Sunday 10/08/2014, 18:00, Norway Tippeligaen, Round 19, Sandnes vs Lillestrom
Sandnes vs Lillestrom Preview
Lillestrom was on the verge of ending the fourth game undecided in just as many fixtures over the last two weeks, but got lucky. They scored twice in overtime against Brann to win a match that appeared to be lost after the visitors scored three unanswered goals. They can't afford another defensive meltdown against Sandnes, but there are very few reasons to worry about their opponents, despite the fact that they will be having home pitch advantage.
Sandnes vs Lillestrom Odds
At Bet365
Sandnes 2.75, Draw 3.60, Lillestrom 2.50
Sandnes vs Lillestrom Tips
Sandnes has accumulated just 10 points in 18 rounds and they are certain candidates for relegation, even though at least in theory there are enough rounds left to avoid this fate. At the time of writing, the last placed team is simply trying to put an end to its six-game losing streak that began in early June.
The one month break caused by the World Cup 2014 didn't change anything for Sandnes, who lost all the games played in July and allowed 12 goals in five matches. The last three games were all lost by 3-1, but in their defense it is worth saying that they played against the top three teams in Tippeligaen.
Lillestrom is not as dangerous as the aforesaid teams, but this isn't exactly reassuring for a squad that has a hard time preventing opponents from scoring. It is of course frustrating for Sandnes players that they managed to score one goal in each of the last four games yet they lost all of them. Unless they bolster their defenses ahead of this match, the visitors will most likely hammer them.
Lillestrom lost just five games this season, all of them against teams that were above them in the standings, while being pretty effective in winning against teams struggling in the relegation area. The key to victory tonight would be a strong offensive, so the visitors will be using Fofana and Friday, while relying on their potent midfield as well.
Key Facts
- The two teams met five times so far and Sandnes is still looking for the first victory over Lillestrom
- Sandnes won just twice in the last 20 games, both times a narrow margin victory in front of their fans.
Sandnes vs Lillestrom Prediction
Despite having home pitch advantage, Sandnes will not come out firing on all cylinders, but instead try to defend the scoreless draw. If Lillestrom scores early, the match could well turn into a scoring festival, but risk-averse punters would be better off taking the cover of a 0:0 Asian handicap bet. If the match ends undecided, the stakes will be returned and the odds are high enough at 1.80 to warrant this wager.
Bet: Lillestrom Draw no Bet @ 1.80 with Bet365
