Swans to heap misery on Lambert

1Jan 2013

Premier League

Jonno Turner aims to kick off the new year in style with two selections from a packed domestic calendar today.

We're off to South Wales for our first pick of the day - as Swansea host Aston Villa at the Liberty Stadium, looking to make it 11 unbeaten from 13 outings.

Michael Laudrup's side have lost just one of their last eight on their own patch, and that leaves them sitting in 10th place in the Premier League.

A 2-1 win at Fulham last time out will have boosted confidence in the Swans camp, and three without a loss going into this game will be a run which the hosts want to continue.

Aston Villa take to the M5 having endured a nightmare couple of weeks - and will be desperate to arrest that slump here.

Paul Lambert's side looked to have turned the corner with a 3-1 win at Anfield in mid December - but have capitulated in their three clashes since, shipping 15 goals and scoring none.

That poor form came to a head as they were dismantled in a 3-0 home defeat by Wigan at the weekend, and the visiting boss will be under pressure to oversee a turnaround in fortunes - and quick.

Swansea are unbeaten in three of their last four meetings with Villa, and I can't see past them for the three points today.

Bet 1: Swansea (HOME) @ 1.65

Dropping a couple of divisions now, to League One, and table toppers Tranmere Rovers travel to an out of sorts Bury side, aiming to extend their lead at the summit.

Two wins on the trot will be just what away boss Ronnie Moore wanted over the busy festive period, and he will be keen to ensure that his side stay focused on this clash - with a massive FA Cup third round clash with Derby County around the corner.

And the Wirral side are unbeaten in 10 of their last 12 away from Prenton Park - and that stands them in good stead to secure a positive result here.

Hosts Bury have struggled all campaign, and go into this game sitting deep in the relegation places.

Boss Kevin Blackwell has not seen his side win in nine outings, and that will have knocked confidence in the home camp.

The Shakers have lost two of their last three at Gigg Lane, and have not kept a clean sheet in five outings at home - showing defensive weaknesses which I think could play a major part in the outcome of this encounter.

Bet 2: Tranmere Rovers (AWAY) @ 2.66