Error-prone Arsenal to give Stoke a chance

 

As the Premier League fixtures come round thicker than a five-dollar shake, Christian Crowther uses the Opta stats to offer up more golden tips...

 

Arsenal v Stoke (Saturday, 15:00)

Arsenal have made more errors leading directly to a goal than any other team in the Premier League this season (12)

Anyone who caught the highlights of Arsenal's midweek clash with Liverpool would have witnessed one of the most calamitous opening goals of the season at the Emirates. Firstly Bacary Sagna's ill-timed slip allowed Glen Johnson to get in a cross, before Thomas Vermaelen's air shot found its way to Daniel Sturridge. Sturridge's blocked shot then received another miscued attempt at a clearance before Luis Suarez gratefully swept home. With defending like this, it's no surprise the Gunners have kept one clean sheet in nine games.

Recommended Bet: Back both teams to score @ 1.98

 

Newcastle v Chelsea (Saturday, 15:00)

Chelsea have scored the first goal of the game on more occasions than any other Premier League side this season (16)

The long trip to the north east should give Rafa Benitez and his players plenty of time to perform an autopsy on their last-gasp capitulation at Reading. If Chelsea's boss is looking for shreds of comfort then his side's ability to at least get into winning positions should provide some reassurance. As they did against the Royals, Chelsea have notched their first goal within five minutes either side of the break in their two previous Premier League road trips. The Blues carry a great record at St James' Park too, unbeaten in five, including three victories.

Recommended Bet: Back the first goal to be between 41-50 minutes @ 10.0

 

Reading v Sunderland (Saturday, 15:00)

Each of Reading's last four Premier League games have gone over 2.5 goals

Reading's comebacks in recent weeks have not only earned much admiration, they have also lifted them out of the relegation zone for the first time since November ahead of Sunderland's visit. Of course, the main feature of all those great escapes has been goal-filled scorelines, with each one of their last six games in all competitions breaching the 2.5 goals mark and five of those topping the 3.5 line. Not to be outdone, six of the Mackems' last seven away league games have produced more than 2.5 goals also.

Recommended Bet: Back over 2.5 goals @ 2.06

 

Wigan v Southampton (Saturday, 15:00)

Southampton mustered 20 shots (including blocked) in their match at Manchester United in midweek, the highest total by an away team there this season

It's not often that Sir Alex Ferguson heaps praise on opposing teams at Old Trafford, but then again Manchester United still won. Southampton really were the better side against United, pressing the Red Devils high up the pitch from the first minute to the last. Those Saints fans still harbouring bitterness towards the new manager's appointment will quickly move on if Mauricio Pochettino's side continue to play in this matter. Wigan should make generous hosts, as the Latics haven't won a game at home since November in any compettion, and have only won two all season.

Recommended Bet: Back Southampton to win @ 3.55

 

Bet HERE

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