Liverpool vs. Everton
Everyone seems to have forgotten about this game. After the Arsenal - United game last weekend it seemed everyone jumped straight to Arsenal - Chelsea (below). This game will be huge. This could be the game where Everton make their push for the 4th spot. Now I know you are thinking of the Everton that were in 16th place in the league and looked more probable to drop than play Champions League football. But take a look at the table now. Everton are sitting at 32 points in the league. Liverpool have 41. Everton wins this game and they 35 points in the league. Pool still has 41. Everton also have a game in hand. That would take them to 38 points with a win and only three points back of their Merseyside rivals. I hope Donovan has a blinder. This could be another match to prove he should extend his loan deal. Unfortunately it won't be easy on Saturday. Liverpool haven't been great this season. Lets be fair, they haven't been good this season. They are still capable of turning it on and just like against United they will want to beat Everton and beat them badly. They have their own desires for this game because if they can win and Tottenham slip up then they will move in to the 4th spot as Rafa guaranteed they would.
Chelsea vs. Arsenal
This game should be interesting. I think most people are of the consensus that Arsenal are going to get battered. Then you look to the Chelsea - Hull result and you have a second thought on the battering. Arsenal are a good team on the break, however, they can be exploited in defense. Chelsea seem to excel at both ends of the pitch. Drogba is back and apparently packed his shooting boots as he scored the lone goal for Chelsea against Hull. Chelsea will hope Wenger fields the same front three he used against United. The tricky but diminutive trio of Nasri, Arshavin, and Rosicky. The Chelsea defense will clean up everything in the air. On the other end, Gallas won't be happy to see Drogba and Anelka running at him. So the key for Arsenal as usual is in midfield. What will Wenger do? Will Denilson and Song be enough to shield the back line from Lampard and company? Will Fabregas get any room in midfield? Chelsea are short on defensive midfielders so Fabregas could find a little space with Essien being sidelined with a knee injury. On paper, it looks like Chelsea should cruise. Don't underestimate Arsenal as the last time they were beaten by a big 4 rival they went on a lengthy winning run. Either way this game is sure to be a crowd pleaser from the opening whistle.
Posts
