English Premier
2009-08-30 - Portsmouth vs Manchester City
A Sports Betting Pick by Auls
Football: England, Premier League 2009/2010
Sunday, 30th August 2009 - Kickoff 13:30
Portsmouth
The grey clouds that were gathering over Fratton Park began clearing after their takeover was finally completed and signings could begin to be made. Michael Brown and Tommy Smith have been brought into the side but they have lost another important piece of the squad when Sylvan Distin moved on to Everton.
Portsmouth made it through to the 3rd round of the Carling Cup this week which lifted the mood slightly after their 3 losses to start the Premier League campaign. They currently sit in 19th spot in the Premier League and have scored 1 goal but conceded 6 in their first 3 games. Portsmouth lost their only League game at home 0-1 to Fulham.
Brown and Smith could both start in this match although another signing, Aruna Dindane, is not likely to receive his work permit in time. Injuries are still taking their toll at the back for Pompey, and they are missing Steve Finnan, Herman Hreidersson and possibly David James in this match. Papa Bouba Diop is also likely to miss out.
Manchester City
Mark Hughes stated it is the end of players coming into the club before the transfer window closes with the recent signings of Joleon Lescott and Sylvinho. Richard Dunne is the first exit of the 'old era' at City and looks like he will sign for Aston Villa. City also managed to win comfortably at Crystal Palace in the Carling Cup this past Thursday.
City have won their first 3 games in all competitions, have scored 5 goals and have yet to concede, but they now have the pressure of expectation heaped on them from their fans who expect results. They won their first away game in the Premier League 0-2 at Blackburn and they sit in 5th in the table, one place behind rivals Manchester United.
Joleon Lescott to retain his place in the side. Mark Hughes made only 1 change in the Carling Cup from the side that beat Wolves in the League which shows his motivation in winning something this season. Roque Santa Cruz and Vincent Kompany are still missing from the otherwise fit squad.
Head to Head
Portsmouth have a strong home record against Manchester City, losing only 1 in 7 games there and also being unbeaten in their last 4 at home. They have won 3 of the last 4 games against City here.
Last season this corresponding fixture ended 2-0 to Portsmouth.
Prediction
Portsmouth have had good news this week with the takeover, but I dont think we will see the effect of that until after the transfer window closes and behind the international break. This will be tough for them with the losses in defence and the injuries they have.
Manchester City look a good side and will be hoping to extend their winning run especially with the matches against Arsenal and Manchester United to follow. Mark Hughes is not looking to make too many changes to his side, hoping to keep it settled and produce consistent results.
There are too many options for Mark Hughes at City and I cant see them dropping points here. Portsmouth are still recovering from a long tough Summer, and will not expect results from their takeover until they can make a few more signings. City have to be the pick here.
The Statistics :
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The Pick :
Portsmouth 1-2 Manchester City
BEST BETTING TIP :
Manchester City WIN
