English Premier
2010-02-16 - Stoke City vs Manchester City
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Analysis:Standing in the way of Manchester City's quest to move into fourth spot will be Stoke City who the Blues will have to face for a second time in three days.
On Saturday in the FA Cup, Manchester City were held to a 1-1 draw at the City of Manchester Stadium. But now City currently sit in fifth position, however a victory in the Potteries would move them three points above Liverpool, who occupy fourth, with another game in hand.
Roberto Mancini knows a win is needed before they face Liverpool this weekend at the City of Manchester Stadium. A win here could ultimately prove decisive in the race for the UEFA Champions League for Manchester City.
Mancini who has seen his side stutter since losing in the Carling Cup semi-finals to Manchester United, will also be aware that if he does not meet that target he could be asked to leave sooner before his contract expires if he fails to meet the target of finishing in the top four.
Mancini will want to impress after a less-than-convincing win over Bolton prior to the weekend's cup draw.
As for Stoke, they currently sit 12th in the table and could overtake 11th-placed Blackburn with three points against City, while they would then still hold a game in hand over Sam Allardyce's men and Fulham.
Stoke will be without Matthew Etherington as the in-form winger is facing a lay-off after suffering a knee injury on Saturday. Andy Wilkinson (ankle) and Liam Lawrence (knee) also took knocks, but should be fit, while Abdoulaye Faye (back) is fit and should start.
As for City, they will miss the services of Carlos Tevez, who has been granted leave to return to Argentina for family reasons. Craig Bellamy and Vincent Kompany are struggling with knee and groin problems, and is doubtful for this clash.
Shaun Wright-Phillips, Stephen Ireland and Martin Petrov all suffered knocks in the cup but should still feature, but Adam Johnson is available after being cup-tied.
Take Manchester City for the win here.
Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser
The Pick :
Manchester City 1-0 or 2-0
BEST BETTING TIP :
Take Manchester City to win here.
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Take Manchester City and give the 1/4 ball here.
