Saturday, November 29, 2008

DRAWING TOWARDS HALF TIME ...........

ASTON VILLA - FULHAM

Some 45% of Premiership games this season are draws at half time, which equates to odds of 2.20, anything offered above that quote is worth a second look, especially one involving two well organised teams, that are very difficult to break down. Liverpool could not find a way past the Fulham back line last week and it is not surprising, they have gone in at the break 0-0, in all six of their league starts this season. Hosts have played seven league games at Villa Park and led at the break in one of them, going in level in the other six. We have two "thinking" coaches, who are happy to see keep things tight, see how the match is developing and make changes as the game progresses, so these stats make sense.

It is no coincidence that these clubs have two vastly experienced keepers in Brad Friedel and Mark Schwarzer, with some 5-600 appearances in the top flight ( I can't be bothered to count them) between them. Friedel will definitely be looking for a clean sheet, on the day he passes David James record of most consecutive Premier League appearances.

At the odds on offer, I see terrific value in this game following the established pattern.

5.5 points half time draw 2.20 + .........2.30 Bet 365 ..... 2.38 Betfair.

Back shortly.

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