English Premier
2009-05-09 - Bolton Wanderers vs Sunderland
A Sports Betting Pick by Gooner
Bolton (12th - Home Rec : 7-3-7 20:20)
While Bolton's season form at home is not much to shout about - it has been getting better over the last three months as Bolton have picked up 13 points from their last six games with four wins, a draw and a surprise 1-3 loss to Fulham.
The recent wins over Middlesbrougth (4-1) and Newcastle (1-0) are useful indicators as I rate both sides at a similar level to today's opponents Sunderland.
Sunderland (16th - Away Rec : 3-5-9 12:26)
Sunderland have not had a great season in their return to the Premier League, and the form line is getting worse for the Wearsiders who have lost six of their last seven league fixtures, the exception being a 1-0 home win over Hull City three weeks ago.
Still, Sunderland have a four point cushion between themselves and the relegation zone, so there is still a huge amount to play for, and quite frankly if Sunderland can avoid an immediate relegation then the season will be considered a success.
Head to Head
Bolton have won the last two clashes at the Reebok, both by 2-0 scorelines.
Earlier this season Bolton also scored a big 4-1 win at the Stadium of Light in the reverse fixture, when they scored four times after Cisse had opened the scoring for Sunderland.
Sunderland defeated the Trotters 2-1 in the third round of the FA Cup at the Stadium of Light on 3 January, but as with all FA Cup ties these days both clubs fielded mixed strength line-ups.
The Betting Verdict
The recent form lines make-up my mind here with Bolton having four home wins in the last six, while Sunderland have lose their last four away games in a row without scoring.
I was expecting to see Bolton priced at less than even money, but instead they're at a bigger price than they were for the games against Newcastle and Middlesbrough.
I'll take the home side.
The Statistics :
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The Pick :
Bolton 2-0 Sunderland
