Sunday 17/08/2014, 14:30, English Premier League, Round 1, Liverpool vs Southampton
Liverpool vs Southampton Preview
It is time for Liverpool to forget about what happened last season and focus on this year, because they have a team strong enough to make another run for the title. Losing in the final weeks despite leading for most of the season was obviously frustrating, but the good news is that key players have remained with the team. The same can't be said about Southampton, who despite having lower expectations has an equally good chance of meeting them in the upcoming season.
Liverpool vs Southampton Odds
Liverpool 1.35, Draw 3.70, Southampton 6.75
Liverpool vs Southampton Tips
Liverpool was one of the most active English teams over the last three months, having played no fewer than nine friendly games. Four of them were a part of the International Champions Cup, a competition that they dominated, despite losing to Manchester United.
Despite the fact that Suarez was traded to Barcelona, Liverpool appears to be equally strong upfront and well capable of scoring goals regardless of venue. In front of their fans, they are huge favorites to prevail, even against a team that has a reputation for defending with great precision and being deadly on counterattacks.
Southampton didn't lose time either and played a total of six friendly games, with the most notable performance being that they kept a clean sheet in four consecutive games. They could've extended the streak, but allowed an overtime goal away at Brighton and Hove, in a match that they eventually won by 3-1. On the flip side, the only game played against a tough opponent result narrow margin defeat.
The visitors have only two injured players, a defender and a striker, but the midfield remains intact and this is what matters most. The fact that Rodriguez will remain on the bench is bad news, simply because this was their most prolific striker last season. Tadic and Long will be given a chance to shine, but their best chance to score will appear on counterattacks.
Key Facts
- Southampton lost a couple of key forwards during the season break and this will prompt them to shift into a more defensive gear away at Liverpool.
- In the last 10 head to head games, the two teams have alternated wins and victories, with no match ending undecided.
Liverpool vs Southampton Prediction
Risk-averse punters will surely appreciate the odds of 1.80 for Southampton not to lose by more than two goals on the road. Pinnacle Sports offers even better value for those who are willing to take a leap of faith with a double chance wager, but given Liverpool's recent form it is hard to go against them at Anfield.
Bet: Southampton +1.5 goals @ 1.80 with Pinnacle Sports
