Sunderland going Under…

by; Steve Kelsey

I don’t think there’s a sports writer, betting agency or sane football fan who would bet heavy on Sunderland to come out on top.  While the odds are generally good enough to make some money with Liverpool (1-2 for a Liverpool win), but the odds (at roughly 6-1) simply don’t favour the Black Cats.  Luckily, the pre-season showing doesn’t necessarily reflect the club as they walk out on the pitch against The Reds this Saturday.   Let’s not forget the mental edge an underdog can benefit from when playing a team they’ve managed to rattle in the past.  Sunderland also rides the momentum (if you can call it that) of finishing in the top half last season, a feat many fans hadn’t expected.

Liverpool had some unexpected difficulties in preseason play, perhaps showing that last season’s clear out, and the addition of new players will require some time to gel as a club.  Stewart Downing’s arrival from Villa is an asset, and  Jordan Henderson may come out with something to prove against his former club.  Add key players such as Doni, Charlie Adam, Philipp Degen, Bradley Jones, and ElZhar into the mix, and things are looking up for Liverpool following a win over Valencia in the preseason.  Liverpool fans are expecting a much better start this year,  and the pressure of big expectations can either produce great results or huge let downs.

While Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is surely not keen on a repeat of last year’s 2-2 draw, odds-makers and gamblers may see the 3-1 odds as a good potential to up their winnings on the match.  I would venture that while it’s a risky bet, taking the 3-1 odds on the draw may be the best way to make some money on this match.  With odds favouring a Liverpool win, and indeed their roster supports the prediction despite Gerrard’s groin injury, the obvious prediction is for Liverpool to come out on top.  Risky betters will bet the draw and hope for a nice 3-1 pay-out, while Sunderland supporters and the most adventurous of betters may take the chance on a huge underdog showing from Sunderland.

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Prediction: Liverpool

Money Pick: Draw