Opta Stats: Swansea to finish fine season on a high

17May 2013

England - Premier League

As the curtain falls on another Premier League season, Christian Crowther picks out his last four Opta-related bets to accompany Sunday's action...

Chelsea v Everton (Sunday, 16:00)

Six of the last 12 Premier League meetings between these two sides have ended in a draw, with Everton and Chelsea securing three wins apiece

Having just slotted in the missing piece of their trophy cabinet puzzle on Wednesday, the Europa League champions have the small matter of securing third place to take care of. However, that will not be an easy task against an Everton side in great form, having lost just once in 10 league games, winning six of those. The Toffees were irresistible at times against West Ham and can take advantage of Chelsea's tired limbs by grabbing a point.

Recommended Bet: Back the draw @ 4.1

Southampton v Stoke (Sunday, 16:00)

The last three league meetings between Southampton and Stoke have seen 16 goals scored; an average of 5.3 goals a game

This could be the last time we see either manager in charge of their respective clubs, if rumours are to be believed. Mauricio Pochettino did not even have the reins last time they crossed swords back in December, when the reverse fixture produced a 3-3 draw, though the Argentine would have been most upset to see Saints throw away a two-goal lead. Despite neither side being overly prolific of late, this is just one of those fixtures which produces goals.

Swansea v Fulham (Sunday, 16:00)

Swansea have won each of their previous three Premier League meetings with Fulham

Swansea will be pleased as punch to have put that long winless streak behind them with victory over Wigan two games back. They now entertain a Fulham side desperate for the fat lady to sing having lost their last five league matches ahead of this trip to Wales. Spurred on by their home support, Swansea should be able to extend their last-day league winning streak to three in a row against struggling visitors.

Best Bet: Back Swansea to win @ 1.88

West Brom v Manchester United (Sunday, 16:00)

Only Chelsea (33) have scored more Premier League goals against West Brom than Manchester United (32)

It would be unfathomable for Sir Alex Ferguson to finish the most glorious reign since Queen Victoria on a whimper. The ruler of Old Trafford will simply not allow it. Though West Brom have forged their best ever Premier League points haul, they have had no answer to United, losing nine of the last ten meetings. In each of the last five encounters, the Red Devils have registered exactly two goals against the Baggies.