn’t stop the champions from hitting form in the second half and putting three past Robert Green before the 71 min.
My Prediction: 3-0
Actual Result: 4-0

Wigan Athletic v Birmingham City

Birmingham’s first priority was to survive in the Premier League this season. It is too early to say that they have already secured a spot in next years’ league but it may not be too early to say that they have a shot at Europe. Alex McLeish has found a winning formula and the Blues currently sit in 8th place – just 3 points behind Liverpool. Wigan fans would have thought that the right Wigan had arrived when Charles N’Zogbia gave the hosts the lead. 11min of class from City turned the game upside down as Sebastian Larson scored twice from freekicks with Christian Benitez grabbing his second of the season between each one. Wigan did pull one back through Jordi Gomez but by then it was too late.
My Prediction: 2-1 City
Actual Result: 3-2 City

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Bolton Wanderers

Wolves did their survival chances no harm when they beat Bolton 2-1 at home. It took just 3 minutes for the boys in orange to score as Jody Craddock sent the home fans into a frenzy. Their lead was doubled in the 63rd min thanks to Nenad Milijas. Johan Elmander scored for the Trotters as they looked to come back but it was a bridge too far as Wolves moved ahead of Gary Megson’s men.
My Prediction: 1-1
Actual Result: 2-1 Wolves

Manchester City v Chelsea (featured match)

Manchester City looked set to rewrite history when Onuoha’s tackle on Drogba handed Chelsea a penalty with about 10 mins to go. City have drawn their last 7 and with a 2-1 lead, had lumps in their throats when the penalty was given. Frank Lampard doesn’t miss many but Shay Given put his World Cup demons behind him by proving his class with a low dive to his right to save the Blues midfielder’s effort. The loss to City means Chelsea now only have a 2 point lead at the top of the log over Manchester City’s neighbors, United. It was an ex-Red who secured the points for City when Carlos Tevez sent a free kick through the wall to give City the lead. Earlier Emmanuel Adebayor scored an own goal then converted himself from villain to hero when he brought his side back level after 36 mins.
Prediction: 3-1 Chelsea
Actual Result: 2-1 City

Fulham v Sunderland

It took just 7 mins before the home fans had something to cheer about. Bobby Zamora headed the ball home from John Pantsil’s cross. It was the only goal of the game, enough to secure Fulham another home win. The Cottagers have not been beaten at home since September. This run of form has seen them climb up above Sunderland in the table. Roy Hodgson’s men now sit in 8^th.
My Prediction: 2-1 Sunderland
Actual Result: 1-0 Fulham

Everton v Tottenham Hotspurs

Spoils were shared in a fiercely contested match at Goodison Park. Jermain Defoe became the leagues’ top scorer when he put Spurs in front. A second from Michael Dawson put them firmly in control. It was starting to look as if Spurs could run away with the match but an inspired double substitution by David Moyes saw Yakubu and Saha run on to give Everton a more attacking edge. It proved a risk worth taking as Saha netted the first goal before Tim Cahill brought them level. Both sides had chances to win it, the best came in injury time when Palacios was brought down in the area. Jermain Defoe stepped up to take the resulting penalty but was thwarted by a fine save from Tim Howard. Both managers will be pleased with their sides’ performance. Although Harry may feel it was 2 points lost.
My Prediction: 3-1 Spurs
Actual Result: 2-2

28/29 NOVEMBER RESULTS

Blackburn Rovers v Stoke City

Big Sam had an operation on his heart on Friday. He was lying down in recovery when his side faced Stoke. I don’t think they would have allowed him to watch as it may have undone all the hard work the surgeon put in. Steven Nzonzi almost won it for the home side when he rattled the bar. In the end it was all square as Rovers and Stoke played out to 0-0 draw.
My Prediction: 2-1 Blackburn
Actual Result: 0-0

Fulham v Bolton Wanderers

Fulham threw everything at Bolton in the second half after the visitors took the lead after 34 min through Ivan Klasnic. Damien Duff managed to get the equaliser after sustained pressure from the home side. 1-1 it finished on goals and points.
My Prediction: 2-0 Fulham
Actual Result: 1-1

Manchester City v Hull City

Manchester City looked like they had beaten the odds to win their first game in 7 after drawing the last 6. Jimmy Bullard converted a penalty in the 81^st minute to give Man City an unwanted record. The Blues have now drawn 7 matches in a row. A valuable point for Hull as they fight to stay up. City will have to improve if they want to seriously challenge for a Top 4 spot.
My Prediction: 3-1 Manchester City
Actual Result: 1-1

Portsmouth v Manchester United

Fratton Park saw three penalties awarded as United handed Avram Grant a defeat on his return to the managerial post. United took the lead after Rooney was brought down in the area. The fiery forward blasted it past the Pompey keeper. It would not be the last time that Rooney scored in that fashion. Pompey had a penalty of their own with the score at 1-0 – Kevin-Prince Boateng bringing the host level. Rooney scored 2 in the second half to secure the match ball. Ryan Giggs brought up 100 league goals with a brilliantly taken free kick.
My Prediction: 2-0 United
Actual Result: 4-1 United

West Ham v Burnley

In an amazing 8 goal thriller, West Ham came out with the three points they needed to hop out of the relegation zone. Zola would have been thrilled with his sides’ 1^st half performance after goals from Jack Collison and Junior Stanislas as well as a penalty from Carlton Cole had his charges 3-0 up at the break. Guillermo Franco made it 4-0 after 54 min before Luis Jimenez made it 5 from the spot. Burnley then came charging back with 2 goals from Steven Fletcher. They were reduced to 10 men but still managed a third courtesy of Chris Eagles.
My Prediction: 2-1 Hammers
Actual Result 5-3 Hammers

Wigan Athletic v Sunderland

Wigan came back brilliantly from last weeks’ 9-1 drubbing when they secured three points against Sunderland. Hugo Rodallega, who Steve Bruce had signed to the Latics 10 months earlier, heaped misery on his old manager when he scored the opening goal. It proved to be enough to hand Sunderland their 5^th away defeat of the season.
My Prediction: 3-2 Sunderland
Actual Result: 1-0 Wigan

Aston Villa v Tottenham Hotspur (featured match 1)

The question of who will win the race for 4^th didn’t seem to take any decisive steps when Villa and Spurs played to the 4^th draw of the day. The home side took the lead when Gabriel Agbonlahor scrambled the ball into the Spurs net inside 10 mins. Spurs came at Villa with everything they had and certainly played the better football. Villa at times had all 11 men behind the ball as Spurs failed to pry open a gap. Defoe looked to have brought the visitors level but the goal was disallowed for handball. Alan Dawson, the stand-in captain, eventually delivered the shot that rippled the back of the Villa net. A magnificent volley left the home-side disappointed that they couldn’t hold on to their lead.
My Prediction: 3-1 Spurs
Actual Result: 1-1

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Birmingham City

Birmingham City recorded a 1-0 win over Fulham at St. Andrews last week thanks to an early strike from Lee Bowyer. It was almost a carbon copy when they travelled to Wolves. It took Bowyer just 2 mins to put the visitors in front with his 5^th goal of the season. City are now in 11^th spot on the log after going on a 5 match unbeaten run. Wolves face a tough challenge to avoid relegation.
My Prediction: 2-1 City
Actual Result: 1-0

Everton v Liverpool

Reds fans will be sending ‘Thank You’ gifts to Joseph Yobo after they visited Merseyside neighbours Everton. The Blues defender scored an own goal and made the mistake that enabled Liverpool to secure all three points. Javier Mascherano’s shot in the 12^th min took a deflection off the big Nigerian to beat Tim Howard. Everton had some strong spells before and after the break but Yobo’s failed clearance resulted in Dirk Kuyt putting the game beyond the hosts 10 min from time.
My Prediction: 2-1 Everton
Actual Result: 2-0 Liverpool

Arsenal v Chelsea (featured match 2)

Chelsea returned to being 5 points clear of their nearest rivals when they beat Arsenal at the Emirates. 2 first half goals meant that the home side were left chasing the game. The Gunners did experience large amounts of possession but failed to convert them into convincing goal scoring opportunities. Ashley Cole had provided Didier Drogba with a cross which the Ivorian converted. A similar ball a few minutes later from the same source was diverted into his own net by Thomas Vermaelen. Despite pressing forward, Arsenal didn’t look the better side and you thought Chelsea could add a third at any minute. They did when Drogba scored a magnificent free kick after Cesc Fabregas’ foul just outside the box.
My Prediction: 2-1 Arsenal
Actual Result: 3-0

21 NOVEMBER RESULTS

Liverpool v Manchester City

Manchester City had gone 5 games without a win – all of them have been draws. They wanted to get back to winning ways at Anfield. Liverpool wanted to win even more however and started strongly. Rafa was forced to make two early changes when both Agger and Babel were forced off with injuries. That didn’t stop them taking the lead through a Gerrard free-kick which was toed in by Skrtel. City came back strongly after Barry was subbed for Tevez. The ex-United forward helped turn the game in City’s favour. Goals from Adebayor and Ireland put the visitors in front but Benayoun, who had come on for Babel, condemned City to a 6^th consecutive draw.
My Prediction: 2-1 Liverpool
Actual Result: 2-2

Birmingham City v Fulham

City claimed a new club record when they made it four games unbeaten with an impressive win over Fulham. Lee Bowyer scored the only goal of the game after a pass from James McFadden.
My Prediction: Fulham 2-0
Actual Result: 1-0 City

Burnley v Aston Villa

Burnley’s fine home form continued when they went ahead against visitors Aston Villa after just 9mins – Robbie Blake providing the perfectly placed free-kick for Steven Caldwell to head home. Villa rescued a point just four minutes from time when Emile Heskey scored his first goal of the season.
My Prediction: 2-1 Aston Villa
Actual Result: 1-1

Chelsea v Wolverhampton Wanderers

Chelsea were short a few of their star players. That didn’t stop them producing a fine display. Wolves had the host worried after a few minutes but their early chances were never converted giving Chelsea their 10^th consecutive clean sheet. The Blues have now won 12 games in a row in all competitions. Malouda opened the scoring with a brilliant long range drive. Essien bagged two to put the game out of reach for Mick McCarthy’s men before Joe Cole scored his first of the season.
My Prediction: 3-0 Chelsea
Actual Result: 4-0 Chelsea

Hull City v West Ham

The KC Stadium hosted a 6 goal thriller when 17^th and 18^th placed Hull and West Ham fought it out. West Ham sit just one point behind the Tigers and will remain there after managing a draw. The Hammers looked set to fall 4 points behind before coming back impressively to stay in touch with City on the table.
My Prediction: 2-1 Hammers
Actual Result: 3-3

Sunderland v Arsenal (featured match)

The Stadium of Light played host to 2^nd placed Arsenal who, with a game in hand, could’ve applied large amounts of pressure to log leaders Chelsea, with a win. The game was short of chances and Darren Bent was the only one able to convert one when the ball fell kindly for the striker after a Sunderland corner.
My Prediction: 2-2
Actual Result: 1-0 Sunderland

Manchester United v Everton

Reigning champions, Manchester United, dominated the possession when they hosted Everton at the Theatre of Dreams. United put three past the Toffees to reclaim 2^nd spot and stay within 5 points of Chelsea. Darren Fletcher gave the hosts the lead after 35min with a stunning volley. Michael Carrick added the second after the hour mark and Antonio Valencia scored the third to cap a fine performance. Everton had good spells but it was one-way traffic for the most part.
My Prediction: 2-1 United
Actual Result: 3-0 United

Bolton Wanderers v Blackburn Rovers

Blackburn were without a win on the road in 10 games. They were also without their manager Sam Allardyce – he is awaiting heart surgery. A fine performance saw David Dunne give Rovers the lead in the first half. Sam Ricketts scored a bizarre own goal which secured Rovers all three points. Garry Megson has a lot to worry about as his side remain in the bottom three.
My Prediction: 1-1
Actual Result: 2-0 Rovers

Tottenham Hotspur v Wigan Athletic

Aaron Lennon made a welcome return to the Tottenham side after a month out with injury. The diminutive winger was in fine form and certainly made his case for being England’s first choice right winger. He provided the cross which Peter Crouch headed home to give the home side the lead after just 10mins. Wigan would have gone into the break feeling slightly lucky to be only 1 goal down. Martinez should have kept his side in the dresser however. 5 goals from in form Jermain Defoe as well as contributions from Lennon, Bentley and Kranjcar left the Latics with no hope of victory. They did get a consolation goal through Paul Scharner to rob Gomes of a clean sheet.
My Prediction: 2-0
Actual Result: 9-1 Spurs

Stoke City v Portsmouth

Stoke City recorded a 1-0 win over Portsmouth to leave them rooted to the bottom of the table. A win for Pompey could have lifted them off the bottom spot but they failed to score against a solid City defence. The only goal of the game came when Ricardo Fuller showed a touch of class to give Tony Pulis’ men another three points.
My Prediction: 2-1 Portsmouth
Actual Result: 1-0 Stoke

Hull City v Everton

Hull City have experienced a good run of form lately. 7 points in their last 3 matches (all of which have been at home) has seen them climb up to 15^th on the table. The home side were 3-0 up before half an hour after goals from Stephen Hunt, Andy Dawson and Dean Marney. Hull City actually scored four goals. Kamil Zayatte helped John Heitinga’s cross end up in his own net. The own goal gave Everton a sniff of a comeback. Zayatte was in the thick of it again when he brought down Louis Saha in the area. The Frenchman scored from the spot, but that was as close as the Toffees could get.
My Prediction: Everton 2-0
Actual Result: 3-2 Hull

Fulham v Blackburn Rovers

Clint Dempsey is turning out to be a pretty good striker. The American winger scored a brace as Roy Hodgson’s men put three past Blackburn to take all three points at Craven Cottage. Erik Nevland had put the hosts ahead just before halftime. Bobby Zamora had to be taken off because of injury forcing Dempsey to move upfront. The winger has been employed there recently because of injuries in the squad but Roy may be thinking of making it a more permanent role.
My Prediction: 2-0 Fulham
Actual Result: 3-0 Fulham

7/8 NOVEMBER RESULTS

Aston Villa v Bolton Wanderers

Aston Villa moved ahead of Liverpool and Manchester City when they easily brushed aside Bolton Wanderers. Aston Villa had a lead after just 5min courtesy of Ashley Young. Things looked comfortable for Villa when Gabriel Agbonlahor doubled their lead just before half time. Johan Elmander pulled one back for the Trotters before goals from John Carew, James Milner and Carlos Cuellar put the game beyond doubt. A much improved performance by Martin O’Neil’s men.
My prediction: 2-0 Villa
Actual Result: 5-1 Villa

Blackburn Rovers v Portsmouth

Rovers had a happy return to Ewood Park with a come from behind win over fellow strugglers Portsmouth. Rovers have been playing good football but it was Pompey who took the lead through O’Hara after just 15mins. An inspired substitution by Big Sam saw Jason Roberts come off the bench. The big striker made the scores level before Ryan Nelson gave the home side the lead for the fist time in the 73^rd min. Roberts put the result beyond doubt with his second, 5mins from time.
My prediction: 2-1 Rovers
Actual Result: 3-1 Rovers

Manchester City v Burnley

I predicted City scoring three goals. Burnley however weren’t interested in leaving the City stadium empty handed. The visitors stunned the home side when Graham Alexander scored from the spot to give Burnley the lead. They doubled their advantage before City came back and scored three to leave the visitors reeling. Kevin McDonald brought the Clarets level and secured a valuable away point.
My Prediction: 3-0 City
Actual Result: 3-3

Tottenham Hotspurs v Sunderland

In one of the best games I’ve watched all season, Spurs walked away with three points – the score-line may be a little flattering however. Robbie Keane scored first, against the run of play, to give Spurs the lead. Darren Bent had a chance to pull Sunderland level on his return to the Lane but his penalty was saved by Gomez. Many would say that justice was done after the striker went down very easily in the box. The Black Cats looked the better side a lot of the game but failed to use all their chances. Tom Huddlestone blasted a shot past Marton Fulop who had come on for Craig Gordan. The Scott had to be subbed after getting a knock on his arm from Jermain Defoe.
My Prediction: 2-1 Spurs
Actual Result: 2-0

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Arsenal

Wolves scored 3 goals against Arsenal’s 2. Unfortunately only one of them ended up in the back of the correct net! Jody Craddock scored a late consolation goal for Wolves after both he and Ronald Zubar had helped Arsenal to a 4-0 advantage with own goals. Fabregas and Arshavin were the Arsenal scorers.
My Prediction:3-0 Arsenal
Actual Result: 4-1

Hull City v Stoke City

Rumour had it that Phil Brown’s reign at the Kingston was over, win or lose. He certainly would have given the board second thoughts after his team’s fine performance. Goals from Olofinjana and Vennegoor of Hesselink saw Hull jump out of the bottom three. The Potters had taken the lead after half an hour courtesy of Matthew Etherington. It took a minute of stoppage-time however for the Tigers to steal a vital victory.
My Prediction: 2-2
Actual Result: 2-1 Hull

West Ham v Everton

West Ham could have jumped all the way up to 14^th with a win over Everton but goals from Saha and Gosling spoiled their party. An own goal from Hibbert set up a tense final half an hour for the visitors. In the end the Merseysiders came away tops. West Ham missed their top scorer Calton Cole.
My Prediction: 2-1 Hammers
Actual Result: 2-1 Everton

Wigan v Fulham

Wigan and Fulham played to a 1-1 draw. Wigan took the lead in the 13^th minute. It took a Clint Dempsey penalty 25min later to level the score. The best performers on the day were Kirkland and Schwarzer. The two keepers produced save after save to keep the scores level.
My Prediction: 2-1 Fulham
Actual Result: 1-1

Chelsea v Manchester United (featured match)

Chelsea went 8 points clear at the top of the table with victory over Manchester United. The Blues have now won 11 games straight at home. Both sides had chances and the difference came in the 76^th min when Terry headed home the winner after a Lampard free kick. United claimed Drogba had fouled Wes Brown and was in an offside position. The game came to a scrappy and feisty end. Some players were lucky to get away with just yellow cards. Some were lucky not to get any. A disappointing end to a game that began with great promise.
My Prediction: 2-2
Actual Result 1-0

Liverpool v Birmingham City

Liverpool got to catch some sun over the weekend while their rivals all went at each other hammer and tongs. Well it wasn’t a very bright or warm weekend and things didn’t get much better on Monday night. Anfield played host to Birmingham City. The Blues were behind after 12min thanks to David Ngog. Two goals from Benitez and Jerome put the visitors in front before the break. It took a questionable penalty to bring Liverpool level. Steven Gerrard came off the bench to score a vital goal. Liverpool’s poor run continues.
My Prediction: 2-0 Liverpool
Actual Result: 2-2