Prediction: Bolton vs West Brom

25th December 2010

In one of just three matches that were played last weekend, Bolton lost away to Sunderland and the Trotters are now looking to return to winning ways. Following the derby defeat to Aston Villa, West Brom’s weekend fixture was postponed due to adverse weather conditions, meaning Roberto Di Mateo’s side are set for another away game.

It’s been a while since Bolton fans last had something to cheer about, so this season has definitely come as a welcoming break for the Trotters faithful. The Owen Coyle regime has completely transformed the team that were once struggling to find the opponent’s net even at Reebok Stadium, as witnessed by their scoring record which is second only to Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea. While the Trotters remain a force to be reckoned with at their Reebok Stadium, they have also shown a massive improvement on the travels, proving they are now a very serious side. Bolton caused in-form Sunderland a lot of problems last weekend at St Andrew’s but ended up losing the game and they now want to return to home comforts and keep the high position in the standings. Everything suggests they will be able to do so, especially as Owen Coyle welcomes back Mark Davies and Chung-Yong Lee to the side, although Sean Davis and Ricardo Gardner remain sidelined.

Just like Bolton, West Brom are really exceeding all expectations this term and their fans only hope the great start won’t be ruined later into the season. Nobody expected too much from the newly-promoted Baggies, but Roberto Di Mateo managed to create a very homogenous unit, with a lot of attacking potential, which, however, have major problems at the back. West Brom boast one of the worst defensive records in the Premiership and their back line is set for another difficult match as they will be pitted against one of the best attacks in the league. The Baggies have also suffered a small dip in form lately, having lost six of the last nine games, while the postponed match with Wolves can have a negative effect on the side as well. Roberto Di Mateo is hoping his top scorer Peter Odemwingie will be fit to play, with Marc Antoine Fortune ready to deputize should the Nigerian fail to recover in time.

Conclusion

This is a real no-brainer for me as I can’t see how West Brom’s shaky defence can stop Bolton’s impressive front line. In addition to that, the Trotters are very convincing at home and with West Brom’s record on the travels, that should be enough for yet another home win.

Verdict: Home win Bolton (1)

Best Odds: 11/10

Bookmaker: Bet365