Prediction: Manchester City vs Liverpool

August 22nd 2010

Manchester City need some catching up to do after the dismal performance at White Hart Lane and what better way to make amends for it than the win over one of the title contenders. Liverpool were unlucky not to get all three points against Arsenal last week but the Reds can build on a very good showing in their opening match.

If anyone thought the Citizens would be serious title contenders this season, they must have changed their minds after the poor showing against Tottenham and there is no doubt City will have to show a massive improvement if they are to make some waves this season. In the meantime, Mario Balotelli and James Milner have arrived at Eastlands and the former even scored the winner in the Europa League tie against Timisoara, but Roberto Mancini will need all his players to give their best in order to record the first home win of the season. With so many new players arriving in the summer, it is no wonder the team have yet to gel, but Roberto Mancini doesn’t look capable of getting the best from his players, at least for the time being. Mario Balotelli and James Milner are both in contention for the starting places, but Pablo Zabaleta will have to provide cover at left-back with Aleksandar Kolarov, Wayne Bridge and Jerome Boateng all sidelined.

After a couple of disappointing seasons, Liverpool fans were delighted to finally see real reinforcements in both playing squad and on the bench, and the air of excitement catching up at Anfield certainly has a positive effect on the players. If it hadn’t been for Reina’s ridiculous mistake and Joe Cole’s red card, the Reds would now be traveling to Manchester with three points in their pocket, but still, they’ve got something to build on after the promising performance against Arsenal. Kuyt and Mascherano have stayed at the club, much to Rafa Benitez’s annoyance, and with Fernando Torres set to lead the attacking line, the Reds can hope for their 2000th victory in league football. Having been expelled at his debut for Liverpool, Joe Cole begins the three-match suspension at Eastlands, whereas Javier Mascherano and Daniel Agger remain injury doubts.

Conclusion

If it hadn’t been for Joe Hart, Manchester City would have been hammered at White Hart Lane and if they continue playing the same way, the Citizens will be fighting for survival rather than European places. Roberto Mancini’s side clearly need some more time to gel and that is something Liverpool can definitely exploit, even without Joe Cole. The return of Fernando Torres will give the Reds a special boost and I can see them getting all three points from Eastlands.

Verdict: Away win Liverpool (2)

Best Odds: 17/8

Bookmaker: Titan Bet