After going all season with just two away wins (1-0 at QPR on the opening day and 3-1 at Sunderland on Boxing Day), even the most optimistic of Hull City fans would have been struggling to get too excited over their trip to Crystal Palace. However, Hull put in a determined display against a Palace side who looked as if their minds were focussed on planning their summer holidays. Alan Pardew was quick to bemoan some decisions by referee Mark Clattenburg, but they were outshot 21-7 and failed to register a single corner, so few could have argued about the 2-0 victory for Hull, as they appeared to want and need it just that little bit more.
Liverpool blew a great chance at the weekend to put pressure on Manchester United for all important fourth spot. They couldn't break down a resilient West Brom and missed the opportunity to close to within five points of the Red Devil's with a game in hand. Now the task is looking increasingly difficult and the news that Daniel Sturridge may not play again this season will come as a bitter blow, as he is their only real quality option to lead the line. It's also fair to say Liverpool's performances have been poor since their painful 2-1 home defeat to Manchester United a little over a month ago and this is a critical fixture if they are to cling onto any hope of a top four spot.
Liverpool have a great record against Hull over the years, but the Tigers did win this corresponding fixture 3-1 last season against a Liverpool side with Luis Suarez at the peak of his powers. I expect more of the same from Hull tonight. Liverpool play some good football, but they are increasingly toothless at times and the shrewd Steve Bruce will know how to set his team up to nullify an attacking Liverpool who rarely have a plan B.
My advice would be to back Hull to win the match at 10/3 with Betfred, with a smaller wager on Hull/Hull on the HT/FT market at 13/2 with various bookmakers, as I expect Hull to do their best work early, establish a lead and hold off a later Liverpool surge.
Hull to beat Liverpool @ 10/3 - 3pts win with Betfred
Hull/Hull - HT/FT @ 13/2 - 1pt win with various bookmakers.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.