Its fifteen games into the season and the games are approaching us thick and fast. Title races have already been decided, managers have been sacked and we are just a month away from the transfer window opening and showering the riches of the EPL with late Christmas gifts. But till then, here is the preview of this weekends important fixtures
West Ham United vs. Chelsea
Its the third game in charge of Chelsea for Rafael Benitez and he hasnt scored a goal yet. Although they havent conceded a goal yet, this is not the sort of football that Roman Abramovich would expect especially after signing Eden Hazard and Oscar. Fernando Torres seems to have forgotten what it is to be a striker and Chelsea fans hope that Benitez can somehow spark that fire that made him the worlds best striker three years back.
West Ham, even after being promoted after relegation has been no muck this season. They have been very well organized at the back and possess an excellent home form this season. The defence has been well organized just like most Sam Allardyce teams and are very physical. Add to this the experience of Kevin Nolan, the work rate of Mark Noble and the physicality of Andy Carroll; it seems that they can give most teams a run for their money.
Prediction: West Ham 0-0 Chelsea. Probably a dull, drab draw.
Manchester City vs. Everton
This is probably the most exciting fixture of the weekend. Manchester City has not lost at the Etihad stadium for 35 games in a row and is currently unbeaten this season in the league. It seems that Roberto Mancini is finally getting his team to fire on all cylinders and that is starting to show with the last few performances. Now that they are out of the Champions League and other domestic competitions, they can completely focus on the league and this is showing in their performances. David Silvas return and his freshness have proved a big turning point and this may be the start of something special.
Everton has been the most exciting team this season. The left wing combo of Leighton Baines and Steven Pienaar has been by far the best in the league this season. Added to that the height and skill of Marouane Fellaini and the predatory instincts of Nikica Jelavic, you have a great team that can give any team a run for their money. If you want to see some goals or end to end football, you better watch this game.
Prediction: City 2-3 Everton. I think Everton have just enough firepower to nick this game. City hasnt been convincing enough yet and may face a tough challenge.
Arsenal vs. Swansea
This is a very intriguing fixture in the sense that these are two teams that play the same style and will be really interesting to see who comes out on top. Arsenal has been really lackluster in their performance, lacking coherence, fluidity, pace and balance in attack. Santi Cazorla looks too tired and jaded and needs to be given a rest. This is not the Arsenal of the old. There is something missing in the squad.
Swansea probably chose the right time to play Arsenal. If they continue playing as they have till date, they can be assured of a safe and good win away from home. The loss of Pablo Hernandez may affect them a bit, but its nothing that Michael Laudrup cant fix.
Prediction: Swansea 2-0 Arsenal. Comfortable and good win for the Swanse-lona.
Other fixtures predictions:
Fulham vs. Tottenham Hotspur: Spurs to draw with Fulham 1-1. Probably a very cagey affair with Bale and Berbatov scoring for their teams.
Liverpool vs. Southampton: Liverpool to win it 3-0. I honestly cant see any other way this game will turn out. Luis Suarez will probably bag a brace in this game.
Reading vs. Manchester United: Manchester United to win the game 3-1. Reading will score a goal but Manchester United will blow them away completely with sheer attacking prowess.
Newcastle United vs. Wigan: Newcastle and Wigan to draw the game 2-2. With Yohan Cabayes loss, Newcastle dont seem to have any creativity in midfield but the Senegalese strikers always seem to find the net. Wigan has passed the ball really well and somehow seems to find the odd goal somewhere. A fascinating game to watch.
On the whole, be prepared for some scintillating football on Saturday and sit back, relax and enjoy!