Sanford’s Premiership Predictions

Watford v Liverpool (1245 GMT)

I expect the Reds to storm back to normal service in this one. Getting out of Anfield for a spell will help and Watford just can’t seem to score goals. They’ve given a good account of themselves this term but the Championship beckons.

Prediction: 0-2

Bolton v Manchester City

City seem to have righted the ship but it’s a tough job to bring home any bacon from the Reebok. That said, I like a bit of a surprise here and think Psycho can steal a point from Big Sam.

Prediction: 2-2

Charlton v Middlesbrough

Please don’t make me watch this match. I’m snoring already just thinking about it. If Charlton can’t win at home against Boro then they might as well throw in the towel. Well, throw in the towel. I’m glad Ben Thatcher signed with The Addicks just so I can see him go down come May.

Prediction: 0-0

Chelsea v Wigan

Still no John Terry to anchor the Chelski defense but I can’t see Wigan taking anything from the match. Perhaps if it were at the JJB but not at The Bridge. Paul Jewell is enduring some tough times and a trip to West London is not what he needs.

Prediction: 2-0

Manchester United v Aston Villa

The Villians will be without Petrov for their trip to Manchester and that’ll hurt. I’d like to think they can still nick a point but I have trouble betting against ManU, especially at the Theater of Dreams. Ronaldo and Co. are in fine flow at the moment and I think it’ll continue.

Prediction: 2-1

Sheffield United v Portsmouth

I like a home win here. United have impressed of late and Portsmouth are due a letdown. They’ve been flying high for a while but away from the coast they’ll come down to earth.

Prediction: 1-0

West Ham v Fulham

Luis Boa Morte looks to feature against his old mates and that spells trouble for Fulham in this London derby. It’s been up and down since Alan Curbishly took over at Upton Park but I see a home win in the crystal ball here. Although stronger on the road than in last year’s disastrous campaign, Fulham still rely too heavily on the Cottage Compound to provide their mid-table security.

Prediction: 3-1

Blackburn v Arsenal (1715 GMT)

David Bentley is suspended which means Gunner fans don’t have to worry about yet another former Gunner netting against them. Blackburn have been playing well but Arsenal look to have some wind in their sails after the Liverpool poundings. Adebayor’s return will invigorate them even more.

Prediction: 1-3

SUNDAY

Everton v Reading (1345 GMT)

Tim Cahill’s return from injury will give the Blues a needed boost. He’s a scorer and a leader and will give Everton a bite that they’ve lacked in his absence. Reading have already proven their doubters wrong: they belong here and will stay up. They just won’t win this match.

Prediction: 2-1

Tottenham v Newcastle (1600 GMT)

Normally I’d say home win. It’s the only thing Spurs’ unfortunate fans have to look forward to – winning at White Hart Lane. But Newcastle are playing well and I think they can get something here. Martins is scoring and a few of their other key men are slowly returning from injury.

Prediction: 2-2