Europa League
2011-11-03 - Maccabi Tel Aviv vs Stoke City FC
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Match Preview :
Stoke enters this match knowing that they can complete their qualification to the Europa League knockout rounds with a win at Maccabi Tel Aviv tonight. Stoke currently lead Group E by two points and will book a spot in the round of 32 if they beat Maccabi and second-placed Dynamo Kiev wins at Besiktas.
As it is now The Potters are unbeaten in nine gamesin continental competition and beat their Israeli opponents 3-0 last time out at the Britannia Stadium in the first meeting between the two sides. Maccabi, meanwhile, are languishing in the basement of the group after taking just one point from three games and will be out if they lose to Stoke and Dynamo win in Turkey.
However Tony Pulis is aware of the threat posed as the Israelis unbeaten on their own turf in all competitions this season. Pulis was on record to state that "Their home record in Europe is pretty exceptional, so we know we're in for a tough night"
Pulis is planning to name a strong side for the Israel encounter despite his side's demanding schedule. This match comes three days after they were beaten by Newcastle 3-1 at home while they are back in Premier League action on Sunday with a trip to Bolton.
Team News :
Stoke City
Cameron Jerome is suspended for the Bloomfield Stadium clash following his red card in the reverse fixture a fortnight ago and Jonathan Woodgate is ineligible.
The likes of Ryan Shawcross and Marc Wilson have not travelled after picking up muscle injuries against the Magpies.
Maccabi Tel-Aviv
For the hosts, Israel defender Yoav Ziv will miss out for Maccabi following his dismissal at the Britannia Stadium, with Omer Vered likely to replace him in the hosts' backline.
Predictions :
Take TOTAL GOALS UNDER 2 1/4
The Pick :
Total Goals UNDER 2 1/4
BEST BETTING TIP :
Main Bet:Take Total Goals Under 2 1/4
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Consider Stoke +0 AH
