2024/2025 EPL Week 3 Preview

By the time Matchweek 3 kicks off in the Premier League, the summer transfer window will have slammed shut and the squads will be locked away until January.

Some clubs have done minimal business, opting to shore up the existing side and others (Chelsea) have made up for that by adding to an already bloated list of contracted players.

On top of that, while it might seem far too early to be talking about a looming international break, the calendar calls for one after this weekend so we’ll have to enjoy the Premier League before a very early hiatus.

There is plenty to look forward to this weekend starting with Arsenal’s early Saturday clash with the red hot Brighton, who are fresh off a huge win against Manchester United.

Erik ten Haag’s side will be involved in the final match of the weekend as United hosts Liverpool at Old Trafford in one of English football’s best rivalries.

We’ve got our full weekend preview below so read on and see who we are backing in every match.

Arsenal vs Brighton And Hove Albion
Saturday 31 August, 9:30pm, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 1 – Brighton 1

Perhaps the only certainty surrounding this fixture is that at least one of these teams will drop points for the first time.

Arsenal should be favoured in this market but it is tough to justify backing them at such a short price given the way these teams have begun their respective campaigns.

Brighton demolished Everton first up before recording a dramatic win at Old Trafford last Saturday, these guys are far from easybeats.

However Arsenal’s clean-sheet wins over Wolves and Villa showcased why they are Manchester City’s nearest title challengers.

The head to head market is a stay away but there is value to be had backing the Gunners’ German midfielder-turned-striker Kai Havertz to score.

He has found the back of the net in both matches this season and has also scored in his last three league appearances against the Seagulls.

Kai Havertz Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.25

Brentford vs Southampton
Sunday 1 September, 12:00am, Gtech Community Stadium
Brentford 3 – Southampton 1

Under normal circumstances the straightforward play for this match would be to back Brentford to dispatch Southampton.

But with so much still to be resolved in the Bees squad in the final days of the transfer window, there has to be a certain sense of trepidation about what could be a very different lineup.

Let’s not pretend the Saints are world beaters though, with the promoted side still searching not just for their first points but also their first goal of the season.

The under hit for both of these clubs last weekend and that’s where the value lies in this market, especially if the home side does lose Ivan Toney to another club before kickoff.

Under 2.5 Goals @ $2.10

Everton vs Bournemouth
Sunday 1 September, 12:00am, Goodison Park
Everton 2 – Bournemouth 3

The good news for Bournemouth so far this season is that they are yet to lose and have scored in both Premier League outings.

The bad news for Bournemouth is that they have had to settle for a draw in both outings and are yet to produce a performance that suggests they will be doing anything more than trying to avoid relegation.

However they might not have a better chance of getting off the mark than this trip to Goodison Park as they face an Everton side reeling from successive big defeats.

Admittedly they have lost to two good teams in Brighton and Tottenham but given the squad they have, they should be offering up a bit more of a fight.

However with both teams still having major question marks over their skills, the over looks like the far more appealing play instead of having to try and make a strong case for either team to win.

Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.80

Ipswich Town vs Fulham
Sunday 1 September, 12:00am, Portman Road
Ipswich 1 – Fulham 1

Taking nothing away from Fulham, this is a far easier assignment for Ipswich than their first two outings this season, having gone down to Liverpool and Manchester City.

However it might not be a big enough step down for the Terriers, with the Cottagers splitting their opening two fixtures.

Even in defeat at Old Trafford first up, Fulham have looked good in possession and we should see an end to end match which plays perfectly into the hands of the visitors here.

Fulham to Win and Over 2.5 Goals @ $3.30

Leicester vs Aston Villa
Sunday 1 September, 12:00am, King Power Stadium
Leicester 1 – Aston Villa 2

Travelling to the King Power Stadium will not be an easy task for Premier League teams this season, with Tottenham dropping points on Matchday 1.

However with Villa coming off a frustrating home loss against Arsenal, it’s tough to imagine Unai Emery’s side dropping points in consecutive matches.

Having just received their Champions League draw for the coming months, Villa will be well aware of the need to bank points now before the fixture list really gets congested thanks to eight midweek continental dates that have been locked in.

Not all is well in the Leicester backline and this could be the match where Ollie Watkins pops after a couple of underwhelming efforts to kick off his campaign.

Aston Villa to Win @ $1.75

Nottingham Forest vs Wolves
Sunday 1 September, 12:00am, The City Ground
Nottingham Forest 1 – Wolves 1

This is a match that will hold special significance for a couple of members of the Forest squad with manager Nuno Espirito Santo and player Morgan Gibbs-White set to take on their former club.

It has been a surprisingly profitable start to the season for Forest, backing up their opening day draw with Bournemouth by defeating Southampton last weekend.

Wolves on the other hand will be desperate to shake off a couple of rough defeats at the hands of Chelsea and Arsenal as they try to get their campaign on the rails.

Those opponents are exactly why these early season form lines can be a bit deceptive though, as this looks like a pretty even matchup between these teams on paper.

I can’t make a strong case either way and am expecting the points to be shared here.

Draw @ $3.50

West Ham vs Manchester City
Sunday 1 September, 2:30am, London Stadium
West Ham 1 – Manchester City 3

Back in May, Manchester City won the Premier League title (again) with a 3-1 win over West Ham and now they head to London to take on the Irons looking to continue their perfect start to the season.

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui will be wondering when he can catch a break with his home games, losing to Aston Villa first up and now having the champions come to town.

In the last two seasons, City has won all four meetings between these sides by multiple goal margins and it’s tough to see that streak coming to an end here.

Not to mention Erling Haaland has begun the season in imperious form, scoring four goals already and he loves facing West Ham with four goals from four starts.

This is one of the easier picks to make this weekend.

Erling Haaland to Score and Manchester City Win @ $1.85

Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 1 September, 10:30pm, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 1 – Crystal Palace 1

A week after getting humbled by Man City, Chelsea turned it around in the biggest way imaginable, putting six past a hapless Wolves side last weekend.

Chances are the Blues average performance will land somewhere between those two extremes but Enzo Marcesca will be praying it is closer to the second match than the first.

Palace on the other hand have just been underwhelming through two fixtures with defeats to Brentford and West Ham on their record to date.

Don’t be surprised if Chelsea puts on a show at home as they chase back to back wins against a side still trying to find its identity.

Chelsea to Win and Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.10

Newcastle vs Tottenham
Sunday 1 September, 10:30pm, St James’ Park
Newcastle 2 – Tottenham 1

Two sides with Champions League ambitions face off here and while it’s way too early to call this a decisive match in the race for the top four, getting an early season confidence boost is going to be important for both clubs.

They bring identical form lines into the match with a win and a draw to date, however Spurs will be buzzing after their 4-0 demolition of Everton last weekend.

Newcastle on the other hand were held to a 1-1 draw by a resolute Bournemouth outfit but their 1-0 win over Southampton on the opening day will give them something to build on.

Last season the Magpies trounced Spurs 4-0 at St James’ Park and while they would love another decisive result like that, it seems unlikely that will be repeated given Tottenham’s effort last weekend.

There is a strong case for both clubs to win this match and an even stronger case to be made for plenty of goals to be scored, which makes the over the best bet in this market.

Over 3.5 Goals @ $1.85

Manchester United vs Liverpool
Monday 2 September, 1:00am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 0 – Liverpool 3

The fixturing calendar has thrown up a phenomenal clash to wrap up the weekend as Manchester United and Liverpool face off at Old Trafford.

Erik ten Haag will enter the match under plenty of pressure with some suggesting the Manchester United manager could get moved on if things go wrong against their old rivals here.

Having started the season with an unconvincing win over Fulham before a horrendous loss to Brighton last weekend, they desperately need something from this fixture to get them through the international break.

Meanwhile for Liverpool, the Arne Slot era has begun with a pair of 2-0 wins over sides they were expected to dismantle and they should be brimming with confidence following those results and the signing of Federico Chiesa from Juventus.

While the visitors will head into this match as deserved favourites, it’s tough to ignore how the last few meetings have gone between these sides with the last three ending as a draw after 90 minutes.

United will be so desperate to avoid another loss this could turn into a dour draw with both sides cancelling one another out.

Draw @ $4.00


2023/2024

Three Premier League sides will be looking to continue their perfect start to the new season this weekend.

Manchester City and Arsenal are joined by upstarts Brighton and they all face very different challenges as we head into the final days of the transfer window.

Elsewhere Chelsea leads the pack of seven teams still chasing their first win, five of whom will be after their first point of the new campaign.

With a full slate of 10 fixtures on the cards, read on for our Premier League Week 3 preview and best bets!

Chelsea vs Luton
Saturday 26 August, 5:00am, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 3 – Luton 0

Whatever honeymoon period Mauricio Pochettino was going through at Chelsea ended in the second half at the London Stadium last weekend.

The dysfunction he was brought in to eradicate was still there for all to see as the Blues slumped to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of 10-man West Ham.

On the plus side though, the Argentine boss should be able to deliver his first competitive win at Chelsea this weekend against an overmatched Luton side.

After a weekend off due to stadium unavailability, Luton will go on the road once more and even against this version of Chelsea, it’s tough to expect a whole lot from them.

They were blown off the park by Brighton first up and it seems very unlikely they will have discovered the secret to being competitive in the last 10 or so days.

It might not be a vintage Chelsea performance but they will do enough to see off Luton and come away with a comfortable victory.

Chelsea to Win -1 Goal @ $1.67

Bournemouth vs Tottenham
Saturday 26 August, 9:30pm, Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth 0 – Tottenham 2

The Postecoglou revolution at White Hart Lane is in full swing with the Australian manager earning his first competitive win in England, over Manchester United no less.

However this week presents another challenge with the Spurs of old likely slipping on a banana skin after such a big victory the week before.

In their last five trips to Bournemouth, Spurs have won twice, lost twice and drawn once, not exactly the imposing record of a big club going on the road.

Through 180 minutes this season, the Cherries have not exactly set the world alight, drawing at home to West Ham before coming away second best at Anfield.

Perhaps it is showing a bit too much deference to Postecoglou but there is a lot to like about what he has put in place so far and at their current price, I’m happy to back the visitors here.

Tottenham to Win @ $1.91

Arsenal vs Fulham
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 2 – Fulham 2

Despite having six points from their first two matches, Arsenal have not reached top gear yet, instead surviving some very nervous moments to come away with a pair of one goal wins.

Their defensive depth is already being tested with summer signing Jurien Timber suffering an ACL injury in Matchweek 1, Takehiro Tomiyasu picking up a red card last week and Oleksandr Zinchenko and Gabriel working their way back from injury.

Fulham has had a mixed bag of results so far, with a win at Everton before losing at home to Brentford.

We won’t be seeing a whole lot of goals in this fixture with Arsenal happy to grind out another win as they work their way into the season.

Arsenal to Win and Under 3.5 Goals @ $2.20

Brentford vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Gtech Community Stadium
Brentford 1 – Crystal Palace 1

Brentford’s attackers have started the new Premier League season on fire, scoring five goals and helping the side to four points from two matches.

It has not quite been the same story for Palace who have scored just the one goal, which was enough for a win over Sheffield United on the opening day.

They failed to break down a stubborn 10-man Arsenal side on Tuesday morning however and it served as a nice reminder that this is a team in transition following an offseason of change.

If you want to give them the benefit of the doubt, this is going to be an easier side to breakdown than their prior two opponents and Brentford is more than happy to let their rivals have the ball and come at them.

While the last four matches have finished as a draw and all gone under 2.5 goals, there has been enough change on both sides to make me think this is going the other way and with a price available on the over, it’s worth taking a flyer on.

Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.10

Everton vs Wolves
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Goodison Park
Everton 0 – Wolves 1

If they can find even three minutes of highlights from this match then well done to the Premier League.

We have a pair of sides who are going to be staring nervously over their shoulders all season long at the looming threat of relegation and based on their early returns, it’s not like they are going to be good to watch most weeks either.

Both are coming into this one on the back of bad losses where they gave up four goals, and the only thing really giving each side hope is the impotent attack they will be dealing with.

One goal might be enough to win this game but there’s no telling who might accidentally score it.

This has all the makings of an ugly match but an easy watch for unders backers.

Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.70

Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 3 – Nottingham Forest 2

United are another side that is taking their time to settle into the new campaign with a pair of ugly performances.

Creating chances has not been an issue for them, registering 37 shots through 180 minutes but converting them has been an issue, just nine have been on target and only one resulted in a goal.

For better or worse, there’s been no shortage of goals in Forest’s matches, with both teams to score hitting in eight of their last night Premier League matches dating back to last season.

This has the makings of a match that will bring United out of their shells and treat the viewers to a few goals as well.

Unfortunately for Forest though, even if they get this match played on their terms, United should still be able to come away with a win.

Manchester United to Win and Both Teams to Score @ $2.70

Brighton And Hove Albion vs West Ham
Sunday 27 August, 2:30am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 1 – West Ham 3

It’s tough to say Brighton are the surprise packets of the opening fortnight considering just about everyone expected them to be good, but it is a shock to see just how good they have been.

While the competition has not exactly been daunting, the manner in which they dispatched Luton and Wolves 4-1 shows they are planning to contend for top flight European football once again.

West Ham will provide a tough test here, especially having gained plenty of confidence with a 3-1 win over Chelsea last week.

Backing the Both Teams to Score market has been a winner in all four matches these sides have been involved in so far and it’s a trend I’m happy to follow.

But in the interests of taking a side, it has to be Brighton, they’ve been exceptional so far and look like a team to ride at least until they start to contend with their Europa League duties.

Brighton to Win and Both Teams to Score @ $2.75

Burnley vs Aston Villa
Sunday 27 August, 11:00pm, Turf Moor
Burnley 1 – Aston Villa 3

We have only had one opportunity to evaluate Burnley so far and in all fairness to the Clarets, we should not have been too surprised that they got played off the park by City.

Villa have given us two very different performances to decipher, responding to a resounding first up loss at Newcastle with a convincing win over a hapless Everton.

Perhaps that is why the market has these two sides much closer than expected, because Villa is, on paper at least a much stronger side than their newly promoted opponents.

Unai Emery has built a versatile and creative side that can score for fun, which should give us an entertaining fixture given Burnley’s newfound flair under Vincent Kompany.

Backing the over is tempting but at their current price, taking Villa outright is too tempting to pass up.

Aston Villa to Win @ $2.10

Sheffield United vs Manchester City
Sunday 27 August, 11:00pm, Bramall Lane
Sheffield United 1 – Manchester City 2

It might not have been a typical Guardiola performance, but City ground out a hard fought win over Newcastle last weekend on short rest after the Super Cup.

With a full week to freshen up and prepare for this fixture they should make short work of a Sheffield United side they have had minimal problems with in the past.

City has won all five meetings between the clubs since 2019, their last defeat coming in the 2008 FA Cup, which was coincidentally the last time Sheffield scored against City.

Having kept a pair of clean sheets already this season, look for City to make it three in a row as they pick up another three points.

Manchester City to Win to Nil @ $1.70

Newcastle vs Liverpool
Monday 28 August, 1:30am, St James’ Park
Newcastle 1 – Liverpool 2

For all of the on field progress Newcastle has made in the last 18 months, Liverpool remains a bugbear for the Magpies.

The last four meetings have all gone the way of the Merseysiders and you have to go way back to 2015 for Newcastle’s last win in this rivalry.

While Jurgen Klopp’s side is still very much a rebuild in progress, they still have the elite talent to compete on any given day and Klopp seems to like heading to St James’ Park.

With that history on their side, and Newcastle coming off a tough loss against City, the price on Liverpool is well worth taking here too.

Liverpool to Win @ $3.00


2022/2023

Some say that two matches into a new season is far too early to press the panic button if a side has failed to live up to expectations.

Supporters of Manchester United and to a lesser extent Liverpool will probably feel differently as both clubs are still chasing their first win of the new season.

On the plus side, at least one of them will be feeling a lot better after this weekend with the teams set to face off at Old Trafford in a must watch match.

We’re previewing all ten Premier League matches below so read on and see who we are backing.

Tottenham vs Wolves
Saturday 20 August, 9:30pm, Tottenham Stadium
Tottenham 1 – Wolves 0

While Tottenham might have been forced to settle for a draw at Stamford Bridge last weekend, it was a result that probably felt as good as a win after Harry Kane’s late equaliser.

Wolves have taken just one point from their two outings so far and based on their performances against Leeds and Fulham, it’s tough to see how they will find a way to compete.

Perhaps in response to those performances, Bruno Lage has dipped into the transfer market to acquire midfielder Matheus Nunes from Sporting CP.

Nunes will ideally provide spark to a side that has sorely lacked any sort of dynamism for much of the last two years.

However he will need time to adapt to his new surroundings and despite Wolves winning three of their last four away matches against Spurs, I just can’t see them getting anything from this one.

Look for the hosts to try and kill the game off early.

Back Tottenham HT/FT @ $2.10

Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 3 – Aston Villa 1

Just like Spurs, Palace might have only taken a point last weekend but it was an impressive point at that, going to Anfield and holding Liverpool to a 1-1 draw.

Villa got by Everton for its first win of the new season, but questions do remain about how much quality Steven Gerrard actually has in his squad.

It could go either way and the draw is a tempting option, but after seeing him open his account for the new season, combined with Matty Cash having a lingering injury concern, makes me think this could be a game for Wilfried Zaha to shine.

Back Wilfried Zaha Anytime Goalscorer @ $2.63

Everton vs Nottingham Forest
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, Goodison Park
Everton 1 – Nottingham Forest 1

Forest marked their home return to the Premier League with an impressive 1-0 win over West Ham while Everton slumped to a second straight defeat.

Staring down the barrel of their worst start to a campaign in over three decades, the Toffees simply have to win here, but there are two major issues with that actually taking place.

For starters, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is injured, leaving them with next to no out and out strikers as prodigy Anthony Gordon doing his best to full the void.

Secondly, as a punter, do you really feel good backing Everton in their current state at less than $2.00 odds?

I certainly don’t and I’ll take the visitors to find a way to get at least a point.

Back Forest/Draw Double Chance @ $1.83

Fulham vs Brentford
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, Craven Cottage
Fulham 3 – Brentford 2

It might be too early to have a clear read on some teams but it seems like we can safely assume Fulham will go as far as striker Aleksandar Mitrovic will take them.

The Serbian striker was held in check by Wolves last weekend in a scoreless draw and before that, his brace got his side a point against Liverpool.

Knowing that should make gameplanning pretty easy for Brentford, but successfully executing that gameplan is an entirely different proposition.

If Mitrovic does start to fire, Brentford does have the strike power on their side to at least match them goal for goal and this fixture could be decided by the last team to score.

While you can’t see Fulham making the same sort of amateur errors Manchester United did last weekend offering up a plethora of chances in the process, the Bees should find a way to create enough to keep them in it.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.92

Leicester vs Southampton
Sunday 21 August, 12:00am, King Power Stadium
Leicester 1 – Southampton 2

It is far too early in the season to call this one a relegation six pointer, but if either side loses this one, it is the sort of match we will look back on and realise it was a sign of things to come when they are fighting for survival in the new year.

Thus far, it all boils down to the defending, or lack thereof, from both clubs with a combined 12 goals conceded through the opening fortnight.

Normally with the market priced as it currently is, you could probably talk yourself into backing Southampton at $4.00 but based on what you have seen from them, it wouldn’t be a bet you would feel all that confident in.

We should see plenty of goalscoring chances for both sides and I’ll back James Ward-Prowse to showcase his set piece ability.

Back James Ward-Prowse Anytime Goalscorer @ $3.50

Bournemouth vs Arsenal
Sunday 21 August, 2:30am, Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth 0 – Arsenal 3

12 months ago, the Gunners were a laughing stock, now the Arteta project is starting to pay dividends with Arsenal one of the most impressive squads at the start of the season.

Gabriel Jesus has found his footing after a brace against Leicester which should be a concern for a Bournemouth defence that just shipped four to Manchester City.

While he might have only scored twice in five matches against the Cherries with Manchester City, there is no doubting he will fashion plenty of opportunities here.

However I will have my eye on a different Brazilian named Gabriel who is playing for Arsenal.

Not the defender, but Gabriel Martinelli who has started the season on fire, scoring in both Gunners wins to date.

For this one, I’ll pair him making it three goals in three matches with another Arsenal victory for a SGM.

SGM: Arsenal to Win and Gabriel Martinelli Anytime Goalscorer @ $3.93

Leeds vs Chelsea
Sunday 21 August, 11:00pm, Elland Road
Leeds 3 – Chelsea 0

Few might have expected Leeds and Chelsea to be level on four points apiece heading into this match but here they are.

Admittedly you do have to consider Leeds have not had the toughest start to the season and while Thomas Tuchel’s side have not quite set the world alight yet, they should be able to take care of business.

Chelsea will have to defend for their lives at times but Leeds are going to be so open at the back that the Blues should win this one comfortably.

Back Chelsea to Win and Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.25

West Ham vs Brighton And Hove Albion
Sunday 21 August, 11:00pm, London Stadium
West Ham 0 – Brighton 2

West Ham will need to make some moves to address a stagnant forward line that is yet to break its duck in season 2022/2023.

The signing of PSG defender Thilo Kehrer and reported interest in other defenders will help shore up a position of need, but something needs to change going forward.

As for Brighton, we know what we are going to get from them and all signs are pointing towards a low scoring, defensive struggle.

Back Under 2.5 Goals @ $1.85

Newcastle vs Manchester City
Monday 22 August, 1:30am, St James’ Park
Newcastle 3 – Manchester City 3

It’s the derby for those that hate the underdog story.

Mega rich Newcastle will take on slightly less but still mega rich Manchester City with the latter looking to extend its perfect start to the season.

It’s tough to back against City in their current form and despite Newcastle splashing the cash in certain areas of the pitch, they don’t look like they will be able to compete.

Back Manchester City to Win -1 Goal @ $2.00

Manchester United vs Liverpool
Tuesday 23 August, 5:00am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 2 – Liverpool 1

Both clubs might be winless thus far but if you think they are in similar situations then this should provide a stark wake up call.

United is in a mess right now and the seemingly inevitable hammering that Liverpool is preparing to dish out will not improve that situation.

Especially when you consider they have played well below par in their draws with Fulham and Crystal Palace.

If Jurgen Klopp is able to find the right message to deliver to his team this week, they would steamroll just about any opponent.

It will just help that their wilting rival is going to provide as much resistance as a burger wrapper does to the tyre of a semi-trailer.

Back Liverpool to Win -1 Goal @ $2.45


2021/2022

After two weeks of the new Premier League season, five teams have a perfect record while another five clubs are still stuck on zero points.

West Ham is leading the pack thus far thanks to a potent strike force, and they will be taking on Crystal Palace this weekend.

Matchweek 3 kicks off with Manchester City hosting Arsenal in a match that was once one of the premiere clashes of the season but now looms as a tough task for Mikel Arteta and the flailing Gunners.

Saturday night rounds out with Liverpool hosting Chelsea in a blockbuster in every sense of the word with at least one perfect start set to come to an end.

We have our previews and best bets for all 10 Premier League matches below so read on and see who we are backing.

Manchester City vs Arsenal
Saturday 28 August, 9:30pm, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 5 – Arsenal 0

It won’t get any easier for Mikel Arteta as his side chases its first goal (and point) of the new Premier League season.

Two games, two defeats and up next is a trip to the reigning champions who are coming off a 5-0 win in their last outing.

Quite honestly, the only thing that will save Arsenal from a complete embarrassment is if Pep Guardiola wants to go easy on his former pupil and spare him from further humiliation.

After dropping their opening match against Spurs, City had a strong bounce back effort against Norwich, showcasing just how versatile their attack can be, with five different goalscorers on the day.

It’s a case of “City by how much” when it comes to finding a play in this match and while it’s not offering the same value as the Chelsea match last week, taking the Gunners to lose by at least two goals is a good way to start off the weekend.

Back City to Win -1 Goal @ $1.75

Aston Villa vs Brentford
Sunday 29 August, 12:00am, Villa Park
Aston Villa 1 – Brentford 1

Brentford might not have been as impressive in their 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace as they were in their opening day win but it was a committed performance away from home.

This will be their toughest test of the young season with Aston Villa looking like a side that should be challenging for a top half finish.

Danny Ings is looking like a shrewd acquisition having scored in both of his appearances to date and he should be able to be the first Premier League player to break Brentford’s defence.

In what will be the seventh ever meeting between these sides, I’ll back Villa to come away with its first ever win over the Bees, having drawn their three home matches when both sides were in the Championship.

SGM: Aston Villa to Win & Danny Ings Anytime Goalscorer @ $3.64

Brighton And Hove Albion vs Everton
Sunday 29 August, 12:00am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 0 – Everton 2

In eight Premier League meetings between Brighton and Everton, no visiting team has recorded a win.

This is where that streak will come to an end, or at least that’s what I’m willing to back with Everton at their current price.

Brighton might have won its opening two matches but you have to accept they took advantage of a fairly soft landing.

Everton is not a soft side, having shown plenty of resilience to defeat Southampton in their opening match before holding on for a draw in a rough and tumble match at Leeds.

This is the sort of match that the Toffees’ should be winning if they want to push for European football and at their current quote of $3.20 they are excellent value.

Back Everton to Win @ $3.20

Newcastle vs Southampton
Sunday 29 August, 12:00am, St James’ Park
Newcastle 2 – Southampton 2

Here is the first match of the weekend where you have to do a bit of digging to settle on a play.

Newcastle is a slightly better side on paper, however Southampton has looked better throughout the opening 180 minutes of the season.

The Saints were good value in their 1-1 draw against Manchester United and pushed Everton before falling short.

Neither of these teams look overly strong but I am convinced there will be some goals in this fixture.

Newcastle has given up six goals already and the Saints have conceded four.

Expect plenty of chances for both sets of strikers.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $1.83

Norwich vs Leicester
Sunday 29 August, 12:00am, Carrow Road
Norwich 1 – Leicester 2

Norwich have been done over by the fixturing gods at the start of the new Premier League season.

After hosting a reborn Liverpool on the opening day followed by a trip to Manchester City, they now have to take on a wounded Leicester side looking to bounce back after a humiliating defeat at West Ham.

While it is tempting to back them to bounce back with a huge win over the Canaries, the head to head market offers more than enough value here.

As long as Leicester stays above $1.70 I’ll be backing them in and if the price drops I will look at the handicap markets to take a multi-goal margin of victory.

Back Leicester to Win @ $1.80

West Ham vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 29 August, 12:00am, London Stadium
West Ham 2 – Crystal Palace 2

Do you believe in David Moyes yet?

It might only be two weeks into the new season but there is a lot to like about the performances West Ham have put on the pitch.

Thanks to new club record goalscorer Michail Antonio, the Irons are on top of the world, or at least the Premier League table.

His brace guided them by a 10-man Leicester side but they will be met with stern resistance from a determined Crystal Palace side.

We might not see West Ham scoring for fun here as the game looks set to be a bit more of a grind than we are used to, but I’ll still back them to get the job done.

Back West Ham to Win and Under 3.5 Goals @ $2.30

Liverpool vs Chelsea
Sunday 29 August, 2:30am, Anfield
Liverpool 1 – Chelsea 1

Not only is this the biggest match of the weekend, it is the home of the biggest individual battle as Virgil van Dijk and Romelu Lukaku will square off in a 90 minute heavyweight bout.

The Belgian marksman enjoyed his second debut with Chelsea last weekend when he opened the scoring against Arsenal but will face stern resistance as the Dutch stopper appears to be back to his pre-injury form.

If the broadcast happened to dedicate one camera just to the duels between those two we would be forever grateful.

As for how the match will unfold, recent history suggests that we will have a winner on the day with the last five Premier League meetings seeing one side walk away with all three points.

With the match being played in front of a raucous Anfield crowd, I have to shade Liverpool in this one.

In a contest as close as this one is set to be, you need any help you can find to settle on a play and given Virgil van Dijk has never lost a Premier League match at Anfield (43 wins from 48 matches), that settles it.

Back Liverpool to Win @ $2.50

Burnley vs Leeds
Sunday 29 August, 11:00pm, Turf Moor
Burnley 1 – Leeds 1

If you just look at the results from the opening two fixtures for these sides, you might be fooled into thinking this one will be close.

Leeds has taken one point thus far, Burnley is chasing its first result, but context is key.

Burnley has not impressed in either of its matches, and while Leeds were outclassed by Manchester United, they held their own against Everton.

Leeds did the double over Burnley last season including a 4-0 win at Turf Moor in May and this is where Patrick Bamford could vault himself of the Premier League goalscoring chart.

At over even money, back Leeds to get the job done.

Back Leeds to Win @ $2.25

Tottenham vs Watford
Sunday 29 August, 11:00pm, Tottenham Stadium
Tottenham 1 – Watford 0

Kane, no Kane, it really will not matter here.

Watford were thoroughly outclassed by Brighton last weekend, continuing on from their late almost collapse against Aston Villa on the opening weekend.

Spurs should take full advantage of a vulnerable Watford defence and whoever starts at striker, whether it is Harry Kane, Son Min-Heung or backup keeper Pierluigi Gollini should be in for a fill up.

Back Tottenham to Win -1 Goal @ $2.20

Wolves vs Manchester United
Monday 30 August, 1:30am, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 0 – Manchester United 1

Which Manchester United side will we get in this fixture?

Is it the one that ripped apart Leeds on opening day or the one that laboured to earn a point at St Mary’s last weekend?

If they are below their best then Wolves have the talent to hit them on the break and I would expect the home side to break through at least once here.

I can’t back against United though, when they are on fire they are unstoppable and the duo of Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes should be able to create enough chances to get them home.

SGM: Manchester United to Win and Both Teams to Score @ $3.77


2020/2021

It was goals and red cards galore in the Premier League last week with 44 goals and four dismissals across the ten matches.

That means that Matchweek 3 has a lot to live up to but there are plenty of enticing clashes to get into ahead of the weekend.

Everton and Crystal Palace put their perfect starts on the line on Saturday night while the best clash is saved until last as Arsenal gets a major early test against the defending champions Liverpool.

We’re previewing all ten clashes here and have found our best bets below.

Brighton and Hove Albion vs Manchester United
Saturday 26 September, 9:30pm, Amex Stadium
Brighton 2 – Manchester United 3

Brighton were very impressive in their win away to Newcastle last weekend but it came at a cost with midfielder Yves Bissouma shown a late red card that will rule him out of this match.

United on the other hand will see this as a great chance to bounce back from their opening round loss to Crystal Palace.

Having a midweek League Cup tie to help erase those memories will have helped, but until they can get their first points of the new season, they will still have that no-show lingering in their minds.

The last three meetings between these sides have all resulted in convincing wins for United and while I’m not quite ready to back them in a canter, I do expect them to get the job done here.

Back Manchester United to Win @ $1.73

Crystal Palace vs Everton
Sunday 27 September, 12:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 1 – Everton 2

Both of these sides have to be very pleased with themselves after starting the season with back to back wins.

Palace went to Old Trafford and stunned Manchester United while Everton took a while to get going before overpowering West Brom.

The home side have been very impressive, especially leading man Wilf Zaha who has scored three goals already this season.

What makes the difference here though is that for their one Zaha, Everton have James Rodriguez pulling the strings and the Colombian will be easily the best player on the pitch.

Back Everton to Win @ $2.05

West Brom vs Chelsea
Sunday 27 September, 2:30am, The Hawthorns
West Brom 3 – Chelsea 3

It’s fair to say that in terms of establishing themselves as title challengers, last weekend’s loss to Liverpool gave Chelsea a massive reality check.

Being reduced to 10 men at the end of the first half didn’t help, nor did having a penalty saved.

That being said, they are still a much better side than West Brom who seem destined to find themselves overmatched here after getting trounced by Everton.

Once Chelsea takes a lead they should find a way to run over the Baggies and come away with a comfortable victory.

Back Chelsea to Win -1 Goal @ $2.05

Burnley vs Southampton
Sunday 27 September, 5:00am, Turf Moor
Burnley 0 – Southampton 1

A dud clash or two was always going to happen this weekend and this might be the one to skip.

Southampton could barely contain Son last weekend and they’ll be ecstatic they don’t have the South Korean to deal with this weekend, although they do have powerful striker Chris Wood instead.

Burnley will be a tough out although it’s fair to say their confidence will be shot as well after having Leicester demolish them 4-2 in their opening match of the season.

It will be a battle of Burnley’s power and Southampton’s pace to see whose frailties are more vulnerable and it’s tough to split them so a draw seems like the logical play here.

Back the Draw @ $3.15

Sheffield United vs Leeds
Sunday 27 September, 9:00pm, Brammall Lane
Sheffield United 0 – Leeds 1

For some reason the market still has not caught up with Leeds and their blistering start to Premier League life.

That’s more than fine with me though, it’s the value play of the weekend backing Marcelo Bielsa’s side to take more points off Sheffield who have endured a nightmare run since June.

With the Blades somewhat limited going forward, you have to think all of the scoring will come from Leeds but with their relentless pressure, I’ll happily take the value on offer here.

There’s admittedly some temptation to back over 3.5 but that would involve placing some faith in Sheffield’s strike force so there’s no need to get greedy.

Back Leeds to Win & Over 2.5 Goals @ $4.25

Tottenham vs Newcastle
Sunday 27 September, 11:00pm, Tottenham Stadium
Tottenham 1 – Newcastle 1

If you have a clear read on Newcastle already, good on you as the Magpies have shown their best and worst already in the opening two weeks.

Plenty of questions were raised in last week’s defeat to Brighton but they could get after Tottenham if they home side starts slow.

I’ll back a Spurs side that should get the job done but as their new signings settle in, things aren’t completely smooth as they fail to keep a clean sheet.

SGM: Tottenham to Win & Both Teams to Score @ $3.18

Manchester City vs Leicester
Monday 28 September, 1:30am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 2 – Leicester 5

In a surprise to nobody, City began their season with a 3-1 win over Wolves and will look to make it two from two against Leicester.

Defensively it still looks like they have a few issues to work out which could open up a few opportunities for Jamie Vardy and company to add to their seven goals on the season.

Everything about this match points towards a shootout and you just can’t bring yourself to back against Manchester City.

Back Manchester City to Win & Over 3.5 Goals @ $2.40

West Ham vs Wolves
Monday 28 September, 4:00am, London Stadium
West Ham 4 – Wolves 0

West Ham gave Arsenal a real scare last week and will try and turn that momentum into their first points of the new season when they host a Wolves side fresh off a loss to Manchester City.

While the visitors are more than capable of producing the odd stinker here and there, but at this price it’s hard to back against them in a game they really should win if they are truly legitimate challengers for a Champions League spot.

Ask yourself, in a tipping competition, are you giving West Ham a second thought?

Didn’t think so, there’s only one play to take here.

Back Wolves to Win @ $2.05

Fulham vs Aston Villa
Tuesday 29 September, 3:00am, Craven Cottage
Fulham 0 – Aston Villa 3

On the plus side, Fulham found their scoring touch last week against Leeds, but on the down side, they still were unbelievably leaky at the back giving up four goals.

Aston Villa does not have the goal scoring firepower to put up four this week but if they can’t get at least one here there is major cause for concern.

I really don’t have a feel for the head to head market in this contest, it could go either way.

There is value on offer on both teams to score however as Fulham’s defensive issues continue to pop up.

Back Both Teams to Score @ $1.83

Liverpool vs Arsenal
Tuesday 29 September, 5:15am, Anfield
Liverpool 3 – Arsenal 1

Since late July we have seen and heard so much about this “new Arsenal” under Mikel Arteta and there is some evidence to suggest he is turning the club around.

After starting the season with back to back wins, we might start taking Arsenal seriously if they can get something from this trip to Anfield.

There’s no reason to back Arsenal here however as Liverpool showed they mean business with a comfortable win over 10-man Chelsea.

Sadio Mane has been on fire to start the season and he should be able to score a critical goal for Liverpool here.

Back Sadio Mane to Score and Liverpool to Win @ $2.50


2019

An early season top 2 clash headlines this weekend with Liverpool hosting Arsenal… so it probably will be the last time these are the top two sides in the Premier League.

They are the only two sides to get off to a perfect start in the first fortnight of the season while at the other end of the table you have to wonder what is going on with Watford and their two losses to start the season.

On the plus side Norwich’s Teemu Pukki is coming off a remarkable hat-trick and gets a chance to test himself against at home to Chelsea.

We are ready for a bounce back week in our Premier League week 3 Previews with previews and betting plays for all 10 games right here.

Aston Villa vs Everton
Saturday 24 August, 5:00am, Villa Park
Aston Villa 2 – Everton 0

Everton’s start to the season has been… alright but perhaps a bit disappointing.

Having drawn their first game with Palace they managed to respond with a 1-0 win against Watford but Marco Silva will probably feel as though his side should be two for two.

They have a great opportunity to pick up another win against a Villa team that has looked ok in its return to the Premier League but is still looking for its first point of the season.

Everton’s attack is full of potential and they look like they should be able to overpower Villa if they all start to click, but they haven’t yet.

Rather than push for a bigger value play, it might be better just to stick with a straight up Everton win to be on the safe side.

Back Everton to Win @ $2.15

Norwich vs Chelsea
Saturday 24 August, 9:30pm, Carrow Road
Norwich 2 – Chelsea 3

https://youtu.be/xEfn1lQsj_A

As expected, Norwich are currently higher up the table than Chelsea, who didn’t see this coming?

Teemu Pukki is the talk of the Premier League after his hat-trick sunk Newcastle on the weekend and he’s definitely worth a look as a goal scorer bet here.

Norwich won’t go down without a fight but overall this does seem like the game where Chelsea picks up its first win of the season, even if they have to score a few goals.

SGM: Chelsea to Win, Teemu Pukki Anytime Goalscorer @ $6.36

Brighton And Hove Albion vs Southampton
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Amex Stadium
Brighton 0 – Southampton 2

Maybe it was a bit too soon to be writing Brighton off as certainties for relegation before a ball was even kicked.

A win and a draw from their first two games has exceeded expectations and they should be able to get the better of Southampton at home this weekend.

It would be their first win over Southampton in five meetings, losing twice and drawing three times in the last two seasons, including a League Cup tie in that time.

The Saints haven’t looked all that sharp but did put a scare through Liverpool last weekend.

Here though, it’s time to put a bit of faith in Brighton and back them outright.

Back Brighton to Win @ $2.15

Manchester United vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 1 – Crystal Palace 2

Palace were able to hold Everton to an unlikely draw in their opening match but went down to Sheffield last weekend and you’d be hard pressed to find someone inspired by their showings so far.

As for United, well they put Chelsea to the sword and thanks to a saved penalty, dropped two points away to Wolves.

It’s reasonable to expect a response here and an early goal for United could open the game up in a big way.

Palace don’t have the firepower to match it with United so if they need to chase a deficit it could see the likes of Rashford have a plethora of chances.

Because of that I’ll back United in the HT/FT double with over 2.5 goals thanks to a late surge and Rashford to score for the same game multi.

SGM: United Halftime/Fulltime, Over 2.5 Goals, Rashford Anytime Goalscorer @ $5.07

Sheffield United vs Leicester
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Bramall Lane
Sheffield 1 – Leicester 2

It hasn’t quite clicked for Leicester in the opening fortnight with a pair of draws that they probably would have taken at the start of the season.

That being said, their performances in both of those games haven’t quite lived up to preseason expectations yet but they do feel like a side that is primed to go off at some point in the near future.

Sheffield won’t be an easy out though, the Blades have been able to celebrate their first Premier League win in over 12 years.

Leicester beat Sheffield in an FA Cup clash back in February 2018 in a low scoring encounter and this game should follow a similar pattern here.

SGM: Leicester to Win, Under 3.5 Goals, Jamie Vardy Anytime Goalscorer @ $6.35

Watford vs West Ham
Sunday 25 August, 12:00am, Vicarage Road
Watford 1 – West Ham 3

Nobody expected Watford to be the worst team in the Premier League through two weeks, but here we are.

West Ham’s start hasn’t been ideal either, getting crushed by City and then being held by Brighton in a minor upset.

Since both sides returned to the Premier League, this has been a pretty even fixture with four Watford wins, three West Ham wins and a draw.

If you had to give one side an edge it would probably be West Ham but with the form shown by both teams it’s hard to see either side being able to take control of this one and come away with a win.

Back the Draw @ $3.50

Liverpool vs Arsenal
Sunday 25 August, 2:30am, Anfield
Liverpool 3 – Arsenal 1

https://youtu.be/XtITTHuFunE

This is undoubtedly the match of the round as the only two sides to get their seasons off to perfect starts face off here.

While Gunners fans will all remember winning the league at Anfield in 89, they’ll also want to forget all of recent thrashings they have been subjected to at this venue.

Back in December, Liverpool ran riot thanks to a Firmino hat-trick with the final score being 5-1.

Arsenal’s last win at this venue came in 2012 and it would take a massive overhaul to see that change this weekend.

The Reds should win this one but for some proper value you’ll have to go for a Same Game Multi.

Both Teams to Score has hit in six of the last seven meetings and Arsenal have scored in 24 of their last 27 against Liverpool so chances are they will at least get one.

It’s also worth backing a Liverpool anytime goalscorer and with eight from his last seven against the Gunners, take Roberto Firmino, although Mane and Salah are worth a look in as well.

SGM: Liverpool to Win, Both Teams to Score, Roberto Firmino Anytime Goalscorer @ $5.51

Bournemouth vs Manchester City
Sunday 25 August, 11:00pm, Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth 1 – Manchester City 3

Just over 20 years ago these two sides played out a scoreless draw in a Division Two matchup in a season that would end with City being promoted through the playoffs, and Bournemouth finishing in seventh.

That would also be the last time Bournemouth took a point off a City side which, thanks to significant off field investment we all know about, has become a juggernaut in England now.

Since Bournemouth was promoted to the Premier League in the middle of 2015, they have lost all eight meetings with City, scoring a grand total of four goals in that time and being held scoreless in half of those games.

Naturally with a game that will probably be a mismatch, you have to get a bit creative with a Same Game Multi so we’ll start with a City Halftime/Fulltime double and also back the negative in the both teams to score market.

SGM: City HT/FT, Both Teams to Score (No) @ $2.62

Tottenham vs Newcastle
Monday 26 August, 1:30am, Tottenham Stadium
Tottenham 0 – Newcastle 1

We’re going to repeat the City mutli for Tottenham in this game as they take on a Newcastle side that could be destined for relegation in about eight months.

The Magpies had to settle for a consolation goal in their most recent loss to Norwich to leave Palace and Watford as the only goalless Premier League teams to this point.

While the last two home games for Spurs against Newcastle have been decided by a second half goal, you have to think that with the confidence gained from their comeback win in the first game and the fortunate draw against City should help them off to a fast start and a comfortable win with a clean sheet.

SGM: Tottenham HT/FT, Both Teams to Score (No) @ $2.49

Wolverhampton vs Burnley
Monday 26 August, 1:30am, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 1 – Burnley 1

Which Burnley is going to show up for this game?

Is it the one that ripped Southampton to shreds or the one that couldn’t get by Arsenal?

Either one is possible but whichever side does show up could take advantage of a Wolves side already pulling double duty with Europa League qualifiers sending them to Turin on Friday morning.

Even with the maximum available rest before this game it’s hard to see Wolves firing on all cylinders here and Burnley could frustrate them into another draw.

Back the Draw @ $3.25


2018/2019

Two weeks into the Premier League season and what have we learned so far?

As expected Manchester City are still the standard bearers for all English clubs, but there are plenty of teams that would love to take the mantle as English Champions.

With 36 games still to go, these lessons will undoubtedly change but for the time being we can look forward to another excellent week of fixtures starting with the champions visiting Wolverhamton to start off the weekend.

Their local rivals Manchester United have the final match Tuesday morning (AEST) when they face fellow top four contenders Tottenham in a game that even the neutrals will be excited about.

Our complete English Premier League Week 3 tips can be found below.

Wolverhampton vs Manchester City
Saturday 25 August, 9:30pm, Molineux Stadium
Wolves 1 – Manchester City 1

Despite assembling a talent filled squad, Wolves are still looking for their first Premier League win of the season in the early game this Saturday.

Manchester City, on the other hand, have done pretty much what was expected of them; they won at Arsenal before they demolished Huddersfield.

Their away form last season was impeccable, dropping points on just three occasions, and when you add in their opener against Arsenal this season, they have produced a phenomenal 47 goals for compared to just 13 against.

It looms as a monumental task for Wolves to get something from this game, even at home.

With that in mind look for City to get on top early and go on with the job picking up another three points and continuing their perfect start to the season.

Back Manchester City to Win Both Halves @ $2.60

SGM: City Win, Aguero First Goalscorer and Over 2.5 Goals

Arsenal vs West Ham
Sunday 26 August, 12:00am, Emirates Stadium
Arsenal 3 – West Ham 1

With all due respect to West Ham, Arsenal will be very happy they are not facing a potential title challenger this weekend after their back-to-back losses to start the season.

Their opponents have not had a great start to the season themselves, with a big loss at Liverpool followed up with a disappointing defeat at home to Bournemouth.

In all competitions they have won six of the past seven meetings with West Ham at the Emirates Stadium, including a 4-1 demolition job last April.

Arsenal still have plenty of defensive issues to work out so expect a goal or two from both sides but the Gunners should be able to get the win here.

Back Arsenal to Win and Both Teams to Score @ $2.70

SGM: Arsenal Halftime/Fulltime Double, Both Teams to Score and Lacazette Anytime Goalscorer

Bournemouth vs Everton
Sunday 26 August, 12:00am, Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth 2 – Everton 2

Bournemouth are one of six sides to get off to a perfect start in the opening two rounds; with wins over Cardiff and West Ham.

Everton picked up their first win against Southampton this weekend and will look to make it two here.

In the last two seasons, these sides have split their meetings and the home side have take the honours on all four occasions.

Draws have not been all that common in the first two weekends of the Premier League but in this case, it comes across as the most likely result.

Back the Draw @ $3.40

SGM: Both Teams to Score, Richarlison Anytime Goalscorer, Over 3.5 Goals

Huddersfield Town vs Cardiff
Sunday 26 August, 12:00am, John Smith’s Stadium
Huddersfield 0 – Cardiff 0

It is safe to say that Huddersfield will be thinking last weekend could have gone better for them after they were on the receiving end of a convincing 6-1 defeat against Manchester City.

Cardiff are still looking for their first Premier League goal of the season, after their dour draw with Newcastle had some questioning whether or not they have the squad to stay up.

Neither side has a whole lot of attacking firepower but for two sides expected to be in the relegation battle, they know a goal or two here will be crucial to their survival hopes.

Huddersfield should be able to handle Cardiff here and win a low scoring contest.

Back Huddersfield to Win @ $2.30

SGM: Huddersfield Win, Under 2.5 Goals, One Team to Score

Southampton vs Leicester City
Sunday 26 August, 12:00am, St Mary’s Stadium
Southampton 1 – Leicester 2

Last weekend’s victory came at a cost for Leicester, with Jamie Vardy picking up a red card, which means he will miss this weekend’s fixture against Southampton.

Recent history has favoured Leicester in this fixture with three wins and three draws from their last seven meetings.

While these games at St Mary’s have featured plenty of goals, this one should be a lower scoring affair with both sides somewhat limited in attack and a lone goal should be enough for Leicester.

Back Leicester to Win @ $3.20

SGM: Leicester Win, Under 2.5 Goals, Ihenacho Anytime Goalscorer

Liverpool vs Brighton And Hove Albion
Sunday 26 August, 2:30am, Anfield
Liverpool 1 – Brighton 0

Two wins, six goals scored and none conceded as Liverpool are off to an excellent start to their Premier League campaign.

Brighton will hold no fears over playing Liverpool as they are coming off a huge upset win over Manchester United and would love to make it two from two.

Based on last season that will be a tall task; with Liverpool winning by four goals on both occasions.

There is no reason to expect anything different here with an expectant Kop ready to celebrate another big win.

Back Liverpool to Win to Nil @ 1.87

SGM: Liverpool Win, Over 3.5 Goals, Salah First Goalscorer

Watford vs Crystal Palace
Sunday 26 August, 10:30pm, Vicarage Road
Watford 2 – Crystal Palace 1

Another side off to a perfect two for two start are Watford, who impressed early last season as well.

They have built their success on strong starts to the second half; with three of their five goals coming in the ten minutes after half time.

Crystal Palace have only lost to Watford once in the Premier League in six meetings; with last season’s meeting at Vicarage Road ending in a scoreless draw.

It has been a long time since these teams had a high scoring fixture between them, but the attacking potential on both sides should see both of them on the scoreboard and the class of Watford prevailing in the end.

Back Watford to Win @ $2.40

SGM: Watford to Win, Both Teams to Score, Over 3.5 Goals

Fulham vs Burnley
Monday 27 August, 1:00am, Craven Cottage
Fulham 4 – Burnley 2

Fulham were something well below inspiring in their loss last weekend and are looking like the promoted side struggling to adapt to the Premier League the most.

Burnley are not faring much better, with a draw and a loss on their ledger so far, and they are still trying to recapture the magic of last season.

Both sides should be able to get on the scoreboard in this game, but it is too hard to split these teams.

Back the Draw @ $3.20

SGM: First Half Highest Scoring Half, Total Goals (Even), Both Teams to Score

Newcastle vs Chelsea
Monday 27 August, 1:00am, St James’ Park
Newcastle 1 – Chelsea 2

Two for two for Chelsea so far, with three goals scored in each outing, but they received a real scare from Arsenal after blowing a 2-0 lead.

Newcastle, on the other hand, were in possibly the least entertaining game of the season so far, a scoreless draw against Cardiff, following their opening day loss to Tottenham.

When these sides met back in May, it was Newcastle that came away with the victory, but it should be noted that Chelsea had one and possibly both eyes on the looming FA Cup Final in that case.

St James’ Park has been a bit of a house of horrors for Chelsea lately however with Newcastle winning four of the last five meetings there with the other encounter ending in a draw.

With how they have looked so far this season, adding to that streak seems unlikely and it is more likely for Newcastle to come away with a victory.

Back Chelsea to Win @ $1.67

SGM: Chelsea to Win, Morata Anytime Goalscorer, Over 2.5 Goals

Manchester United vs Tottenham
Tuesday 28 August, 5:00am, Old Trafford
Manchester United 0 – Tottenham 3

The Premier League round closes out with the biggest match on the card as Manchester United face-off against Tottenham at Old Trafford.

United will be very eager to move on from their hugely disappointing loss to Brighton last weekend, while Tottenham’s Harry Kane finally broke his August goalscoring drought in a victory over Fulham.

Dating back to 2015, this fixture has been won by the home team with United winning all four matches at Old Trafford and Tottenham winning at White Hart Lane/Wembley.

This has the potential to be a high scoring affair, with the both teams to score market coming through in both matches for these sides so far.

Look for Manchester United to have to rely on the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Romelu Lukaku to win this one.

Back Manchester United to Win @ $2.55

SGM: Manchester United to Win, Over 3.5 Goals, Both Teams to Score


2017/2018

It has been an exciting start to the 2017/2018 English Premier League season and there are a number of big games this weekend.

Manchester United have been nothing short of flawless in the opening two weeks of the season, but they face their toughest assignment of the season to date against Leicester City before Liverpool host Arsenal in the game of the weekend.

We have made a very strong start to the season and we are confident that the winners will continue to flow, so don’t miss our complete 2017/2018 English Premier League week three tips below.

Bournemouth vs Manchester City
Saturday 26 August, 9:30pm, Goldsands Stadium

Manchester City are one of the shortest-priced favourites in the English Premier League this weekend.

Everton once again proved to be something of a bogey side for Manchester City and it is fair to say that they were lucky to come away with a point.

Manchester City have won 11 of their past 16 games as away favourites for a small loss, but when they did win it was generally fairly comfortable.

It has been a tough start to the season for Bournemouth and they are staring down the barrel of a third straight defeat.

Bournemouth did win two of their seven games as home underdogs last season for a profit, but they really did struggle against the best sides in the competition.

This is a game that Manchester City really should win comfortably and they look like a safe bet to cover the line.

Back Manchester City To Beat The Line (-1 Goal) @ $1.83

Chelsea vs Everton
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Stamford Bridge

It has been a mixed start to the season for Chelsea, but they will still go into this clash with Everton as clear favourites.

Opening day was an absolute nightmare for Chelsea when they lost to Burnley, but they got their title defence back on track with an upset win over Tottenham.

Chelsea were nothing short of outstanding as home favourites last season and they have won 16 of their past 19 games in this scenario for a clear profit.

Everton played some excellent football against Manchester City last weekend and it will be interesting to see whether they can back that performance up against another top-six side.

Winning away from home has been an issue for Everton and they have won only one of their past ten games as away underdogs for a clear loss.

Chelsea should be able to control this game from the outset and the $2.25 for the Half Time/ Full Time double really does appeal.

Back Chelsea/Chelsea Half Time/Full Time Double @ $2.25

Crystal Palace vs Swansea City
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace have lost both their games so far this season, but they still go into this clash with Swansea City as clear favourites.

It was an improved performance from Crystal Palace against Liverpool and they did have their chances, but were unable to come away with anything.

They were unable to turn Selhurst Park into a fortress last season and they have won only four of their past 11 games as home favourites for a clear loss.

Swansea City were no match for Manchester United last weekend, but they did not play as poorly as the scoreline suggests.

Their record away from home last season was poor and they have won only two of their past 18 games as away underdogs for a clear loss.

Neither of these teams have scored a goal this season to date, but that looks set to change this weekend and they played two fairly high-scoring games last season against each other.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ $2.15

Huddersfield Town vs Southampton
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, John Smith’s Stadium

Huddersfield Town have made a perfect start to their time in the English Premier League, but it is Southampton that will start this clash as favourites.

Southampton claimed their first win of the season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over West Ham and they played some nice football in the process.

The Saints were able to win six of their 11 games as away favourites last season for a profit and they were a reliable betting play on the road.

Aaron Mooy and this Huddersfield Town have been a revelation in the early stages of the English Premier League season and a stunning goal from the Aussie saw them beat Newcastle United last weekend.

The question is whether they can maintain that sort of form and based on their inconsistency in the Championship last season the answer to that question is probably no, but it is tough to take them on.

This is a game that the market looks to have got just about right and I am more than happy to stay out from a betting perspective.

No Bet

Newcastle United vs West Ham United
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, St James’ Park

This is a big game for both these sides that have started the season with back-to-back defeats.

Newcastle United are yet to score a goal in their English Premier League return, but they will still go into this clash as favourites.

St James’ Park was not really a fortress for Newcastle United last season and their record at home was not much better than their record on the road.

West Ham were a touch unlucky not to take at least a point from their clash with Southampton last weekend and it was definitely an improvement on their first-up performance against Manchester United.

West Ham were able to win five of their 18 games as away underdogs for a profit last season and they really do appeal at their current price of $3.

Back West Ham To Win @ $3

Watford vs Brighton And Hove Albion
Sunday 27 August, 12:00am, Vicarage Road

Watford have made a very promising start to the English Premier League season and they will start this clash with Brighton as clear favourites.

The Hornets were nothing short of dominant against Bournemouth and that performance came on the back of a strong effort against Liverpool.

Watford lost only one game as home favourites last season and they won six of their games in this scenario for a clear profit.

It has been a tricky start to the season for Brighton and they were outclassed by both Manchester City and Leicester City.

Watford are not on the same level, but they are still playing some excellent football and Brighton do look as though they will continue to struggle.

Back Watford To Win @ $1.87

Manchester United vs Leicester City
Sunday 27 August, 2:30am, Old Trafford

Manchester United have been simply outstanding in the opening two weeks of the season, but they face their toughest test to date against Leicester City.

A pair of 4-0 wins have the fans very optimistic at Old Trafford and the fact that they beat Leicester City on two occasions last season mean that they will start this clash as dominant favourites.

Manchester United have obviously been impressive so far this season, but it is tough to forget how reliable they were as home favourites last season – they drew ten and won only seven of their 18 games in this scenario last season.

Leicester City produced a professional performance against Brighton to take the three points and they showed the week earlier against Arsenal that they are still capable of competing against the best sides in the competition.

One of the major problems for Leicester City last season was their extremely poor form away from home and they have won only one of their past 14 games as away underdogs.

Manchester United are the team to beat, but I can’t back them at their current price and this is a clash that I am keen to stay out of.

No Bet

West Bromwich Albion vs Stoke City
Sunday 27 August, 10:30pm, The Hawthorns

West Bromwich Albion have made a strong start to the English Premier League season and they will start this clash with Stoke City as clear favourites.

West Bromwich have won four of their past five games against Stoke City and they have been one of the most reliable betting teams in the competition as home favourites – they have won eight of their past ten games in this scenario.

Stoke City produced a vintage performance to record an upset win over Arsenal last weekend and they have gone back to the defence toughness that they have prided themselves on in the modern era.

The big issue for Stoke City has been winning away from home and they have won only two of their past 17 games as away underdogs for a clear loss in this scenario.

Backing West Bromwich Albion to win at home has been a very profitable betting play and there is no reason to jump off this weekend.

Back West Bromwich Albion To Win @ $2.30

Liverpool vs Arsenal
Monday 28 August, 1:00am, Anfield

This is the biggest game of the weekend and it is Liverpool that will start this clash as favourites.

Liverpool were far from convincing against Crystal Palace last weekend, but they were still able to come away with the three points and they thrived in these sort of games last season.

They beat Arsenal in two very high-scoring affairs last season and it has been a long time since Arsenal were able to win a game at Anfield.

Arsenal produced a truly uninspiring effort against Stoke City last weekend and it really is tough to back them with any confidence on the back of that performance.

The Gunners failed to win a single game as away underdogs last season and salvaged just the one draw in this scenario.

Scoring goals is generally not a problem for either of these sides and this looks set to be another goalfest, but Liverpool should still prove too strong.

Back Liverpool To Win And Both Teams To Score @ $3.50

Tottenham Hotspur vs Burnley
Monday 28 August, 1:00am, Wembley

Tottenham Hotspur are the shortest-priced favourites in the English Premier League this weekend and may never have a better chance to put their Wembley hoodoo behind them.

Tottenham were disappointing against Chelsea last weekend – in a game that they were expected to win – but they are not a team that strings poor performances back-to-back.

They did not lose games like this one last season – they won 15 of their 17 games as home favourites for a big profit – but that was at White Hart Lane.

Burnley stunned Chelsea in their opening game of the English Premier League season, but they were fairly flat against West Bromwich Albion last weekend.

They have already equaled the number of games that they won away from home last season and they have now won two of their past 19 games as away underdogs.

This is a match that Tottenham really should win comfortably and the $1.85 for them to win to nil really does appeal.

Back Tottenham To Win To Nil @ $1.85


2016/2017

The three teams that have been promoted to the English Premier League for the 2016/2017 season face a very stiff challenge this weekend.

Hull City host Manchester United at KC Stadium and Burnley face the might of Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, while Middlesbrough head to the Hawthorns for what is always a tricky clash with West Bromwich Albion.

Tottenham Hotspur host Liverpool in what is arguably the match of the round, while Leicester City are in action against Swansea.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Liverpool
Saturday 27 August, 9:30pm, White Hart Lane
Tottenham 1 - Liverpool 1

This is arguably the biggest game of the weekend and it will be a good test of where both these teams stand at this stage of the season.

Tottenham scored their first win of their English Premier League campaign over Crystal Palace last weekend and they are set to start this game as narrow favourites.

Tottenham are 10-5-3 as home favourites over the past 12 months for a loss, but they have shown over this time period that they are able to string wins together and are 12-6-1 on the back of a victory.

Liverpool were outstanding in the opening week of the season against Arsenal, but they were unable to breakdown a very game Burnley last weekend and suffered a shock defeat.

The Reds played six game as away underdogs last season and finished with three victories and suffered just the one defeat for a very healthy profit.

There is not as much between these two teams as the current betting market suggests and I am happy to back Liverpool at their current quote of $3.

Back Liverpool To Win @ $3

Watford vs Arsenal
Sunday 28 August, 12:00am, Vicarage Road
Watford 1 - Arsenal 3

Arsenal are still chasing their first win of the 2016/2017 English Premier League season, but they will start this game as clear favourites.

Arsenal played out a scoreless draw against Leicester City last weekend and they face a tricky away trip to Watford this weekend.

The Gunners were 7-5-3 as away favourites last season for a loss and the draw was generally the best betting play when they were on the road.

Watford conceded late to go down to Chelsea last weekend and they are another side still chasing their first victory of the season.

Last year they were absolutely no match for Arsenal and their record as home underdogs was very poor – they won just one of their nine games in this scenario.

Arsenal should really be able to score their first win of the season, but I can’t get them as short as their current price and I am happy to stay out of this game from a betting standpoint.

No Bet

Chelsea vs Burnley
Sunday 28 August, 12:00am, Stamford Bridge
Chelsea 3 - Burnley 0

Chelsea failed to beat Burnley the last time that the two sides played at Stamford Bridge, but they have not lost to Burnley in front of their home fans since 1971.

Chelsea made it two late winners from as many games against Watford last weekend and they are clear favourites to make it three wins on the trot.

It should come as no surprise that I am unwilling to back Chelsea at this price – they won just six of their 19 games as home favourites last season for a very big loss.

Burnley managed to absorb a great deal of pressure to get the three points against Liverpool last weekend – even though they had just 19 percent of possession.

Whether Burnley will be able to replicate that effort in back-to-back weeks against Chelsea is a big question mark, but when there is $3.75 available for the Double Chance it is definitely worth a gamble.

Chelsea may have two victories, but they haven’t looked overly impressive and I am happy to take them on again.

Back Burnley And Draw Double Chance @ $3.75

Leicester City vs Swansea City
Sunday 28 August, 12:00am, King Power Stadium
Leicester City 2 - Swansea City 1

It has not been a smooth start to Leicester City’s English Premier League title defence and they go into this clash with Swansea City without a win in the league.

Leicester City were good against Arsenal and a similar performance would likely be enough to see of Swansea City, with the Foxes set to start this clash as clear favourites.

Leicester City were simply outstanding as home favourites last season and they won nine of their 12 games in this scenario, while the other three games were draws.

Swansea City beat Burnley in their opening game of the season and – like Leicester City – went down to Hull City.

It is tough to know what to make of the Swansea City’s performance against Hull City and they are not the type of team that would generally trouble Leicester City – Leicester City won 3-0 and 4-0 last season.

This is an excellent opportunity for Leicester City to return to winning form and they are a good bet to get the job done.

Back Leicester City To Win @ $1.75

Crystal Palace vs Bournemouth
Sunday 28 August, 12:00am, Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace 1 - Bournemouth 1

Bournemouth beat Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park last year and Crystal Palace have not beaten their rivals since 1988 in the old Division 2.

Crystal Palace are yet to score a goal in the EPL this season after suffering 1-0 defeats at the hands of both West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham, but they will still go into this clash as favourites.

Selhurst Park has not been a particularly happy hunting ground for Crystal Palace in the past 12 months and they have won just five of their past 12 games as home favourites.

Bournemouth are also chasing their first win of the season after going down to both Manchester United and West Ham.

The Cherries were actually a profitable betting proposition as away underdogs last season, but they only won three of these games and they have not been overly impressive in the first two weeks of the season.

This is another clash that the market looks to have gotten just about right and this is another game that I am happy to stay out of from a betting standpoint.

No Bet

Everton vs Stoke City
Sunday 28 August, 12:00am, Goodison Park
Everton 1 - Stoke City 0

Everton and Stoke City played out a seven game thriller at Goodison Park last year with Stoke scoring an upset 4-3 victory, but it is Everton that will start this game as favourite.

Everton would be happy to have taken four games from their first two games of the season and they will fancy their chances in this clash.

The problem for Everton is that they have not been particularly impressive at Goodison Park in the past 12 months – they are 5-2-5 as home favourites over this period.

Stoke City were outclassed by Manchester City last weekend and Mark Hughes’ men definitely need to improve on both sides of the football.

Stoke have the reputation of saving their best football for Britannia Stadium, but they were nothing short of outstanding as home underdogs last season.

They won six games and drew four in this scenario and there is plenty of evidence to suggest that they will be able to come away with another upset victory this weekend.

Back Stoke City To Win @ $4.75

Southampton vs Sunderland
Sunday 28 August, 12:00am, St Mary's Stadium
Southampton 1 - Sunderland 1

Southampton are another team searching for their maiden win of the campaign that will start this weekend’s clashes as clear favourites.

Southampton were outclassed by an on-point Manchester United outfit last weekend and they still look like a side that is adjusting to the style of new manger Claude Puel.

The Saints have proven tough to beat at St Mary’s Stadium over the past 12 months and they are 9-4-2 as home favourites for a healthy profit.

Sunderland have made a scratchy start to the David Moyes era – they have shown some promising signs, but they lack creativity up front and have conceded a couple of soft goals to Middlesbrough.

Sunderland generally struggled as away underdogs last season and they have won just three of their past 18 games in this situation.

Southampton are very well-pleased to score their first win of the season and they are well-placed to do just that.

Back Southampton To Win @ $1.57

Hull City vs Manchester United
Sunday 28 August, 2:30am, KC Stadium
Hull City 0 - Manchester United 1

Hull City have made an outstanding start in their return to the English Premier League, but they face their toughest task to date against Manchester United.

Hull stunned Leicester City in the opening match of the season and they proved that was no fluke when they beat Swansea City.

They will go into this game as clear underdogs and this is a position in which they have thrived so far this season.

The Jose Mourinho era has got off to an excellent start at Manchester United and they have been a class above both Bournemouth and Southampton so far this season.

A repeat against Hull City looks likely, but it is tough to get them as short as their current quote of $1.42 – they won just five of their 14 games as away favourites last season.

In saying that, I would not be surprised if Manchester United put up a big score against Hull City this weekend and the $2 available for Over 2.5 goals is a good bet.

Back Over 2.5 Goals

West Bromwich Albion vs Middlesbrough
Sunday 28 August, 10:30am, The Hawthorns
West Bromwich Albion 0 - Middlesbrough 0

This is set to be one of the most interesting clashes of the weekend.

Middlesbrough recruited strongly after being promoted to the English Premier League and they have been rewarded with a strong start to the season.

They showed composure to breakdown Sunderland last weekend and a similar performance would probably be good enough to get past West Bromwich Albion this weekend.

West Brom started their season with a 1-0 victory away from home against Crystal Palace and they suffered a narrow defeat at the hands of Everton last weekend.

They will start this game as narrow favourites and that is not a position in which they have thrived in the past 12 months – they have won just two of their past seven games in this scenario.

I have been very impressed with what I have seen from Middlesbrough so far this season and they are a great bet to beat West Bromwich Albion this weekend.

Back Middlesbrough To Win @ $3

Manchester City vs West Ham
Monday 29 August, 1:00am, Etihad Stadium
Manchester City 3 - West Ham United 1

Manchester City are the shortest-priced favourites of the weekend and they are expected to have little problems upstaging West Ham this weekend.

Manchester City were excellent against Stoke City last weekend, but it is fair to say that they will face a tougher challenge this weekend.

They were one of a number of the leading teams in the English Premier League that struggled as home favourites last season, but they were still able to win 12 of their 19 games in this situation.

West Ham left it late against Bournemouth, but they were still able to find the goal that delivered them a win in their first game at the Olympic Stadium.

The Hammers were one of the best betting teams in the entire English Premier League last season and they finished the year with five wins and six draws from their 16 games in this situation.

Manchester City are criminally under the odds at their current quote of $1.29 and the $3.60 available for the West Ham and Draw double chance is simply outstanding value.

Back West Ham And Draw @ $3.60