Bolton hold the second place from the bottom and even now it’s obvious they’ll face a hard fight to avoid relegation. They’ve noticed five defeats (four in Premier) in last six competitive games and conceded huge 18 goals (scored just three)! After two rounds on the road, they’ll play at home two times and those two encounters against Manchester City and West Ham will maybe determine the final outcome for the lads from Reebok Stadium. In the previous round, Bolton lost against direct opponent for relegation, Wolwerhampton, 2-1 and that game like some before showed Gary Megson’s 4-5-1 formation works much better when team defends than when attack. Good news is skipper Kevin Davies has served his suspension and returned to the squad, while midfielder Mustapha Riga and defender Danny Shittu are doubtful. Long time sidelined are Sean Davis and Joey O`Brien.
City defeated Londoners
After historic run of seven draws in Premier that caused many turbulences inside the club, Mark Hughes saved his job with a win against Arsenal in Carling Cup 3-0. Just three days later, they defeated the giants 2-1 and returned the good atmosphere in the dressing room. Well, Premier title is probably lost, but City is at sixth place and just two points from Champions League spot. In my opinion, main problem is Citizens can attract only players with specific mental profile and Hughes always has a difficult task to motivate them, especially in situation where all promises about title has been evaporated. However, against London clubs team just proved the potential they surely have. Craig Bellamy and Vladimir Weiss got H1N1 flu, but have been recovering very well and wouldn’t be surprise if they’re ready for the game. Micah Richards, Stephen Ireland and Wayne Bridge all got the knock against Chelsea and their appearance is under a question mark.
Can Citizens keep the pace?
Bolton and City will have opposite motives in this game. While hosts will struggle to extend their Premier League life, visitors will try to collect as much points till Christmas as will launch them in the space for Champions League. The problem for City could be it’s seems too easy. This could be a surprise of a day in England and my decision is to back Wanderers.
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Prediction:
Tip: 1 AH (+0.5)
Odd: 2.12
Bookie: Bet365
Stake: 7 /10
Tipster: Kather
