English Premier
2011-04-23 - Chelsea vs West Ham United
A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser
Analysis:Chelsea will face West Ham in a derby encounter and they will be hoping nothing less then three points having put themselves back into the title race.
After Manchester United and Arsenal dropped points in midweek, Carlo Ancelotti's side managed a 3-1 win over Birmingham to climb into second spot.
That win was their sixth in their last seven games and now sit just six points adrift of league leaders United with a crunch clash at Old Trafford still to come. A win here would enhance their title hopes and there is every indication they can do it.
For the record, the Blues have won nine and lost none of their last 11 meetings with West Ham. Ancelotti's side have prevailed in their last seven London derbies on home soil and will fancy their chances of extending that run today.
And the likes of Didier Drogba has scored five times in nine appearances against the Hammers.
Meanwhile for former coach Avram Grant, his side West Ham have come out on top in only one of their last 10 capital derbies away from home. Worryingly, they have won just two of their last 34 Premier League away games against any opposition. And after three straight defeats they are now inside the relegation zone, two points from safety with five games to play.
As for the team news ahead of this clash, Anceloti will start with Nicolas Anelka and Fernando Torres upfront as they look to end their barren spell in front of goal. Brazilian duo Alex and Ramires miss out with hamstring problems, but Ashley Cole should be fit for duty after being forced off against Birmingham.
Meanwhile Scott Parker is unlikely to face his former club, with West Ham set to rest the newly crowned FWA Footballer of the Year as he continues to nurse a heel complaint. Meanwhile, Robbie Keane will be hoping to keep his place up front after scoring in last week's 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.
There has been talk that the injury suffered by Gary O'Neil against Villa could end his career while Junior Stanislas (groin) and Peter Kurucz (knee) are other long-term absentees.
Take Chelsea to win this match.
Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser
The Pick :
Chelsea to win 1-0
BEST BETTING TIP :
Take Chelsea to win.
Gooner’s Statistical Value Bet
Take West Ham and accept the 1 ball. (main bet)
