Home side goes into this game after impressive derby win on Trafford and they're clear favorites against Villa. Today's win will push them on second place with just one point behind Man.Utd.. The fact that calls on caution is their very unpredictable results this season. When everybody expected from Reds to go for title, they started with loosing points. And after that they demolished two maybe biggest European clubs, scoring four both times! Rafa has finally signed the new contract and that looks releasing for himself, but also for players and fans. The big thing is Gerrard and Torres are fully fit. Bad news are Arbeloa, Agger, Degen and Xabi Alonso are all out and Benayoun is in doubt. But same players crushed United.
The most of the season, Villa played excellent. But current run of results threaten to crush all effort. It looks like players can not handle the pressure of great expectations. Shocking defeat against Tottenham (1:2 at home) was a big hit for the club. The big gap between them and Arsenal are vanished. Still isn't too late for Champions League, but they need to wake up immediately (hmm, today?). Against Spurs, fans protested against Agbonlahor's recent performances and O’Neill will probably leave him on the bench. Heskey and Carew are expected in attack. Many problems in defence. Cuellar, Laursen, Sidwell and Bouma are all out.
Both sides have big motives for win, tittle and Champions League. Odd for home win is to low for consideration. Maybe it is wiser to sit back, enjoy in footie and give up from betting, but I really expect open game from the first whistle. Heskey and Carew can score at least once, at the same time wounded defence will fight with Torres and the lads. So, my conclusion (and bet) is over, with very good odd (2.05 at 888.com).
