Zenit St.Petersburg - Saturn Moscow Region
Football: Russian Premier League
Saturday, 25th September 2010. Kickoff 13:00 CET

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Zenit St.Petersburg (1st)

Zenit was held to a goalless draw by Terek in Grozny but nevertheless maintained 19 match unbeaten run, which has been lasting since start of the season.

Although Europa League action is approaching this Thursday, Spalletti should not be too much concerned about team's fatigue factor as there is enough depth in Zenit’s squad to freely vary 2 or 3 positions. Midfielder Huszti and Shirokov are unavailable, while Rosina and Bukharov return from injuries.

I don’t expect Spalletti to heavily shake the line up until the championship title is secured. Hypothetically Rubin can still seriously clinch into the battle, but once Zenit is safe – Italian specialist will surely give more playing time to reserves.

At the time being no serious changes on the horizon with, perhaps, only Danko Lazovic coming on instead of Vladimir Bystrov who did not look too sharp in Grozny.

Saturn Moscow Region (11th)

Saturn is nearly at full-strength in St. Petersburg with just midfielder Kuzmichev injured. Moscow-Region club was involved in Russian Cup on Wednesday and successfully went to the quarter finals beating 1st Division side Luch-Energia.

Prior to that Saturn edged Dynamo Moscow off in a fascinating 5 goal thriller. Right back Angbwa, left back Nakhushev and defensive midfielder Evseev return to action after 1 match suspensions.

Saturn’s defense will be significantly improved with side backs Angbwa and Nakhushev return. This will give the back 4 its’ full-strength view. Moreover Evseev adds required fighting spirit in the middle. In terms of value for Saturn he could be compared to Milan’s Gattusso.

Manager Andrey Gordeev used his best players in the Cup game against Luch. Only top-scorer Dmitry Kirichenko was rested, but Marko Topic provided a decent cover scoring both goals.

Betting advice

All rumors about bad financing have been swept aside by Saturn's performance against Dynamo and Luch-Energia. Gordeev's team was very concentrated and determined to get a positive result. So visitors are in an upbeat mood going into this match.

They also have quite promising history in St.Petersburg: 2 draws were recorded in 2009 and 2008 respectively.Furthermore Saturn has managed to score in St. Petersburg on every occasion with only one exception.

This said, we can expect a high-scoring match here. And I have a feeling Saturn can spring a surprise.

FIXED ODDS BETTING :

Take Over 2.50 goals @ 1.98 with Bet365

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take Saturn (+1.50) @ 1.80 with Bet365 (main bet)