ENGLISH PREMIER BETTING PICK - MIDDLESBROUGH FC V PORTSMOUTH F.C

English Premier

2008-05-03 - Middlesbrough FC vs Portsmouth F.C

A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser

Analysis:

Portsmouth will be confident of getting a result here as Middlesbrough have failed to score in their last three meetings against Portsmouth. While Middlesbrough will go in search of a win here to ensure their Premiership survival, Portsmouth have a slim chance of making fifth place but will want to make sure they approach the FA Cup against Cardiff in good form as well.

The home side are coming into this match after losing their derby meeting with Sunderland last weekend. However they will be up against it here as Portsmouth have not been beaten in their previous five visits here. Boro did however win their earlier clash at Fratton Park so will hope to accomplish the double over them this season.

Gareth Southgate has recalled Chris Riggott from his loan spell at Stoke to play for this match. Southgate could miss the services of Roberth Huth due to a foot injury as well as a series of knocks. In goal we will see goalkeeper Brad Jones stepping down as Mark Schwarzer and Ross Turnbull are now fully fit. Jeremie Aliadiere is fit after a dead leg ruled him from playing against Sunderland. In midfield the likes of Mohammed Shawky and Fabio Rochemback are also hoping to get recalls.

Middlesbrough are without Gary O'Neil and Mido for the rest of the season.

As for Portsmouth, they will field Jermain Defoe as he is cup tied for the FA Cup final. His partner is likely to be Milan Baros. Kanu is likely to be rested while David Nugent will be on the substitutes bench. Hermann Hreidarsson is fit again and could come back into the side at the expense of Lauren.

Go for both teams to share the spoils here.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser

The Statistics :

The Pick :

BEST BETTING TIP :

Go for this match to end in a draw.