Prediction: West Bromwich vs Blackpool

14th January 2011

West Bromwich desperately need to stop their six-match losing run and return to winning ways or risk slipping further down the Premiership standings. Blackpool players are full of confidence following another impressive performance and the victory over Liverpool, and there is no doubt the Tangerines will try to win this game as well.

West Bromwich sit dangerously close to the relegation zone despite the bright start to their Premiership campaign, as their latest run of five straight league defeats threatens to turn what looked like a promising season into an utter disappointment. Roberto Di Mateo’s side didn’t play all that bad during this dismal run as they could have and probably should have beaten Bolton and Manchester United, meaning the Baggies certainly have the quality to kick-start this season. It will not be easy for them to beat high-flying Blackpool after the run of six straight defeats, but that doesn’t mean the hosts will not give their best to finally return to winning ways. Boaz Myhill will replace out-of-form Scott Carson in goal, while Jonas Olsson is banned. Peter Odemwingie is doubtful with an ankle problem, but Gabriel Tamas is available after serving a three-match ban.

Following the Tangerines’ second victory over Liverpool, we can safely say Blackpool are the biggest surprise package of the season. The best thing about this team is that they are not picking up their points by playing scrappy football and bullying their opponents, but are rather dominating the games thanks to their slick passing style and nobody can say Blackpool didn’t deserve all those points. The Tangerines completely outclassed Liverpool in midweek, thus climbing to the 9th place in the standings and they can now play without any pressure as they are miles away from the bottom three. Blackpool will be in for a difficult task at the Hawthorns, but having won five away games already this season, they have no reason to fear the trip to the outskirts of Birmingham. Ian Holloway is without Grandin, Basham, Carney, Clarke, Gilks, Martin and Harewood.

Conclusion

West Bromwich are bound to start winning any time now, but in-form Blackpool can certainly cause them all sorts of problems and the Baggies won’t have an easy job here. Both sides will be looking for a victory at the Hawthorns, but I still feel draw is the most likely result.

Verdict: Draw (X)

Best Odds: 14/5

Bookmaker: Victor Chandler