Premier League Predictions Table: Bolton pile the pressure on leaders United

Manchester United remain on course for the treble this season but United fan Peter Lee may have four reasons to celebrate come the end of the season as our pundit still leads the Premier League Prediction table. The Red Devil has been the man to catch for the past few months now, but, just like his heroes on the pitch, Peter just can’t put his rivals to bed.

Peter scored an impressive eight points this week – thanks to Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Manchester City and correctly predicting the outcomes of Blackburn v Blackpool, United v Bolton, Wigan against Birmingham and Everton beating Fulham – but the gap at the top has been reduced to just four following Dave Blackburn’s haul of nine for Bolton Wanderers. The Wanderer achieved his points tally by correctly predicting the scores at Blackburn and Everton and predicting wins for Manchester United, Stoke and Chelsea.

Blackpool’s Phil Trow, who has been a long-time challenger for the title, continues to lose ground on the leader. He only managed six points this week and is now seven points adrift from the top.

But the top scorer this week was Squarefootball’s very own Portsmouth fan Peter Rendle. The Fratton Park diehard from down under recorded 12 points this week and has allayed any fears of relegation by soaring up the table. Peter correctly predicted three scores this week; Chelsea beating City 2-0, Everton beating Fulham 2-1 and Wigan’s 2-1 win over Birmingham, along with correct results for Blackburn, Manchester United and Liverpool.

He was closely followed by West Ham United fan Nigel Telfer. The Hammers have made great strides in recent weeks on the pitch and Nigel’s tally of 11 has helped him follow his heroes out of the drop zone. Nigel was one of just six pundits who tipped The Irons to draw at White Hart Lane and was the only one to tip West Brom and Arsenal to draw 2-2.

Other high scorers this week include myself with 11 and Arsenal’s Don McMahon, although I’m sure Don would have rather forsaken his points haul for an extra Arsenal goal last weekend.

At the other end it is not great news for the current champions Chelsea. Joe Tyler could only manage three points and is rooted to the foot of the table on 144 points. He is now 11 points adrift of our very own Middlesbrough fan Sue Gardener and Aston Villa’s Lynette Ranson with just eight weeks left to play. Lynette has more reasons than most to be concerned with the threat of a double relegation hanging over her head, but can Houllier’s men turn it around on the pitch? Many don’t believe they can with the Frenchman in charge so Villa Park will be an interesting place between now and the end of May.

Finally, Blackpool’s Phil Trow remains on course to pick up something for his endeavours this season as he still leads the correct scores chart. Phil is now on 36, but Manchester United’s Peter Lee is on 33 and Arsenal’s Don McMahon and Bolton’s Dave Blackburn are both on 32. However the Bolton fan has lost his place at the top of the correct results chart by his title rival Peter Lee. The Manchester United fan is now on 110, one ahead of Dave on 109, closely followed by Villa’s Lynette Ranson on 107.

Here are the scores from the past fortnight:

	Player	Correct scores	Correct results	Points
SQF ACE POMPEY	Peter Rendle	3	3	12
WEST HAM	Nigel Telfer	2	5	11
SQF WRITER	Colin Illingworth	2	5	11
ARSENAL	Don McMahon	2	4	10
BOLTON	Dave Blackburn	2	3	9
MAN UTD	Peter Lee	1	5	8
SPURS	Dave Nash	1	4	7
BIRMINGHAM	Steve Coulter	0	6	6
BLACKPOOL	Phil Trow	1	3	6
MAN CITY	Callum Rothwell	1	3	6
WIGAN	Alan Moore	1	3	6
WOLVES	Chris Cox	1	3	6
BLACKBURN	Terry Kennedy	1	2	5
NEWCASTLE	Michael Stout	0	5	5
SQF EXP BORO	Sue Gardener	0	5	5
SQF EDITOR	Antony Melvin	1	2	5
SQF WRITER	Hugh Larkin	1	2	5
SQF WRITER	Paul Grech	1	2	5
ASTON VILLA	Lynette Ranson	0	4	4
STOKE CITY	Philip Eccleston	0	4	4
CHELSEA	Joe Tyler	0	3	3
EVERTON	Chris Goodwin	0	3	3
LIVERPOOL	Mark Williams	0	3	3
SUNDERLAND	Tony Ratton	0	3	3
SQF EXP WHAM	Matthew Beeby	0	3	3
SQF ACE POMPEY	Dan Taylor	0	3	3
FULHAM	Russell Goldman	0	2	2
WEST BROM	Andy Wakeman	0	2	2

 

(The Panellists get three points for each correct score and one point for each correct result they predict)

 

Here is how the overall table currently stands.

	TEAM	Player	Crrct scores	Crrct results	Pts
↔	MAN UTD	Peter Lee	33	110	209
↑	BOLTON	Dave Blackburn	32	109	205
↓	BLACKPOOL	Phil Trow	36	93	202
↔	MAN CITY	Callum Rothwell	31	101	194
↑	SQF WRITER	Colin Illingworth	31	99	192
↓	SQF EDITOR	Antony Melvin	30	101	191
↓	NEWCASTLE	Michael Stout	30	97	187
↑	ARSENAL	Don McMahon	32	90	186
↓	SUNDERLAND	Tony Ratton	27	105	186
↔	WIGAN	Alan Moore	29	99	186
↓	WEST BROM	Andy Wakeman	28	99	183
↔	BLACKBURN	Terry Kennedy	29	94	181
↔	STOKE CITY	Philip Eccleston	26	102	180
↔	WOLVES	Chris Cox	30	90	180
↔	LIVERPOOL	Mark Williams	25	100	175
↑	SQF WRITER	Hugh Larkin	23	103	172
↔	SQF EXP WHAM	Matthew Beeby	22	105	171
↓	FULHAM	Russell Goldman	28	86	170
↑	SQF ACE POMPEY	Peter Rendle	22	104	170
↑	SQF ACE POMPEY	Dan Taylor	25	93	168
↓	EVERTON	Chris Goodwin	23	95	164
↓	SQF WRITER	Paul Grech	28	79	163
↔	BIRMINGHAM	Steve Coulter	19	101	158
↑	WEST HAM	Nigel Telfer	22	91	157
↑	SPURS	Dave Nash	24	84	156
↓	ASTON VILLA	Lynette Ranson	16	107	155
↓	SQF EXP BORO	Sue Gardener	20	95	155
↔	CHELSEA	Joe Tyler	19	87	144

 

Predictions and previews for all of this weekend’s games will be available to view on Squarefootball from noon GMT on Friday.

 

 

 

 

Arsenal: It’s time for Lehmann to claim number one shirt from error-prone Almunia

Arsenal only have two fit goalkeepers at the club. One has just come out of retirement to help them through an injury crisis, the other is error-prone Manuel Almunia. If you were Arsene Wenger, who would you choose to keep your title hopes on track? After Saturday’s display it’s an absolute no-brainer.

When West Brom pumped the ball up to Peter Odemwingie at the Hawthorns there was absolutely no danger whatsoever. The Nigerian international was at least 30 yards away from goal and Sebastien Squillaci was goalside of him. So what on earth possessed Almunia to come rushing out of his goal, leaving it wide open for the striker to put the Baggies two up? Was the Spaniard bored? Was he being chased by a bee or did he just have another rush of blood to the head?

Arsene Wenger is famed for claiming he “didn’t see it” when his players are caught up in a contentious incident. Well there’s no excuse this time. If Wenger didn’t see Almunia’s latest blunder then it’s time the Frenchman went to Specsavers and left the Emirates because time and time again the Spaniard has cost the Arsenal crucial points.

In midweek the Frenchman persuaded former German international shot-stopper and member of the Invincible side Jens Lehmann out of retirement until the end of the season as back-up. Following Almunia’s latest howler, Lehmann should be given the number one shirt straight away and Almunia should be shown the door.

You would have thought that while sitting on the bench as young Szczesny made the number one jersey his own, Almunia would have been more focused, more determined to make the most of any available first-team chances that came his way. How wrong could we be? It’s still the same old Manuel. One minute he can pull off a great save, the next he’s running around like a little boy lost.

Of course Mad Jens isn’t the perfect solution. He’s also prone to going walkabouts and making poor decisions, but the fact is Lehmann is a winner. He is very vocal, controls his back four and was a class, if sometimes a little crazy, goalkeeper. Given the choice between Almunia and Lehmann there’s only one winner. In fact, I’d even put my mate’s Jack Russell in goal ahead of Almunia!

At a time when Arsenal fans are furious at the prospect of their season ticket prices going up and have watched their side knocked out of three competitions within weeks of each other, you would have thought that Arsene Wenger would do his utmost to pip Manchester United to the title. Back-to-back draws against Sunderland and West Brom have cost the Gunners dearly and they are now five points adrift of the leaders, with a game in hand. The Gunners still have to play Manchester United but when was the last time Wenger got the better of Sir Alex?

Had Arsene Wenger splashed the cash in January when he had the chance Arsenal could have ended their trophy drought by now and be sitting pretty on the top of the Premier League table. As it is, Arsenal fans only have one trophy left to play for and unless there is a marked improvement on the pitch this season could written off within weeks.

The anti-Wenger camp is swelling in numbers. They are sick and tired of the gaffer not listening to what is clearly required and unless he can beat United to the title this season he will have no excuses but to enter the transfer market in the summer. Top of that list has to be a top class goalkeeper followed by two proven defenders and a striker capable of playing alongside or filling in for the injury-prone Robin Van Persie. Failure to do that will result in Arsenal making up the numbers yet again.

Everyone knows that you build a great team from the back. When Wenger arrived at the club he had the likes of David Seaman, Tony Adams, Lee Dixon, Martin Keown and Steve Bould – players who knew how to defend and snuff out the opposition. You could count the number of mistakes they made on one hand. You simply cannot say that about any Arsenal side over the past five years.

Arsenal remain one of the best footballing sides in the country and Wenger will never change his approach to the beautiful game, but the fans are fed up of winning plaudits for their style. They want to be winning major trophies, but we all know that you can’t do that while gifting the opposition goals.

The Gunners take on struggling Blackburn Rovers at the Emirates in a fortnight. If Almunia starts then it will be a real smack in the teeth for the loyal Arsenal fans.

Calling all Arsenal fans. Are you losing patience with Wenger? Who would you rather have in goal between now and the end of the season? Do you still think you can win the title? Is it time for Wenger to open the chequebook in the summer for a new shot stopper or do you think Szczesny is the future of Arsenal? Whatever your view I’d love to hear from you.

 

Sunderland v Liverpool: Black Cats target return to winning ways

February was a miserable month for Sunderland. March began with a credible draw and performance at Arsenal but can they bounce back to winning ways against Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool? If the Reds play like they did against Braga in midweek then the answer is simply yes, but surely the canny Scot won’t allow them to put in that sort of display again.

The Black Cats lost four out of four last month and you have to go back to January 22 at Blackpool for their last victory in any competition. It’s been an even longer for the home fans who haven’t seen their boys win since the start of the year!

Liverpool head to Wearside looking for their first away win since stunning the champions Chelsea last month and former Newcastle striker Andy Carroll will be keen to open his Liverpool account against his old foes.

The Reds used to enjoy their trips to the north east until that pesky beach ball got in their way, but if they want to be playing European football again they will have to rediscover how to win away from home, and fast.

Both teams have high hopes of representing England in the Europa League next season and just four points separate them in the table. Sunderland could close that gap to one with a win but the Panel is edging towards a draw.

Sunderland v Liverpool; Kick Off 1.30pm March 20 2011
Prediction Panel        

Arsenal	Don McMahon	0	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	3
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	0	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	0	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	0	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	2
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	0	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	2
Wolves	Chris Cox	0	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	1	V	1
Writer	Colin Illingworth	1	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	2
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	2
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	0

Panel Verdict

The Panel is edging towards a draw.

Home: 5; Draw: 12; Away: 10.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Chelsea v Manchester City: Can City keep Champions League hopes on track?

Manchester City have been in the driving seat for a Champions League spot all season but they are now in real danger of blowing their big chance. Mancini’s men have won just four times in the Premier League since the turn of the year and have a real battle on their hands to enter Europe’s elite competition.

Their hosts Chelsea have fought back from their alarming slump to break into the top four and look like being a real force between now and the end of the season, despite club record signing Fernando Torres still looking for his first goal in a Chelsea shirt. They enter the game just two points behind City, but with a game in hand, and City shouldn’t forget about the threat of Spurs either, who are just five points behind them but with also a game in reserve.

Despite reaching the FA Cup semi-final, City have looked from far their best in recent weeks and were dumped out of the Europa League in midweek. However, they seem to save their best performances for Chelsea. They have taken maximum points from the champions in their past three meetings and everyone remembers last season’s six-goal thriller at the Bridge. Unfortunately for City, they won’t be able to call on the speed and guile of Craig Bellamy.

Chelsea have a few important dates with Manchester United before the season’s out but Carlo Ancelotti will have to focus on the other side of Manchester first. However, Chelsea are clearly the form side here. They are undefeated in their past six league and cup matches and seem to be playing as a team just at the right time.

The Panel only sees one winner in this game and it’s not the boys from the north.

Chelsea v Manchester City; Kick Off 4pm March 20 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	0
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	3	V	2
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	1
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	3	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	1
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	3	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	2	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	3	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	1
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	2	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	0	V	0
Writer	Colin Illingworth	3	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	1
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	0
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	1

Panel Verdict

Looks like a home banker for the champions.

Home: 20; Draw: 7; Away: 0.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Squarefootball’s Premier League quiz: Week 30

Welcome back to the toughest weekly football quiz on the planet. Now you’re already late so sit down, compose yourself and take a deep breath. If you manage to get 10 out of 10 – without looking at the answers sheet – I’ll be extremely surprised. All the best!

Your challenge starts here.

 1. Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United: The Hammers haven’t scored at White Hart Lane since August 2007. Can you tell me who the Hammers’ scorer was the day they held their north London rivals to a 1-1 draw? Was it A – Anton Ferdinand, B – Marlon Harewood or C – Bobby Zamora?

2. Aston Villa v Wolverhampton Wanderers: Wolves haven’t won at Villa Park since 1980. They won that game 3-1 but who was the manager of Wolves that day? Was it A – Ian Greaves, B – Sammy Chung or C – John Barnwell?

3. Blackburn Rovers v Blackpool: Blackburn Rovers beat Blackpool 2-1 at Bloomfield Road earlier in the season thanks to a last-gasp winner from Brett Emerton. But who scored for the Tangerines? Was it A – DJ Campbell, B – Charlie Adam or C – Matt Phillips?

4. Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers: The Wanderers have left Old Trafford with nothing on their past seven visits. However, in 2002 they stunned the Red Devils by recording their first win at the Theatre of Dreams in 23 years. Who scored? Was it A – Kevin Nolan, B – Ivan Campo or C – Ricardo Gardener?

5. Stoke City v Newcastle United: The Mags haven’t won at Stoke since beating them 1-0 in May 1985. Who was their manager that day? Was it A – Arthur Cox, B – Jack Charlton or C – Willie McFaul?

6. West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal: Which Arsenal player scored on his debut for the Gunners in a 1-0 win over the Baggies in 2008? Was it A – Samir Nasri, B – William Gallas or C – Emmanuel Adebayor?

7. Wigan Athletic v Birmingham City: Last season Birmingham recorded their first win at the DW Stadium, scoring three times in less than 10 minutes to claim a 3-2 victory. Sebastian Larsson got two but can you name the other marksman? Was it A – Cameron Jerome, B – Christian Benitez or C – Lee Bowyer?

8. Everton v Fulham: The Cottagers have never beaten Everton at Goodison Park in the league. Last season they almost left Merseyside with a point, but who broke their hearts right at the death by converting a penalty? Was it A – Tim Cahill, B – Leighton Baines or C – Mikel Arteta?

9. Sunderland v Liverpool: Before the beach ball fiasco last season Liverpool had won their previous three visits to the Stadium of Light without conceding a goal. But who was the last Liverpool player to score on Wearside? Was it A – Fernando Torres, B – Steven Gerrard or C – Dirk Kuyt?

10. Chelsea v Manchester City: Chelsea have lost their last three meetings with Manchester City. Their last success came in a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge in March 2009. Can you tell me who scored? Was it A – John Terry, B – Frank Lampard or C – Michael Essien?

 

To see how you got on please click here

0-2: You should try rugby

3-4: Carling Cup winner

5-6: FA Cup winner

7-8: Champions League winner

9-10: Premier League winner

 

Squarefootball’s Premier League Quiz: Week 30 – The Answers

So how did you get on?

 1. Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United: The answer is A, Anton Ferdinand.

2. Aston Villa v Wolverhampton Wanderers: The answer is C, John Barnwell.

3. Blackburn Rovers v Blackpool: The answer is C, Matt Phillips.

4. Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers: The answer is A, Kevin Nolan.

5. Stoke City v Newcastle United: The answer is B, Jack Charlton.

6. West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal: The answer is A, Samir Nasri.

7. Wigan Athletic v Birmingham City: The answer is B, Christian Benitez.

8. Everton v Fulham: The answer is C, Mikel Arteta.

9. Sunderland v Liverpool: The answer is A, Fernando Torres. The Spaniard scored the only goal of the game in the clash in August 2008.

10. Chelsea v Manchester City: The answer is C, Michael Essien.

 

 Scoring:

0-2: You should try rugby

3-4: Carling Cup winner

5-6: FA Cup winner

7-8: Champions League winner

9-10: Premier League winner

 

Everton v Fulham: Tough assignment for Hughes

Fulham have never won a league game at Goodison Park but records are there to be broken. Mark Hughes’s men have eased their relegation fears in recent months and currently sit four points clear of the drop zone and just two points behind the Toffees. Victory this weekend would see the visitors leapfrog their hosts in the league and all but guarantee their place in the top flight next season.

However, Everton will be no mugs. David Moyes has designs on sneaking a late European place and win this weekend would certainly boost their hopes of achieving that.

The Toffees were held to a draw by Birmingham City in their last outing and have been a tricky team to judge. One week they knock the FA Cup holders out of the competition on their own patch. The next they lose at home to Reading from the Championship! If Moyes can find some consistency from his players between now and the end of the season then Europe could well be theirs.

Considering Fulham’s awful league record on Merseyside, it’s no surprise to see the majority of the Panel going for a home win.

Everton v Fulham; Kick Off 5.30pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	3	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	1
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	0	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	2	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	2	V	2
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	0
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	0
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	1
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	2	V	1
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	0

Panel Verdict

Everton should be too powerful for Fulham.

Home: 18; Draw: 6; Away: 3.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Wigan Athletic v Birmingham City: Draw written all over it

Just four points separate Wigan and Birmingham in the league but that’s enough to keep the hosts rooted to the foot of the table and the Blues just outside of the drop zone. However, that could all change after this weekend’s fixtures.

A win for Wigan would see them right back in the fight for survival and pile the pressure on Alex McLeish’s men. A win for the visitors though could see Wigan cut adrift at the bottom and lift the Blues up to twelfth.

The battle to beat the drop this season is a fascinating one and just seven points separate Birmingham in seventeenth place with Sunderland in eighth. It really is that tight and with only nine games remaining it will take a brave man to correctly predict the three sides that will go down.

Wigan are a club in desperate need of a result. They’ve lost their last three outings without even hitting the back of the net and have only won once in the league since the turn of the year. Roberto Martinez will be hoping his luck will change this weekend.

The two sides played out a goalless draw at St Andrews earlier in the season and the majority of the Panel is going for a similar outcome this time round.

Wigan Athletic v Birmingham City; Kick off 5.30pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	0	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	4
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	0
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	1
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	0	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	2
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	1
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	0	V	0
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	1
Wolves	Chris Cox	1	V	2
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	1	V	1
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	0
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	0	V	0

Panel Verdict

This looks to have draw written all over it.

Home: 6; Draw: 18; Away: 3.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Blackburn Rovers v Blackpool: Who wants survival the most?

Forget Chelsea v Manchester City, this is the biggest game of the weekend by far. Both teams sit on 32 points, just one ahead of the drop zone, and victory here would be like winning the EuroMillions for the winners. Three points would not only see them climb up the table it would also put their rivals in deep trouble.

Blackburn’s Steve Keen is already up against it at Ewood Park. After a promising start he has lost four of his past five outings and shipped seven goals in their last two games. Meanwhile, despite being in the same situation, Ian Holloway can seemingly do no wrong at Bloomfield Road. However, that has so much to do with the expectation levels at the club. Everyone thought Blackpool would be relegated by Halloween. The fact that they aren’t even in the bottom three and still have a chance of beating the drop is amazing.

Blackburn edged a pulsating game at the seaside in September and Blackpool will be seeking revenge. The Rovers don’t lose too many at home but the Tangerines tend to win more than their fair share on the road.

With so much at stake this should be a tremendous match and you can guarantee that Blackpool will be sent out to attack from the off. A draw really isn’t much use to either side but the Panel just can’t pick a clear winner.

Blackburn Rovers v Blackpool; Kick Off 3pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	3	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	2
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	2
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	1
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	2
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	0
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	3	V	4
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	2
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	0	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	1	V	2
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	3
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	1
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	1

 

Panel Verdict

The Panel sees this as a draw.

Home: 6; Draw: 13; Away: 8.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Stoke City v Newcastle United: Wembley-bound Potters seek vital points

The Potters are going to Wembley but Tony Pulis knows that staying in the top flight remains their main priority. Although they currently sit in twelfth place they are just three points off the drop zone as the battle to avoid the drop hots up. Victory this weekend against Newcastle United would certainly ease their faint relegation fears.

The Potters have been in and around the top half of the table for most of the season but their form this calendar year has been a worry. They have won just four league games in 2011 and have slowly slipped down the table. In contrast Newcastle have lost just twice in the league in the same period under Alan Pardew.

Just two points separate the two sides and a win for City will see them leapfrog the boys from St James’ Park. Newcastle have yet to beat Stoke City in the Premier League and the majority of the Panel can’t see that happening this weekend.  

Stoke City v Newcastle United; Kick Off 3pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	2	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	0	V	0
Fulham	Russell Goldman	0	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	3	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	1
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	2
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	0
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	1	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	2	V	2
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	3
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	2

 

Panel Verdict

The Panel is edging towards a home win.

Home: 10; Draw: 14; Away: 3.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal: Baggies eye Gunners double

Arsenal fans have seen their club lose the Carling Cup Final, dumped out of the Champions League and knocked out of the FA Cup in recent weeks but they still have the chance to end the season on a high by clinching the Premier League title. But looking to compound Arsenal’s misery are relegation threatened West Bromwich Albion who stunned the Gunners at the Emirates earlier in the season.

The Baggies produced one of the shocks of the season by beating Arsenal 3-2 in September and, although they have Roy Hodgson instead of Roberto Di Matteo in the dugout, they believe they have a great chance of completing the double over their north London rivals to boost their survival hopes – their first since 1962!

The hosts are just one point off the drop zone but are unbeaten in their past four outings and Hodgson has made them a much tougher team to break down. They also haven’t lost at the Hawthorns since New Year’s Day.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmaneul Petit has questioned the mindset of the Arsenal players and this will be their chance to show they have the bottle needed to win silverware. The Gunners have only failed to win at the Hawthorns once in the Premier League and while it will be tough the Panel believes the Gunners will have enough in the tank to keep the pressure on United at the top.

West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal; Kick off 3pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	0	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	0	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	2
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	2
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	1	V	3
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	3
Fulham	Russell Goldman	0	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	0	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	3
Man Utd	Peter Lee	0	V	3
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	3
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	3
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	0	V	2
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	2
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	2
Wolves	Chris Cox	0	V	2
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	1	V	1
Writer	Colin Illingworth	1	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	1
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	0	V	3
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	3

Panel Verdict

The Gunners are tipped to get their title challenge back on track.

Home: 3; Draw: 6; Away: 18.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers: United seek three more points towards another Treble

Looking at the Panellists’ predictions below, you’d think there is more chance of Elvis being found alive playing with aliens than there is of Bolton shocking the leaders at Old Trafford this weekend. Even Bolton fan Dave Blackburn believes they have no chance of getting a result.

Statistically they are right. The Wanderers have lost five of their past six meetings and haven’t won at Old Trafford for nearly nine years while United haven’t lost at home all season. But this is a Bolton side that has just reached the FA Cup semi-final and is seventh in the league. Owen Coyle will not be going to Manchester to shut up shop and hope for a point. He doesn’t know how to play that way.

Bolton took a point off the leaders at the Reebok this season, leading on two occasions, and while Coyle will happily take that, he will want to see his team attack at every opportunity.

Sir Alex Ferguson remains on course to complete another Treble at United and the smart money is on the Red Devils to beat Bolton. United are three points clear of Arsenal at the top but the Gunners have a game in hand and they will be praying Bolton can do them a huge favour by taking something off the leaders. Unfortunately for them, it doesn’t look like it will be happening this weekend.

 

Manchester United v Bolton Wanderers; Kick Off 3pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	0
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	3	V	0
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	3	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	2
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	3	V	0
Man Utd	Peter Lee	2	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	2	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	4	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	2	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	2	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	2	V	1
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	0
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	2	V	0
Writer	Colin Illingworth	3	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	2
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	0
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	1

Panel Verdict

The leaders are expected to make light work of the Wanderers.

Home: 22; Draw: 5; Away: 0.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Aston Villa v Wolverhampton Wanderers: Wolves aim to pile the pressure on Villa

With just one defeat from five, Mick McCarthy’s Wolves are not going to go down without a fight. They’ve disposed of Manchester United and Blackpool, and held Spurs and fierce rivals West Bromwich Albion in recent weeks, and start the weekend two points adrift of safety and just four points behind their hosts Villa. Unfortunately, their record against the Villains is as rank as my wife’s cooking!

You have to go back to March 1980 for the last time Wolves managed to beat Villa in any competition, home or away, but they won’t get a better chance than this of ending that barren spell.

Villa are a team in crisis. With just one win in six Gerard Houllier’s men are two points off the drop zone and reports of in-fighting between the players and members of the coaching staff seem to be a weekly occurrence. Many Villa fans questioned Randy Lerner’s judgement by appointing the former Liverpool coach and the Frenchman hasn’t really convinced them that he is the right man for the club with a string of bizarre incidents. A win here though would keep the wolves from the door, so to speak, but he is on shaky ground.

Victory for the visitors would give them a huge boost ahead of the all-important run-in. If results go their way, they could even be sitting outside the bottom three come Saturday evening. Unfortunately the majority of the Panel sees this as a home win.

Aston Villa v Wolverhampton Wanderers; Kick Off 3pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	2	V	0
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	3	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	2
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	1	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	0
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	2	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	2	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	3	V	2
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	0
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	0	V	1
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	0
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	2
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	2	V	2
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	2
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	0

Panel Verdict

Villa are tipped to keep their hold over their Midlands rivals.

Home: 18; Draw: 6; Away: 3.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United: Hammers seek end of barren run at the Lane

The Hammers’ FA Cup dream may be over but their survival hopes remain firmly in place. Three wins from their past six league outings have taken the Irons off the foot of the table and in with a fighting chance of completing the Great Escape. Unfortunately, this weekend they travel to Champions League quarter-finalists Tottenham, who they haven’t beaten at the Lane for more than a decade.

West Ham are desperate for all three points but so are Harry Redknapp’s men. They are three points off fourth place and with Chelsea playing Manchester City on Sunday they can ill-afford a slip up here.

Tottenham have lost just once at home all season and haven’t conceded a goal against West Ham at home in more than 360 minutes of football, while the Hammers have failed to keep a clean sheet on their travels all season.

A win for the visitors should be enough to see them climb out of the bottom three, but a win for Spurs would see them right back in the hunt for the fourth and final Champions League place. The Panel only sees heartbreak for the Hammers.

Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United; Kick Off 12.45pm March 19 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	2	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	3	V	1
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	3	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	0
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	1
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	2	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	2	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	3	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	3	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	3	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	2	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	2	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	3	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	2	V	0
Writer	Colin Illingworth	1	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	3	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	1
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	3

Panel Verdict

It looks like Spurs will be taking home the points this weekend.

Home: 21; Draw: 5; Away: 1.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Scunthorpe United: Who will save the Iron from the drop?

Just hours after Aidy Boothroyd was thrown on the managerial scrapheap by Coventry City, Scunthorpe’s Ian Baraclough joined him following an embarrassing 3-0 drubbing at home to struggling Preston North End. It was the club’s fifth defeat in six outings and with the Iron just four points adrift of safety with games running out the board felt they had no alternative but to relieve the club’s former midfielder. Now the search is on for Baraclough’s successor.

Already a number of decent managers have been linked with the vacant post. Former Burnley and Scunthorpe boss Brian Laws has been installed as the bookies’ favourite but Kevin Blackwell, Alan Irvine and Aidy Boothroyd have also been linked with the job.

I am going to take a look at the early runners and riders and give my assessment on their chances of being the next Scunthorpe manager.

Brian Laws

The former Scunthorpe boss is the bookies’ favourite for a third spell at Glanford Park and I’m sure the fans would love to have him back. He knows the club inside out and would love to be the man who kept them in the Championship. His most recent spell in the Championship didn’t really go to plan at Burnley and he only lasted 12 months in the job. To be fair he was on to a loser straight away as the fans wanted somebody young and dynamic to replace Owen Coyle. Laws was never going to fit that criteria in the fans’ eyes. However, his record with the Iron is second to none. Laws could well be the man to lead the Iron to safety.

Alan Knill

The former Scunthorpe defender is currently doing a wonderful job with Bury in League Two but could he be the man charged with keeping the Iron in the Championship? Knill has the Shakers on the brink of promotion back to League One after almost a decade in the fourth tier and their chairman would be mad to let him go. However, if the former Wales international is ambitious enough he will see this as a huge challenge that he cannot turn down. But, with Scunthorpe battling at the foot of the Championship and Bury fighting for promotion it could end up being a bad career move. I’d be surprised if Knill walked out on Bury’s promotion charge now.

Kevin Blackwell

The former Leeds United and Sheffield United boss Kevin Blackwell has an unfair reputation associated with him. At Leeds he managed to get results although the club was in financial turmoil and guided them to the play-off finals, only to be axed when the fans turned on him. He then took over cash-strapped Luton Town and was axed after announcing that he was going to quit in a month’s time. It was a similar situation at Sheffield United. He took them to the play-off finals after tidying Bryan Robson’s mess, only to be axed again after losing the fans’ support. Blackwell’s great at getting an immediate response from his players. That could be crucial in Scunthorpe’s battle. Whether he’s the ideal choice long-term though remains to be seen.

Danny Wilson

The former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder spent a short spell at Glanford Park in his early playing days and I think his arrival would be warmly welcomed. Wilson has led Barnsley and Hartlepool to promotion during his time as a manager and he’s a free agent after walking out on Swindon Town two weeks ago. Unfortunately he left the Robins in the relegation zone in League One and it would be a risk to ask him to rescue Scunthorpe in the Championship.

Mark Cooper

The former Kettering Town and Peterborough United boss has endured mixed fortunes as a manager but this would surely be a step too far for him. At non-league Kettering he guided the Poppies back to the Conference National after breaking numerous records and took them to the fourth round of the FA Cup. His achievements at Rockingham Road attracted Peterborough United to come in for him but his spell at London Road was a disaster with only one win in 13 games. Cooper was quickly given the boot but has found his feet again at Darlington. They are currently sniffing around the play-off places in the Blue Square Bet Premier and on course to win their first piece of silverware in 20 years. Still it would be a massive ask to give Cooper the job.

Alan Irvine

David Moyes’ former assistant at Everton is well-respected and has vast experience of the Championship. He took over a struggling Preston side in 2007 and guided them to safety. Just what Scunthorpe are looking for. The following season Irvine led Preston to the play-offs but lost to Sheffield United in the semi-final. Irvine then suffered a poor run of results and the Preston fans were stunned to discover that he had been axed. He was soon back in the game, this time at Sheffield Wednesday. Unfortunately he was unable to stop them going down to League One. Irvine was axed in February with Wednesday sitting 12^th in League One. He could be an inspired appointment.

Other names in the frame include former Aberdeen boss Mark McGhee, ex-Scotland and Ipswich chief George Burley, Dave Penny, Peter Taylor, Iain Dowie and Ian McParland.

The Scunthorpe board needs to appoint somebody capable of coming in and shaking the place up. The club is in danger of losing their Championship status and need a positive reaction from the get-go. The smart money is obviously on Brian Laws but I wouldn’t be surprised to see someone like Kevin Blackwell or Alan Irvine get the nod.

Calling all Scunthorpe fans. Who would you like to see replace Baraclough in the Scunthorpe dugout? How confident are you of retaining your Championship status? What do you think has gone wrong at the club? Whatever your views I’d love to hear from you.

 

England: Terry v Ferdinand – Who should be England captain?

You can never have too many leaders on the pitch at any one time, but Fabio Capello’s recent revelations in the Press that he may give John Terry back the armband from Rio Ferdinand may well destroy the harmony in the England camp.

Terry was stripped of the captaincy 12 months ago following revelations in the media that he had allegedly had an affair with Wayne Bridge’s ex-wife. Terry and Bridge were close mates at the time and this act of betrayal caused a real split in the England set-up and forced Bridge to abandon his World Cup dreams. The FA were keen to be seen doing something positive and put pressure on Capello to axe the skipper.

Some fans rejoiced at the decision to take the armband away from the Chelsea captain – they felt he was getting too big for his boots and that he thought he was above the law – but others were dismayed by it. After all, this had no bearing on Terry’s ability to captain England. Some fans were also worried in case Terry decided to call time on his international career, but he is not one to walk away when things go against him.

Now as we all know, Terry played his part in the disastrous World Cup and continues to feature heavily in Capello’s plans for the future. The fact that Terry put himself up for selection in the recent friendly against Denmark when others opted to pull out was testament to his commitment to England. The fact that he also watched on as the armband was passed around like an unwanted present in the second half without creating a scene has also won him favour with the Italian.

Now current captain Rio Ferdinand looks set to miss the upcoming international with Wales and with Steven Gerrard also going under the knife, John Terry is the natural choice to be given the captain’s armband. Short term this seems like the best option. But who will be captain in the long-term?

If both Terry and Ferdinand are fit and ready for action, who would you choose to give the England captaincy to? Here is my assessment of both Terry and Ferdinand’s credentials to be captain.

John Terry

Whether you like John Terry the man or not you simply cannot dispute the fact that he is a born leader. The Chelsea skipper inspires his team-mates to perform and leads by example, putting his career on the line every time he takes to the pitch. It’s claimed that Terry can hardly walk after games now and needs painkillers to take to the pitch. That is what you call commitment.

Terry will never win any popularity contests but that won’t bother him as long as his trophy cabinet continues to bulge with winner’s medals. Strong in defence and attack, Terry is the sort of defender who will make a last-ditch tackle one minute then go up for a corner and put you ahead the next.

He may not be the quickest defender on the ground but his determination to win the ball is second to none and I can’t think of anyone who I would rather have in my line-up.

Rio Ferdinand

Arguably one of the most talented defenders England has ever produced, Rio Ferdinand is a class act. The Manchester United defender isn’t one to just hoof the ball forward to clear the decks. He’d rather try and take it down and find a colleague in space or get the ball under control and run it out from the back. Unfortunately injuries are starting to take their toll on the former West Ham United and Leeds man, but when he is fit he is often three steps ahead of the opposition.

His partnership with Vidic is one of the strongest in Europe and when the pair of them play together United are impregnable. As a captain Rio isn’t really one to scream and shout. He leads by example and gets his points across quickly and effectively. Ferdinand doesn’t tend to make as many last-ditch tackles as Terry does, but that’s because he’s often cut out the threat before it’s even happened.

Ferdinand has matured considerably over the years and many believe he is the best choice to captain England at Euro 2012. But there are fears that injuries could curtail his career. He has only played 22 competitive games this season and just 26 last year. If he can’t solve his injury problems then it may not be a case of him being captain, but whether he even plays for England again.

 

Fabio Capello has not come out of this situation well at all. One minute he claims Ferdinand is the captain, the next he all but confirms that Terry will lead the team out against Wales. Ferdinand has hardly put a foot out of place as captain and many will feel sorry for him, but Capello cannot have a captain sitting in the stands, he needs one on the pitch.

So the question remains, who would you have as your captain – Terry or Ferdinand? Whatever your views I’d love to hear from you.

 

 

 

Coventry City: Who should replace Boothroyd at the Sky Blues?

With just one win in 16 attempts and sitting just seven points from the bottom three, Aidy Boothroyd knew his job was hanging in the balance at the Ricoh Arena. Saturday’s defeat at home to Hull though was the final straw for the Coventry board and the former Watford boss was relieved of his duties. Now the search for the 11^th Coventry manager inside a decade begins and there are a number of top class names already linked to the post. But who should be given the task of preserving their Championship status this season and mounting a title charge next season?

Here I am going to give my assessment of the early runners and riders and predict who I think would do a great job at Coventry.

Chris Hughton

The former Newcastle United boss was unfairly shown the door by Mike Ashley in December and must be keen to get back into the game. Hughton may not be a huge name capable of attracting top class players to a club but he is tactically astute and his man-management skills are second to none. Just look at the impact he had on Joey Barton. Let’s not forget that Houghton’s Newcastle stormed the Championship when many feared they could have suffered back-to-back relegations. He also proved that he could cut it in the top flight. Hughton and Coventry could be a perfect match but the board’s past record of hiring and firing could put him off.

Roberto Di Matteo

The former West Bromwich Albion manager was shown the door by the Baggies after a poor run in the top flight but that does not taint the fact that he is a very good manager. He knows what it takes to win games and has won promotion with both MK Dons and West Brom. Di Matteo was a class player and has an eye for a player. He also likes to play attractive football on the deck, something that would bring the fans back to the Ricoh in droves. Di Matteo would be an awesome appointment.

Steve Harrison

Harrison has been placed in charge of the club following Boothroyd’s departure and most of the bookies have him down as favourite for the full-time post. He may not be a huge name but he is well respected in the game. Graham Taylor had him involved with England during his spell as national manager and Harrison did a fantastic job as defensive coach under Steve McClaren at Middlesbrough. Harrison could well join the likes of Ricky Sbragia at Sunderland and Steve Keen at Blackburn to be thrust into the spotlight.

Sam Allardyce

Once touted as a possible England manager, Big Sam has been out of the game since the Venkys at Blackburn gave him the elbow. His style of play may not be too everyone’s taste, but if you want to stay up and not lose games then Sam’s your man. He was strongly linked with the West Ham United job at Christmas but Avram Grant has managed to turn the club’s fortunes around since then. Allardyce believes he should be managing in the Premier League – he’s even claimed he could do a job at Real Madrid – so I can’t see him dropping down to the Championship any time soon.

Gus Poyet

The current Brighton & Hove Albion manager is doing a fantastic job at the Withdean Stadium and unless there is a monumental catastrophe between now and May the Seagulls will be playing Coventry in the Championship next season. Poyet, who wowed English fans with his silky skills at Chelsea and Spurs, has his Albion boys playing great football and winning games to boot. Some of the big clubs are already keeping tabs on his work so it would be a real steal for Coventry if they could persuade him to leave the south coast for the Midlands. Unfortunately, I believe Poyet is a loyal man and I can’t him see abandoning Brighton as they embark on their next adventure.

Gordon Strachan

The former Coventry boss had an unsuccessful time in the Championship recently with Middlesbrough but could the lure of the Ricoh Arena be too much for him to turn down? He spent five years at the club before he was sacked after taking the Sky Blues down. Strachan has learned a lot in the past decade though and has won a number of trophies to boot. Would he be willing to rewrite his part in Coventry history by taking them back to the Premier League? It’s a possibility. He is a football man and must be itching to get back in the dugout. Whether the fans would want him back though is another thing.

Other names in the frame include Richard Shaw, Jim Magilton, Terry Butcher, Dion Dublin, Iain Dowie, Lee Carsley and Andy Thorn.

The Coventry City board obviously feel that a new manager will give the players a lift and ensure the team does enough to stay up this season. However, who is the right man in the long term? For me it would be a toss-up between Chris Hughton and Roberto Di Matteo. Both like to play attractive and winning football and can do a job on a small budget. But who would you like to see in the dugout at the Ricoh Arena?

Whatever your views I’d love to hear from you.

 

Arsenal: What’s gone wrong at the Emirates?

Three things are guaranteed in life; Birth, death and taxes. Now it seems we can add a fourth certainty to that list, that every February/March time Arsenal will blow their chances of silverware. Just three weeks ago Arsenal were on the march to an unrivalled quadruple. Today Arsene Wenger only has the league to play for. Beaten in the Carling Cup Final by Birmingham, knocked out of the Champions League by Barcelona and ousted from the FA Cup by Manchester United, Arsenal’s season is on the brink of a premature ending.

So what has gone wrong at the Emirates? Let’s start with the manager. Wenger has revolutionised football in this country with his philosophy of passing football and when they are on song they are a joy to behold. However, when things are going against them the Frenchman refuses to change his system. Some fans may praise him for sticking to his principles but others would love to see players fill the box when they are 1-0 down with only five minutes to play or try their luck from outside the box instead of walking the ball into the net. Does Wenger whip them if they dare shoot from 20 yards? It certainly looked like it at Old Trafford on Saturday. To put it simply, Wenger doesn’t have a Plan B.

The manager’s stubbornness not to listen to what the fans want is also infuriating. For years ‘the Professor’ has been told he has to buy a top class goalkeeper and two world class defenders to shore up the defence – even Stevie Wonder can see that. But year after year he continues to keep faith with his youngsters and when he does splash the cash it is often for players who aren’t even fit to wear a Spurs shirt!

Wenger had the opportunity to increase the size of his squad in January but, as per usual, he decided to keep the money in his pocket. That is an oversight that cannot be legislated for. Arsenal always suffer injuries to key players after the window has slammed shut and you’d have thought he would have learnt his lesson by now. Robin Van Persie has the club doctors on speed dial, Fabregas is picking up niggling injuries every other month and Walcott is always at risk of injuries due to his blinding pace. Now they will be without the impressive Johan Djorou for the rest of the season through a dislocated shoulder and the error-prone Manuel Almunia will be charged with keeping the Gunners in the title race following Wojciech Szczesny’s injury at the Nou Camp.

Arsenal certainly do seem to have more than their fair share of injury problems, but that is the nature of the game. Chelsea and Manchester United have had their problems with injuries this season but they have a vast amount of players in reserve ready to slip right into action. Don’t get me wrong, those who have come in for Arsenal have done all right – they are second in the league after all – but a few top class players could have helped Arsenal turn the points against Sunderland and Newcastle into three. It’s those margins that make or break a season.

Wenger blamed the Champions League exit on the referee’s decision to send Van Persie off and while that decision was ridiculous the Gunners failed to test Victor Valdes all night. Barcelona were clearly the better team, but Arsenal almost sneaked it at the death. Unfortunately Nicklas Bendtner showed all the composure of a teenager about to lose his virginity. We will never know what would have happened if the Dutchman had stayed on but you can’t blame the referees. Look at the Carling Cup Final. Arsenal were extremely lucky that the referee’s assistant got his early offside wrong, otherwise they could have been a goal and a player down after just five minutes. That decision went for the Gunners. Andrei Arshavin’s “goal” against Sunderland didn’t. That’s life.

What about the players then? For me Fabregas has been a shadow of his former self this season. Whether it’s the effects of niggling injuries or the fact that he was denied the chance to join Barca in the summer I don’t know, but the Spaniard has not been at the races this season. The same can be said for Arshavin and Rosicky. Both of them have been average at best, losing position cheaply and showing no signs of hunger. I wouldn’t be surprised if Wenger allowed them to leave in the summer and I doubt there would be any tears from the fans if they did.

Jack Wilshere’s progression to the first team has arguably been the highlight of the season. Sharp, creative, skilful and tenacious, the youngster has a fantastic future ahead of him in the game. Wilshere and Samir Nasri appear to be the only players who care about the club and want to bring silverware to the club.

There was a time when the fans proudly claimed In Arsene We Trust. After the Invincible season, Wenger was untouchable. Not anymore. The fans are venting their fury on phone-ins and internet forums about his stubbornness and don’t want to wait one more year for his vision to come true.

Wenger has the money available to him to go out and buy a couple of top class stars, but, for his own selfish reasons, he refuses to do so. But can Arsenal go on and pip United to the Premier League title and end their trophy drought? Right now, after three hammer blows, it’s hard to see it.

However, with nine games of the season remaining, Arsenal know that nine wins will be enough to see them crowned as champions. This Saturday they travel to the Hawthorns to take on a revived West Bromwich Albion. Roy Hodgson has made the Baggies hard to beat and they are scoring goals again. The Albion stunned Arsenal earlier in the season so Wenger will be looking for revenge.

Arsenal should wipe the floor with Blackburn at the Emirates and beat Blackpool at Bloomfield Road, but those across the road failed on that mission so Wenger will have to be switched on. Liverpool are next on the hit-list as they visit the capital before a tasty north London derby takes place at White Hart Lane. This is the start of a telling period for Arsenal. If they can emerge this with maximum points they will be full of confidence ahead of their trip to Bolton, their home clash with the leaders Manchester United and a tricky visit to Stoke City. After that it’s Villa at home and Fulham away to end the season.

It’s not an easy run-in by any stretch of the imagination but Arsenal only have one trophy to play for. That could work in their favour. Arsenal have nine games to salvage their season. Can they do it? What do you think?

 

Calling all Arsenal fans. What do you think has gone wrong at the Emirates? Have you lost faith in Arsene Wenger? Do you think you can turn it around and win the league? Whatever your views, I’d love to hear from you.

 

Premier League Predictions Table: FA Cup semi-finalists Bolton make late bid for the title

For much of the season the battle for the Squarefootball Predictions title has been a two-horse race between Manchester United’s Peter Lee and Blackpool’s Phil Trow. However, with only a few weeks left of the season remaining, Bolton Wanderers fan Dave Blackburn is making a late push to clinch the title from under his rivals’ noses.

The Wanderers have slowly made up ground on the front two over the past few weeks and had Everton managed to beat Birmingham 2-0 in midweek they would have gone level with Manchester United at the top. As it was, the Toffees’ 1-1 draw was music to the leader’s ears as it gave Peter Lee a total of seven points and moved him six points clear of his nearest challengers.

Bolton finished the week with six points, courtesy of three corrects scores and one correct result – Chelsea’s 3-1 win at Blackpool – and capitalised on a slack period for Blackpool’s Phil Trow who could only manage to predict three results correctly. With three teams now in the mix for the title it should prove to be a thrilling end to the season at the top.

At the bottom it’s proving to be a testing time for three of the capital’s elite sides. West Ham United’s Nigel Telfer, like the leader Peter Lee, was given a huge lift by Everton’s draw with Birmingham. That helped the struggler record nine points and was enough to propel him off the foot of the table at the expense of Chelsea’s Joe Tyler. The Stamford Bridge foot soldier managed just four points and is now five points adrift of the Hammers at the bottom.

Tottenham fans enjoyed a tremendous week on the pitch but it wasn’t such a good time off it for Spurs panellist Dave Nash. His haul of five points, combined with an awesome week for Squarefootball’s Middlesbrough fan Sue Gardener, saw him slip into the bottom three.

Sue was one of four joint top scorers this past week. She, along with West Ham pair Nigel Telfer and Matthew Beeby and Manchester City’s Callum Rothwell, picked up nine points to ease her wooden spoon fears. Sue and the West Ham lads correctly predicted six results and one score each, but City’s Mr Rothwell deserves a round of applause for being the only pundit this week to correctly predict two scores – Everton’s 2-1 win at Newcastle and Chelsea’s 3-1 win at Blackpool – bang on.

Arsenal’s failure to beat Sunderland at the Emirates was a big blow for 24 of our pundits, who felt that was a definite home win, as was Birmingham’s shock home defeat by West Bromwich Albion. The majority of the Panel though were smiling thanks to Fulham’s hotly disputed late penalty against Blackburn Rovers.

It may have been a poor week for Blackpool’s Phil Trow but he remains at the top of the correct scores chart with 35. However he is now only three ahead of Manchester United’s Peter Lee on 32 and five ahead of Bolton’s Dave Blackburn, Newcastle’s Michael Stout, Manchester City’s Callum Rothwell and Arsenal’s Don McMahon, all on 30.

Bolton’s Dave Blackburn is still the man to beat in the correct results chart. He is now on 106, closely followed by Manchester United’s Peter Lee on 105 and Sunderland’s Tony Ratton and West Ham United’s Matthew Beeby on 102. Could the Hammers end the season with some silverware after all?

Here are the scores from the past fortnight:

	Player	Correct scores	Correct results	Points
MAN CITY	Callum Rothwell	2	3	9
SQF EXP BORO	Sue Gardener	1	6	9
WEST HAM	Nigel Telfer	1	6	9
SQF EXP WHAM	Matthew Beeby	1	6	9
SQF WRITER	Colin Illingworth	1	5	8
WOLVES	Chris Cox	1	5	8
MAN UTD	Peter Lee	1	4	7
WEST BROM	Andy Wakeman	1	4	7
SQF ACE POMPEY	Dan Taylor	1	4	7
BOLTON	Dave Blackburn	1	3	6
FULHAM	Russell Goldman	1	3	6
SQF WRITER	Hugh Larkin	1	3	6
SQF ACE POMPEY	Peter Rendle	0	6	6
ARSENAL	Don McMahon	0	5	5
BLACKBURN	Terry Kennedy	0	5	5
NEWCASTLE	Michael Stout	1	2	5
SPURS	Dave Nash	0	5	5
SQF EDITOR	Antony Melvin	1	2	5
SQF WRITER	Paul Grech	1	2	5
ASTON VILLA	Lynette Ranson	0	4	4
CHELSEA	Joe Tyler	0	4	4
EVERTON	Chris Goodwin	0	4	4
BIRMINGHAM	Steve Coulter	0	3	3
BLACKPOOL	Phil Trow	0	3	3
LIVERPOOL	Mark Williams	0	3	3
STOKE CITY	Philip Eccleston	0	3	3
SUNDERLAND	Tony Ratton	0	3	3
WIGAN	Alan Moore	0	3	3

 

(The Panellists get three points for each correct score and one point for each correct result they predict)

 

Here is how the overall table currently stands.

	TEAM	Player	Crrct scores	Crrct results	Pts
↔	MAN UTD	Peter Lee	32	105	201
↔	BLACKPOOL	Phil Trow	35	90	196
↔	BOLTON	Dave Blackburn	30	106	196
↑	MAN CITY	Callum Rothwell	30	98	188
↓	SQF EDITOR	Antony Melvin	29	99	186
↓	SUNDERLAND	Tony Ratton	27	102	183
↓	NEWCASTLE	Michael Stout	30	92	182
↑	WEST BROM	Andy Wakeman	28	97	181
↑	SQF WRITER	Colin Illingworth	29	94	181
↓	WIGAN	Alan Moore	28	96	180
↑	ARSENAL	Don McMahon	30	86	176
↓	BLACKBURN	Terry Kennedy	28	92	176
↓	STOKE CITY	Philip Eccleston	26	98	176
↑	WOLVES	Chris Cox	29	87	174
↓	LIVERPOOL	Mark Williams	25	97	172
↔	FULHAM	Russell Goldman	28	84	168
↑	SQF EXP WHAM	Matthew Beeby	22	102	168
↓	SQF WRITER	Hugh Larkin	22	101	167
↔	SQF ACE POMPEY	Dan Taylor	25	90	165
↔	EVERTON	Chris Goodwin	23	92	161
↔	SQF WRITER	Paul Grech	27	77	158
↔	SQF ACE POMPEY	Peter Rendle	19	101	158
↔	BIRMINGHAM	Steve Coulter	19	95	152
↔	ASTON VILLA	Lynette Ranson	16	103	151
↑	SQF EXP BORO	Sue Gardener	20	90	150
↓	SPURS	Dave Nash	23	80	149
↑	WEST HAM	Nigel Telfer	20	86	146
↓	CHELSEA	Joe Tyler	19	84	141

 

Predictions and previews for all of this weekend’s games will be available to view on Squarefootball from noon GMT on Friday. 

 

Everton v Birmingham City: Can City cure their Carling Cup hangover?

The Carling Cup holders recorded their first win at Goodison last season in the FA Cup and they are going to have to put in a similar display tonight to have any chance of allaying their relegation fears.

Birmingham City slipped into the bottom three at the weekend following their defeat at West Brom and positive results for West Ham United and Wolves. Alex McLeish's men have wrote their names in Birmingham folklore after their cup success, they don't want to be included in another chapter regarding their relegation from the top flight.

Everton recorded their first away win of the season on Saturday at Newcastle and David Moyes will be hoping that can spur his team on for the remainder of the campaign. In an unpredictable season, the Toffees have proved to be one of the toughest sides to predict but the majority of the Panel believe this will swing in favour of the home side. 

Birmingham's last win at Goodison in the league was back in 1957. It will take one hell of a performance to rewrite that stat tonight.

Everton v Birmingham City; Kick Off 8pm March 9 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	0
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	3	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	0
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	2
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	1
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	3	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	2	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	0
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	1	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	1	V	1
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	2
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	1

Panel Verdict

Everton are tipped to claim all three points.

Home: 15; Draw: 11; Away: 1.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Blackpool v Chelsea: Blues aim to rock the Seasiders

Chelsea gave their slim title hopes a huge lift last week with a morale boosting victory over the leaders Manchester United. Tonight they travel to the seaside desperate to build on that win and keep the pressure on Fergie's men.

Blackpool will be hoping for a return to form following their 4-0 spanking at the hands of Wolves last weekend and Holloway will be looking for a similar display to the one that sent Tottenham back to the capital with their tails between their legs.

Unfortunately for the home side, the current champions are red-hot favourites for the points tonight. The big question is though, will Torres finally get his first goal for the Blues?

 

Blackpool v Chelsea; Kick Off 8pm March 7 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	0	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	0	V	2
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	2
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	1	V	3
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	0	V	3
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	2
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	3
Man Utd	Peter Lee	0	V	2
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	3
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	0	V	3
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	2
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	3
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	4
Wolves	Chris Cox	0	V	4
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	1	V	3
Writer	Hugh Larkin	0	V	2
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	1
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	0	V	4
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	4

Panel Verdict

Chelsea are tipped to build on their win over United with victory here.

Home: 2; Draw: 6; Away: 19.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Can Nicklas Bendtner be Arsenal’s saint at the Nou Camp?

Since beating Barcelona three weeks ago Arsenal’s fortunes have gone from bad to worse. Forced to a replay by Leyton Orient in the FA Cup, they blew their chance to end their trophy drought against Birmingham City in the final of the Carling Cup and passed up the opportunity to close the gap on Manchester United to one point at the weekend with a draw against Sunderland. Not forgetting that their torrid luck with injuries has bared its ugly head yet again.

Striker Robin Van Persie, who gave Barcelona a headache in the first leg, is definitely out of Tuesday’s game and midfielders Theo Walcott and Cesc Fabregas remain huge doubts for the clash in the Nou Camp. With their season hanging in the balance, Arsenal need a saviour. Could Nicklas Bendtner be that man?

The Great Dane has had his fair share of critics at the Emirates. He has endured a few nightmare games for Arsenal and been accused of not being “Arsenal class”, but he always puts in a shift and gets himself into goalscoring opportunities. He may lack the flair and creativity of Van Persie and co, but the one thing he doesn’t lack is confidence. In Bendtner’s mind he is the best player at Arsenal. Of course we all know that’s not true but it’s always good to have confidence in your own ability.

Bendtner got Arsenal off to a flier against the Catalan giants last season at the Nou Camp with a goal inside 20 minutes. Unfortunately, that just riled Barcelona into action and the Gunners lost 4-1. However, Bendtner will have taken great confidence from that game. If he can score against the best team in the world he can score against anyone, he will believe. So when Arsene Wenger looks at his squad available for Tuesday’s game I think Bendtner will be one of the first names on the teamsheet.

The former FC Copenhagen man is physically strong and can hold the ball up well. He is great in the air and can bully defenders. Bendtner can also produce moments of magic. With the Catalan giants missing Gerard Pique through suspension, this could be Bendtner’s moment to become an Arsenal hero.

Arsenal’s season rests on this week. If they lose to Barca on Tuesday then Manchester United in the FA Cup at the weekend their trophy hunt will have gone from four to just one in under a fortnight. It’s like Groundhog Day for Arsenal fans. Get into March/April all guns blazing, injuries hit and their season falls apart. But maybe, just maybe, Nicklas Bendtner could be their saint.

Big things will be expected of Samir Nasri and Alex Song on Tuesday and Tomas Rosicky and Andrei Arshavin will have to show the kind of form that convinced Wenger to sign them in the first place.

This will be a huge, huge test of Arsenal’s credentials. Remember they don’t need to beat Barcelona, they only need to avoid defeat. If they can do that, the dark cloud that has descended over the Emirates in recent weeks will be lifted and replaced with bright skies and sunshine.

The Nou Camp is one of the greatest football arenas in the world. Can Arsenal and Saint Nick make it a night to remember for the Gooners? We’ll have to wait and see.

Calling all Arsenal fans. How confident are you of going to the Nou Camp and getting a result? How badly will you miss Robin Van Persie’s influence? How much of a lift will it be to have Walcott and Fabregas in the starting line-up? Do you think Bendtner can become an Arsenal hero against the Catalans? What would an early European exit do for the morale at the club ahead of the FA Cup clash with United? Whatever your views I’d love to hear from you.

Premier League Predictions Table: Chelsea and Blackpool show their fighting spirit

What a past few days it has been in football. We’ve had Birmingham City shock the globe by beating the much-fancied Arsenal to the first piece of silverware of the season, Chelsea rediscover their winning touch against the leaders and West Ham and Wolves boost their survival hopes with convincing wins over Liverpool and Blackpool respectively. But the battle to win the Squarefootball Premier League Prediction League is just as interesting.

Long-time leader Manchester United fan Peter Lee has seen his lead at the top cut to just one point thanks to an impressive points haul by nearest challenger Blackpool’s Phil Trow, and Bolton Wanderers’s Dave Blackburn has the Red Devils in his sights – now standing three points off the summit.

The battle for the wooden spoon is also hotting up with London rivals West Ham United and Chelsea now locked in on 137 points each.

The week really belongs to Manchester City’s Callum Rothwell and one-time leader and current title holder Wolves fan Chris Cox. Both players scored 10 points during this period, which included Blackpool v Tottenham and Arsenal v Stoke City.

Callum gained his tally from correctly predicting the results at Arsenal, Aston Villa, Wigan Athletic and Wolves while gaining maximum points from Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Bolton and Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Manchester United. Chris got his score from correct results at Arsenal, Villa, Everton and Wolves and correctly tipped Manchester United to beat Wigan 4-0 and to lose 2-1 at Stamford Bridge. Liverpool fans will be hoping Chris’s luck with predicting United results continue as he has gone for a 2-1 home win at Anfield!

In what was a good week for most pundits, we have four pundits on nine points. Arsenal’s Don McMahon, Aston Villa’s Lynette Ranson, Blackpool’s Phil Trow and Wigan’s Alan Moore all moved up the table with their points tally. Don, who was gutted by Sunday’s Carling Cup defeat was the only pundit to correctly predict that Everton would beat Sunderland 2-0 at Goodison Park and was one of just three who tipped Manchester City to draw 1-1 with Fulham – the other pundits there were our very own Middlesbrough pundit Sue Gardener and Aston Villa’s Lynette Ranson.

Newcastle United’s draw with Bolton Wanderers was correctly predicted by 20 of our panellists, with 10 of them getting the score bang on.

Down at the bottom, West Ham’s Nigel Telfer could only muster four points and has returned to the foot of the table after Chelsea’s Joe Tyler pulled in six points to go level with the Hammers. These two have been battling it out at the bottom all season and with 10 weeks left to play it will be interesting to see who comes out on top.

The best performing pundit from Squarefootball remains the editor Antony Melvin, who is currently on 181 points. The summit is just 13 points away. Can he close the gap on the leaders over the next few weeks?

Blackpool’s Phil Trow extended his lead at the top of the correct scores chart. He is now on 35, four ahead of Manchester United’s Peter Lee on 31 – who failed to get one single score bang on this week, and six ahead of Bolton’s Dave Blackburn and Newcastle’s Mick Stout, all on 29.

Bolton’s Dave Blackburn remains at the helm of the correct results chart after smashing through the 100 point mark. He is now on 103, closely followed by Manchester United’s Peter Lee on 101 and Sunderland’s Tony Ratton and Aston Villa’s Lynette Ranson, both on 99.

Here are the scores from the past fortnight:

	Player	Correct scores	Correct results	Points
MAN CITY	Callum Rothwell	2	4	10
WOLVES	Chris Cox	2	4	10
ARSENAL	Don McMahon	2	3	9
ASTON VILLA	Lynette Ranson	1	6	9
BLACKPOOL	Phil Trow	2	3	9
WIGAN	Alan Moore	2	3	9
LIVERPOOL	Mark Williams	1	5	8
SQF EDITOR	Antony Melvin	1	5	8
SQF EXP WHAM	Matthew Beeby	1	5	8
BIRMINGHAM	Steve Coulter	1	4	7
BOLTON	Dave Blackburn	1	4	7
NEWCASTLE	Michael Stout	1	4	7
STOKE CITY	Philip Eccleston	1	4	7
SQF WRITER	Colin Illingworth	1	4	7
SQF EXP BORO	Sue Gardener	1	4	7
CHELSEA	Joe Tyler	0	6	6
WEST BROM	Andy Wakeman	1	3	6
SQF WRITER	Hugh Larkin	1	3	6
EVERTON	Chris Goodwin	0	5	5
FULHAM	Russell Goldman	1	2	5
MAN UTD	Peter Lee	0	5	5
SQF ACE POMPEY	Dan Taylor	0	5	5
SPURS	Dave Nash	0	4	4
WEST HAM	Nigel Telfer	0	4	4
SQF WRITER	Paul Grech	0	4	4
SQF ACE POMPEY	Peter Rendle	0	4	4
BLACKBURN	Terry Kennedy	0	3	3
SUNDERLAND	Tony Ratton	0	3	3

 

(The Panellists get three points for each correct score and one point for each correct result they predict)

 

Here is how the overall table currently stands.

	TEAM	Player	Crrct scores	Crrct results	Pts
↔	MAN UTD	Peter Lee	31	101	194
↔	BLACKPOOL	Phil Trow	35	87	193
↔	BOLTON	Dave Blackburn	29	103	190
↑	SQF EDITOR	Antony Melvin	28	97	181
↓	SUNDERLAND	Tony Ratton	27	99	180
↑	MAN CITY	Callum Rothwell	28	95	179
↓	NEWCASTLE	Michael Stout	29	90	177
↑	WIGAN	Alan Moore	28	93	177
↑	WEST BROM	Andy Wakeman	27	93	174
↑	STOKE CITY	Philip Eccleston	26	95	173
↑	SQF WRITER	Colin Illingworth	28	89	173
↑	ARSENAL	Don McMahon	30	81	171
↓	BLACKBURN	Terry Kennedy	28	87	171
↑	LIVERPOOL	Mark Williams	25	94	169
↑	WOLVES	Chris Cox	28	82	166
↓	FULHAM	Russell Goldman	27	81	162
↓	SQF WRITER	Hugh Larkin	21	98	161
↑	SQF EXP WHAM	Matthew Beeby	21	96	159
↓	SQF ACE POMPEY	Dan Taylor	24	86	158
↓	EVERTON	Chris Goodwin	23	88	157
↔	SQF WRITER	Paul Grech	26	75	153
↔	SQF ACE POMPEY	Peter Rendle	19	95	152
↔	BIRMINGHAM	Steve Coulter	19	92	149
↑	ASTON VILLA	Lynette Ranson	16	99	147
↓	SPURS	Dave Nash	23	75	144
↔	SQF EXP BORO	Sue Gardener	19	84	141
↑	CHELSEA	Joe Tyler	19	80	137
↓	WEST HAM	Nigel Telfer	19	80	137

 

Predictions and previews for all of this weekend’s games will be available to view on Squarefootball from noon GMT on Friday.

An updated league table should be published every Wednesday.

 

 

 

Squarefootball’s Premier League quiz: Week 29

Welcome back to the toughest weekly football quiz on the planet. What a past few days it has been for English football. Wigan were elbowed out of the way by a rampaging Rooney, Arsenal’s wait for a trophy continues after losing right at the death to Birmingham in the Carling Cup and the title race is back on after the champions Chelsea gave leaders Manchester United a taste of their own medicine. Not forgetting West Ham and Wolves’ emphatic wins over Liverpool and Blackpool respectively, things are really hotting up in the Premier League.

Manchester United remain the team to beat but the big question here is, who is the biggest brain box when it comes to this weekend’s fixtures? I’ve compiled 10 questions to put your football knowledge to the test. Is your brain in Manchester United’s league or is struggling with the likes of Wigan and Wolves? Why don’t you give it a try and find out?

Your challenge starts here!

 1. Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion: The Baggies have a terrible record at St Andrews. It’s almost a decade since they left the second city with maximum points in a 1-0 victory. But can you tell me who scored that goal? Was it A – Andy Johnson, B – Derek McInnes or C – Scott Dobie?

 2. Arsenal v Sunderland: The Black Cats haven’t scored at the Emirates since going down 3-2 back in November 2007. Can you name either of the scorers for Sunderland that day?

3. Bolton Wanderers v Aston Villa: The visitors won’t be scared about playing Bolton, they’ve lost just one of their previous 16 league meetings. Bolton’s last win over Villa at the Reebok came in a 1-0 win back in September 2002. Who scored? Was it A – Lee Hendrie, B – Michael Ricketts or C – Peter Crouch?

4. Fulham v Blackburn Rovers: Roy Hodgson has managed both Fulham and Blackburn Rovers, but how old is he? Is he A – 62, B – 63 or C – 64?

5. Newcastle United v Everton: The Toffees haven’t won at St James’ Park since leaving the north east in October 2000 on the back of a 1-0 win. Who scored? Was it A – Paul Gascoigne, B – David Weir or C – Kevin Campbell?

6. West Ham United v Stoke City: This weekend will be the 68^th meeting between the two sides in the league, but who has won the most encounters?

7. Manchester City v Wigan Athletic: The Latics haven’t left Eastlands with all three points since winning 1-0 back in March 2007. Who scored? Was it A – Caleb Folan, B – Lee McCulloch or C – Emile Heskey?

8. Liverpool v Manchester United: The Red Devils have won their past three meetings with Liverpool but they haven’t won at Anfield since winning 1-0 back in March 2007. Who scored? Was it A – Wayne Rooney, B – Cristiano Ronaldo or C – Carlos Tevez?

9. Wolverhampton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur: Wolves completed the double over Spurs last season in two 1-0 wins. Can you name either of the scorers for Wolves?

10. Blackpool v Chelsea: Chelsea defender David Luiz opened his Chelsea account with the Blues’ equaliser against Manchester United on Tuesday night, but which defender has scored the most league goals for Chelsea this season? Is it A – John Terry, B – David Luiz or C – Branislav Ivanovic?

 

To see how you got on please click here

0-2: You should try rugby

3-4: Carling Cup winner

5-6: FA Cup winner

7-8: Champions League winner

9-10: Premier League winner

 

Squarefootball’s Premier League Quiz: Week 29 – The Answers

So how did you get on?

 1. Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion: The answer was A, Andy Johnson.

2. Arsenal v Sunderland: The scorers we were looking for were Ross Wallace and Kenwyne Jones. If you said either of them well done.

3. Bolton Wanderers v Aston Villa: The answer is B, Michael Ricketts. He scored with a penalty.

4. Fulham v Blackburn Rovers: The answer is B, 63.

5. Newcastle United v Everton: The answer is C, Kevin Campbell.

6. West Ham United v Stoke City: The visitors have won 25 league encounters against West Ham but the Hammers have won 26.

7. Manchester City v Wigan Athletic: The answer is A, Caleb Folan.

8. Liverpool v Manchester United: The answer is C, Carlos Tevez.

9. Wolverhampton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur: The scorers we were looking for were Dave Jones and Kevin Doyle.

10. Blackpool v Chelsea: The answer is C, Branislav Ivanovic. The Serbian has scored three times in the league to Terry’s two and Luiz’s one.

 

Scoring:

0-2: You should try rugby

3-4: Carling Cup winner

5-6: FA Cup winner

7-8: Champions League winner

9-10: Premier League winner

 

Liverpool v Manchester United: Will Daglish rule over Fergie at Anfield?

Kenny Dalglish had an unhappy return as Liverpool manager when Manchester United knocked them out of the FA Cup. This afternoon King Kenny will be seeking revenge on Fergie and hoping to throw a spanner in United's title charge.

Arsenal blew their chance of closing the gap on the leaders to a point yesterday with a draw at home to Sunderland so if United can win at Anfield - something they haven't managed since 2007 - they will move six points clear and ever closer to overtaking Liverpool's title tally of 18. But they are going to have to do it the hard way.

The Red Devils will be without star defender Vidic following his sending off against Chelsea in midweek and with Rio Ferdinand struggling to be fit in time Fergie could well be forced to play Chris Smalling with Wes Brown. This would be the perfect time for Dalglish to give Andy Carroll his Liverpool bow.

The former Newcastle United man hasn't played since he made his £35m pound due to injury but he has been training this week and his height and power would give United's makeshift defence a huge problem. Combined with the craft and guile of Luis Suarez, Liverpool have every chance of consigning United to back-to-back defeats.

But you can never write off Fergie's men. They were unfortunate to lose against Chelsea. Was it really a penalty? You can argue for and against. Should David Luiz been sent off? Definitely. But then United got away with it when Rooney elbowed Wigan's James McCarthy so they can't have it both ways.

Rooney has been showing signs of getting back to something like his old self and his goal against Chelsea was sensational. He will undoubtedly be the target for abuse this afternoon, but he thrives on that.

Can United move one step closer to breaking Liverpool's title tally? The Panel thinks this one is too close to call, though there has only been one draw in this fixture in the past decade so we should get a winner.

Liverpool v Manchester United; Kick Off 1.30pm March 6 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	0	V	2
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	2
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	1	V	2
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	0	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	3	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	0
Man Utd	Peter Lee	0	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	1
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	0	V	0
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	2
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	1	V	1
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	2
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	1

Panel Verdict

It’s too close to call.

Home: 8; Draw: 9; Away: 10.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion: Albion aim to bring Cup winners back down to Earth

Alex McLeish's side wrote their names into Birmingham City folklore last weekend by beating Arsenal to lift the Carling Cup. That win guarantees European football next season for the Blues but there is still a bit to do in order to keep them in the Premier League.

Birmingham are just two points off the drop zone - one ahead of today's opponents West Brom - but they do have two games in hand on those around them. They will be full of confidence following their Wembley triumph but Roy Hodgson's men will be looking to take the fizz out of their celebrations.

West Brom slipped into the bottom three last weekend following Wolves' emphatic win over Blackpool but the Albion's draw at Stoke was enough to see them escape the danger zone. However, they will be desperate to gain all three points today as they have only managed one win in the league since beating Newcastle 3-1 at the start of December.

The Baggies have drawn their past three league games and haven't won at St Andrews since 2001. They'd love a win but I'm sure Hodgson would take a point right now.

Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion; Kick Off 12.45pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	2	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	0	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	2	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	2
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	0	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	1	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	1	V	1
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	0
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	2

Panel Verdict

It looks as though the best the Baggies can hope for is a draw.

Home: 11; Draw: 14; Away: 2.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur: Fierce contest in store at Molineux

With West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion winning yesterday, Wolves are under pressure to follow suit this afternoon against a high flying Tottenham side, who are fighting tooth and nail to finish in the top four.

Mick McCarthy's men thrashed Blackpool last weekend and will be full of confidence for the visit of Spurs. They've already beaten Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United at Molineux this season, why not Spurs?

Wolves did the double over the north London giants last season and were only undone in the dying minutes of this campaign at White Hart Lane, losing two late goals to go down 3-1. Tottenham have a massive game coming up in midweek against AC Milan and Harry Redknapp will be keen to ensure that his players' focus is totally on today's game. Spurs have adapted to life in the Champions League with ease but they know they must finish in the top four to do it all again next season . . . or they could just win it at Wembley!

Tottenham's defeat here last season was their first in five visits and they will be hoping to get back to winning ways following their disappointing 3-1 away defeat at Blackpool recently.

Wolves will be without the influential on-loan Spurs midfielder Jamie O'Hara, who is ineligible, Mouyokolo and Zubar are ruled out through injury while Dave Edwards and Dave Jones are fitness doubts, but Stephen Hunt could well return.

Spurs are still without the midfield pair of Gareth Bale and Rafael van der Vaart and although he's returned to training Ledley King is unlikely to feature.

The Panel thinks it will be close but they are just edging towards an away win.

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Tottenham Hotspur; Kick Off 4pm March 6 2011

Prediction Panel        

Arsenal	Don McMahon	0	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	0	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	2
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	1	V	2
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	0	V	2
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	2
Man Utd	Peter Lee	0	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	2
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	2
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	3
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	3
Wolves	Chris Cox	1	V	2
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	1	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	2	V	2
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	2
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	0	V	2

Panel Verdict

Tottenham are tipped to leave Molineux with the points.

Home: 2; Draw: 7; Away: 18.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Manchester City v Wigan Athletic: Can Latics elbow City right out of title race?

Last weekend Wigan Athletic succumbed to the boys from the red half of Manchester. Can they do any better this afternoon against the boys from the blue half at Eastlands?

Despite the 4-0 scoreline, Roberto Martinez's men more than held their own against the leaders last Saturday. Had Mark Clattenberg seen Wayne Rooney's elbow/assault on young James McCarthy the outcome may have been different. As it is, the Latics start the day at the foot of the table and searching for their first win in four and their first win at City in four years.

Wigan have been a bit of a bogey side to City in the Premier League. They completed back-to-back doubles over the Citizens in their first two seasons in the top flight but City look to have turned the corner having not lost to them since March 2007. 

City lost ground on the leaders last weekend by only managing a draw against Fulham at Eastlands, and with Chelsea back on the winning trail, the race to finish in the top four is looking incredibly tight. Roberto Mancini can ill-afford any more slip-ups if they are to reach the Champions League and they should be too powerful for the likes of Wigan. The Panel certainly sees this as a home banker.

Manchester City v Wigan Athletic; Kick off 5.30pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	2	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	0
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	2	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	3	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	3	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	3	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	3	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	2	V	0
Man Utd	Peter Lee	3	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	4	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	4	V	0
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	3	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	2	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	3	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	2	V	1
Wolves	Chris Cox	4	V	0
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	3	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	3	V	1
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	0
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	3	V	1
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	3	V	0
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	4	V	0

Panel Verdict

City are red-hot favourites for the three points.

Home: 26; Draw: 1; Away: 0.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

West Ham United v Stoke City: Hammers eye win in Cup warm-up

West Ham United gave their survival hopes a huge boost last weekend with victory over Liverpool but a win today would not only push them out of the bottom three it would also give them confidence ahead of next weekend's FA Cup clash with Stoke at the Britannia.

Scott Parker was inspirational last weekend, as he has been all season, playing through the pain barrier to help his club out and it looks as though the Great Escape is definitely on. However, Tony Pulis will be desperate to throw a spanner in that plan but they are hardly a club in any real form.

The Potters have won just two of their past six league outings and are only six points ahead of their hosts. Compare that to the Hammers - who have lost just twice in the league in 2011 - and you'd have to fancy the points to remain in the capital. But Stoke, and Ricardo Fuller in particular, have happy memories of the Boleyn Ground having won there last year to complete the double over the Hammers.

West Ham got their first point of the season at the Britannia in September and Avram Grant, who missed that game, will be hoping for all three this afternoon. The Panel certainly sees them getting a result at least.

West Ham United v Stoke City; Kick off 3pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	0
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	0
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	1	V	1
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	0
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	3
Fulham	Russell Goldman	0	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	2	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	1	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	1
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	2
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	2	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	0	V	3
Wolves	Chris Cox	1	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	3	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	2	V	2
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	3	V	1

Panel Verdict

The Panel believes West Ham will get something out of this game.

Home: 13; Draw: 9; Away: 5.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Arsenal v Sunderland: Can the Gunners erase their Cup heartache?

The Gunners blew their big chance of lifting their first bit of silverware in six years last weekend against Birmingham City, today Arsene Wenger will be hoping his depleted squad don't blow the chance to cut the gap to Manchester United to a point.

Arsenal will be without Robin Van Persie and Theo Walcott for the foreseeable future and captain Cesc Fabregas and Alex Song are doubtful for Tuesday's huge Champions League clash with Barcelona. Aaron Ramsey, who suffered a terrible injury a year ago at Stoke City, is ready to make his Arsenal return in what has to be a must-win game.

Sunderland, who took a point off Arsenal in dramatic fashion at the Stadium of Light earlier this season, will travel to the capital hoping to do to Arsenal what they did at Stamford Bridge. However, they don't go into the game in the best form. The Black Cats have lost their past four in a row and former Manchester United defender Bruce will be keen to halt Arsenal's title charge.

The visitors haven't won in the league at Arsenal since 1983 but victory today could see them climb above Liverpool - who play Manchester United tomorrow - into sixth place. Unfortunately, the Panel believes Arsenal will put their Carling Cup disaster behind them with a win today. 

Arsenal v Sunderland; Kick Off 3pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	3	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	0
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	3	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	0
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	3	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	0	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	3	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	2	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	2	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	2	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	3	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	2	V	0
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	3	V	0
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	2	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	2	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	3	V	1
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	0
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	3	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	2	V	0
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	3	V	1
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	2
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	2	V	0
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	0

Panel Verdict

The Gunners are tipped to forget their Carling Cup heartache.

Home: 24; Draw: 3; Away: 0.

 

Newcastle United v Everton: Sticky time for the Toffees

After beating Chelsea in the FA Cup everything looked rosy for the Toffees, then Reading came along and ruined the party. Today Everton travel to St James' Park and David Moyes will be expecting to see a positive response from his players and do something that they haven't managed in 2011 so far . . .  win away from home in the league.

Everton are a funny team to predict just now. They are five points above the bottom three but just six points - with a game in hand - from city rivals Liverpool and Europe. I guess it all depends on whether you are a glass half-full or half-empty person!

Newcastle United though don't have any such problems. Alan Pardew has taken to life in the north east with ease and their place in next season's Premier League is all but secured following their huge win at Birmingham recently. They have lost just once in the league during 2011 and are a tough team to break down.

Everton haven't won at St James' Park in more than a decade and the Panel can't see that run ending this afternoon. 

Newcastle United v Everton; Kick Off 3pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	0	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	0	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	1	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	0	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	0	V	3
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	2
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	2
Man Utd	Peter Lee	2	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	0	V	1
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	2	V	1
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	1	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	2	V	1
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	3	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	2
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	0

 

Panel Verdict

Newcastle are expected to get something out of the game.

Home: 11; Draw: 11; Away: 5.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Fulham v Blackburn Rovers: Cottagers well backed to beat the Rovers

After denting Manchester City's Champions League hopes last weekend, Mark Hughes welcomes another one of his former clubs to Craven Cottage this weekend in the hope of moving into the top 10.

Neither side head into the game in any sort of form - Fulham haven't won in their past four league outings while you have to go back five games for Blackburn's last success - but they will see this as a massive chance to boost their survival chances. Both Fulham and Blackburn are just four points off the drop zone and with Wolves and West Ham picking up points on a weekly basis neither Hughes or Keen can rest on their laurels.

Blackburn's poor away form has been well documented but they have quite a decent record at the Cottage with four wins in nine visits. They went down 3-0 at the Cottage last season but Steve Keen will be looking for an improved performance this time. Unfortunately for the visitors, the Panel sees this as a home banker.

Fulham v Blackburn Rovers; Kick Off 3pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	2	V	0
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	2	V	0
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	0
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	1
Everton	Chris Goodwin	0	V	0
Fulham	Russell Goldman	3	V	0
Liverpool	Mark Williams	0	V	0
Man City	Callum Rothwell	1	V	0
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	0
Newcastle	Michael Stout	3	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	1
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	2	V	0
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	2	V	0
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	4	V	1
Wigan	Alan Moore	2	V	0
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	0
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	3	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	0	V	0
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	0
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	3	V	1
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	2	V	1

Panel Verdict

Fulham are odds on to beat the Rovers.

Home: 22; Draw: 5; Away: 0.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Bolton Wanderers v Aston Villa: Coyle tipped to put more pressure on Houllier

Aston Villa fans are furious with their manager and it's easy to see why. After watching their bitter rivals Birmingham City lift the Carling Cup, Villa fans were desperate for a bit of success themselves. With a clash against Reading lined up in the next round, Villa had a great chance of reaching Wembley. Gerard Houllier had other ideas though. He headed to Eastlands without a number of first team regulars and defended himself by claiming even his best team would struggle to beat City! Talk about breeding confidence . . .

Today Villa, who are just five points off the drop zone, take on seventh place Bolton Wanderers in a game that the visiting fans will demand to win. Fortunately for Houllier, Villa have a great record against the Wanderers. They haven't lost to them in eight clashes and haven't lost at the Reebok in the league since 2002. Looks like an away win then. Well not necessarily. Owen Coyle's men have lost just twice at home this season while Villa have only picked up win bonuses twice on their travels.

Bolton are undefeated in their past four league outings and have kept three clean sheets in the process. Can they keep Villa out and end their torrid run against them? The Panel is going with a score draw.

Bolton Wanderers v Aston Villa; Kick Off 3pm March 5 2011

Prediction Panel

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	2
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	1	V	1
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	1	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	2	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	2	V	1
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	2	V	2
Everton	Chris Goodwin	2	V	3
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	1
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	0	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	1
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	1
Tottenham	Dave Nash	1	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	1	V	1
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	3	V	3
Wigan	Alan Moore	1	V	1
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	TBA	V	TBA
Writer	Colin Illingworth	1	V	2
Writer	Hugh Larkin	1	V	0
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	2	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	1	V	0
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	1	V	0
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	0

 

Panel Verdict

The Panel is edging towards a draw.

Home: 9; Draw: 14; Away: 4.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!

 

Chelsea v Manchester United: Will Fergie's bold claims come back to haunt him?

Sir Alex Ferguson has stoked the fires ahead of this clash by ruling Chelsea out of the title race. The Blues have suffered a major dip in form since the dismissal of Ray Wilkins and record signing Fernando Torres has yet to find the target for his new club. They are battling to retain their place in the top four but Fergie’s claim could well come back to haunt him.

United may be four points clear at the top but their away form has been anything but that of champions. Saturday’s 4-0 win over Wigan was only their fourth of the season and they haven’t won at the Bridge since December 2002. Chelsea have many points to prove to their critics and Fergie’s claims will only serve to motivate the likes of Terry and Lampard further.

In all honesty, Chelsea probably do have too much to do to retain the title and, while they may relinquish their seat at the head of the table in May, they will have a major say on the destination of the Premier League trophy. Former Liverpool striker Torres has been a thorn in the side of United during his spell in England and this could be the game that he starts to repay his sizeable transfer fee with a goal and a win.

A win for the Blues would see them climb above Tottenham back into the top four and close the gap on United to 12 points. With 11 games left to play, that could be too much to claw back but with another meeting against the leaders yet to come, and a game in hand, Chelsea could well stop Fergie clinching the title.

Victory for the visitors would see them extend their lead over Arsenal to seven points and put them firmly in the driving seat for the title.

It’s a massive game and the Panel is split right down the middle.

Chelsea v Manchester United; Kick Off 7.45pm March 1 2011

Prediction Panel        

Arsenal	Don McMahon	1	V	1
Aston Villa	Lynette Ranson	3	V	2
Birmingham	Steve Coulter	0	V	1
Blackburn	Terry Kennedy	1	V	1
Blackpool	Phil Trow	2	V	1
Bolton	Dave Blackburn	0	V	0
Chelsea	Joe Tyler	1	V	0
Everton	Chris Goodwin	1	V	1
Fulham	Russell Goldman	1	V	2
Liverpool	Mark Williams	1	V	1
Man City	Callum Rothwell	2	V	1
Man Utd	Peter Lee	1	V	1
Newcastle	Michael Stout	1	V	2
Stoke City	Philip Eccleston	2	V	2
Sunderland	Tony Ratton	1	V	2
Tottenham	Dave Nash	0	V	0
West Brom	Andy Wakeman	0	V	2
West Ham	Nigel Telfer	TBA	V	TBA
Wigan	Alan Moore	2	V	1
Wolves	Chris Cox	2	V	1
OUR EXPERTS
Editor	Antony Melvin	2	V	2
Writer	Colin Illingworth	2	V	1
Writer	Hugh Larkin	1	V	1
Writer	Paul Grech	0	V	0
Pompey fan	Dan Taylor	1	V	2
Boro fan	Sue Gardener	2	V	5
Pompey fan	Peter Rendle	TBA	V	TBA
West Ham fan	Matthew Beeby	1	V	1

Panel Verdict

It’s too close to call.

Home: 7; Draw: 12; Away: 7.

* Do we have it right, or do you know better? Please don't bother with derisory comments on the predictions after the match - unless you also pulled us up before it!