2024/2025 EPL Week 2 Preview

Ten matches down and 370 remain in the Premier League season as each team has begun their 2024/2025 campaign with varying levels of success.

Brighton were without a doubt one of the more impressive clubs in Matchweek 1 as they dispatched a poor Everton side and they have the chance to build on that when they host Manchester United in this weekend’s first fixture.

In the weekend’s other marquee match, we have a pair of Champions League participants in Aston Villa and Arsenal facing off in what is shaping up as a tantalising clash.

Check out below for our best bets and match previews for all ten Matchweek 2 fixtures from the Premier League.

Brighton And Hove Albion vs Manchester United
Saturday 24 August, 9:30pm, Amex Stadium
Brighton 2 – Manchester United 1

There are two approaches to analysing Brighton’s win at Goodison Park last week, sure it was only Everton but it was also a clinical effort and the biggest margin of victory out of all ten fixtures.

United on the other hand came away with a win but they were made to work by Fulham and their history against Brighton is not the strongest.

While Erik ten Haag’s side did win at the Amex Stadium on the final day last season, they had lost their four previous Premier League meetings.

There is every chance that Brighton suffers a letdown following their impressive first up win but I’m happy to take on United after their efforts against Fulham.

Brighton to Win @ $2.45

Crystal Palace vs West Ham
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 0 – West Ham 2

Despite their first up (somewhat controversial) loss to Brentford there was a lot to like about what Palace had to offer ahead of their home debut this season.

Since taking over back in February, Oliver Glasner has only lost consecutive matches once with Palace and they are well placed to pick up all three points here.

West Ham were well off the pace against Aston Villa and could have lost by a whole lot more on a different day.

While on paper these teams look to be quite even, I really like what is going on at Palace and the value on them at home looks like a great option here.

Crystal Palace to Win @ $2.15

Fulham vs Leicester
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Craven Cottage
Fulham 2 – Leicester 1

If you were wondering what the Premier League was missing last season, Matchweek 1 gave us an emphatic answer and it was Jamie Vardy.

The veteran striker scored an equaliser against Spurs before winding up the away fans as the Foxes produced a performance that gave plenty of hope about their chances of survival on their return to the top flight.

Fulham might be a bit tougher to get a read on following their opening 90 minutes of the season, this time next month their 1-0 loss at Old Trafford could look a lot better depending on how both teams perform in the coming weeks.

While they struggled to create chances against United, they should see a bit more of the ball in this match and Leicester is a strong attacking side too.

In the market there is some value to be found on the visitors but instead I’m going to look at the both teams to score market given the attacking potential on both sides.

Both Teams to Score @ $1.73

Manchester City vs Ipswich
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 4 – Ipswich 1

We all loved the Ipswich story and seeing the scenes at Portman Road last Saturday as they returned to the top flight were spectacular.

Unfortunately there was no fairytale to be played out as they fell 2-0 to Liverpool and it doesn’t get any easier this weekend.

Now they have to head to the home of the four-time defending champions who clinically dispatched Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last weekend in an ominous warning to the rest of the league.

Best case scenario for Ipswich is that City is a touch rusty in the early part of the season and they need half an hour to get going.

But the final scoreline will showcase the massive gulf between the two clubs at this point.

Manchester City to Win -2.5 Goals @ $1.75

Southampton vs Nottingham Forest
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, St Mary’s Stadium
Southampton 0 – Nottingham Forest 1

It’s almost like the Saints never left the Premier League, returning as they left unable to capitalise on an extra man for over an hour and suffering a 1-0 loss at Newcastle.

While it’s only Week 2 and we can’t claim this is a massive relegation six-pointer, it seems very likely that both of these clubs will be battling for space at the bottom of the table.

Forest produced a commendable effort to earn a point at home to Bournemouth last week and they might be able to build on it but for the time being these sides have to be treated with some caution.

This might be a bit of a cagey affair between two clubs still very much trying to find their footing in the early stages of the season.

Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.85

Tottenham vs Everton
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Tottenham Stadium
Tottenham 4 – Everton 0

No side had a worse opening weekend than Everton and punters should be eager to take on the Toffees this weekend.

Spurs were far from perfect in their opening round draw with Leicester but they looked a whole lot better than their Merseyside opponents.

With manager Ange Postecoglou talking up a big game ahead of this season, the pressure is on Tottenham to deliver and this is the sort of match they are expected to win and win comfortably.

Last season Tottenham battled to a 2-1 win at home and a 2-2 draw at Goodison Park but I’m expecting a much more convincing effort here as they showcase they are heading in the right direction.

Tottenham to Win -1.5 Goals @ $2.05

Aston Villa vs Arsenal
Sunday 25 August, 2:30am, Villa Park
Aston Villa 0 – Arsenal 2

Not many teams have done the league double over Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal in the last two seasons but that is exactly what Unai Emery did against his former club.

That second victory at the Emirates Stadium was especially notable as it essentially ended Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge.

Both clubs recorded first up victories, although Arsenal were a bit more convincing at home against Wolves however it sets up for a highly anticipated contest here.

All things considered the Gunners perhaps should be favoured but not by as much as the market has them at the time of publish.

Villa are a much better chance than their price suggests and I’ll take the value on offer on them to at least take a point if not all three.

Aston Villa Win/Draw Double Chance @ $2.00

Bournemouth vs Newcastle
Sunday 25 August, 11:00pm, Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth 1 – Newcastle 1

It might not have been the prettiest performance but you have to give Newcastle credit for winning last week after Fabien Schar’s 28th minute red card.

Bournemouth showed plenty of fight themselves, rallying late to take a point from Nottingham Forest.

Despite the apparent talent disparity between these two clubs, Newcastle have really struggled with this fixture drawing three and losing once over the last two Premier League seasons.

But at this price it’s really tough to back against Newcastle, especially given what we saw from Bournemouth first up.

Newcastle to Win @ $2.15

Wolves vs Chelsea
Sunday 25 August, 11:00pm, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 2 – Chelsea 6

This is a match that could go one of two ways, either we are going to see a dour game with only a couple of scoring chances or one of those matches that gets replayed on Premier League Classics for the next decade.

Based on the opening weekend efforts from these teams, it looks like the former is where the value lies in this market.

They both registered a grand total of three shots on target against title contending opponents but it is tough to see exactly where the attacking cohesion will come from on either side.

It’s a bit of a surprise to see the under at this price but it’s also worth backing in as a value play.

Under 2.5 Goals @ $2.25

Liverpool vs Brentford
Monday 26 August, 1:30am, Anfield
Liverpool 2 – Brentford 0

The weekend wraps up with Arne Slot’s home debut at Anfield with the Reds looking to make it two from two.

They have been handed a favourable draw here with a very winnable fixture against Brentford, who are dealing a bit of squad uncertainty in the final days of the transfer window.

On the plus side the Bees put that aside to beat Palace last week, but Liverpool is a whole other issue.

When they met last season, the Reds won 3-0 at home and 4-1 in London and based on their season opening effort against Ipswich, they should have no problem scoring another three goals here.

Liverpool Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.70


2023/2024

We learnt a lot in Week 1 of the Premier League, and the action rolls on with another nine fixtures throughout the coming days!

Manchester City picked up where they left off with a convincing 3-0 win over Burnley, but they face their first real test in the form of Newcastle on Saturday night.

Luton Town meanwhile suffered defeat at their first ever Premier League appearance and they’ll have to wait a little longer for another crack – their stadium still isn’t up to Premier League broadcast standards, so their Week 2 game has been postponed!

Luton vs Burnley
TBC, Kenilworth Road

Luton’s home ground is yet to reach Premier League broadcast standards, and this match has subsequently been postponed.

Nottingham Forest vs Sheffield United
Saturday 19 August, 4:45am, The City Ground
Nottingham Forest 2 – Sheffield United 1

Week 1 losers Forest and Sheffield United each chase their first win of the season on Saturday night.

Forest were lucky to survive the drop last season, while this is only Sheffield’s second match back in England’s top flight following a year in the Championship.

Not a lot separates the two, particularly this early in the season.

Back the Draw @ $3.30

Fulham vs Brentford
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, Craven Cottage
Fulham 0 – Brentford 3

Betting suggests that the most even-match game of the round comes up between London rivals Fulham and Brentford on Saturday night.

Fulham kicked off their campaign with a 1-0 away win over Everton, while I thought that Brentford showed signs of another very promising campaign by drawing with Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs; a match in which they led twice.

I understand them being in the market at home and following last weekend’s result, but I think that Fulham will find this one difficult.

Back Brentford to Win @ $2.60

Liverpool vs Bournemouth
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, Anfield
Liverpool 3 – Bournemouth 1

Neither Liverpool, nor Bournemouth managed to win on Matchday 1 of the Premier League, but the former will be particularly confident of reversing that this week.

Granted, neither side lost either, but I thought that Liverpool were probably unlucky not to get the result against Chelsea, and the Cherries were lucky to steal a point from West Ham.

There is a pretty obvious class difference between these two clubs, and I’m expecting that to shine through on Matchday 2.

Back Liverpool to Win to Nil @ $2.30

Wolves vs Brighton
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 1 – Brighton 4

Brighton takes winning form, confidence and favouritism into this away game at Wolves.

The Seagulls returned their best ever performance and result in the Premier League last season, and they picked up where they left off with an easy 4-1 win over league newcomers Luton Town.

Wolves meanwhile slipped down the ladder last season, and were kept goalless in a 1-0 loss to Manchester United last week.

I’m confident in similar season for these two clubs again this time, and Brighton should be too good this week.

Back Brighton to Win @ $1.91

Tottenham vs Manchester United
Sunday 20 August, 2:30am, Tottenham Stadium
Tottenham 2 – Manchester United 0

What an exciting and early test this is for Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs!

They were understandably shaky and a little less confident in front of goal without Harry Kane last week, but Spurs did do enough to draw with Brentford on the road, and I don’t think there’s any doubt they’ll take plenty of benefit from the hit-out.

Unite were too good for a pretty bad Wolves side at home, but this is an obvious rise in class, and they’ll have to do it in front of the first Tottenham crowd of the season.

Back Spurs to Win @ $2.80

Manchester City vs Newcastle
Sunday 20 August, 5:00am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 1 – Newcastle 0

One of, if not the standout match of the round, and Champions League sides Manchester City and Newcastle host at the home of the former on Sunday morning.

City’s historic treble really did take the club to a new level last season, and they picked up where they left off with an easy 3-0 win over Burnley in Week 1. To be honest, it looked like a training run, and it has probably put them in far better shape for this one!

Newcastle destroyed Villa to the tune of 5-1, meanwhile, but they’d obviously need to go to another level to win against this opponent at their home ground.

Back Erling Haaland to Score the 1st Goal @ $3.30

Aston Villa vs Everton
Sunday 20 August, 11:00pm, Villa Park
Aston Villa 4 – Everton 0

Villa will put a line through the Week 1, 5-1 loss to Newcastle, and treat this match with Everton as their season opener.

Honestly, it’s hard to know what we should take from that clash; Villa clearly needed the run, and the sky really does look the limit for that opponent this season. Back home and against a far weaker opponent, this does shape as a far better prospect for them.

Everton will be lucky to stay up this season.

They’ve been toying with demotion for a couple of years now, and a loss at home to the similarly lowly Fulham in Week 1 might have been damning.

I’m not looking forward to this one, but I reckon there would be a few goals.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.88

West Ham vs Chelsea
Monday 21 August, 1:30am, London Stadium
West Ham 3 – Chelsea 1

Another London Derby sees the Hammers host Chelsea early on Monday morning, and this is certainly another candidate for match of the week.

The Hammers were held to a draw by a desperate Bournemouth in Week 1, but they are another club who should tighten up for their first hit-out of the season, and a return home certainly won’t hurt.

Chelsea were also kept to a 1-1 draw, but there’s came against Liverpool, which probably makes for slightly better reading.

I am actually of the belief that this one, this early in the season, also has draw written all over it.

Back the Draw @ $3.50

Crystal Palace vs Arsenal
Tuesday 22 August, 5:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 0 – Arsenal 1

Oh, another London Derby!

Probably no real surprises head-to-head in this one though, and Arsenal will be very keen to keep alive their undefeated start to the campaign, particularly with memories of what happened late last season.

It wasn’t their prettiest display, but a 2-1 win over Forest in Week 1 is still a win, and it’s onwards an upwards for the Gunners.

Palace also walked away winners in Week 1, and points on the road against Sheffield United is a really good first-up result.

I think Arsenal will improve tenfold this week.

Back Arsenal to Win to Nil @ $2.55


2022/2023

10 matches down, 370 to go in the new Premier League season and didn’t the opening weekend deliver on the drama?

Matchweek 2 delivers us our first Big Six battle of the campaign when Chelsea hosts Tottenham with both clubs looking to build on first up victories.

Manchester United will face a tough trip to Brentford as Erik ten Haag’s tenure got off to a rocky start after losing at home to Brighton.

We’ve got our previews and best bets for every match this weekend below so read on and see who we are backing.

Aston Villa vs Everton
Saturday 13 August, 9:30pm, Villa Park
Aston Villa 2 – Everton 1

It’s not the most inspiring fixture to begin the weekend with, as both of these clubs look to bounce back from opening day defeats.

Villa were unable to capitalise on a heavy majority of possession (66%) against Bournemouth, going down 2-0, while Everton were unable to spring an upset against an out of sorts Chelsea side falling to a 1-0 defeat.

What both sides will be concerned about after those respective results is the lack of potency in front of goal.

Aston Villa’s attacking stocks are much stronger than Everton’s but the latter appears to have a certain resiliency that will help them stay in games like this.

It might be a case of first goal wins and I’ll back the unders to hopefully start Matchweek 2 on a winning note.

Back Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.82

Arsenal vs Leicester
Sunday 14 August, 12:00am, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 4 – Leicester 2

All things considered, Arsenal have to be pleasantly surprised, if not very happy with how their Premier League season began.

It had all the makings of one of their usual stumbling blocks but not only did they avoid slipping up, they actually looked really good in their 2-0 win.

Leicester on the other hand should be feeling good about their start to the campaign but a late fade out meant they had to settle for a point at home to Brentford.

Few players were more impressive for Arsenal than new signing Gabriel Jesus and while he toiled away without reward, you got the feeling that first competitive goal for the club was coming sooner rather than later.

It could very well come this weekend against a Leicester side that has some defensive issues to solve and with the work rate of Jesus, he may get his reward in his home debut.

Back Gabriel Jesus Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.38

Brighton And Hove Albion vs Newcastle
Sunday 14 August, 12:00am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 0 – Newcastle 0

Brighton would have been happy for the Premier League season to be decided after one match, having defeated Manchester United at Old Trafford.

It will all count for nothing though if they wind up getting blown out by Newcastle in this fixture though.

The market has somewhat overreacted to that result however, with Brighton a surprising favourite against a Newcastle team that should have them covered nine times out of ten.

In their season opening win they ground their way to a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest with both goals coming in the second half.

While it is somewhat tempting to back Newcastle to spring an upset this weekend, Brighton showed enough against United to deserve favouritism in this one.

Instead, there is value to be found in the total goals market with the odds suggesting we could be in for a low scoring fixture, even though there are goals in both sides.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.15

Manchester City vs Bournemouth
Sunday 14 August, 12:00am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 4 – Bournemouth 0

If you thought it was tough finding value in City’s match last week, it won’t get any easier this time around with Pep Guardiola’s men a $1.06 favourite and Bournemouth at a price you would normally associate with American Samoa when they played the Socceroos.

Any questions over Erling Haaland’s ability to adapt to the Premier League went out the window with his two goal performance against West Ham and the value on him as an anytime goalscorer is gone.

He won’t be doing it alone however and is surrounded by a number of capable attackers, including Kevin De Bruyne who is one of, if not the best player in the Premier League.

Back Kevin De Bruyne Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.50

Southampton vs Leeds
Sunday 14 August, 12:00am, St Mary’s Stadium
Southampton 2 – Leeds 2

Southampton’s season began the way the previous one ended, with a 4-1 defeat, although this one came at the hands of Tottenham instead of Leicester.

Leeds were also able to replicate their Matchweek 38 result recording a 2-1 victory, albeit against Wolves instead of Brentford.

The fact they were able to defeat Wolves was a big tick for Jesse Marsch and his rebuilding project.

Given it is also possible that Southampton may be in for a relegation battle, getting Leeds as underdogs could be the value play.

Back Leeds to Win @ $3.00

Wolves vs Fulham
Sunday 14 August, 12:00am, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 0 – Fulham 0

Seven days ago, you would have been laughed at if you suggested that Fulham would have felt disappointed drawing with Liverpool in the opening match of the Premier League season.

But after giving the FA Cup winners their best shot, they had to settle for a point and never trailed in that fixture.

Aleksandar Mitrovic picked right up where he left off in the Championship last year, scoring for fun and even gave the allegedly invincible Virgil Van Dijk fits.

There were some troubling signs for Wolves last weekend failing to generate a whole lot in attack against a Leeds defence that is not one of the stronger units in the Premier League.

They will have a chance to right the ship this weekend and to get anything from this match, they will need to find a way to score.

Even if Wolves can’t get on the scoreboard, Mitrovic and company could be in for a fill up and the over looks to be the way to go in this market.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.15

Brentford vs Manchester United
Sunday 14 August, 2:30am, Gtech Community Stadium
Brentford 4 – Manchester United 0

Will we see some sort of response from Manchester United on their trip to Brentford?

Erik ten Haag will certainly hope so after a tame performance saw them fall to Brighton with wantaway striker Cristiano Ronaldo left on the bench.

After their opening weekend result, the Bees will be feeling a different sort of disappointment, forced to settle for a draw at Leicester after throwing away a two goal lead.

On paper United looks like it should be able to take care of business here, but there have been far too many occasions recently where you could say that and the Red Devils have failed to deliver.

Look for Brentford to surge in their home opener and find a way to get something from this fixture.

Back Brentford or Draw Double Chance @ $1.80

Nottingham Forest vs West Ham
Sunday 14 August, 11:00pm, The City Ground
Nottingham Forest 1 – West Ham 0

While both of these clubs are coming off 2-0 defeats in the opening week, it is the perfect reminder that not all losses are created equally.

Forest went down to Newcastle in a match where they were clearly second best, despite holding the Magpies out for nearly an hour.

West Ham had next to no chance against a rampant Manchester City side and will likely feel that they are better than that result might have shown.

Common sense suggests that’s the approach you should take towards this match and that is exactly what we are going to do here.

Back West Ham to Win @ $1.87

Chelsea vs Tottenham
Monday 15 August, 1:30am, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 2 – Tottenham 2

Despite this match being at Stamford Bridge, it’s tough to see why Chelsea is favoured over Spurs here and that is not something you could have said much over the last 20 years.

Antonio Conte has assembled an excellent squad to support Kane and Son up top and they made a statement in their 4-1 demolition of Southampton.

Chelsea appears to be still in a state of flux with Thomas Tuchel scouring the transfer market to try and bolster an attack that was far from sharp in their win over Everton.

Spurs look like the value play here, at that price they could be a solid upset move.

Back Tottenham to Win @ $3.15

Liverpool vs Crystal Palace
Tuesday 16 August, 5:00am, Anfield
Liverpool 1 – Crystal Palace 1

It’s the first Tuesday morning match of the season and it’s got Liverpool and Crystal Palace facing off with both sides looking for their first win of the campaign.

We could try and oversell Palace’s chances here but if either side is going to respond to a disappointing outcome, it’s the Reds.

Historically this is a very one sided rivalry with Liverpool winning the last ten Premier League matches between the two, including four of the last five to nil.

After they were bullied by Mitrovic from Fulham, expect Virgil van Dijk and company to respond with a trademark stingy performance as they come away with the necessary victory.

Back Liverpool to Win to Nil @ $1.83


2021/2022

The curtain has been raised on the 2021/2022 Premier League season and we are all set for act two this weekend.

It was a phenomenal weekend will full stadiums across the league and the home teams rewarded their supporters with seven wins from the ten matches.

There were goals aplenty with an average of over three goals per game and the scoring looks set to continue in Matchweek 2.

On paper Chelsea’s trip to the Emirates is the biggest game on the weekend with the Blues producing a statement win last weekend while many are expecting the Gunners’ woes to continue further.

After a profitable start to the season, we have our previews and predictions for every fixture below so read on to see who we are backing.

Liverpool vs Burnley
Saturday 21 August, 9:30pm, Anfield
Liverpool 2 – Burnley 0

Take a moment to consider the situation Burnley will be walking into on Saturday night.

A week after losing their opening match against a Brighton side they will probably be in a relegation battle with all season, they now head to Anfield to take on a Liverpool side that will be spurred on by their first packed out crowd in 18 months.

In their absence they missed seeing the Reds lift the Premier League trophy for the first time so the normally raucous atmosphere will turn up a notch compared to what we are used to.

To make it worse, Liverpool looked like the side that won the title two seasons ago when they battered Norwich in their season opener.

If you are planning on watching this game live, you may be able to go to bed by halftime, it could be over early.

Back Liverpool -2 Goals @ $2.50

Aston Villa vs Newcastle
Sunday 22 August, 12:00am, Villa Park
Aston Villa 2 – Newcastle 0

Maybe Villa will need to go through an adjustment period in the post-Grealish era but it’s hard to see what he could have done about a horrendously leaky backline last weekend.

It was a similar story for Newcastle as they shipped four goals to West Ham in their first up defeat.

Perhaps we will see an overcorrection from both teams as they go all out to ensure they don’t find themselves picking the ball out of the back of their own net as many times but I’m happy to back a high scoring contest.

Both sides have the attacking talent to really cause problems at both ends of the pitch so it feels like we’re getting some value in these markets.

Back Both Teams to Score & Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.05

Crystal Palace vs Brentford
Sunday 22 August, 12:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 0 – Brentford 0

Context can be a tricky thing, if you just saw the results of these teams you would assume Brentford should cruise home here.

Palace did have the excuse of playing the reigning European champions at home while Brentford beat the shell of what Arsenal used to be.

As great as the moment was for the Bees on Saturday morning, everything is pointing to them coming back down to earth, but I just can’t see Palace taking advantage of it either.

Back the Draw @ $3.10

Leeds vs Everton
Sunday 22 August, 12:00am, Elland Road
Leeds 2 – Everton 2

This is definitely the pick of the bunch when it comes to the midnight kickoffs.

Leeds will undoubtedly bounce back from their belting at the hands of Manchester United while Everton took a while to get going before finishing well over Southampton.

Once again, the spot comes into play when it comes to finding a play for this match with Elland Road at full capacity for a Premier League match for the first time since May 2004.

The market is shading Leeds here and I’m happy to back them to get their first points of the season against a very tough Everton outfit.

Back Leeds to Win @ $2.30

Manchester City vs Norwich
Sunday 22 August, 12:00am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 5 – Norwich 0

Should we be concerned about City losing its two matches to open the season in the Community Shield and Matchweek 1 clash against Tottenham?

Maybe, but even if they are not their usual all conquering selves just yet, they should be able to see off Norwich here.

That is certainly what the market is expecting to happen with everything angling towards a massive win for the reigning champions of England.

You will really have to stretch to find value here and the best option is taking City to score a bagful.

Back Manchester City to Score 4+ Goals @ $2.35

Brighton And Hove Albion vs Watford
Sunday 22 August, 2:30am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 2 – Watford 0

Watford’s reintroduction to Premier League football could not have gone better with a 3-2 win over Aston Villa and they now head to Brighton for their second act.

Brighton got the job done against Burnley but is getting a little too much respect here for my liking.

There is no logical reason they should be so heavily favoured over Watford who seem set to record a few statement victories in the early days of the season.

At this price I’m ready to jump on the Hornets’ train this weekend.

Back Watford to Win @ $5.20

Southampton vs Manchester United
Sunday 22 August, 11:00pm, St Mary’s Stadium
Southampton 1 – Manchester United 1

United made the biggest statement on opening weekend with a dismantling of Leeds at Old Trafford.

Everything is pointing towards another huge win when they visit Southampton on Sunday night as the midfield combination of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba hit the ground running.

Last time they faced Southampton it was a nightmare for the Saints going down 9-0 and seeing two players sent of in the process.

While this may not finish with the same scoreline, I have full confidence in United getting the job done here.

SGM: Manchester United HT/FT, Manchester United -1 Goal, Bruno Fernandes Anytime Goalscorer @ $5.07

Wolves vs Tottenham
Sunday 22 August, 11:00pm, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 0 – Tottenham 1

It’s the return of Nuno as the former Wolves boss returns to the Molineux in charge of Tottenham.

The big question around this match is whether or not Spurs will come back to earth after their massive win against Manchester City last weekend.

Son was at his best as Harry Kane sat back and watched his side begin their season with a victory.

While there is a temptation to back the “same old Spurs” storyline, I get the feeling they will be ready to prove a point for their new boss and find a way to get something from this match even if they are not as sharp as they were last week.

Back Tottenham to Win @ $2.25

Arsenal vs Chelsea
Monday 23 August, 1:30am, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 0 – Chelsea 2

It could get properly ugly at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal stares down the barrel of another embarrassing defeat to start the season.

There was absolutely nothing in their performance at Brentford to give you any hope of them being able to get something from this match.

Especially when you consider the fact that Chelsea looked incredibly ruthless when they dispatched Crystal Palace.

Chelsea’s head to head price of $1.80 looks like an absolute steal but I’m going a bit more aggressive and back them to win by at least two.

Back Chelsea -1 Goal @ $3.20

West Ham vs Leicester
Tuesday 24 August, 5:00am, London Stadium
West Ham 4 – Leicester 1

This is a match worth waking up for as both teams chase their second win of the campaign.

We should see plenty of goals in this one with Leicester having no dramas creating chances against Wolves (converting them was a different story) and West Ham putting four past Newcastle.

It’s not the most ambitious play to end the matchweek on but there is value in the total goals market.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.75


2020/2021

After plenty of action in the first weekend of Premier League action, 16 teams are back in action for their second acts, while four commence their campaigns.

Undoubtedly the headline act is Chelsea hosting Liverpool after both sides won their opening fixtures.

There will be plenty of eyes on Leeds as the Premier League returns to Elland Road for the first time in over a decade and a half while City and Wolves close out the round with an enticing clash.

Read on to see who we are backing in all 10 Premier League fixtures this weekend.

Everton vs West Bromwich Albion
Saturday 19 September, 9:30pm, Goodison Park
Everton 5 – West Brom 2

Everton’s season got off to a fantastic start, winning away to Spurs and looking like the much better side on the day.

Admittedly some wasteful finishing might be a cause for concern but they should be able to create plenty of opportunities to bury West Brom here.

The Baggies returned to the Premier League on the wrong end of a 3-0 thumping at the hands of Leicester, a side that is probably at a similar level to Everton in terms of overall talent.

Admittedly talent can only do so much, but this has all the makings of a big-time mismatch.

Back Everton Halftime/Fulltime @ $2.40

Leeds vs Fulham
Sunday 20 September, 12:00am, Elland Road
Leeds 4 – Fulham 3

Of the eight sides to be defeated in the opening round of the Premier League, none were more impressive than Leeds.

After a couple of years of build up, we finally got to see Marcelo Bielsa in the top division after their promotion and they gave the defending champions everything they could handle.

If they can perform with that same intensity, they should be able to rip through Fulham in this fixture.

Scott Parker’s side endured a forgettable Premier League return getting thumped 3-0 by Arsenal at home.

It would be stunning if Bielsa let his side rest on their laurels after going close against Liverpool, he knows that to survive this season his team needs points.

They will find a way to get by Fulham here and as is probably going to be the case with most Leeds fixtures, we’ll back a few goals to be scored.

Back Leeds to Win & Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.55

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 20 September, 2:30am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 1 – Crystal Palace 3

After having a week to sit back and observe the Premier League, United gets its season underway at home to first-up winners Crystal Palace.

Wilfried Zaha’s first half strike was the difference against Southampton and he will need to lead the line against his former club this week.

The home side has only made one major addition to their squad in midfielder Donny van de Beek but after closing last season on a tear, only losing one domestic fixture after the restart, they should be well poised to pick up a victory here.

With Palace’s limited options going forward, as long as David De Gea avoids one of his now infamous howlers, United should be able to keep a clean sheet.

Back Manchester United to Win to Nil @ $2.15

Arsenal vs West Ham
Sunday 20 September, 5:00am, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 2 – West Ham 1

So far this season has started off as well as it could have for Arsenal, a convincing win over Fulham was followed by captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang ending speculation over his future by signing a long term deal.

Such is the nature of Arsenal though, we’re just waiting for that bubble to burst in the most spectacular way.

West Ham were rather poor in their season opener against Newcastle but have a tendency to get up for the odd clash with the Gunners.

In January 2019 they came to the Emirates and won 1-0 but have lost the last two matches.

Because of that, I’ll back Arsenal’s form to continue through this clash as Mikel Arteta’s project continues to take shape with the same bet that paid off last week.

Back Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Score and Arsenal to Win

Southampton vs Tottenham
Sunday 20 September, 9:00pm, St Mary’s Stadium
Southampton 2 – Tottenham 5

Neither of these sides were overly inspiring in their performances last week as they both went down 1-0.

But if you had to back one to respond this weekend with a victory there is only one answer.

Jose Mourinho will fire up his side and Harry Kane could rip through this Saints side.

Spurs are way over the odds at their current price and I’m happy to back them in here.

Back Tottenham to Win @ $2.38

Newcastle vs Brighton and Hove Albion
Sunday 20 September, 11:00pm, St James’ Park
Newcastle 0 – Brighton 3

You would think that Brighton will provide a slightly sterner test for Newcastle than West Ham did.

Their 3-1 defeat to Chelsea in the opening round might not have been the ideal start but showed that they can be competitive on their day.

We didn’t see any draws in the Premier League last weekend but there is every chance that this one finishes level.

Four of their last five meetings have finished all square with three of the four finishing at 0-0.

The draw can be a punters best friend at times and this match has all the makings of one.

Back the Draw @ $3.00

Chelsea vs Liverpool
Monday 21 September, 1:30am, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 0 – Liverpool 2

Easily the biggest match of the weekend, the defending champions take on one of the sides looking to take their title from them.

Liverpool claimed both Premier League meetings including a 5-3 victory in July and both teams to score hit in both contests as well.

There’s plenty of value to be had in this market regardless of the outcome you want to back.

Liverpool were pushed to the limit by a daring Leeds side and Chelsea will look to go after them once again, putting pressure on Virgil van Dijk and company.

Frank Lampard will send out a team that will try and take control of the game and we’ll back that accordingly.

Back Both Teams to Score and Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.85

Leicester vs Burnley
Monday 21 September, 4:00am, King Power Stadium
Leicester 4 – Burnley 2

It took Leicester a while to open the scoring against West Brom but it wasn’t for a lack of trying.

Eventually thanks to a pair of Jamie Vardy penalties they came away comfortable winners but they will be looking to be a bit more ruthless against Burnley this weekend.

With Leicester having that first match to sharpen up, it would not be at all surprising to see Leicester start fast again and try to get an early lead.

While home ground advantage takes on a different meaning under the current circumstances, the hosts won both head to head meetings last season 2-1.

Leicester has the goal scoring touch with the likes of Jamie Vardy and I’ll back them to win in a match that has at least two goals.

Back Leicester to Win & Over 1.5 Goals @ $2.05

Aston Villa vs Sheffield United
Tuesday 22 September, 3:00am, Villa Park
Aston Villa 1 – Sheffield United 0

The fans in Australia should be very pleased that this fixture is getting buried at 3:00am on a Tuesday morning as excitement will be in short order here.

Unless you are one of those “purists” that loves seeing great, determined defensive play… from one side at least.

Sheffield will be on guard against the slow start that cost them last week, going two goals down before they knew the match had kicked off and Aston Villa is not exactly the side to light up the scoreboard.

Villa did have a midweek cup tie to tune up for this fixture and put out some of their regular first team as well so sharpness won’t be too much of an issue.

Sheffield would dearly love all three points but there were some concerning signs about a possible second season hangover to back them with confidence here.

Instead I’ll take a low scoring game that both sides will try and see out rather than actively going for a win.

Back Under 1.5 Goals @ $2.85

Wolves vs Manchester City
Tuesday 22 September, 5:15am, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 1 – Manchester City 3

Finally, belatedly, Manchester City will be the 20th Premier League team to kick off their season when they travel to face Wolves.

As admirable as their “take a 2-0 lead and challenge Sheffield to score when they know the Blades can’t” strategy was, it is not an advisable course of action when they take on City here.

They managed to take six points from six off City last season though and with their eyes on a possible top four finish, they will give themselves every chance of winning here.

After a disappointing (by their standards) season, City will be eager to hit the ground running as they chase another Premier League title.

There’s a decent case to be made for a Wolves upset here and City to win outright doesn’t offer a whole lot of value so instead of chasing something it’s worth playing it safe and backing both teams to score.

Back Both Teams to Score @ $1.80


2019/2020

The first of 38 matchweeks in the English Premier League is done and dusted with attention now turning to this weekend’s slate of action.

As is the case with the second round in every sport, you are left wondering if what you saw was a sign of things to come, or a red herring?

If you’re in the Chelsea camp you’re praying that the 4-0 loss to Manchester United was something you look back on in a few months and laugh about while City are thinking they could do with continuing the form shown in their 5-0 win over West Ham.

We have tried to decipher those headlines and turn them into some winning plays for this weekend right here.

Arsenal vs Burnley
Saturday 17 August, 9:30pm, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 2 – Burnley 1

https://youtu.be/lwinkIrfIdI

Two sides that got their seasons off to winning starts kick off Week 2 of the Premier League and if history is anything to go by, this match is probably only going one way.

The Gunners have a great recent record against Burnley winning the last 10 meetings between these sides keeping clean sheets in half of those matches.

There was a stretch where they needed a late goal to get by, but the last three games have an aggregate score of 11-2 Arsenal.

Chances are they will find a way to expand on that performance and manage to keep a clean sheet here.

Aubameyang loves scoring at the Emirates, he’s found the back of the net in four of his last five Premier League games at home so I’ll throw him in a same game multi to open the scoring.

SGM: Arsenal to Win to Nil, Aubameyang First Goalscorer @ $6.73

Aston Villa vs Bournemouth
Sunday 18 August, 12:00am, Villa Park
Aston Villa 1 – Bournemouth 2

For 85 minutes it sure looked like Villa were going to get an unlikely outcome from their opening Premier League contest before they got Kane-d in the worst possible way.

Bournemouth on the other hand could only come away with a point against Sheffield and I would not be at all surprised to see them struggle again this weekend.

Even though the first game didn’t produce the result Villa wanted, their first home game should give them the boost they need to get over the disappointment of losing to Tottenham and come away with a win here.

Back Villa to Win @ $2.35

Brighton And Hove Albion vs West Ham
Sunday 18 August, 12:00am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 1 – West Ham 1

https://youtu.be/y3nkJUVaNGk

Best case scenario for West Ham: they were made to look a lot worse than they actually are by a really good Manchester City side.

Worst case scenario for Brighton: they were made to look a lot better than they actually are by a Watford team having a bad day.

This is the fun part of Week Two of the Premier League trying to work out which signs are real and which are red herrings.

This game has the potential to go either way because of those possible variables so the result might be worth steering clear of and instead look at the goals markets.

Two of the last three meetings have seen both teams score and four goals in both of those matches so that seems like a good starting point and for some added value, look for new signing Sebastien Haller to open his account with West Ham.

SGM: Both Teams to Score, Over 2.5 Goals, Sebastien Haller Anytime Goalscorer @ $4.78

Everton vs Watford
Sunday 18 August, 12:00am, Goodison Park
Everton 1 – Watford 0

Both of these sides are still looking for their first goal and first point of the new campaign, although at least for Everton, they kept their first clean sheet in their draw with Palace despite going down to ten men with 15 minutes remaining.

We should see a few more goals in this game as Everton look to pile the pressure on a Watford side that could start slowly after the disappointment of last week.

The last two meetings at Goodison Park have featured a total of nine goals and with the strikers on hand that should continue here.

Everton haven’t lost a home match to Watford in their history winning 12 and drawing two and they should be able to extend that streak here.

Watford also gave up two goals from attacks down the wings and in Richarlison, Everton have a player who can change the game so I’ll back him to score here.

SGM: Everton to Win and Richarlison Anytime Goalscorer @ $3.61

Norwich vs Newcastle
Sunday 18 August, 12:00am, Carrow Road
Norwich 3 – Newcastle 1

Brace yourselves, this one could be a rough one to get through.

Norwich at least got a consolation goal from Teemu Pukki in their loss to Liverpool while Newcastle didn’t inspire a lot of confidence going down to a limited Arsenal team.

This has the makings of a game of few chances between both sides that could be decided by a solitary strike.

Back Under 1.5 Goals @ $3.40

Southampton vs Liverpool
Sunday 18 August, 12:00am, St Mary’s Stadium
Southampton 1 – Liverpool 2

Get ready for the “Liverpool prepares to take on its academy” jokes as the newly minted UEFA Super Cup winners travel to the South Coast.

Perhaps the only thing that could cause a Liverpool slip up here is the fact they’re travelling back from Istanbul after playing 120 minutes against Chelsea.

There may be a few big name players rested or at least sent to the bench for a clash that with all due respect to Southampton, could be won by a second string Liverpool line up.

The Saints weren’t exactly inspiring early on and they have been kept scoreless in four of their last five meetings with Liverpool.

It’s hard to see this being a huge win for Liverpool so it’s not worth backing the overs in the goals market instead just sticking with a simple Reds win with a clean sheet.

Back Liverpool to Win to Nil @ $2.55

Manchester City vs Tottenham
Sunday 18 August, 2:30am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 2 – Tottenham 2

https://youtu.be/tF5WZa-jr_I

There’s only a handful of teams that could win a game 5-0 & be left ruing a fair few missed chances but that’s the high bar City have set.

If Tottenham want to put down an early season statement, this is the game to win and spring a (according to the market anyway) massive upset.

At the Etihad though, that’s really unlikely to happen, while Spurs did win a memorable clash in the Champions League this one is probably going to be closer to the Premier League match that finished 1-0 to City.

Expect a low scoring clash with Raheem Sterling the difference maker for City, backing up from his hat-trick last week.

SGM: City to Win, Under 3.5 Goals, Raheem Sterling Anytime Goal Scorer @ $5.25

Sheffield United vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 18 August, 11:00pm, Bramall Lane
Sheffield United 1 – Crystal Palace 0

One of the more dragged out sagas of the offseason has a pin in it for the time being, but the big question is whether or not Wilfried Zaha will start for Palace in this one after playing just under half an hour against Everton.

Whether he likes it or not, Zaha is a Palace player for the time being and probably their best one at that.

If he starts he could easily swing this game in favour of the visitors but you can’t take away from the efforts of Sheffield in their Premier League return.

While their talent might not be there, they could be able to fight their way to a draw.

Either way there’s not a lot to like about this game both from a viewing and betting perspective so we’ll take our first no-bet of the season.

NO BET

Chelsea vs Leicester
Monday 19 August, 1:30am, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 1 – Leicester 1

https://youtu.be/0MqbrepUcRY

It hasn’t been a great start to the Lampard era, which shouldn’t be that surprising but they have a tough task hosting Leicester this weekend.

Things won’t be made any easier with Thursday morning’s exertions in the UEFA Super Cup not helping this squad out.

At some point Lampard will get his first win as Chelsea boss and it could come this weekend but with the value on offer for Leicester it’s too hard to turn down.

SGM: Leicester to Win & Jamie Vardy Anytime Goalscorer @ $7.38

Wolverhampton vs Manchester United
Tuesday 20 August, 5:00am, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 1 – Manchester United 1

https://youtu.be/Y9thqVrS7oU

Last season this game would have been screaming “back against United” over and over and over…

After their opening round demolition of Chelsea though, it’s almost impossible not to feel good about backing them at over even money.

With the likes of Marcus Rashford enjoying the new freedom now that Romelu Lukaku is gone, this young, pacey lineup should cause some problems for Wolves.

That being said, it’s hard to see Wolves being kept scoreless again so they should be able to score here (probably through Raul Jiminez) but it won’t be enough to beat United.

SGM: United to Win & Both Teams to Score @ $4.95


2018/2019

“It’s good to have the Premier League back” was the first thought that popped up during the earliest Saturday wake up call in… at least a few weeks since the World Cup.

The opening weekend of fixtures reminded us why we love this league with plenty of highlights and eight of the ten matches producing a winner.

There’s a lot to look forward to this weekend as well as teams look to establish their credentials early on and show that the early season results were not a fluke (or they were if things went badly).

Arsenal’s start to the season doesn’t get any easier with a trip to Chelsea while Tottenham are back at their temporary home of Wembley against Fulham.

Read on for our breakdowns, predictions and same game multis from every Premier League fixture this weekend.

Cardiff vs Newcastle
Saturday 18 August, 9:30pm, Cardiff City Stadium
Cardiff 0 – Newcastle 0

Cardiff endured a rough start to Premier League life going down to Bournemouth 2-0 in their opening fixture.

Newcastle on the other hand held their own against Tottenham and perhaps felt aggrieved that they did not come away with at least a point.

These sides last met in the Championship in 2016/2017 when Newcastle were promoted to the Premier League and they beat the Blue Birds both times in that season.

Newcastle’s away form at the end of last season was not ideal, closing out with three straight losses at Tottenham, at Watford and at Everton.

This is a great opportunity for them to end that streak and are offering good value to pick up three points here.

Back Newcastle to Win @ $2.40

Same Game Multi: 1 Team to Score, Perez Anytime Goalscorer, Newcastle to Win the 2nd Half

Everton vs Southampton
Sunday 19 August, 12:00am, Goodison Park
Everton 2 – Southampton 1

Everton will feel like they let two points slip last week against Wolves, despite being reduced to ten men in the first half.

Richarlison lit up the Toffees with a brace on debut and won’t want to slow down against a side that only just avoided the drop last season.

Southampton didn’t score but didn’t concede either and if Everton get a couple of goals they are lacking the firepower to really keep up with their opponents.

Everton’s home form was strong last season winning 10 of 19 games and they will want to improve on that record starting with a win here.

Back Everton to Win @ $1.95

Same Game Multi: Richarlison Anytime Goal Scorer, Over 2.5 Goals, Both Teams to Score

Leicester City vs Wolverhampton
Sunday 19 August, 12:00am, Emirates Stadium
Leicester City 2 – Wolverhampton 0

Leicester left their run a little bit late at Old Trafford and lost to Manchester United, while Wolves came from behind twice to take a point against Everton.

This looms as an interesting match as Wolves have the firepower to really get after Everton and this game has the look of a shootout.

Expect Leicester to opt for a slightly more attacking side here with a potential starting debut for new signing Rachid Ghezzal.

There is quality all over the pitch here and this looks like a very tough game to split.

Back the Draw @ $3.30

Same Game Multi: Over 3.5 Goals, BTTS, Jamie Vardy to Score

Tottenham vs Fulham
Sunday 19 August, 12:00am, Wembley Stadium
Tottenham 3 – Fulham 1

What was supposed to be Tottenham’s last league match at Wembley will now just be their home opener at a venue where, after a slow start last season, became a real fortress.

They will be happy to have opened up the season with a win against Newcastle but will know that there is plenty of room for improvement.

Fulham dropped their first game against Crystal Palace but do have the side to cause some trouble against teams like Tottenham.

It may take a while for Tottenham to get going in this game but a win here seems like the most likely outcome, unfortunately there is not a lot of value on offer for a straight win.

No Bet

Same Game Multi: Tottenham to Win, Harry Kane First Goalscorer and Over 2.5 Goals

West Ham vs Bournemouth
Sunday 19 August, 12:00am, London Stadium
West Ham 1 – Bournemouth 2

If you were judging every team’s fortunes based on their week one performances, you might think West Ham were in for a very rough season after being demolished by Liverpool.

There is a big gap between Liverpool and Bournemouth, not just geographically, and West Ham should be in a better position to tackle this contest with an eye on three points.

After their opening round win over Cardiff, Bournemouth will want to make it two from two in their first away game.

They took 18 points away from home last season picking up points in 10 of 19 matches including a draw at West Ham in January.

The Irons have improved their squad significantly since then and should be able to take their first points of the season with a win in front of their fans.

Back West Ham Half Time/Full Time @ $3.60

Same Game Multi: West Ham Win, Chicharito Anytime Goal Scorer & Under 3.5 Goals

Chelsea vs Arsenal
Sunday 19 August, 2:30am, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 3 – Arsenal 2

Unai Emery’s baptism of fire continues with a trip to Stamford Bridge in the late game Saturday.

Last season saw both league fixtures between the two end in draws, although Arsenal did win two of the three Cup meetings between the two.

One of the biggest challenges Unai Emery faces at Arsenal is turning around his side’s wretched away form last year where they won just four games, losing 11.

While Arsenal would love to shake the tag of strugglers against their fellow “Big 6” clubs it will take a while to truly evolve as a club and this will be a step too far for them.

Back Chelsea to Win @ $1.80

Same Game Multi: Over 2.5 Goals, Both Teams to Score, Olivier Giroud Anytime Goalscorer

Burnley vs Watford
Sunday 19 August, 10:30pm, Turf Moor
Burnley 1 – Watford 3

Burnley failed to score in their opening draw against Southampton, while Watford took care of business against Brighton.

This is a fixture Burnley should be relatively confident about having won three of the last four meetings between the two sides, however most of their recent meetings have been relatively low scoring.

It is too hard to try and split these teams so early so for this game take the draw.

The under 2.5 goals does not offer enough value for a solo play but should offer a good value booster in our same game multi when paired with another factor.

Watford have failed to score in their last three trips to Turf Moor dating back to the 2013/2014 Championship season.

Back the Draw @ 3.40

Same Game Multi: Under 2.5 Goals and Both Teams to Score (No)

Manchester City vs Huddersfield Town
Sunday 19 August, 10:30pm, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 6 – Huddersfield 1

Not a bad way to open the season for Manchester City, cruising to a comfortable victory while still giving Pep Guardiola plenty of things to correct going forward.

City’s home form last year was almost impeccable, winning 16 of 19 games and there is no reason to think this season will produce any different results.

Huddersfield picked up just 14 points on the road, one of which came at the Etihad in a scoreless draw in May after City had already clinched the title.

With this match not having dead rubber status, expect City to give their opponents plenty of respect and put in a professional display.

Back Sergio Aguero to Outscore the Opposition @ $1.75

Same Game Multi: City to Win, Over 2.5 Goals, One team to Score, Aguero Anytime Goalscorer

Brighton And Hove Albion vs Manchester United
Monday 20 August, 1:00am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 3 – Manchester United 2

Last season, one of Brighton’s shining moments was an upset win at home against Manchester United to help them stave of relegation.

After a first up loss at Watford, their task does not get any easier with Jose Mourinho’s side coming to the Amex Stadium.

Brighton only lost four times at home last season, but did struggle to score which means United should be able to shut them down with minimal fuss.

A straight win play on United offers decent value however it is worth backing them to get off to similar start to last week with an early goal before holding their lead through to 90 minutes.

Back Manchester United Halftime/Fulltime Winner @ $2.90

Same Game Multi: Under 2.5 Goals, United Win, Lukaku Anytime Goalscorer

Crystal Palace vs Liverpool
Tuesday 21 August, 5:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 0 – Liverpool 2

Selhurst Park will hold plenty of memories for Liverpool and its supporters, mostly not good ones including their capitulation when leading 3-0 in 2014.

They got off to the perfect start at home last weekend with a 4-0 demolition of West Ham and another big win would go a long way towards establishing themselves as legitimate title contenders.

Palace will not want to take a backwards step after winning first up either, taking all three points at Fulham.

Going back to 2013/2014, Palace have a decent competitive record against Liverpool, winning four and drawing one while losing six, so they have been able to take points off Liverpool at times.

Even so, Liverpool’s form last week was just too good to ignore and they should be able to take care of business here.

Back Liverpool to Win to Nil @ $2.65

Same Game Multi: Liverpool Halftime/Fulltime Winner, Mo Salah and Saido Mane Anytime Goal Scorer


2017/2018

The opening weekend of the 2017/2018 English Premier League season was an absolute cracker and to say that there was plenty of action would be an understatement.

A couple of big clubs – Chelsea and Liverpool – faltered in their opening fixtures, but the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham were very impressive.

We got off to a flying start with our English Premier League best bets and our 2017/2018 EPL Week 2 tips can be found below.

Swansea City vs Manchester United
Saturday 19 August, 9:30pm, Liberty Stadium

Manchester United were arguably the most impressive side in the opening weekend of the 2017/2018 English Premier League season and they will go into this clash with Swansea City as clear favourites.

Romelu Lukaku has made an immediate impact for Manchester United and it was in these games against the smaller sides in the competition that he thrived during his time with Everton.

Winning games away from home was not a problem for the Red Devils last season and they won nine of their 12 games as away favourites for a clear profit.

Swansea City took a well-earned point from their clash with Southampton last weekend, but this is obviously a much tougher challenge for the Welsh side.

They won only one of their seven games as home underdogs last season and their record against top six sides was particularly poor.

This is a game that Manchester United should be able to win comfortably.

Back Manchester United To Beat The Line (-1 Goal) @ $2.10

Bournemouth vs Watford
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, Goldsands Stadium

Watford impressed against Liverpool last weekend, but it is Bournemouth that will start this clash as clear favourites.

Bournemouth were never really able to get into their opening clash with West Bromwich Albion, but there is no doubt that they are a better side in front of their home fans.

The Cherries won seven of their 11 games as home favourites last season, but their past four games against Watford have ended as draws.

Watford showed plenty of character to take a point from their entertaining clash with Liverpool and they are a side that could surprise this season.

They won only three of their 17 games as away underdogs last season, but that was enough to come away with a profit and they took a point from their clash with Bournemouth at Goldsands Stadium last season.

Bournemouth were a reliable betting play as home favourites last season and there is no reason to jump off this campaign.

Back Bournemouth To Win @ $1.95

Burnley vs West Bromwich Albion
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, Turf Moor

This is set to be one of the most competitive games in the English Premier League this weekend and there is very little between these two sides in betting.

Burnley started their English Premier League campaign with a stunning upset win over Chelsea and they head to Turf Moor – a venue where they dominated last season – with plenty of confidence.

While Burnley were a highly profitable betting play as home underdogs, they did only win two of their five games as home favourites last season.

West Bromwich Albion started their season with a professional win over Bournemouth, but they have struggled to produce away from home in recent seasons.

The Baggies have won only two of their 17 games as away underdogs last season, but they were able to take a point from six of these games.

This game looks set to be a fairly dull, low-scoring affair and the $2.30 available for neither side to score in the first half does stand out as a value betting play.

Back Under 0.5 Goals In the First Half @ $2.30

Leicester City vs Brighton And Hove Albion
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, King Power Stadium

Brighton And Hove Albion have been handed a tough draw to start their English Premier League campaign and a road-trip to King Power Stadium is always a difficult proposition.

Leicester City were a touch unlucky not to take anything from their opening day fixture with Arsenal and they really did play some stellar football.

King Power Stadium was a happy hunting ground for Leicester City again last season and they won eight of their 13 games as home favourites for a profit.

Brighton And Hove Albion were not disgraced in their defeat at the hands of Manchester City and it will be interesting to see how they fare against Leicester City.

It is still too early to have any firm grasp on this Brighton side, but they do look to be well-organised defensively and Leicester City might have some problems breaking them down.

This is a match that Leicester City really should win, but they won’t have it all their own way and the $4.33 for the Draw/Leicester City Half Time/Full Time double does appeal.

Back Draw/Leicester City Half Time/Full Time @ $4.33

Liverpool vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, Anfield

Crystal Palace have been a bogey team for Liverpool in recent seasons and this will be one of the most interesting games of the weekend.

Liverpool conceded a late goal to drop points against Watford last weekend and they go into this clash off the back of a trip to Hoffenheim for their Champions League qualifying fixture.

They will still start this clash as clear favourites, but this was not a position in which they thrived last season – they won only 12 of their 19 games as home favourites for a small loss.

Crystal Palace started their English Premier League campaign with a very poor effort against Huddersfield Town and it is tough to know what to make of that performance.

They generally did produce their best form away from home last season and they won six of their 17 games as away underdogs for a very big profit, while backing Crystal Palace in any fixture against Liverpool in recent seasons has been a highly profitable betting play.

Crystal Palace are capable of taking something from this clash and the $3.10 for the Double Chance is well and truly over the odds.

Back Crystal Palace Or Draw Double Chance @ $3.10

Southampton vs West Ham United
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, St Mary’s Stadium

Southampton were fairly flat in their opening day fixture against Swansea City, but they will still start this clash as clear favourites.

Southampton were unable to turn St Mary’s Stadium into a fortress last season and they won only six of their 14 games as home favourites, with five of those fixtures finishing as stalemates.

West Ham were demolished by a rampant Manchester United in their opening fixture and that is certainly not an ideal way to start the season.

They were able to win five of their 17 games as away underdogs last season for a profit and a further four of these games finished as a stalemate.

There really is not as much between these two teams as the current betting market suggests and the $3.70 on offer for the draw is well and truly over the odds.

Back The Draw @ $3.70

Stoke City vs Arsenal
Sunday 20 August, 2:30am, Britannia Stadium

There is no love lost between these two clubs and the meetings between them are generally spicy affairs.

They didn’t make it look easy, but Arsenal scored a couple of late goals to start their season with a win over Leicester City and they will go into this clash with Stoke City as clear favourites.

Arsenal have historically struggled against Stoke City, but they did beat them comfortably in both their meetings last season and they were 9-2-3 as away favourites last year.

Stoke City were gallant in defeat against Everton last weekend and they have been handed one of the toughest draws to start the season.

They failed to win a single game as home underdogs last season, but they were able to take a point from four of their eight games in this scenario.

I doubt that they will be able to achieve that result against Arsenal and the Gunners really do look like stellar value at the current price of $1.80.

Back Arsenal To Win @ $1.80

Huddersfield Town vs Newcastle United
Sunday 20 August, 12:00am, John Smith’s Stadium

Huddersfield Town could not have made a better start to their life in the English Premier League and they will start this clash with Newcastle United as favourites.

Aaron Mooy was one of a number of players that were excellent for Huddersfield Town against Crystal Palace and they played some truly impressive football.

Whether they will be able to remain at that level is obviously a big question and it is tough to get Huddersfield Town as short as their current quote.

Newcastle United were brave in their opening English Premier League fixture against Tottenham and they will appreciate this drop in opposition quality.

Off-field controversy has dominated talk about Newcastle United this season – Rafa Benitez is not a happy man – and there is no doubt that this is a squad that lacks a fair amount of depth.

This is a game that really could go either way, but what I do expect to see is goals and the $1.91 available for both teams to score is definitely over the odds.

Back Both Teams To Score @ $1.91

Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea
Monday 21 August, 1:00am, Wembley

There is no doubt that this is the biggest game in the English Premier League this season and it could prove vital at the business end of the season.

Tottenham struggled at Wembley during the Champions League last season, but they will still start this clash with their rivals as clear favourites.

They started the season with a professional performance against Newcastle United and getting the job done against smaller clubs has been their strength in recent years, while their record at home has been nothing short of outstanding.

The opening day of the season was nothing short of a disaster for Chelsea and they had two players sent off as they slumped to a truly humiliating loss at the hands of Burnley.

Chelsea only won one of their four games as away underdogs last season and they have not beaten Tottenham at home for a number of seasons.

All signs point towards a Tottenham win in this clash and Chelsea could find themselves six points off the pace after only two weeks.

Back Tottenham To Win @ $2.05

Manchester City vs Everton
Tuesday 22 August, 5:00am, Etihad Stadium

It is something of a surprise that Manchester City are such dominant favourites to account for Everton this weekend.

Everton recorded a dominant 4-0 win over Manchester City the last time that these teams did battle and Manchester City have not beaten their rivals at Etihad Stadium since 2014.

Winning at home was something of an issue for Manchester City last season and they won only ten of their 18 games as home favourites for a clear loss, while they did draw seven games in this scenario.

Everton did enough to beat Stoke City in their opening game of the English Premier League season, but there is no doubt this is a much sterner test and the fact they are on the road does not help.

Their record away from home last season was very poor and they won only one of nine games as away underdogs for a clear loss.

Both these teams are tough to trust from a betting perspective and this is a clash that I am keen to stay out of.

No Bet


2016/2017

History will be made in the second week of the 2016/2017 English Premier League season as West Ham will host their very first game at their new home ground – the 2012 London Olympics Stadium!

Defending champions Leicester City face an early season test when they take on Arsenal at King Power Stadium, while Zlatan Ibrahimović will pull on the red of Manchester United at Old Trafford for the very first time.

There is plenty of interest in every single game this weekend and you can find our preview for each clash below.

Manchester United vs Southampton
Saturday 20 August, 5:00am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 2 - Southampton 0

Manchester United started the Jose Mourinho era with a comfortable victory over Bournemouth last weekend and they are clear favourites to make it two wins on the trot against Southampton.

Zlatan Ibrahimović was the star attraction for Manchester United last weekend and he will be joined by the returning Paul Pogba – both of whom are sure to be lauded by the Red Devils faithful.

Manchester United were not particularly convincing at Old Trafford last season and they finished the year with 10 wins as well as five draws from their 17 games in front of their home fans.

Southampton played out a 1-1 all draw with Watford in their opening English Premier League fixture and they look like a side that is still getting used to the managerial style of Claude Puel.

The Saints were a strong betting play as away underdogs last season and they managed to take at least a point from seven of their ten matches in this scenario.

Manchester United are deserving favourites, but they are definitely under the odds at their current quote and the $4.20 available for the draw is worth a bet.

Recommended Bet: Back The Draw @ $4.20

Stoke City vs Manchester City
Sunday 20 August, 9:30am, Britannia Stadium
Stoke City 1 - Manchester City 4

Manchester City started their own new era with a victory over Sunderland and they face a tricky away trip against Stoke in week two.

Manchester City have a surprisingly poor record against Stoke in recent years and their record as home favourites last season was far from convincing – they won just five of their 14 games in this scenario.

Stoke City started their season with a 1-1 dour with Middlesbrough and will welcome the return to Britannia Stadium.

Britannia Stadium is something of a fortress for Stoke and they won four of their nine games at the venue last season for a very healthy profit.

I never like to take on Stoke City at Britannia Stadium and Manchester City are definitely under the odds at their current quote, with the $2.10 on offer for the Stoke and Draw Double Chance the value betting play.

Recommended Bet: Back Stoke And The Draw @ $2.10

Swansea City vs Hull City
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, Liberty Stadium
Swansea City 0 - Hull City 2

Hull City started the English Premier League with an upset victory over Leicester City, but it is Swansea City that will start this game as clear favourites.

Swansea City started their season with a narrow victory over Burnley and two wins from as many games would put them in an excellent position going forward.

Liberty Stadium was far from a fortress for Swansea City last season and they won just four of their 12 games at the venue last season for a loss.

Hull City were expected to struggle in the English Premier League after the off-season from hell, but they were very good in week 1.

Whether they can replicate that performance going forward is a big question, but they are facing a Swansea City side that has struggled against teams that they can beat.

I can’t get Swansea City anywhere near as short as their current quote of $1.80 and the $3.40 available for the draw stands out as good value.

Recommended Bet: Back Swansea City To Win @ $3.40

Burnley vs Liverpool
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, Turf Moor
Burnley 2 - Liverpool 0

Liverpool were one of the most impressive teams in the opening round of the English Premier League season and they are clear favourites to account for Burnley this weekend.

Liverpool looked brilliant going forward against Arsenal and you can already see the effects of what manager Jurgen Klopp has been able to do with his side in the off-season.

The issue for the Reds in this clash is the trip to Turf Moor – they won just five of their 12 games as home favourites last season for a loss.

Not much is expected from Burnley in the English Premier League season and they produced a fairly uninspiring performance against Swansea City.

I can’t get Liverpool as short as their current quote, but both these teams were able to score plenty of goals last season and the over 2.5 goals looks like a solid bet.

Recommended Bet: Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.83

Tottenham Hotspur vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, White Hart Lane
Tottenham Hotspur 1 - Crystal Palace 0

Tottenham were unable to account for Everton in the opening round of the English Premier League season, but they are still clear favourites to beat Crystal Palace this weekend.

Tottenham were able to win the majority of their game as home favourites last season, but they were still not a profitable betting play in this metric and this is what ended up costing them the title.

Crystal Palace were one of the most disappointing teams in the first week of the season and they went down to West Bromwich Albion in front of their home fans at Selhurst Park.

This is obviously a tougher assignment for Crystal Palace and they will need to produce an improved performance to have any chance of upstaging Tottentham this weekend.

Crystal Palace did often produce their best efforts of the season against Tottenham and they came away with at least a point from ten of their 16 games in this situation.

The $1.44 available for a Tottenham victory is definitely under the odds and I am happy to take them on with the $2.75 available for the Crystal Palace and draw double chance.

Recommended Bet: Back Crystal Palace To Win And Draw Double Chance @ $2.75

Watford vs Chelsea
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, Vicarage Road
Watford 1 - Chelsea 2

Chelsea left it late against West Ham, but a late goal from Diego Costa got them the three points and winning start to the season.

It was still not the most convincing performance from Chelsea and there are genuine question marks over their record as home favourites – last season they lost six games in this scenario.

Watford were very good in the opening English Premier League fixture against Southampton and this will be an interesting test of just where they stand in 2016/2017.

The Hornets did not have the best record as home underdogs last season and they won just one of their eight games in this situation, while they generally struggled against the very best teams in the competition.

Chelsea should be able to win this game, but the market looks to have got it just about right and I am happy to stay out from a betting perspective.

Recommended Bet: No Bet

West Bromwich Albion vs Everton
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, The Hawthorns
West Bromwich Albion 1 - Everton 2

West Bromwich Albion and Everton both made promising starts to the English Premier League season and this shapes as a very interesting clash.

West Brom did not have the majority of the football in their clash against Crystal Palace, but they were still able to come away with the three points.

They will start this clash as outsiders and this was a position in which they had an excellent record last season – winning four of their 11 games in this scenario for a healthy profit.

Everton scored early and then were able to hang on to take a point from their opening weekend clash with Tottenham, a performance that was good enough to see them go into this game as favourites.

Everton won four of their six games as home favourites last season and they were actually undefeated in this situation.

This is a very interesting clash and will put the winner in a strong position going forward, but this is another game the market looks to have just about right and I am happy to stay out.

Recommended Bet: No Bet

Leicester City vs Arsenal
Sunday 21 August, 2:30am, King Power Stadium
Leicester City 0 - Arsenal 0

Arsenal were the only team in the English Premier League that were able to beat Leicester City on multiple occasions last season and this will be a very interesting clash.

It was always going to be tougher for Leicester City during the 2016/2017 English Premier League season, but they were still expected to get the job done against Hull City in week one.

Leicester City will go into this game as home favourites and this is a position in which they thrived last season – losing just one of their five games in this scenario.

It was very clear to most Arsenal fans in the off-season that they required a new centre-back and that was made even cleared with their opening weekend performance against Liverpool.

Arsenal were good with the football going forward, but their were gaping holes in their defence that Liverpool were easily able to take advantage of.

Arsenal did not have a bad record away from home last season, but they were still not a profitable betting play as home favourites and based on their effort in week one their is every reason to take them on this weekend.

Recommended Bet: Back Leicester City To Win @ $2.70

Sunderland vs Middlesbrough
Sunday 21 August, 10:30pm, Stadium Of Light
Sunderland 1 - Middlesbrough 2

This is another very interesting clash with a very competitive betting market.

Sunderland lost their opening game of the season, but they were still not disgraced against Manchester City.

This will be a more genuine test of where they stand in the early stages of the season and they will start this game as favourites.

Sunderland only played five games as home favourites last season and they won three of them for a nice profit, while there other two results were draws.

Middlesbrough returned to the English Premier League with a 1-1 draw against Stoke and this will be another tough test for this outfit.

I think that Middlesbrough will end up being a solid English Premier League side this season, but a slow start is probable and I am happy to take them on again this weekend.

Recommended Bet: Back Sunderland To Win @ $2.40

West Ham United vs Bournemouth
Monday 22 August, 1:00am, Olympic Stadium
West Ham United 1 - Bournemouth 0

This is the only game in the second week of the 2016/2017 English Premier League season that includes two teams that lost in the opening weekend.

The pressure is on West Ham in their first ever game at their new home ground – the Olympic Stadium – and they will start as clear favourites.

This was a position in which they struggled somewhat last season – they won just four of their 11 games as home favourites although they only lost the two fixtures.

Bournemouth were outclassed by Manchester United in the opening game of the season and this is a another tricky assignment for them.

Bournemouth were actually not that bad away from home last season and they won four of their 15 games as away favourites for a tidy profit.

West Ham really should win this clash, but I can’t get them as short as their current price of $1.85 and it is the total goals betting market that I am keen to bet into.

The over went 12-6 in Bournemouth games last season and I am happy to take the $1.83 on offer.

Recommended Bet: Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.83