Prediction: Everton vs Liverpool

16th October 2010

It’s been a while since both Liverpool and Everton have been in such a difficult situation but if any match has the power to turn the season around for the winner, it is the Merseyside derby. The Toffees enter the match in better spirits than the opponents having recorded the first victory of the season against Birmingham, whereas the Reds were left completely embarrassed following the home defeat to Blackpool.

Poor starts of the Premiership campaigns have become a sort of tradition for the Blues, with David Moyes’ side always needing a couple of weeks to hit the ground running. Even though their fans expected something else this term, the start of the season has been as disappointing as ever with the Toffees picking up mere three points from first six games, only to record their first victory two weeks ago away to Birmingham. The win couldn’t have come at a better time and it will offer the side a major confidence boost before the Merseyside derby, although it will account to nothing should Everton lose this game. David Moyes’ side will not have many chances better than this one to finally come on top of their fierce rivals and rend the barren seven-match winless run against the Reds. Nevertheless, even though numerous major selection problems are nothing new for Moyes, the absence of Anichebe, Fellaini, Jagielka, Rodwell, Pienaar and probably Saha could prove costly in this match and it will seriously damage their chances of finally defeating Liverpool.

Having just completed the club’s takeover, new owner John Henry will be hoping to start his reign with the victory over Liverpool’s bitter rivals. There is no doubt Roy Hodgson faces a tough task in picking up the players’ confidence for what could be his final game in charge of the Reds, especially after yet another disappointing result at Anfield. Following the shock defeat to Blackpool, Liverpool have slipped into the relegation zone and they desperately need a win to kick-start their campaign. Nonetheless, that is easier said than done with the players in very low spirits and the Reds are to have major problems at Goodison Park. Roy Hodgson will welcome back Fernando Torres and Paul Konchesky to the side but Danny Agger and Fabio Aurelio remain doubtful, whereas Dirk Kuyt is sidelined with injury.

Conclusion

With both sides having much to prove at the moment, this should be one of the most interesting Merseyside derbies of late, but while neither side will lack motivation to win, both sets of players are far from their best and the chances will be few and far between. The tension is going to be there as always but even though both Everton and Liverpool will be going for a win, the teams could easily cancel each other out, which is why we recommend betting on draw.

Verdict: Draw (X)

Best Odds: 2/1

Bookmaker: Ladbrokes