Prediction: West Ham vs Blackpool

12th November 2010

West Ham missed a great chance to escape from the bottom of the standings as they allowed West Brom to bring one point back from Upton Park, and the Hammers now face another do or die match against fellow strugglers Blackpool. The Tangerines narrowly lost to Aston Villa even though Ian Holloway had fielded a second string side, with the boss hoping that will give his side an extra edge in this match.

West Ham have really shown a massive improvement from their slow start to the season and they have come pretty close to winning their last two games, but some shocking defensive mistakes cost them the precious points. Despite being in front against both Birmingham and West Brom, the Hammers couldn’t see out either of the games, and they thus missed the chance to kick-start their season. The team, nonetheless, continue to play good football and that is something Avram Grant can definitely be satisfied with, so I really believe the Hammers can win this game if only they sort out their back line. The team scored four goals in two games against sides arguably better than Blackpool and there is no reason why they won’t be able to extend the good scoring run. Avram Grant welcomes back Kieron Dyer to the starting line-up, and the Hammers should be even stronger against Blackpool with now Valon Behrami and Victor Obinna also pushing for the starting places after recovering from injury.

Ian Holloway caused a lot of controversy by fielding a second string side in the Aston Villa game so as to save his key players for the relegation six-pointer with West Ham, and he remain adamant it was the right thing to do. I don’t think he would even mind paying a fine to the Premier League if only his side get something from this clash, as everything was done so that Blackpool’s chances against West Ham would be higher. The boss has sensed his players are getting tired from the busy schedule and that was the only reason for fielding mostly fringe players against Aston Villa, although the Tamgerines came very close to getting one point from Villa Park. With West Ham showing a lot of improvement lately, Blackpool will have to be at their best in order to avoid defeat at Upton Park, although the visitors will see their chance up front since Avram Grant’s defenders look to be all over the place at the moment. Ian Holloway will restore his best starting line-up for this match, although the boss faces an anxious wait over Craig Catchart and Dekel Keinan.

Conclusion

West Ham’s second Premiership victory is long overdue and taking into account the way the Hammers have been playing lately, I can see the hosts winning this one. Blackpool’s form is on the downtrend and I don’t think the trick Ian Holloway pulled off in the Aston Villa game will have such a positive effect on the team. I’m prepared to back West Ham here.

Verdict: Home win West Ham (1)

Best odds: 10/11

Bookmaker: Paddy Power