Following last weekend’s Euro 2016 qualifying matches, we are back to normal with a fresh round of Premier League fixtures. And what better way to kick off the action than with a 12:45 Saturday game between Arsenal and Liverpool.
The last time these two sides met was in late December, when neither was able to win the game at Anfield. Following a red card, Liverpool were incredibly fortunate to salvage a draw with a 96th-minute goal from Martin Skrtel.
On recent form, Arsenal and Liverpool are at the top of the Premier League. Arsenal have now racked up six straight wins and are looking for a seventh. Liverpool, meanwhile, need to rebound from a 2-1 home loss against Man Utd.
Expectations
Arsenal are flying high, but we all know that the Gunners from recent years will slip up eventually. They are currently pushing Man City for second place, but they are unlikely to take it from the current champions.
The performances have been there to support Arsenal’s rise, but they have had a relatively unchallenging run. In fact, their last difficult Premier League game saw them lose 2-1 against Tottenham. Arsenal are not quite as effective against the big teams as they are against the smaller ones.
Liverpool actually played pretty well against Man Utd. The only problem is that their bitter rivals played even better. Liverpool moved the ball relatively well when they had it, creating a couple of dangerous openings.
Brendan Rodgers needs to keep Raheem Sterling high up the pitch against Arsenal. He was ineffective as a wingback against Man Utd, which is completely understandable for the attacking midfielder. Liverpool will set out to frustrate Arsenal and retain possession. They have the players to bully the Gunners.
Match Tips
Tip one: Liverpool Draw No Bet @ 3.1 with Betfair
Tip two: Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.66 with Betfair
Odds of 3.1 to back Liverpool on draw no bet are incredibly generous from Betfair. The Reds are a tricky enough side to frustrate Arsenal, who could slump after the recent international break. Watch out for injuries to key players.