Prediction: Everton vs Arsenal

13th November 2010

Everton extended their unbeaten run to seven games as they scored a last minute equalizer against Bolton but their rich vein of form will be seriously tested by Arsenal. The Gunners returned to winning ways as they beat Wolves at the Molineux but there is no doubt they’ll face a much tougher task at Goodison Park.

Everton managed to recover from the slow start of the season and the Toffees are now on a seven-match unbeaten run, although they are not yet where they need to be in terms of their showings on the pitch. David Moyes’s men did record some pretty good results lately, but the last two results have shown their form is on the downtrend. The team largely struggled against Blackpool and managed to snatch a draw after twice coming from behind before staring into the eyes of defeat at home to Bolton only to be saved by Jermaine Beckford’s injury-time goal. The poor showings against arguably weaker sides are definitely not something David Moyes can be pleased with, especially with the game against high-flying Arsenal on agenda. Young Seamus Coleman should return to the starting line-up after a very good cameo role against Bolton, with Dinyar Billyaletdinov dropping to the bench. Marouane Fellaini misses out with suspension, but John Heitinga and Jack Rodwell are pushing for the starting places.

The mere fact the Gunners are still pretty much in the title race despite all the problems Arsene Wenger has had with injuries shows how well the team are playing this season. Apart from a couple of slip ups at the Emirates, like the ones against West Brom and Newcastle, the team played very good football in all other games and they are deservedly occupying the third place in the standings. One of the great things about this team is that they don’t let occasional slip ups destabilize them and they seem to have no problems returning to winning ways, as witnessed by the easy victory over Wolves last weekend. The win will help the players forget all about the Newcastle game and they are now brimming with confidence before the trip to Liverpool. Things are looking much better with Fabregas and Walcott back to the side, so Arsenal have got to be considered favourites in this game. Arsene Wenger will be without suspended Laurent Koscielny with Johan Djourou again set to partner Sebastien Squillaci in the heart of defence.

Conclusion

Seeing how Everton struggled against both Blackpool and Bolton, I really don’t see how they’ll be able to cope with the sheer quality of Arsenal players, especially with some important players unavailable for this clash. The Gunners are still going strong and I expect them to continue the good run of results.

Verdict: Away win Arsenal (2)

Best Odds: 13/10

Bookmaker: William Hill