EVERTON vs LIVERPOOL
THERE might not be a changing of the guard on Merseyside, but Everton are certainly enjoying a better period than their neighbours.
Having finished last season four points and a place in front of Liverpool, the Toffees have kicked on, beginning this campaign in style, while the Reds have floundered.
David Moyes’ charges started with a home win over Manchester United and have lost just once since – away to West Brom – meaning that they sit in the Champions League places going into the weekend.
By contrast, it took Brendan Rodgers six games to clock up his first league maximum. His new team are two points behind his old one, Swansea, and six in arrears to their local rivals.
Their nine-point haul puts them closer to the relegation zone than the top four.
Although Liverpool’s fortunes are improving after two wins and a draw in their last three league games, I expect them to suffer a setback here.
A contributing factor is likely to be Thursday’s Europa League contest. Even though it was at Anfield, that doesn’t give Rodgers’ small squad long to recover.
For Everton, 13/8 favourites with Coral, a victory would be sweet revenge after losing all three editions of the Merseyside derby – home, away and at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final – in 2011/12.
At a meaty 14/1 with Coral, Everton to win 2-0 in the correct score market is a very interesting proposition, while selling total goals at 2.5 is advised with Sporting Index.
■ Pointers…
Everton at 13/8 with Coral
Everton to win 2-0 at 14/1 with Coral
Sell total goals at 2.5 with Sporting Index