We knew exactly how Chelsea would approach the Manchester United game so there should be no surprises when they head to the Emirates next Sunday.
Arsenal vs Chelsea
RANDOM FOOTY FACT: Arsene Wenger has never beaten Jose Mourinho in his career
The only way Manchester United were going to be able to climb back into the title race was to win at Stamford Bridge. The simplest way for Chelsea to keep that from happening was to keep a clean sheet, and they were not subtle about it. They erected a wall like the City of Troy, or better yet they did their best Gandolph the Great impression and told the Red Devils“You shall not pass”.
But this is old hat for Mourinho. He loves nothing more than keeping a clean sheet. And when it comes to the Arsenal, since Jose Mourinho rejoined Chelsea last year, they have played the Gunners four times and have not conceded a single goal. They have kept clean sheets every time. Surely this can’t continue. Either way, I see Chelsea leaving the O2 Arena with a point, thereby reducing their magic number to six. They’ll have their chance to clinch the Premier League title at home.
Pick: Draw (+240)
Southampton vs Tottenham
Pochettino returns to St. Mary’s for a game that has implications for next years’ Europa League spots. The Spurs will want to stay in 6th place if they value that competition. Even if they don’t, they’ll want to win this one for their gaffer. The Saints have stated that they want European football, which should make this game fun to watch. There won’t be much separating these sides. Hey Poch, “Where’s your translator?”
Pick: Draw (+250)
QPR vs West Ham
If you’re bottom of the table, as Queen’s Park are, then you have it all to play for. If you’re cemented in mid table like West Ham, you’re just going through the paces at this point. The Hammers will probably just play the rest of their games in uninspired fashion. Big Sam looks to be on borrowed time.
Pick: QPR (+140)
By Vinnyman1 [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia CommonsMan City vs Aston Villa
This game should have tons of goals. Aston Villa off their FA Cup high, will cockily strut into the Etihad, where no trophies will be raised this season. Sherwood’s men have been infused with his gilet throwing bravado and will attack Man City with fearless joy. City will do what they always do. Try and score and defend with minimal effort. This game may end 6-6
Pick: Over 3 goals (-120)
Burnley vs Leicester City
This may turn out to be the opposite of City-Villa but perhaps just as gripping. Without Ashley Barnes, the Clarets will have to implement one of their other goons to throw leg breaking challenges. Leicester who have played with the freedom of doomed men have given themselves a shot at survival with 3 straight victories. This game is one of a handful of relegation deciders. Elbows will flung, punches will be thrown, feet will be stamped, and a good time will be had by all. When neither team can afford to lose that leaves 1 obvious choice.
Pick: Draw (+240)
Last Matchday’s record: 2-1-1 (+0.9 units)
Overall: 42-40 (+8.25 units)