Hull City V Arsenal

Saturday, 13^th March – 17:30 GMT

TV Coverage: ESPN

Hull City

League Position: 18th

Recent Form: DWLLL 

Not the ideal fixture to be taking three points out of but one the Tigers will do their utmost in to at least ensure it’s a competitive affair as they welcome title chasing Arsenal to the KC Stadium. With Hull occupying one of three relegation spots, any points would be handy in their cause to avoid the drop, but the Gunners not only beat them 3-1 in their last visit to Humberside but also stuck three pas them back at The Emirates just four months ago, with Hull failing to even reply in that clash. So, will Phil Brown have his Tigers fired up for the second encounter with the Gunners this season, or will they prove a toothless bunch once more?

Well, if their recent form of three successive defeats is anything at all to go by then the answer would be toothless. However, in Hull’s defence, all three were away fixtures; losing at Blackburn (1-0), West Ham (3-0) and more recently Everton (5-1), with the latter the most emphatic of the lot and coming at just the wrong time, just before they welcome an Arsenal team who scored five past Portuguese giants FC Porto in midweek. 

Right, with the ugly facts out of the way, we turn towards the prettier parts, much like Beauty & the Beast, with Hull clearly the beast I’m afraid, despite their recent vein of form back at home. In Hull’s defence, and they would need a strong lawyer to battle their case for three points this weekend, they are unbeaten in their last three at home, but, more importantly, they beat a Man City side 2-1 in their most recent home appearance – A City team who later went on to beat the current league leaders Chelsea in emphatic fashion.

Funnily enough, Hull have been partial to a bit of home resistance this season as back in October they went on a month long run without losing at home, going six games unbeaten at the KC. After avoiding defeat to Wolves (2-2), Chelsea (1-1) and Man City (2-1), Hull have not only gone three unbeaten at home and boosted their survival claims significantly, but they’ve also put together some surprisingly strong home form, with both Chelsea & Man City failing to beat Hull at the KC this month, so perhaps Hull are capable of adding another high-profile team to their shocker list.

Arsenal

League Position: 3rd

Recent Form: LWWWW

The Arsenal camp will be in buoyant mood after they surprised us all with their stunning efforts in the Champions League last-sixteen on Tuesday. Cesc Fabregas was ruled out of even featuring for the Gunners in midweek so to win in such an emphatic and domineering manner was sensational, and a credit to all involved in preparing the side for that big clash. Arsenal ran out more than comfortable winners in a 5-0 romp at the Emirates, becoming the very first English side to go into the draw for the quarter’s.

It’s back to the real business now though as Arsenal set their sights on another crucial victory on Saturday, this time the reward will be three huge points. Arsenal’s recent rich vein of form; winning their last four league games, has resulted in the Gunners being thrown straight back into this title equation, with Arenal now just two points off the pace set by Manchester United. In fact, victory on Saturday, what would be their fifth on the spin, could send the Gunners top of the league should Chelsea’s come a cropper against their London rivals, West Ham. That doesn’t look likely though, so Arsenal might merely have to settle for a win that would keep the pressure firmly on Chelsea and Man Utd.

Arsene Wenger will be supremely confident of his teams chances as they have a good record against Hull of late, having won their last two clashes with the Tigers. Moreover, while Hull have been struggling in front of goal, Arsenal have been creating chances a plenty, even if they haven’t exactly been as clinical as one might hope. They proved on Tuesday night though that this Arsenal side had goals in them so Hull could be their unlucky victim which they unleash their wrath on this weekend. Arsenal last couple of games have been more about battling qualities rather than outright skill and technical ability, with the Gunners having to win in an unfamiliar untidy manner of late. That should have been different however had they put away the majority of their chances, especially on Saturday against Burnley.

Arsenal were a team waiting to erupt after weeks of spurring chance after chance and only managing the odd few goals in games, which would be good for some but not for an Arsenal side who pride themselves on their forward prowess and ability to score goals. Porto were the side they unleashed their fury on but have they used it all up on the Portuguese side?

Match Verdict: Arsenal to WIN – 1.44 Boylesports

We’re going with the form book here, although that’s a bit misleading considering Hull haven’t lost at home in their previous three visits. Even so, Arsenal looked far too tasty to oppose after Tuesday’s demolition job of Porto. Moreover, Arsenal have been used to battling their way to results of late and should be battle hardened for their trip to Hull. The Tigers aren’t the most physical of sides but they do get in your face and close you down with some sharp tackles. However, Hull are also a team which get deflated pretty fast so a quick strike for the Gunners could be a huge blow as Hull aren’t renowned for their scintillating comebacks.

Arsenal for us as they aim to complete a hat-trick of wins against the Tigers, one that would keep them in the hunt for the Premier League crown and pile more pressure onto Manchester United who play 24 hours later.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 9.00 WilliamHill

Draw – 4.80 VCbet

Arsenal – 1.44 Boylesports

SoccerBetting Value Pick: Nicklas Bendtner anytime scorer – 2.38 StanJames

Everton V Hull City

Kick-Off: Sunday, 7^th March – 16:00 GMT

TV Coverage: Sky Sports 1

Everton

League Position: 10th

Recent Form: WLWWL

David Moyes has to do something he hasn’t done a whole lot of in recent weeks and that’s lift his Everton soldiers from the pits of despair after defeat. The Scotsman had seen his side go on a league boosting run, one which had seen Everton jump out of the relegation mixer and into European contention. However, with Everton not too familiar with that losing feeling of late, will they recover in time for the visit of Hull City in a fixture they just have to win if they do wish to maintain aspirations of European football for the following season.

Everton’s scintillating run of form came to an abrupt end when crashing to defeat at White Hart Lane last weekend. However, it was their second morale crushing defeat on the spine after previously losing in Portugal to Sporting Lisbon and evidentially exiting the Europa League as a direct result. It was clear for all to see last Sunday that the defeat in Portugal left a lasting scar on the Everton squad as they didn’t get out of the blocks at White Hart Lane, creating nothing at all and instead spending the entire first half on the back foot. They were derived of ideas when in possession while they were lacklustre and lackadaisical in defence, which deservedly led to Tottenham going in with a 2-0 lead at Half-Time.  

I’ve heard those men in kilts up North know how to rant and rave, with even the odd few mastering the art of boot throwing from what i Hear back at Old Trafford, but David Moyes must have given his players a whole-hearted rollicking at half-time because Everton stormed out of the blocks in the second period, actually maintaining possession of the ball for far longer and creating goalscoring chances as a result, with one leading to a goal from Yakubu. However, despite a valiant display in the second half half, Everton fell to just their second defeat in thirteen, but, however, that shouldn’t of been the case had Landon Donovan had stuck away the easiest of chances you’ll see all season – A potential miss of the season if I ever seen one.

It’s been a morale-sapping week or so for David Moyes and Everton but it’s down to the Scot to lift his players in time for a very easy home fixture with Hull City. Donovan’s blaring miss at White Hart Lane was the gooseberry on top of a very crude, rude and damn right distasteful cake. However, that disappointing week must be put to bed as there are bigger fish to fry now, starting with the arrival of Hull this weekend. After all, we mustn’t forget Everton do still have this seven match unbeaten streak at home to protect, and are also on the verge of making it six from six at Goodison Park. Which, were they to do so, would be their longest winning run at home since 2007, when Everton won their remaining five home games of the 2006-2007 season before winning their opener of the following season against Wigan Athletic.

Hull City

League Position: 18th

Recent Form: DDWLL

Phil Brown will be looking to capitalize on his opposite numbers recent misfortune by claiming at least some of the spoils at Goodison. However, Hull’s last visit to Goodison Park wasn’t a pleasant one when they lost 2-0 in a heated affair which produced seven yellows, to which Hull were on the receiving end of five of those. Will Brown’s berated Tigers fare better in the second exchange or will they will be over roared by the Evertonians once again? 

Hull’s drastic away record would indicate that only a case of the later will occur on Sunday as Hull look an almost certainty to fell to their fifteenth away defeat of the campaign. Whereas their opponents boast a five match winning run at home, Hull unwillingly put up a three match losing rut on the road. Defeats, all comprehensive, to Manchester United (4-0), Blackburn Rovers (1-0) and West Ham United (3-0) make Hull arguably the worst betting proposition I’ve seen for a long while. Not only that, but you would have to cast you memory way back March of last year for Hull’s last away league win; A 1-0 win at Fulham.

This Hull side are probably the worst away team in English football if the statistics are anything to by. In 33 away games – League Games – Hull have just five wins to their name. Moreover, they have won just one of their last 28 away games and haven’t won an away encounter in nearly one-and-a-half-years. You really can’t make this up and it’s no surprise to see Hull at such handsome odds to win on Saturday as they’ve shown next to signs this season that they will actually win an away affair.

To add to their away woes, their tally of just seven away goals is the worst in the Premiership, while their run of four away outings without a goal just compounds their misery. Why any respectable fan would travel to Merseyside on Saturday is anyone’s guess, but credit to those that do as it looks a lost cause if you ask us. However, they will at least be treated to a rare glimpse of Jimmy Bullard should he start for the first time in three months. His last real stint for Hull this season seen the club go on a prosperous run of four games unbeaten, picking up eight huge points. Moreover, he was at the heart of the side that beat Everton 3-2 back at The KC Stadium, so perhaps Bullard will be their lucky charm on Saturday, although we still feel their need a whole lot of Rabbit’s feet, half-a-dozen four-leafed clovers and an Irish pixie with plenty of magic dust… Heck, what about a Genie for good measure.

Match Verdict: Everton to WIN – 1.40 PaddyPower

We’ve set ourselves up for one mighty fall should Everton to succumb to their third defeat in relatively quick succession, but we don’t see that happening if truth be told. Hull are the worst away side we think we’ve ever seen brace the Premiership and look a shoo-in to go the remainder of the season without an away win. They are barely half-decent at The KC so I won’t crudely describe how I rate them away from home. Everton, however, have been superb at Goodison of late, winning their previous five in Liverpool. They will have to overcome a few bad results of course, but should they put their recent clips behind them, Everton will claim all three points in a fixture which could best be described as a ‘Three-Point-Banker’.

Match Odds:

Everton – 1.40 PaddyPower

Draw – 4.50 Boylesports

Hull City – 10.00 Bet365

SoccerBetting Value Pick: Everton to WIN to NIL – 2.39 BlueSquare

West Ham United V Hull City

Saturday, 20^th February – 15:00 GMT

West Ham United

League Position: 14th

Recent Form: DDDLW

West Ham gave their survival hopes a huge boost with victory over Birmingham City in their last outing, with that important win at Upton Park lifting West Ham out of the bottom three all the way up into 14th position. However, while that sounds great, there is just a point separating them from Burnley in 18th and defeat on Saturday would leave them vulnerable for a big slide back down the table. However, not only have they been blessed with another home fixture but it’s also against one of the poorest teams in the Premiership in Hull City, so West Ham stand a very good chance of making it two from two, what would be their first back-to-back league wins of the season. 

Goals from Diamanti, a stunningly precise free-kick, and Carlton Cole sealed a vital win over a tough opponent in Birmingham City, although it was a much needed win as West Ham hadn’t won a league game in their previous five attempts. Upton Park has been the revival setting for The Hammers of late, with Gianfranco Zola’s men going unbeaten in their last four league games at home, even managing a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the very beginning of this run. Wins, though, have been few and far between, but this does look one of their more easier remaining assignments and it’s one they cannot afford to fail in.  

West Ham should be too strong for a weak Hull City, especially now Carlton Cole is back in the Hammers fray after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. He marked his return with a goal against Birmingham and looks a certainty to start on Saturday as he aims to bolster his more than reasonable goal tally of eight goals in fifteen league starts. With Benni McCarthy and Franco both doubts head of the weekends game, Cole will be expected once again to grab the match winning goals as he aims to nail down a starting berth in the West Ham starting eleven, although we think he’s a certain to be a permanent starter regardless.

It’s important West Ham build up a decent run of form in the run up to the end of the season and they have the perfect opportunity to do just that with the visit of Hull on Saturday. A win would hand them just their first back-to-back league wins of the season, which doesn’t sound at all good when you think about it, but it would greatly enhance the confidence of the players and allow them to put a few points between them and the stragglers at the foot of the table. If they play with the same effort and endeavour like they did against Birmingham City then they should have no problems. However, West Ham have been prone to non-existent displays this season and we just hope it’s a case of the former and not the latter.

Hull City

League Position: 17th

Recent Form: LDDWL

Phil Brown takes his Tigers to London this week as Hull City prepare for their away clash with West Ham United. The Hammers are a team in close proximity to Hull City near the foot of the table which makes winning on Saturday doubly important, perhaps even a six-pointer encounter. A win for Hull would even see the them storm three points clear of their relegation and match day rivals, although, a bitter defeat at Upton Park could be costly as it could end with Hull spending the rest of the week in the bottom three.

This is a relegation six-pointer for Phil Brown & Hull City as it’s one of a few away games left where getting a result isn’t exactly out of the question. It will be a stiff ask considering West ham registered a vital win in their last league outing but it’s certainly do-able, although it will require plenty of hard work and commitment from the Tigers. Hull have shown plenty of that of late, a little too much some would say judging by their last league encounter away at Blackburn where they were reduced to 10 men early on when Boatang was sent off for a flailing elbow. It was a decision which later cost Hull any chance in the game as Hull soon became overpowered and very defence minded. However, before the Blackburn defeat Hull were on a three match unbeaten run after two draws and a win. Not the biggest of streaks for some but it’s huge for a small club like Hull who will do well to get their hands on any points in just about every remaining fixture between now and the end of the season.  

Phil Brown doesn’t have bags of quality in his corner but he does have plenty of hard-working individuals who have proven in recent games alone that they are up for the fight and that they can actually compete with the better teams on their day. Since the end of January, Hull have picked up some creditable results; drawing at home to Chelsea (1-1) and then beating Man City (2-1). Of course, both did come at The KC, home of Phil Brown’s Tigers, but they were colossal results for a team which looked doomed around Christmas team but has since risen from the dead to march out of the relegation zone.

However, their away form has been their Achilles heel, with Hull having every chance of going the entire season without an away win after playing thirteen away games without winning.They’ve also lost back-to-back away games after defeats at Manchester United & Blackburn Rovers and haven’t scored an away goal in roughly 230 minutes of away action. Moreover, their blunt attacking line, one which has failed to score in seven of it’s thirteen away fixtures thus far, has managed just seven away goals all season. Shall we collect our winning on West Ham now or later, the form man said.

Match Verdict: West Ham United to WIN – 1.83 Boylesports

It’s hard to oppose West Ham now that their attacking options have been bolstered with some new, bright faces. Ilan made an instant impact when he scored at Burnley, albeit in vein, while Cole’s return brought about his first goal in nearly three months and the confidence in the West Ham camp should be sky0high after their sublime effort at home to Birmingham in their last match. Hull have shown great character in their recent games, arguably a lot more than West Ham have displayed, but their away record this season is extremely poor and it’s difficult to predict where their goals will come from. We feel one goal just might be enough to see off a weak Hull City and perhaps a tidy to NIL victory, one which would take them further up the table, could be on the cards.

Match Odds:

West Ham United – 1.83 Boylesports

Draw – 3.50 Bet365

Hull City – 4.80 Bet365

SoccerBetting Value Tip: West Ham to score 3 goals or more – 3/1 PaddyPower

Hull City V Manchester City

Saturday, 6^th February – 15:00 GMT

Hull City

League Position: 18th

Recent Form: DDLDD

The Hull camp will be full of confidence after recently holding the league leaders to a 1-1 draw at The KC stadium – The venue for this encounter with mega-rich Manchester City. You know you’ve got one of the toughest jobs in the world when you’re having to plot a plan to halt both Chelsea & Man City within the space of a week but were Phil Brown to help Hull earn another point on Saturday, if not more, than it will give the players a huge boost in self-belief as the club head into a crucial part of the season where these final months will decide whether or not Hull have what it takes to avoid the drop for the second season running.

It was a surprise to tune in and see Hull holding Chelsea to just a draw on Tuesday night but it was more surprising to see the Tigers giving Chelsea a thorough examination especially in defence. Chelsea did spend the majority of the game on the attack but Hull weren’t just content with sitting back and defending for the full 90 minutes – No, the Tigers gave as good as they got when they did stride forward and they did actually create half-a-dozen decent opportunities to score more than their solitary one on the night. It was a sight to behold if we’re honest as it was just like watching Hull in the early part of last season when Phil Brown’s side were in ruthless form in front of goal and springing surprises every other weekend. Perhaps this stunning draw with the potential champions could help Hull transform back into the Hull of old.

Back to reality and the fact of the matter is that the impressive display at home to Chelsea was a rare good performance from Hull as they’ve generally been one of thee poorest outfits in the Premiership this season and have given just about everyone the impression that were they to avoid the drop then it will be some achievement. After all, Hull are still relegation occupants, sat in 18^th position in the table, and are still without a league win since the end of November. A run of ten games without a victory to celebrate and a poor streak which backs up their solid claims for relegation.

Hull’s valiant display on Tuesday night has thrown a spanner in the works as, had they of rolled over like many of us had expected, City probably would be our firm favourites on Saturday. However, Hull actually found quite a bit of space against Chelsea and didn’t find it too hard to create chances. Now, City’s defence has improved greatly, even in the short space of time Roberto Mancini has been at the club, but it still needs a lot of work and were Hull to play in the same manner which seen them give Chelsea a few scares then perhaps we have more of a game on our hands than we first imagined.

Manchester City

League Position: 6th

Recent Form: WWWLW

Man City got the result they set out for last Sunday but their performance at The City of Manchester was far from pleasing and it was the biggest indication yet that the Italian still has plenty of work on his hands, despite this early spell of success he is enjoying at the City helm. That victory over Portsmouth did, however, make up for their defeat in their last outing in the league – Losing 2-0 at Everton, but more importantly it kept the pressure on those chasing a top four finish as City now tower over their rivals with games in hand.

Roberto Mancini will have been pleased with the final result on Saturday, winning 2-0 at home to Portsmouth, and with Emmanuel Adebayor’s goalscoring contribution after the Togo internationals torrid experience earlier in the month in Africa. But, However, City weren’t at their scintillating best, not the impressive sort of displays we’ve been used to seeing of them in recent home appearances. They took their chances well, which so they should considering their attacking line had a £100M+ revamp over the summer, but it was in their defence where the problems arose, once again, and their defensive niggles, which appeared to have almost disappeared from sight, have unfortunately cropped up for all to see once again.

The big positive from their defeat of Portsmouth was the fact they kept their seventh clean sheet of the season and their third in six league games. However, they were fortunate to come away with a to NIL victory as Portsmouth had several clear openings to score but spurred some glorious opportunities early on, chances that would have put the South Coast side into the lead at Eastlands. Mancini’s men were let off the hook in that fixture but now he will be ecstatic with his next venture – An away fixture with Hull City as it’s an ideal opportunity to wrap up yet another victory against another relegation candidate, while there’s every possibility that another City clean sheet could be in the offing.

With City still lagging behind the Champions League spots, albeit with a few games in hand, It’s imperative they keep the pressure on the likes of Tottenham & Liverpool as were City to win their games in hand they would hold all the aces in the race to finish fourth. With their Carling Cup adventure now a thing of the past, all City have to be concerned with is finishing fourth and the FA Cup, while their demise in the League Cup could be a blessing in the disguise in the long run. However, as far as the omens in this game go, City might not be the shoe-in so many think they should be. City’s only away win in NINE came at Molineux, not the most intimidating of arenas, while they were comfortably beaten at Goodison Park in their last away outing, losing 2-0 to Everton.

As well as defensive flaws, Mancini also has to fix City’s away issues and the quick fix-up could be a victory at The KC stadium. Three points would keep them in touching distance of their seasonal objective (Top Four) but it would also enhance their confidence heading into their next away fixture as a victory over the Tigers would be City’s second in as many away games. Still, City’s away record this season has been poor and considering their price isn’t all that, we feel City, even in this fairly easy looking fixture, are best left well alone

Match Verdict: Draw – 3.60 bWin

We were seriously considering backing City but, after careful deliberation and the fact we want City to slip up, we will actually choose the draw as Hull set out to stretch their unbeaten run in the league to three games, although a draw would make it three successive home draws for the Tigers which is bad news for their bid to avoid relegation by passing up home games. City, however, have their sights set firmly on finishing above 17 other teams and they will know, what with this season being one of the most competitive for years, that they can’t afford to slip up, especially in a fixture such as this which does look very winnable on paper. Still, the difference for us isn’t the gulf in quality between the two but instead their very last results in that Hull will take more out of their draw with Chelsea than City will out of their routine home win over Portsmouth in which City were found wanting at the back in that encounter. It wil require another big display from the Tigers but we’re backing a draw in this fixture.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 5.50 Bet365

Draw – 3.60 bWin

Manchester City – 1.75 Expekt

SoccerBetting Value Pick: BOTH teams to SCORE (Yes) – 1.85 bWin

Hull City V Wolverhampton Wanderers

Saturday, 30^th January – 15:00 GMT

Hull City

League Position: 19th

Recent Form: LLDDL

There will be several must win games between now and the end of the season for Hull City but none perhaps more so than this fixture with Wolves at The KC. Winnable fixtures don’t come around too often if you’re a Hull fan and this fixture with Wolves is just about the easiest they’ve have to put three vital points on the board. However, Hull’s form heading into this must win game is dreadful, having not won in the league for nine games and going a whole two months without a Premiership victory.

For Hull to stay up this season they will need to notch up a handful of victories at the KC stadium, home of the Tigers, and this does appear their easiest remaining home fixture of the season. It’s also a fixture they just have to win if they are to harbour any season survival ambitions as the task looks a tough assignment for Hull considering they’ve looked a lost side since the season kicked into life. They have registered just four league wins since August, the lowest amount of wins (a shared honour), a statistic which just reinforces how significant getting a win this weekend is. 

The problem for Hull is that they couldn’t hit a barn door at present – simple as that. Their best goal haul in recent weeks was scoring two at Bolton, just the fifth time they has surpassed two goals in a game all season. That rare surge of goals is their only positive goal-baring game since November, and the Tigers have managed a lethargic three goals since the beginning of December, that’s three goals in eight games. That’s a dire goal ratio, probably the worst I’ve seen since Derby were strutting their stuff in the Premiership back in 2008. However, you would have to fancy their chances of at least bolstering what is a ridiculous goal tally at home to a Wolves team which has kept just two away clean sheet thus far.  

The basis equation in football is you need to score to stand any chance of winning, and scoring isn’t something Hull are much good at, merely adequate. However, Wolves are on a plate for them to go out and enjoy themselves in front of goal but they haven’t found the net, neither home nor away, in over 360 minutes of Premiership action and that will only have an adverse affect on the confidence of their strikers. Still, there will not be an easier fixture for them for the remainder of the season and we think they’ll just edged this one.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

League Position: 17th

Recent Form: WLLLD

To be fair, the same rule applies to Wolves in that this game with Hull is a must win as it’s one of their easiest remaining fixtures of the season. Plus, it’s a game that’s certainly winnable and three points would do Wolves the world of good as the relegation zone beckons. Their confidence levels should have risen a few levels after their midweek results; a 0-0 draw with Liverpool, so perhaps Wolves are the team to be on and not a hapless Hull City. 

Wolves performed brilliantly on Tuesday night in nicking a point against Liverpool. We watched that game from start to finish and it was hard to recognise which side were the five time European winners as Liverpool were well below par while Wolves performed far better than expected. A point was a fabulous result as it end a run of three straight defeats for Wolves in the league. However, it still didn’t hide the fact that they haven’t scored a league goal since the middle of December when they beat Burnley 2-0 at home. They’ve gone four league games without a goal, aiming to surpass the goalscoring lows of Hull it would seem, and just like Hull that’s a huge negative for any potential punter,

If we’re completely honest, we can’t see Wolves winning this game and we think they’ll do well to take a point away from the KC stadium. Throughout the course of the season they’ve been a poor away outfit, with a couple of miracle results still not managing to hide their apparent away flaws. In ten away games thus far, Wolves have avoided defeat just four times, losing six of ten. They have also lost three of their last four away games in the league, although all three were to ‘Big Four’ teams. Still, it’s a tall order for Wolves but it’s not impossible by any stretch of the imagination.

Match Verdict: Hull City to WIN – 2.30 Boylesports

Neither side can afford to pass up this opportunity but home advantage has swung it for us as we plump for a home win. Hull’s form at The KC will be crucial in how their fare this season in terms of staying up or being relegated. They’ve struggled for the majority of the season, winning just four games. However, all four did come on home soil and you’d bet your life on Phil Brown getting his squad fired up for this encounter as it is a six pointer if we ever seen one. Hull will, however, need to locate the Wolves goal, Which is a big ask in itself.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 2.30 Boylesports

Draw – 3.40 SkyBet

Wolverhampton Wanderers – 3.25 Bet365

SoccerBetting Value Pick: Hull City to WIN to NIL – 4.00 totesport

Tottenham Hotspur V Hull City

Saturday, 16^th January – 15:00 GMT

Tottenham Hotspur

League Position: 4th

Recent Form: LWWDW

In a fixture Tottenham surprisingly lost last season, surely revenge will be on the minds of the Spurs players ahead of their second White Hart Lane clash with Hull City in two successive seasons as they aim to set right their wrongdoings in last years meeting (losing 1-0). Also, bolstering their top four stance will be high on their list of priority’s for the new year and three points at home to Hull City shouldn’t be too hard to come by. Still, Tottenham have come a cropper twice this season in games they were fully expected to win so perhaps Tottenham aren’t the supposed ‘banker’ many punters will want to believe they are.

After a poor start to a December month of what was officially last year, but in actual fact just a little over a month ago, Tottenham have since gone on a confidence boosting run of five games unbeaten in all competitions, with the cherry on the cake being their emphatic 4-0 victory in the FA Cup over Peterborough United. That was the last time we seen Tottenham in action due to the adverse weather conditions all around the country causing havoc with last weekends fixture list. However, the Spurs players should be good for that rest but it does take away that old “my players were tired after too many festive games” excuse card, so the pressure is on them once again to comply in a should win fixture.

There have been three fixtures, home ones, thus far that before kick-off most punters would have put Tottenham Hotspur down as a certain winner. The first was against a poor travelling Burnley of which Tottenham smashed them off the park in a 5-0 rout – Ideal! However, that was as good as got for us punters and where the real money started pouring in for the rarely beatable bookies… as Spurs faltered at home against both Stoke City (0-1) and Wolverhampton Wanderers (0-1), both being narrow 1-0 defeats but both were outings were Spurs missed so many chances it was unreal. Tottenham’s attack being blunt isn’t an everyday occurrence but it has happened two too many times this season, which is a concern, but surely that won’t happen against arguably the league worst defence.

Tottenham’s last fixture was cancelled, a daunting trip to Anfield, but their last action packed outing was at White Hart Lane in the FA Cup where they cruised through to the next round after a sublime 4-0 victory. Kranjcar bagged a brace while Defoe & Keane completed the scoring in a morale boosting win, although the spirit in the Spurs camp should be fairly high regardless after an unbeaten run of four games unbeaten in the league. Harry Redknapp has watched on as his troops have battled hard to create a solid platform ahead of what could be a defining first half of the year for the club. A four match run without defeat is first class but what’s more impressive, especially from a club like Tottenham who usually have a lot of defensive issues, is that Spurs haven’t conceded a league goal in a little over 360 minutes, while that fortress defence hasn’t conceded in over 450 minutes if you include their 4-0 success in the Cup just after the new year, so things are looking up in all areas of the pitch for Tottenham as they continue their assault on the top four.

Hull City

League Position: 19th

Recent Form: LDLLD

Phil Brown doesn’t have any fresh injury concerns ahead of this frightening trip to White Hart Lane but what he does have to contend with is a Hull camp seriously suffering in a lack of confidence at the present time after a winless run of six games, seven if you include their 4-1 demise in the FA Cup at Wigan Athletic, so the Englishman does have a lot on his hands than you think. Brown has often been criticised for his lack of motivation, or at least his methods have been met with a few raised eyebrows, so their will be big doubts over Hull’s credentials to cause a shock this Saturday.

Last season at White Hart Lane, Hull produced one of the shocks of the season as Geovanni scored yet another wonder goal against a London outfit as Hull stoke all three points away from what was a hapless Spurs at the time. Now, though, the shoe is on the other foot as it is Hull who are faltering of late and desperate for not only wins, points even, but performances that would boost the spirit of the camp as they are clearly suffering a lull in morale of some sort. The fact that their last win in the league came back in the middle of November, nearly two months ago, clearly highlights my observation.

To make a bet on Hull sound even more hopeless than I hope I already have (trust me… this is for your own good) then I will quickly rant about their dire away form this season. Wins for the Tigers have been at a premium, just four in fact, but all of them have come at the home of a toothless Tigers at the KC stadium. They’ve yet to win a single away fixture this season and have just three points to their name after ten away outings (0-3-7). In fact, the last time they won whilst on their travels was back in March last year, a 1-0 win at Fulham, but even that win was a rare delicacy as Hull have won just two of their last 23 away league games – losing 15, drawing eight and, of course, the two wins.

Back to this season now and Hull’s drastic away profile is made to look more drab by the colossal amount of goals they’ve shipped away from home – 26 in total – up their with the very best in terms of one of the worst away defensive records. To make matters a whole lot worse for you loyal yet surely delusional Hull fans, their side have only managed seven away goals all season, averaging under a goal a game. Stpehen Hunt is leading the way for Hull in the goalscoring department with five goals, a MIDFIELDER, while follwed closely behind is egocentric Geovanni with three goals, also a MIDFIELDER, which just goes to show how poor Hull’s forwards have been playing this season.

The latter statistic about Hull’s poor scoring antics takes me onto my next point in that I will highlight a possible betting selection, something I rarely do in a preview and probably something I will later come to regret. We’ve already shown up Hull’s offence, which wasn’t hard, so combine all the information I’ve provided above with the knowledge that Hull have failed to score in four of ten away fixtures this season, plus are without a goal in their last two away outings and perhaps a punt on Spurs, a team who haven’t conceded in what appears an eternity for them, keeping a clean sheet maybe a worthwhile punt at odds of 1.78 with Expekt.com (Away team not to score).

Head-to-Head (Last 2):

Tottenham Hotspur W: 2 Hull City W: 1 Draws: 0

• Hull City won the very first encounter between the two, winning 1-0 at White Hart Lane

• Tottenham have won the previous two matches against Hull City, both coming on Hull soil.

• Tottenham smashed Hull 5-1 at The KC earlier in the season in a game where Jermain Defoe scored a hat-trick.

• In three meetings, Hull have scored in each, although on all three occasions they have managed just one goal.

   

Match Verdict: Tottenham Hotspur to WIN – 1.29 Boylesports

Tottenham have been on the wrong end of a few shocks results this season, and although they were involved in a right shocker in this very same fixture last season losing 1-0 at home to Hull, we don’t think Harry Redknapp will allow his players to fall to a similar slumber. Tottenham have looked a classy attacking outfit in recent outings and they should be far too strong, once again, for Hull and a similar scoreline to the 5-1 at The KC earlier in the season wouldn’t be out of question.

Match Odds:

Tottenham Hotspur – 1.29 Boylesports

Draw – 6.00 Bet365

Manchester City – Hull City 13.00 Expekt.com

SoccerBetting Value Tip: Tottenham/Tottenham (HT/FT Betting) – 1.80 Boylesports

Hull City V Chelsea

Saturday, 9^th January – 12:45 GMT (Sky Sports 1)

MATCH POSTPONED – We regrettably have to inform you that the following game has been postponed due to severe weather conditions. Although the pitch has been confirmed as ‘playable’ the surrounding area; roads, pathways, steps etc… have been deemed a hazard and a risk to those fans who will attend the game. 

Hull City

League Position: 19th

Recent Form: LDLLD

If this game was to be decided on form and quality alone then Hull wouldn’t have a chance in hell against the colossal Chelsea, but, however, Hull can hold their heads up high and say that they are one of a select few who have pushed Chelsea hard at Stamford Bridge this season. However, they didn’t fare at all well when the sides clashed at the KC stadium last season, with Chelsea running out deserved 3-0 winners, although that was a night encounter and the last time these two kicked-off at midday was when Hull took an early lead at the Bridge, so perhaps the Tigers aren’t without a glimmer of hope.

A huge performance is required, though, were Hull to even steal a point from Chelsea in this contest. Hull did, however, cause Manchester United a few problems just a few weeks ago, albeit losing 3-1 at the KC, but they did manage to create plenty of chances and could of taken more from that game if their finishing wasn’t do tame. That has been a big problem for Hull of late; scoring. They did manage two in their last outing; a 2-2 draw at Bolton Wanderers, but they had previously managed just one goal in four games before that draw, failing to score at Arsenal & Aston Villa, whilst they were held to a dull 0-0 draw by Blackburn.  

The KC has, however, been the source of some valuable points, the vast majority of them in fact, with all four of Hull’s wins this season coming at home. None of which have actually come against any genuine quality; Bolton (1-0), Wigan (2-1), Stoke (2-1) & Everton (3-2), of which all but Stoke are in the lower half of the table. Their home goals for tally of just 13 is one of the worst in the league but it’s a huge improvement on their dire away form which has seen them score just seven goals but conceded a mammoth 26 goals compared to the 16 conceded at home, which is a still a lot.

It’s hard to see how Hull will close the huge gulf in class between the two as they’ve been a team destined for relegation from Christmas onwards, last Christmas this is. Since the turn of 2009, Hull have struggled for wins, managing just five wins in 38 Premiership games, which is horrendous. They have also struggled to keep up with the stronger teams in games this season, with several top sides dishing out a beating to Hull City; Tottenham winning 5-1 at The KC, Liverpool winning 6-1 at Anfield, Sunderland winning 4-1 at Stadium of Light, there are more… And with this we really can’t see Hull standing much of a chance, although the absence of some of Chelsea’s African contingents may bring about some optimism, at least with the Hull fans, surely not with the smarter punters.

Chelsea

League Position: 1st

Recent Form: DWDDW

Chelsea are only just starting to adjust to life without some of their African starlets but started off in a supreme manner when smashing Championship side, Watford, 5-0 at the weekend in a FA Cup tie. Chelsea’s reward was a relatively easy outing at Preston in the next round so that should be a welcome relief for Carlo Ancelotti as his squad becomes slightly depleted… just ever so slightly!

Chelsea stormed through their FA Cup clash with Watford at the weekend and that win, without their African contingents, will have boosted the morale of the camp after a difficult month of December where performances haven’t been great. That clean sheet against Watford was Chelsea’s first at home since their 4-0 romp of Wolves back in November, so that should lift the spirit of the defenders ahead of what should be another stroll for the blues’.

Chelsea have been typically strong all season, despite some wayward displays of late, and are one of just two teams still unbeaten at home. Away from home, however, Chelsea have been a more vulnerable outfit and haven’t managed a single away win in their last three outings. They were held to low scoring draws at Birmingham (0-0) & West Ham (1-1), both of which Chelsea were fortunate not to have lost, whilst they were beaten early on in December by Man City (2-1). It’s been well over a month since they last enjoyed the taste of an away day success but a trip to the KC provides just about the perfect opportunity to bring about some happy away day memories.

Scoring has been a bit of an issues for the blues’ in recent weeks as they haven’t surpassed the one goal marker in any of their last three away fixtures. With Didier Drogba and Kalour both in Africa, the omen will probably fall onto Daniel Sturridge to chip in with a few goals and carry on the form he shown against Watford where he bagged a brace. Nicolas Anelka could also return, but we are sure Frank Lampard, who scored a sublime goal in this fixture last season, will amply help out with chances.

Head-to-Head:

Hull City W: 0 Chelsea W: 2 Draws: 1

• Hull’s best effort in recent meetings with Chelsea came in the form of a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge last season.

• Chelsea recorded a comfortable 3-0 victory at the KC stadium last season.

• In three meetings, Hull have only managed 1 goal to Chelsea’s five.

• Hull’s only goalscorer against Chelsea is Stephen Hunt, with his goal coming this season at the Bridge.

Match Verdict: Chelsea to WIN – 1.36 PaddyPower

Hull did cause Man Utd a few problems a few weeks back but Chelsea shouldn’t come unstuck against a Hull side which has often provided the big boys with a chance to bolster their goalscoring tally. Against the ‘Big Four’ teams this season, Hull have shipped 14 goals in four games, although Chelsea were the lowest contributor with two. However, the blues’ put five past Watford in their last outing, while Hull shipped 4 at Wigan, so expect Chelsea’s goalscoring fortunes to change for the good on Saturday in what could and should be another Chelsea romp.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 11.00 Coral

Draw – 4.80 Bet365

Chelsea – 1.36 PaddyPower

SoccerBetting Value Tip: Chelsea -1 Goal (Handicap) – 2.10 SkyBet

Hull City V Manchester United

Sunday 27^th December – 16:00 GMT

Hull City

League Position: 17th

Recent Form: WDLDL

(Hull City are unbeaten at home in their last six games)

The last time Hull City played the part of host to Manchester United was in the very last fixture of last season. A game which Hull desperately needed to win and United couldn’t care less. United won that day which doesn’t bode at all well for Hull’s chances ahead of this weekend’s clash as The Red Devils are no in desperate need of a win themselves after a pointless weekend. We all know Hull have the weaker squad of the two but can they over roar the current champions by being the hungrier and more determined of the two sides on the day? 

Hull, in our brutal yet honest opinion, aren’t too far off being the worst team in the entire league. They’ve gone from being a dangerous side to face in the early part of last season to pretty much a three point banker. The Tigers have already clashed heads with the remaining three of the so called ‘Big Four’ this season and come away losers on each occasions. However, neither were at The KC stadium and Phil Brown will be hoping that home advantage will close that huge gulf between the two in the class department.  

Hull City were starting to build up a bit of momentum until they were emphatically halted by an inform Aston Villa. Hull have now returned to a familiar win less pattern and are now four games without a win in the league, drawing two and losing two. However, Phil Brown has guided his side to new heights at home of late and his Hull side are unbeaten at The KC in six outings, drawing three and winning three. Their last home defeat came back in mid September so there is. Finally, something to shout about at Hull, especially now they’ve jumped out of the bottom three for the first time in what seems an eternity. 

Their overall form at home hasn’t been too bad (4-3-2), and this unbeaten run they’ve worked so hard for should stand them in good stead against a team which will put their undefeated run to the test. However, Hull were pretty bad in their last home outing, a 0-0 draw with Blackburn, and this has occurred on several occasions this season where Hull simply haven’t bothered to turn up nor shown any endeavour on the pitch. Another lacklustre performance like that would see them wiped off the park so it’s crucial Phil Brown get them fired up for this encounter, although, considering their opponents are Manchester United, that shouldn’t be all that difficult. So you would like to think.

Manchester United

League Position: 2nd

Recent Form: WWLWL

(Manchester United haven’t drawn an away game in the league for 19 games)

Although the United ranks have been severely depleted in recent weeks, mainly in the defence department, the current English champions have been gifted a corking pair of fixtures to tide them over during the Christmas period. Most teams would given an arm and a leg for a game with Hull City. While their next match is a home fixture with Wigan Athletic, a team they thumped 5-0 at The DW earlier on, so perhaps all is not as bad as first thought.

A couple of wins for Man Utd could actually see them head into the new year as leaders, although they would need Chelsea to slip up elsewhere. However, with their own form going astray, United can ill-afford to let their mind slip elsewhere as it’s man the battle stations in the United defence. Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher formed an unerring centre back partnership last Saturday in a game where the United defence was torn to pieces. Even Patrice Evra, the only quality defender in the defence that day, was awful, which just goes to show what a lack of leadership at the back does for you. Thankfully, Nemanja Vidic should return to the defence and it won’t come a moment too soon. 

United’s defence maybe at ’sixes and sevens’ right now but it’s offensive players that have been linked with the club recently. Benfica have apparently turned down a bid for Di Maria, a move which, if completed, would probably spell the end for Portuguese flop, Louis Nani, while Mame Diouf will join United from Molde in Denmark in January. Although it’s always good to boost your numbers, attackers aren’t what United need right now as their defence is crumbling around them.

With the exception of the Wolves game where not only were United playing at home to a dreadful Wolves but also against basically the Wolves reserves, United’s makeshift defence has been found wanting and is now left exposed for all to exploit. Aston Villa didn’t have any problems taking advantage of it at the beginning of the month and Fulham also obliged at the weekend, smashing Man Utd 3-0 at Craven Cottage. Their heaviest defeat since their 4-1 humbling by Liverpool at Old Trafford last season. That emphatic defeat can only hinder what will be a Unite dressing room short of morale and confidence but a win over Hull City, along with a clean sheet, would do everyone the world of good.

At Old Trafford, you would fancy United to plug on and chip in with a few wins regardless of what the defence looks like. On the road, however, is where every team is vulnerable no matter what and United head into this fixture precariously exposed. They are fortunate that it’s Hull they are facing but they must take advantage of this generous fixture first. Away from home this season, United have a record of 5-0-4, which clearly shows that The Mighty Red’s can be beaten away from their hunting ground. A 4-0 hammering of West Ham last month is their only away clean sheet in five outings, though, which will surely put a lot of punters off them this Sunday.

Head-to-Head (Last 10):

Hull City W: 0 Manchester United W: 2 Draw: 0

Manchester United have stormed ahead on the h2h counter with victories home and away over Hull City last season. The Tigers did, however, cause United a lot of problems at Old Trafford but were beaten by the United reserves on the final day of the season at The KC stadium.

Match Verdict: Manchester United to WIN – 1.45 Coral

If Man Utd were facing any one other than Hull City then we probably wouldn’t have gone for an away win. Hell, even if this was Wolves hosting United we probably would have opted for a draw. That’s how pear shaped the United defence is at the present time. However, Hull City are one of the poorest teams in the league and, although United don’t have a solid basis, they do still have a lethal attacking outlet in Wayne Rooney. The former Everton front man has worked tirelessly for United in recent weeks, often being the highlight for Man Utd in recent weeks, and we fancy Wayne Rooney to be in inspired form this weekend. Hull aren’t without hope, only because United’s defence will be understrength once again, but we can’t see them outscoring United as their defence is just as bad.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 8.50 PaddyPower

Draw – 4.50 SkyBet

Manchester United – 1.45 Coral

SoccerBetting Value Tip: Wayne Rooney FGS – 4.50 Bet365

Arsenal V Hull City

Saturday 19^th December – 17:30 GMT

TV Coverage: ESPN

Arsenal

League Position: 3rd

Recent Form: LLWWD

Arsenal reverted back to their typical, inconsistent selves on Wednesday night when they dropped yet more points and lost yet more ground on the top two after previously enjoying a fabulous 2-1 win over Liverpool at the weekend. The Gunners now find themselves eight points behind leaders Chelsea and are back in chase mode as they continue their relentless pursuit of United and Chelsea at the summit of the Premiership.

Arsenal started the game brightly at Burnley, even taking the lead through Cec Fabregas just minutes into the game. However, the Gunners were pegged back when Graham Alexander scored yet another penalty, much to the despair of Arsene Wenger on the touchline. Arsenal did have their chances to win the game, as well did Burnley, but neither took their chances and a draw was a fair result come the end, although Arsene Wenger won’t have been happy with his sides overall performance as the Gunners were second best for most parts.

It’s crucial that Arsenal pick themselves up before the arrival of Hull City as anything but a win would be a catastrophe due to this being three points in the bag on paper. However, simialr quotes were being thrown around last season, a game Arsenal lost 2-1, but we don’t expect Arsene Wenger to allow his players to underestimate Hull for the second time running and we fancy Arsenal’s chances at the second time of asking at The Emirates. They have by far the better squad, more quality at their disposal, and The Emirates should be the basis of a strong home performance, one that should lead to not only three points but a comfortable win for the Gunners after a disappointing midweek.

Arsenal’s record at home this season is incredibly strong, 6-0-1, with their only defeat coming against league leaders, Chelsea, a game which Arsenal were well below par in. However, it didn’t take them long, the very next fixture in fact, before Arsenal were back to doing what they do best – winning games, and a win at home to Hull City this weekend would make it three wins in four, complimented by victories over Stoke City (2-0) and Liverpool (1-2). They’ve also been extremely impressive in front of goal at home, scoring 22, up their with the best home records in the league, whilst only managing to ship seven in return, with three of those coming in a single game to Chelsea.

Hull City

League Position: 16th

Recent Form: DWDLD

It can either be seen as a good omen or a bad piece of preparation that Hull City were given the week off whilst were left battling it out during the course of the week. Their opponents on Saturday, Arsenal, being one of those ‘others’. Although the week off would of allowed the players to recuperate after their effortless display at home to Blackburn Rovers at the weekend. However, will that be enough to close the huge apparent gulf in class between these two sides and will Hull make it two wins from two at The Emirates?

Playing at The Emirates is a personal highlight for any small time club pushing for promotion from the Championship but Hull went that extra mile last season when, via a superb Geovanni wonder-strike, snatched all three points from the grasp of Arsenal. However, that was at a time when Hull were still riding the wave of success and emotion from joining the Premiership for the very first time, but they now head down to London in completely different circumstances.

Now, though, Hull don’t have the euphoria of promotion under their belts and are instead having to contemplate a fight for their Premiership survival, with Hull found squirming down in 16th position, just a single point off the relegation zone. Their bigger names have left, with some unknown faces coming in as replacements, but the players Phil Brown has brought in, on a tight budget we must add, simply having made the cut and since the start of last season, Hull have gone from an average side with a dangerous streak in them – to a poor outfit all round.

Hull were, however, building up momentum after a solid run of form – four games unbeaten. That was before their defeat to Aston Villa, losing 3-0, and Hull didn’t exactly bounce back in convincing fashion. The Tigers could only manage a drab 0-0 draw with a poor travelling Blackburn in a match which had six pointer written all over it. Still, it does mean that Hull have lost just once in six outings, but their record against the top four this season doesn’t make for light reading; Chelsea (2-1), Liverpool (6-1), whilst the likes of Sunderland (4-1) and Aston Villa (3-0) have all dished out beatings to Phil Brown’s travelling Tigers.

We can only see this being a one-sided affair as Hull’s record away from the KC has been shocking this season. In six away ventures, Hull have only managed to avoid defeat on two occasions, both being 1-1 draws. Sunderland, Liverpool, Chelsea, Fulham, Burnley and Aston Villa, have all beaten Hull at home this season, all quite comfortably, and we expect to see Arsenal’s name added to the list.

Head-to-Head (Last 10):

Arsenal W: 1 Hull City W: 1 Draws: 0

The usual advantage of playing at home was nullified last season when these two beat each others at the others respective venues, but it was Hull City who recorded what was the shock result of the season last term when they beat Arsenal 2-1 at The Emirates. Arsenal did get their revenge, though, when they beat Hull 3-1 at The KC stadium later on into the season.

Match Verdict: Arsenal to WIN – 1.20 SkyBet

The Emirates, in front of the Setanta cameras, was the setting for a major shock last season when Hull turned the class books completely on their heads in a 2-1 victory. However, despite how much we would love to see something similar on Saturday, we just can’t see it happening. Arsenal will be gunning for all three points after only managing to pick one up at Turf Moor in midweek, whereas Hull City are no longer an unknown quantity and more one of very little quality. A comfortable win for Arsene Wenger and Arsenal for us here at SoccerBetting.

Match Odds:

Arsenal – 1.20 SkyBet

Draw – 7.50 WilliamHill

Hull City – 19.00 PaddyPower

SoccerBetting Value Tip: Arsenal to WIN Both Halves – 2.10 PaddyPower

Hull City V Blackburn Rovers

Saturday 12th December – 15:00 GMT

Hull City

League Position: 16th

Recent League Form: WDWDL

Hull take their patchy yet prosperous form into a home fixture with Blackburn next in a fixture which could see the pair swap positions were Hull to record just their fifth win of the season. However, defeat for Phil Brown’s men could see their recent hard work go to waste as a pointless game at the KC stadium might see Hull fall back into the bottom three, an area of the league where Hull have spent far too long in already this season.

It was a bad weekend for Hull City as they crashed to their first defeat in five games. They were previously on a four match unbeaten run consisting of two wins and two draws, whilst Hull had also significantly improved their goal scoring fortunes, but will the 3-0 defeat at Villa Park have dented the euphoria around the club and has it put a dent in the players confidences.

Although last weekend’s defeat did put an end to Hull’s impressive mini-run, the Tigers still remain unbeaten at home in five appearances, three of which were victories. However, although the run is impressive for a club such as Hull City, we must highlight the fact that all five were against teams in the bottom half of the table, two of which currently occupy the bottom three positions in the league. That run will have lifted the spirits of the players and the points accumulated during the unbeaten streak has helped their cause immensely, but Hull were ripped to pieces at the weekend and, despite Blackburn not boasting the sort of talent Martin O’Neill had at his disposal with Villa last Saturday, that pasting has to cast a few doubts into not only the managers mind but also the players, especially those who were playing in defence that day.

Hull are starting to build up ahead of steam at the KC stadium but they’ve failed to keep a clean sheet in their previous three home outings, conceding six goals. They have scored just as many, eight, but their defence is their biggest and well known weakness this season and that is certainly an area that needs strengthening during January, although funds are limited at the club and Phil Brown may have to fix the defensive problems without cash, somehow.

Blackburn Rovers

League Position: 12th

                                                   Recent League Form: WWLDD

Blackburn will have been the happier of the two teams last Saturday when Rovers drew 1-1 with a below par Liverpool at Ewood Park. Blackburn could of won that game were it not for some poor finishing but the point was very respectable from their point of view and they will be hoping to carry this little bit of momentum into their next encounter with Hull City, an early six pointer possibly, with Blackburn just two points above a Hull City side staring the relegation zone straight in the face.

The point on Saturday was a good enough result but it did come at Ewood Park, a venue where Rovers have played their best football this season and where they’ve accumulated the vast majority of their points, 15 in fact, whereas they’ve picked up just the three points on their travels. Unfortunately, from a Blackburn fans perspective, Rovers are on their travels this weekend and they have very little to inspire them after falling to six defeats in seven away outings thus far.

Blackburn lost on their previous away trip, a 3-0 humbling at Craven Cottage by a decent Fulham side, but the Cottagers were still beatable and Rovers did pass up a winnable away fixture. However, this is a glorious opportunity to double their away tally for the season, far better than their previous fixture away at Fulham, but will their poor away showings thus far have dismantled their confidence when playing on the road? Well, that could very well be the case but they did pull a rabbit out of the hat at The Reebok, home of Bolton, beating Gary Megson’s men 2-0 in what is generally a very tough venue to play in, so perhaps Blackburn are no forlorn hope.

However, a Blackburn win looks very unlikely when you consider that Rovers possess a very blunt forward line, one that has managed just five away goals all season, just two shy of being the worst in the entire league. In seven away games this season, Blackburn have failed to score in four of them which, when you consider they’ve shipped 21 away goals in return, leaves them mighty exposed ahead of another away trip, despite Hull not being the best of sides.

Head-to-Head (Last 10):

Hull City W: 0   Blackburn Rovers W: 1   Draw: 1

The pair clashed for the first time last season, twice of course, and it was Blackburn who sneaked ahead on the h2h when they recorded a 2-1 victory over Hull at the KC stadium, the venue for Saturday’s game. The pair played out a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture at Ewood Park but the victory at the KC for Blackburn could be a big advantage for Rovers as they may just have the edge mentally.

Both teams did manage to score in both encounters last season, while Rovers did manage to score twice at the KC stadium. Although, between the five goals that were scored in the two meetings last season, just one striker got on the score sheet, that being Jason Roberts scoring at Ewood Park.

Match Verdict: Hull City to WIN – 2.80 Bet365

Despite winning at the KC last season, Blackburn’s goal scoring issues has forced us to look elsewhere. Hull have hit a decent vein of form, although the defeat at Villa Park last weekend may have dented the momentum built up after previously going unbeaten in four. Nevertheless, Hull City, in the crunch home encounters this season, have generally produced the goods. They’ve beaten both Everton & Stoke City at home recently and still remain unbeaten at the KC in five games. That’s a strong run and one we fancy to be stretched to six once the weekend is out, hopefully in the form of a victory for the Tigers.

Match Odds:

Hull City – 2.80 Bet365

Draw – 3.40 SkyBet

Blackburn Rovers – 2.75 SkyBet

SoccerBetting Value Tip: Hull City/Hull City (Half-Time/Full-Time) – 5.50 Boylesports