YTM Predictions for Week 20

Dave is on holiday this week so lets see if we can improve the overall quality of predictions!!

Saturday, 30 December 2006
Blackburn v Middlesbrough, 15:00
Home Win - Blackburn to follow up their impressive win over Liverpool. Boro just too inconsistent on the road.
Bolton v Portsmouth, 15:00
Home Win - Bolton to gain an upper hand in the battle for a European spot. Watch for Anelka to continue his hot streak.
Charlton v Aston Villa, 12:45
Draw - Expect a fired-up Charlton to take a point against the injury-hit Villains.
Chelsea v Fulham, 15:00
Home Win - Even with a patched up defense the Champions will prove too strong for their neighbours. Ballack is due a goal.
Everton v Newcastle, 15:00
Away Win - I take the lightning quick Obafemi Martins to cause the Everton defense a headache and poach a goal on the break.
Man Utd v Reading, 15:00
Home Win - Reading will give United a fright but I take the Red Devils to continue their excellent form.
Sheff Utd v Arsenal, 17:15
Draw - Bramall Lane is not the sort of place the Gunners will relish going to try and improve their indifferent away form.
Tottenham v Liverpool, 15:00
Draw - Spurs are good at home and Liverpool are improving on the road despite losing to Blackburn. These teams tend to draw at the Lane.
Watford v Wigan, 15:00
Away Win - The Hornets look doomed and although the Latics are struggling with injuries I think they are due a win after decent performances against United and Chelsea.
West Ham v Man City, 15:00
Home Win - The Hammers look rejuvenated and surely Marlon Harewood is due a goal. It's anyone's guess which Man City will turn up.

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Monday, 01 January 2007
Fulham v Watford, 15:00
Home Win - Sorry Watford fans but I can't see you getting anything from this. Fulham have done OK at home this season and are having a reasonable season.
Liverpool v Bolton, 12:45
Home Win - A close fought match but fortress Anfield should prove too strong for the Trotters.
Man City v Everton, 15:00
Away Win - I take the Toffee men to bounce back thanks to Andy Johnson getting back among the goals once again.
Middlesbrough v Sheff Utd, 15:00
Home Win - Boro are much better at the Riverside. I think the Yak's been hungry for a while and needs a big feed.
Newcastle v Man Utd, 17:15
Away Win - I do think Man Utd will have a bad patch but I don't think it will start at St James' Park.
Portsmouth v Tottenham, 15:00
Draw - A difficult one to call with lots of ex Spurs playing for Pompey now so it has to be a draw.
Reading v West Ham, 15:00
Away Win - the start of a mini blip for the Royals? West Ham to slowly move clear of trouble.
Wigan v Blackburn, 15:00
Draw - A dour Lancashire derby (in the rain?) that will end up honours even.

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Tuesday, 02 January 2007
Arsenal v Charlton, 19:45
Home Win - The Addicks will improve but not this much.
Aston Villa v Chelsea, 20:00
Away Win - Villa struggling with injuries so the champions to maintain pressure on Man United.

All the best from YTM HQ for 2007!

Have a good one!

Tom

Team of Week 19

M Schwarzer
Middlesbrough - £3.5m
6 Points
Two clean sheets for Boro over Christmas as they look to stabilise and move away from the drop zone.

L Primus
Portsmouth - £3m
18 points
Some thought Pompey would fade but they've kept it going and it look's promising for a top 6 finish.

F Queudrue
Fulham - £5m
13 Points
Very capable from dead ball situations. How was it ever a free-kick though......?

A Taylor
Middlesbrough - £2.5m
10 points
One for the future. There are plenty of talented youngsters coming through at the Riverside thanks to Mr Parnaby.

G Naysmith
Everton - £3m
10 Points
Solid if unspectacular from the Toffee men.

Ronaldo
Manchester United - £7m
28 Points
England's World Cup nemesis is on fire at the moment and he only started 1 of the 2 games played in the week!

G Silva
Arsenal - £5.5m
18 Points
The surprise package of the Gunners midfield. 7 goals so far is a great return and provided he keeps the penalty taking duties he should make double figures.

K Dyer
Newcastle United - £5m
16 Points
Great to see him back and scoring. His 3 goals in 5 starts shows the potential if he can keep fit.

R Van Persie
Arsenal - £6m
19 Points
Deputising well for Thierry. Likely to remain a top 10 YTM striker for years to come.

O Martins
Newcastle - £6.5m
12 Points
A hot streak of form that has returned an impressive 34 points in just 5 games.

N Anelka
Bolton Wanderers - £6.5m
16 Points
When he's on a roll he's on a roll. Will be looking forward to his return to Anfield on New Years day.

YTM January Preview...

Thanks to the two breaks for FA Cup football in early and late January, the Premiership has a fairly light calendar during the first month of 2007. All teams play 4 times in January, so there is nothing to be gained there.

However, there are four teams that play three home games in January, and they will be the most likely to pick up the most points for YTM Managers. Here are those four teams and their fixtures:

Arsenal: Home: Charlton, Man United, and Man City. Away: Blackburn

Reading: Home: West Ham, Sheff Utd and Wigan. Away: Everton

Portsmouth: Home: Tottenham, Charlton and Middlesbrough. Away: Sheff Utd

Newcastle: Home: Man Utd, West Ham and Aston Villa. Away: Tottenham

It definately seems to be that Newcastle have the toughest bunch of fixtures out of those four. It would be difficult to not choose Pompey players with those four fixtures in January.

Managers beware!! There are four teams in the Premiership who have three away games this month, and those teams should be avoided. They are:

Tottenham
Blackburn
Charlton
and Watford

To be honest, it would be a very 'brave' (if that is the correct word!) manager who would choose any Watford or Charlton players in the near future!!

With so few games this month it should be a close one for Manager of the Month and a prize of £10,000. So there is every reason to take advantage of our half-price sale that is going on at the moment!

Good luck in the New Year, and I hope this information helps you to the big win!

Dave @ YTM HQ

YTM Xmas Fixtures Predictions

Hope you are all getting ready for the festivities!
Here are the predictions for the matches over the Christmas period. Quite a lot to go through, so the guestimates will be fast and furious...

Saturday

Arsenal vs Blackburn
Blackburn got a good away win last weekend, but Arsenal will be wanting to get back to winning ways, and should do so.
Home Win

Aston Villa vs Man United
Should be a good game this one. Unfortunately Villa are on a bit of a slump, and Man United will be wanting to rectify last Sunday's defeat to West Ham.
Away Win

Fulham vs West Ham
Curbishley should have drilled out West Ham's defensive frailties by now, and they will be difficult to break down at the Cottage in the early kick-off on Saturday.
Draw

Liverpool vs Watford
Liverpool never lose at home, and Watford are beginning to struggle in the Premiership.
Home Win

Man City vs Bolton
Expect a low scoring game, with Bolton stealing a 0-1 victory.
Away Win

Middlesbrough vs Charlton
Middlesbrough can be good sometimes, but Charlton are always awful.
Home Win

Newcastle vs Tottenham
I think this will be a good match, and Newcastle should fancy themselves against a team that doesn't perform well on their travels. I fully expect the two foreign imports, Martins and Berbatov, to be the stars here.
Draw

Portsmouth vs Sheff Utd
I hate Neil Warnock! Hopefully Harry Redknapp can do me a favour and get his team to hammer the Blades!
Home Win

Reading vs Everton
A difficult one to call. If Moyes gets his tactics right, Everton shouldn't concede. But if Arteta is out injured, then the weight will be solely on Andy Johnson's shoulders. Whether he will score is another question...
Draw

Wigan vs Chelsea
This fixture last year was decided by a great Hernan Crespo strike in injury time. The man of the moment is Didier Drogba, and I would not be at all surprised if he popped up and it finished 0-1 to Chelsea again.
Away Win

Boxing Day

Blackburn vs Liverpool
Liverpool are picking up points away from home nowadays, and I would expect their defence to be able to deal with the threat posed by Bentley and McCarthy.
Away Win

Bolton vs Newcastle
I fancy Newcastle to come away from the Reebok with something, as they have definitely improved over recent weeks. Bolton are short up front, and it will start to show in 2007.
Draw

Chelsea vs Reading
Ibrahim Sonko is afraid that some angry Chelsea fans are looking for revenge, after his tackle on Cudicini. If I was him I would be worried about Drogba, Shevchenko, Lampard, Ballack, Essien...
Home Win

Everton vs Middlesbrough
Everton should get the three points at Goodison, provided Middlesbrough's normal team turns up, and not its super twin team that beat Chelsea and drew with Arsenal...
Home Win

Man United vs Wigan
Provided Ronaldo and Rooney haven't over-done it on Christmas Day, Man United should win this one at a canter.
Home Win

Sheff Utd vs Man City
As much as I hate Warnock, he does seem to be able to get his team to produce results, and they haven't been really 'hammered' yet in the Premiership. I think they will beat Man City, and put Stuart Pearce under a bit of pressure going into 2007.
Home Win

Tottenham vs Aston Villa
Tottenham’s home form has been good so far this season, and they will be favourites for this game. How good Villa are really will depend on the result against Man United on the 23rd.
Home Win

Watford vs Arsenal
I really don't know why, but I think Watford will get a point from this fixture. Arsenal have been good on the road so far, but Watford know how to shut up shop, and can't score many goals. 0-0 methinks.
Draw

West Ham vs Portsmouth
Curbishley's revitalised Hammers will be looking for a second straight home win against Pompey. Redknapp will be returning to his old stamping ground. It will be emotional, and it will be close.
Draw

27th December

Charlton vs Fulham
Charlton have to win at some point in the season, don't they? Fulham's away form hasn't been as bad as in previous seasons, and they will definitely be looking for a positive result. An entertaining draw.
Draw

And that's it for the Christmas fixtures...

Hope you all have a wicked Christmas and a safe and prosperous 2007.

Dave and the rest of the team @ YTM HQ

Team of the Week 18

The less said about my predictions this week the better!! Three out of ten isn't good in any way, shape or form!

Moving onto the football...

Obafemi Martins is starting to look good as Newcastle are beginning to pick up points at a steady pace. I don't think that it would be a bit rash to get Martins into your YTM team during the next transfer window, which opens on the 5th January...

Another player that looks good for the second half of the season is Tom Huddlestone. Martin Jol may well see Huddlestone as the answer to Michael Carrick's departure to Man United, and in the form he is in, he is likely to get a prolongued stay in the Spurs starting eleven.

It looks like Steven Gerrard is going to start racking up the points now that he is being played in the centre of midfield by Rafa Benitez. Furthermore, the chances of all Liverpool players being good YTM buys has risen dramatically, with many of their difficult games in the past. How Benitez' boys deal with the visits of the big teams will define their season in the Premiership.

League Cup Quarter Finals this week... Hopefully there will be a few upsets, so good luck to Southend and Wycombe, against Tottenham and Charlton respectively.
I think that it could be Liverpool's League Cup this year, but to do that they will have to get by Arsenal tonight.

Dave @ YTM HQ

YTM Predictions Week 18

Just me this week, as I seem to be the only one in the office on a Friday afternoon... Why am I doing work?!?

It's nearly Christmas and I am listening to some cracking Xmas Chunes at the moment, so apologies if these predictions are a bit too festive...

Saturday

Arsenal vs Portsmouth
Gunners fielded an under strength side against Wigan on Wednesday and got away with it. They will have to be on top form this weekend against Redknapp's solid Pompey outfit. I expect no festive cheer from the Gunners defence, as they score a victory to keep third place in the league.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Aston Villa vs Bolton
Villa are on a bit of a slump at the moment. However, it is the best slump you would want to be in, as they are still not losing too many games. Bolton have become a bit hit and miss. They scored a great victory over West Ham last weekend, and they will want to build on that result. Villa will be prepared for this, and it should be an entertaining draw.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

Charlton vs Liverpool
Liverpool are looking solid and assured at the back and devastating up front, thanks largely to Gerrard's 'new' midfield role. Charlton on the other hand are struggling for ideas, and I think Les Reed is fighting a losing battle to keep the Addicks up this season. Liverpool win.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Newcastle vs Watford
Newcastle have been playing well of late, and did well against Chelsea in midweek. Watford however are going to make it as difficult as possible for the Toon Army, and I expect a very tense match, with Aidy's boys trying to burgle the three points at the death, but to no avail.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Goalless Draw

Reading vs Blackburn
Mark Hughes has yet to get the magic first eleven for Blackburn, as last week's defeat to Newcastle proved. Reading on the other hand are looking very good at home, ever since they were humbled by Arsenal. Steve Coppell seems to be on cloud nine at the moment, but I feel the way he manoeuvres in the transfer window will be key.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Wigan vs Sheff Utd
Wigan looked the better team for large parts of their game against Arsenal in midweek, and they will be looking for all three points on Saturday against relegation-candidates Sheffield United. Warnock is a horrible man, and I can't say that I'm upset that he is not succeeding in the top flight. Wigan should win this quite easily, mainly because of their difference-maker, who goes by the name of 'Kamara'.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Sunday

Everton vs Chelsea
Chelsea keep on winning and scoring important goals to stay hot on the heels of Man United, and I don't expect this to stop at Goodison. Cahill is proving to be such a huge loss to the Toffees, as they look toothless without him. A close game, but a scrappy goal should do the trick for the Blues.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Man City vs Tottenham
On any other Saturday I would give this to Tottenham, no question. But they had a tough game on Thursday against European opposition, and this may tell in the second half of the game. It wouldn't shock me if Spurs are winning at the interval, but Man City show Stuart Pearce's fighting mentality to sneak a draw by the end.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

West Ham vs Man United
Pardew is Dead! Long live Curbishley!! However, surely no West Ham fans are expecting instant miracles. However, Curbs has a great squad at Upton Park, and who knows, if he gets the Argies firing...? Man United will need to win this game to maintain the gap at the top, and they will win.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Monday

Fulham vs Middlesbrough
Fulham have been dogged by key injuries so far this season, and they will be fielding a severely under-strengthened midfield against Boro on Monday Night Football. However, I have a good feeling (for Fulham fans!!) that 'Rubbish Boro' will turn up at Craven Cottage and three points will go to Chris Coleman's men.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win


That's your lot! Managed to keep the Christmas puns to a minimum, which is always good to see!

Good luck to all teams this weekend, apart from those Tractor Boys, who have to deal with Super Leeds on Saturday!

Cheers,

Dave @ YTM HQ

Team of the Week 17

Another great week of football comes and goes in the Premiership. Hats off to Matt in our office who got eight out of ten in his predictions for last week... He is considering going for a big cash prize in 'Premier 10', the new prediction competition from Littlewoods Football Pools.

If you think that you could get all ten fixtures correct next weekend, click here to win £1000s!!

Back to the football after that unashamed plug! All the outfield players in the Team of the Week scored, apart from Danny Agger, who gained his points via a brace of Key Contributions.

Tottenham and Newcastle fans must be pleased that Berbatov and Martins are beginning to score a few goals. I really hope Martins doesn't get struck by the Newcastle curse and get injured... I, like many neutrals, really want to see the Toon Army get a team they deserve... Stuart Pearce for their next manager?? We will have to wait and see.

Good to see Pardew get the sack... I didn't like him when they were in the Championship... he was always very grumpy. Think he may have been punching above his weight in the top league though. Curbishley we be awesome at West Ham, and I fully expect them to be challenging for Europe within two years.

Will be back tomorrow with some more predictions.

11 days to Christmas!!

Cheers,

Dave @ YTM HQ

YTM Predictions Week 17

We have a few guest speakers for this weekend's predictions. Tom and Matt will give us their opinions on a couple of the games. Really this is just an excuse for some office bragging rights!
Should be a good weekend of Premiership football, ending with the London derby on Sunday. Well, here goes...

Saturday

Blackburn vs Newcastle
Matt: "History shows that these 2 teams are fairly evenly matched. Newcastle's star is in the ascendancy following the news that there were no further injuries after the midweek win against Reading. Blackburn's form is patchy and haven't beaten the Magpies at home since October 2002."
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 2-1
Matt: 1-2
Tom: 1-1

Bolton vs West Ham
Bolton are looking to steady the ship after a few shaky performances in recent weeks. The news that the talismanic Ivan Campo may be on his way back to Spain in January will not help matters! West Ham are in a relegation dogfight, and will be looking to get something from this game, after a terrible performance midweek against Wigan.
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 2-0
Matt: 1-0
Tom: 1-1

Liverpool vs Fulham
If Liverpool win this match, it will be 50 league wins in Rafa Benitez' 94 games in charge. That record would be better than both Ferguson and Wenger! Craig Bellamy looked in good shape last weekend against Wigan, and he may be the difference between Liverpool and a Fulham side who are very stubborn away from home.
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 2-1
Matt: 3-0
Tom: 2-0

Man Utd vs Man City
Matt: "It could be an important weekend in determining whether the Red Devils can wrest the Premiership title out of west London. City have an unlikely hoodoo over United and past results have been unpredictable. However United will attack with the same unfettered verve that destroyed Benfica in midweek and City will be pulverised."
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 2-1
Matt: 5-0
Tom: 3-1

Middlesbrough vs Wigan
Wigan have a very respectable away record so far this season, with away victories at Fulham, Bolton, and most recently, West Ham. Their counter-attacking play is paying dividends on their travels, and Middlesbrough will need to be wary of this. However, Boro's concentration may be disturbed by Gareth Southgate's battles to remain a Premiership manager, and Wigan will steal some points in this one.
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 0-1
Matt: 0-0
Tom: 1-1

Portsmouth vs Everton
Pompey boss Harry Redknapp will be looking to return to winning ways after their 2-2 draw with Villa. Although the game was great for the neutrals, it did both teams no favours in the race for positioning before the Christmas fixture list. Everton have had a disappointing season so far, and the absence of Tim Cahill is very noticeable. All three of us expect goals in this one!
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 1-1
Matt: 2-2
Tom: 2-1

Tottenham vs Charlton
New Charlton boss Les Reed has admitted that his Charlton team are in a fight to avoid relegation. This fight does not end tomorrow, but nonetheless Reed will be hoping to get a point against London rivals Spurs. Tottenham have had a fairly average start to the season, and will need to go on a run of good results to reach the heady heights of last season. However, the absence of Robbie Keane through injury is likely to make the score closer than it should be.
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 1-0
Matt: 3-0
Tom: 2-0

Watford vs Reading
Tom: "If the Royals had won at Newcastle in mid-week (and they were leading at one point) they would have gone third in the table. A truly fantastic effort and Steve Coppell deserves massive credit for keeping faith with his Championship winning squad and keeping his feet on the ground. Watford on the other hand look out of their depth and losing to Sheffield United was a big blow. Expect the excellent Kevin Doyle to continue his hot streak of four goals in five games."
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 1-1
Matt: 1-2
Tom: 1-2

Sunday

Chelsea vs Arsenal
All the boys in the office feel that this game will be a closely fought affair, with only the odd-goal in it. Chelsea are the obvious favourites, but Arsenal will look to stifle them in midfield, with Adebayor the 'lone ranger' up-front. No doubt Ashley Cole will get a torrential amount of abuse from the travelling Gunners, but I believe he will rise to it, and be one of the best players on the pitch.
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 2-1
Matt: 1-1
Tom: 1-0

Monday

Sheff Utd vs Aston Villa
Tom: "Neil Warnock has his men fired up for survival and it would appear that Martin O'Neil's extended honeymoon period is grinding to a halt. Bramall Lane is a tough place to visit at the best of times and after three draws and a loss in the last four games the timing is all wrong for the Villains. The Blades will win lots of second balls, run all day and score from a set-piece."
YTM Predictions:
Dave: 0-0
Matt: 1-1
Tom: 2-1

And that's your lot guys! Thanks to Matt and Tom for lend us some of their wisdom...

Good luck to all your teams this weekend.

Cheers

Dave @ YTM HQ

Tom's November Teams...

Here are the teams I selected in the November preview:

Team 1: Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Young, Carsley, Barry, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Drogba.

115 points which would have put me 405th.

Hyypia was on the bench versus 'Boro and it looks like Agger is playing well.

Team 2: Sorensen, Hughes, Ridgewell, Mellberg, P Neville, Gerrard, Lampard, Barry, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Drogba.

121 points which would have put me 193rd. Aaron Hughes didn't play at Wigan and Gabby Agbonlahor is yet to fire this month.

Team 3: Van der Sar, G Neville, Vidic, R Ferdinand, Heinze, Young, Scholes, Valencia, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Rooney.

113 points which would have put me 519th.

Heinze and Valencia are the weak links. Both came on as subs this week.The top team currently has 155 points which is a fantastic return with 2 sets of fixtures to go.

Not a bad virtual attempt!!

Cheers,

Tom
YTM HQ

Team of Week 16

B Friedel
Blackburn Rovers - £4m
7 Points
The extra game gets Brad in to the team of the week as Blackburn continue to be frustratingly inconsistent.

M Taylor
Portsmouth - £5m
16 points
Can be relied upon to chip in with a few goals each season particularly if he gets to play in midfield.

T El Karkouri
Charlton Athletic - £3.5m
13 Points
Everyone at the Valley will be hoping that El Karkouri's late winner will prove to be the seasons turning point.

C Morgan
Sheffield United - £2m
9 points
Signs of improvement for the Blades.

R Huth
Middlesbrough - £5.5m
7 Points
His goal was not enough to salvage a point at White Hart Lane.

J Harper
Reading - £2m
17 Points
What an impressive season it's been for the Royals. If they'd have held on for a win a St James' Park they'd have gone 3rd in the table.

G Silva
Arsenal - £5.5m
14 Points
Coolness personified as he scored a penalty in each corner of the goal to see off North London rivals Spurs.

A Reid
Charlton Athletic - £3m
11 Points
Beginning to show his potential having had a decent run of games after his move away from White Hart Lane.

C Bellamy
Liverpool - £7m
11 Points
With the weight of his court case no longer resting on his shoulders feisty Craig looks a different player.

K Doyle
Reading - £3m
8 Points
An early contender for player of the season. He's currently the best striker in the game.

S Nonda
Blackburn - £3m
8 Points
Glimpses of form but that's about it.

Points Per Million - Top 20 - November

1) N Shorey - £2m - 21 points - 10.5 ppm
2=) Geremi - £4m - 28 points - 7.0 ppm
2=) A Young - £2m - 14 points - 7.0 ppm
4) K Doyle - £3m - 20 points - 6.7 ppm
5=) M Hahnemann - £2m - 13 points - 6.5 ppm
5=) P Kenny - £2m - 13 points - 6.5 ppm
5=) D Webber - £2m - 13 points - 6.5 ppm
8) C Cudicini - £3m - 19 points - 6.3 ppm
9=) C Jensen - £3.5m - 21 points - 6.0 ppm
9=) N Kanu - £2.5m - 15 points - 6.0 ppm
11) P Evra - £4.5m - 26 points - 5.8 ppm
12) J DeMerit - £2m - 11 points - 5.5 ppm
13) T Sorensen - £3.5m - 19 points - 5.4 ppm
14) K Gillespie - £3m - 16 points - 5.3 ppm
15=) M Leigertwood £2.5m - 13 points - 5.2 ppm
15=) G Little - £2.5m - 13 points - 5.2 ppm
17=) C Kirkland - £3m - 15 points - 5.0 ppm
17=) I Sonko - £2m - 10 points - 5.0 ppm
17=) I Ingimarsson - £2m - 10 points - 5.0 ppm
17=) A Reid - £3m - 15 points - 5.0 ppm

Points Per Million - Top 20 - Season To Date

1) A Young - £2m - 55 points - 27.5 ppm
2) N Kanu - £2.5m - 61 points - 24.4 ppm
3) K Doyle - £3m - 58 points - 19.3 ppm
4) G Agbonlahor - £2.5m - 45 points - 18.0 ppm
5) I Campo - £3.5m - 61 points - 17.4 ppm
6=) N Shorey - £2m - 32 points - 16.0 ppm
6=) S Ky-Hyeon - £2.5m - 40 points - 16.0 ppm
8) J Harper - £2m - 31 points - 15.5 ppm
9=) I Ingimarsson - £2m - 29 points - 14.5 ppm
9=) H Bouazza - £2m - 29 points - 14.5 ppm
11) P Kenny - £2m - 28 points - 14.0 ppm
12=) L Primus - £3m - 41 points - 13.7 ppm
12=) D Francis - £3m - 41 points - 13.7 ppm
14) G Mahon - £2m - 27 points - 13.5 ppm
15) R Hulse - £3m - 40 points - 13.3 ppm
16) D James - £3.5m - 46 points - 13.1 ppm
17=) M Hahnemann - £2m - 26 points - 13.0 ppm
17=) P Jagielka - £3m - 39 points - 13.0 ppm
17=) D Webber - £2m - 26 points - 13.0 ppm
20) G Barry - £5m - 63 points - 12.6 ppm

December Fixtures - Overview

There are loads of games in December with all teams playing at least 6 times and 1 team playing an incredible 8 times!

In league table order the following teams play 6 times in December:

Manchester United (3 home, 3 away), Chelsea (4 home, 2 away), Bolton (3 home, 3 away), Portsmouth (3 home, 3 away), Aston Villa (2 home, 4 away), Everton (4 home, 2 away), Liverpool (2 home, 4 away), Fulham (2 home, 4 away), Manchester City (3 home, 3 away), Sheffield United (4 home, 2 away) and Watford (3 home, 3 away).

The following teams have 7 games in December:

Arsenal (3 home, 4 away), Reading (3 home, 4 away), Tottenham Hotspur (4 home, 3 away), Middlesbrough (3 home, 4 away), West Ham United (4 home, 3 away), Blackburn Rovers (4 home, 3 away) and Charlton (4 home, 3 away).

And the team who have 8 games in December is:

Wigan Athletic (4 home, 4 away). A note of caution though - their fixtures include matches against Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Plenty to consider ahead of the entry deadline at 12.30pm on Saturday!

Cheers,
Tom @ YTM HQ

Top 10 players so far this week

1=) N Anelka, Bolton Wanderers, 10 points
1=) D Berbatov, Tottenham Hotspur, 10 points
3=) R Carvalho, Chelsea, 9 points
3=) A Faye, Bolton Wanderers, 9 points
3=) S Gerrard, Liverpool, 9 points
6=) G Silva, Arsenal, 8 points
6=) A Reid, Charlton Athletic, 8 points
6=) H Mullins, West Ham United, 8 points
6=) A Lennon, Tottenham Hotspur, 8 points
10=) A Ferdinand, West Ham United, 7 points
10=) G Barry, Aston Villa, 7 points
10=) A Sibierski, Newcastle United, 7 points

With the midweek games we'll be annoucing the team of the week and month on Thursday.

Cheers,
YTM HQ

YTM Prediction Week 15

Apologies if these predictions come on the site a little late. We are having issue with Blogspot and have been caught up in a SpamNet... Sounds all a bit tasty to me...

There have been a few last-minute loan deals that have seen Patrik Berger move to Stoke, and youngster Dave Jones moving on-loan to Derby. No other changes of note to Premiership clubs, apart from the mighty Leeds United stealing Ugo Ehiogu from Boro!
Good week of European football. I thought that Newcastle were very impressive against Celta Vigo, and that may reflect in my prediction... Off we go...

Saturday

Villa vs Boro
Villa got a good point away at Wigan with a very young side. They will be looking for all three here against Inconsistency FC, AKA Middlesbrough. Boro got a point against Liverpool last week. I'm not sure whether that was a good or poor result! Villa will come out firing, and I think they will take the three points.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Bolton vs Arsenal
Good win for Arsenal against Hamburg on Tuesday, but it came at a price with Thierry Henry picking up a knock. Bolton have lost their last two games at home, and will be looking to give their fans some pre-Christmas cheer. I think Arsenal will have to play well, but they will steal the win by one or two goals.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Charlton vs Everton
Everton have not been in good form recently, but their victory over Bolton last week will have given them a bit more confidence. They really miss Tim Cahill's influence from the midfield, and they will be hoping that Mikel Arteta will be able to keep up the hard job of filling his boots. Charlton sacked Dowie, and Reed took over and quickly realised that it would be a big ask for them to avoid relegation. I think they will get three points tomorrow, on pure desire.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Fulham vs Reading
Fulham had been pulling an unbeaten run together, until they rolled over for Man City last Saturday. Reading seem to be gaining more and more confidence that they can survive in this league, and then some! These are the matches that the Cottagers need to win easily if they are to show improvement on last year. I can't see them winning this one.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Draw

Liverpool vs Man City
Liverpool should win this game due to their excellent home form. They had a game in midweek however, which drained their players, and put a few of them on the physio's table. Man City will look to soak up pressure and then hit them on the break. Corradi looked in good touch last week, but he needs to keep it up if he wants to stay in England for a serious period of time. Liverpool win here.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

West Ham vs Sheff Utd
Takeover complete, and now everyone can concentrate on football. Tevez and Mascherano look like they are on their way, even though Pardew says he wants them to stay. Neil Warnock is looking to strengthen in January, but should probably be concentrating on winning the bunch of games before then! I think the weight will feel a lot lighter on the Hammers, and they will take the three points on Saturday.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Sunday

Man Utd vs Chelsea
Big, big game! Man United have to beat Chelsea to stay on top in the race for the title. Chelsea's injury worries are clearing up, and it looks like it will be first choice vs first choice. I think Man U will win this game, and I hope that it is down to Wayne Rooney. He is really the only player in the Man U line-up that Chelsea would probably want to buy if they could, and it would be a bitter pill to swallow if he was the match-winner!
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Newcastle vs Pompey
The Toon Army performed very well on Thursday night against Celta Vigo. When they went one goal down, I thought that they would just rollover for a strong Vigo outfit. But they stuck to the task in hand, and scored from two good crosses. Luque is certainly trying to get into the English way of playing, and for that reason I think he has to play. Pompey will be looking to Kanu to spearhead their attack, but I think Newcastle will have enough for a win.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Spurs vs Wigan
I have back Spurs to win twice in a row now and they have let me down. Not today! Wigan are a difficult prospect away from home, as Fulham and Everton will pay testament to! Spurs got a great 1-0 win at Leverkusen on Thursday, and I feel their players will feel tired, and Wigan will take advantage of this in the latter stages. Draw for me.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

That's your lot for this week. Good luck to all your teams. I'm very excited about watching Man U v Chelsea (6-goal thriller) and then the last day of the 1st test (England bat out a draw)...

...We can only hope!

Cheers

Dave @ YTM HQ

Team of the Week 14

Biggest points-scorer this weekend was Geremi, whose fabulous free-kick ensured all three points stayed at Stamford Bridge.

Wayne Rooney and Bernardo Corradi both helped themselves to braces. The two forwards have been under intense pressure of late, and this was the perfect way to reply. Let us not forget that Corradi has played a few times for Italy, and has an impressive scoring record. It would not surprise me if we see a lot more goals from him before the end of the season.

Elsewhere, Kieran Dyer came back from injury and scored. If only all of the Newcastle team could be fit at the same time... I swear it's a curse! Imagine a front six of Dyer, Parker, Emre, Duff, Owen and Martins... Newcastle have that! Roeder is a very unlucky manager.

Personally, I think that Nicky Shorey is an absolute bargain at £2m on YTM. He is a young left-back who loves to go forward, much like Leighton Baines of Wigan. I would expect many people to be getting him in their team at some point this season.

Good luck to the British teams in Europe this week. Hopefully Celtic will really give Man United a good game!

Cheers,

Dave @ YTM HQ

Close but no cigar....

Well my 3 imaginary teams for November would all be in the top 1% of entries but with 1 or 2 players per team not really contributing it looks like a question of close but no £10,000 cigar this time!

Here are the teams I selected in the November preview:

Team 1: Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Young, Carsley, Barry, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Drogba.

115 points which would have put me 405th. Hyypia was on tye bech versus 'Boro and it looks like Agger is playing well.

Team 2: Sorensen, Hughes, Ridgewell, Mellberg, P Neville, Gerrard, Lampard, Barry, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Drogba.

121 points which would have put me 193rd. Aaron Hughes didn't play at Wigan and Gabby Agbonlahor is yet to fire this month.

Team 3: Van der Sar, G Neville, Vidic, R Ferdinand, Heinze, Young, Scholes, Valencia, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Rooney.

113 points which would have put me 519th. Heinze and Valencia are the weak links. Both came on as subs this week.

The top team currently has 155 points which is a fantastic return with 2 sets of fixtures to go.

Just goes to show - you really do need all 11 players to contribute.

Cheers,
Tom
YTM HQ

20 most popular drops in TW2

1. M King -3568 teams
2. A Shevchenko -2533
3. P Cech -2009
4. C Bellamy -1874
5. A Ferdinand -1834
6. J Reina -1825
7. S Gerrard -1459
8. T Cahill -1316
9. J Bullard -1290
10. J Carragher -1273
11. L Bowyer -1005
12. D Kitson -863
13. D Unsworth -806
14. L Lita -804
15. J Roberts -790
16. S Ameobi -774
17. B Zamora -659
18. W Brown -638
19. P Robinson -608
20. S Hyypia -582

20 most popular picks in TW2

1. D Drogba +5979 teams
2. N Vidic +5098
3. A Young +3891
4. I Campo +3820
5. G Clichy +2784
6. K Doyle +2780
7. C Ronaldo +2769
8. G Barry +2752
9. C Cudicini +2555
10. L Saha +2425
11. E Van der Sar +2126
12. N Kanu +1997
13. G Agbonlahor +1765
14. D Kuyt +1564
15. P Evra +1366
16. F Lampard +1341
17. M Richards +966
18 G Speed +789
19. K Toure +764
20. A Johnson +659

YTM Match Predictions Week 14

This week's YTM Premiership predictions are as follows:

Saturday

Arsenal vs Newcastle
Arsenal looked very good against Liverpool last Sunday, and are settling in well at their new home. Newcastle on the other hand are really struggling, and I doubt even the most optimistic fan will expect anything more than a defeat.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Chelsea vs West Ham
Chelsea have another home game this weekend against struggling opposition. West Ham seem to have got back on their feet at least, but Chelsea's front line are on absolute fire, and I expect Drogba to net a few more tomorrow.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Everton vs Bolton
Both of these teams started the season really well, but have recently fallen by the wayside. They are both desperate to get back on track, and a draw won't really do either of then any good, both having European aspirations. A draw it will be, and a dull one.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Goalless Draw

Man City vs Fulham
Fulham are playing well at the moment, and are grinding out some impressive results away from home. They got a point at Fratton Park last weekend, and will be looking for at least that against Man City on Saturday. Man City got a point last weekend, and I think that they will get the same here.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

Boro vs Liverpool
Liverpool will be licking their wounds after the hiding they got from Arsenal last weekend. Benitez will be looking for an instant reply from his team. Boro however lose to rubbish teams and beat good ones. So I guess it is all down to whether you rate Liverpool. I do, so they will lose.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Pompey vs Watford
Portsmouth were a bit fortunate to get a point last Saturday, and they will need to raise their game if they are to get the three points tomorrow against Watford. Boothroyd's men are holding their own in this division, and will be hoping that the loss of Marlon King is not too devastating. Tomorrow’s game will be too difficult, and Portsmouth will emerge with three points.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Reading vs Charlton
I cannot believe that Charlton sacked Iain Dowie! There is obviously something that we do not know going on there. Anyway, exit Dowie, enter HONEYMOON PERIOD!! Charlton will get a point out of this game, and hopefully they will start to climb the table.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

Sheff Utd vs Man Utd
Sheffield United stole a point from Bolton last weekend, and that will have raised their spirits no end. However, they do not need a reason to be up for this match. Man United will be looking to continue their good form, and I fully expect them to pick up another three points on the road.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Sunday

Blackburn vs Spurs
Spurs were shocked last weekend, and after beating Chelsea, they fell to lowly Reading. Martin Jol will be looking for his team to get back on the horse and fast. Blackburn were beaten by Man United last weekend, but their performance was not too shabby. This will be a tough game, but I think Tottenham will have enough.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Wigan vs Villa
Wigan have grafted their way to a fair few points so far this season, and will be looking to graft a few more from Villa tomorrow. Villa got their first away win of the season last week, and will be looking to add to that at the JJB. I think this will be a good game, and a point each will be a fair result.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

That's your lot for this week. Good luck to your team, unless you are a Southampton fan.

Come on Leeds!

Dave @ YTM HQ

YTM Long-Term Injury List

The transfer window is upon us, and now is the perfect time to dump your injured players, as well as those not performing to your expectations.

We at YTM have compiled a list of players that are out injured at least until the next transfer window for your viewing pleasure. We hope it helps as you guide your team through the turbulent Christmas fixture list!

Arsenal: Diaby & Lauren
Villa: Laursen & Moore
Blackburn: Roberts & Nelson
Bolton: Fortune
Charlton: Lisbie
Chelsea: Cech (out for season)
Everton: Wright, Cahill & Pistone
Fulham: Bullard (out for season) & Elrich
Liverpool: Sissoko & Kewell
Man City: Sun Jihai
Newcastle: Owen & Ameobi - Both out for the season
Portsmouth: G Johnson
Reading: Mate
Spurs: Gardner
Watford: King - Out for the season
West Ham: Ashton



Hopefully that will put you all in better stead for the next few months. Any more additions that we do not know of are most welcome. We will of course update if anyone gets injured or finds a miracle cure!

Break a Leg!

Dave @ YTM HQ

Team of the Week 13

Another great weekend of Premiership action is over, and all eyes turn to England's performance against Holland on Wednesday night. I don't think that it will be a positive result, but if we play well then we could steal a draw. I guess it all boils down to how seriously the Dutch take the game. If they come out all guns blazing, we could be embarrassed.

Here is the YTM Team of the Week for week 13 of the Premiership:

S Harper
Newcastle United - £3m
6 Points
A Man of the Match performance against Manchester City, in a match that was described by some commentators as 'seriously lacking in everything'!

W Gallas
Arsenal - £8m
13 points
Clean Sheet for Arsenal, and a good headed goal for William... Where was the Liverpool defence?!

K Toure
Arsenal - £6.5m
13 Points
For some reason Toure found himself bombing forward, and with only Reina to beat, he finished as if he was Henry!

Geremi
Chelsea - £4m
9 points
Geremi gave Mourinho a selection headache with a superb performance, contributing with two Key Contributions.

N Shorey
Reading - £2m
9 Points
The young left-back found himself in space and drilled a lovely shot into the left-hand corner of Paul Robinson's goal.

S Sidwell
Reading - £4m
8 Points
Sidwell took advantage of some seriously poor defending to ghost in and poach a goal for Reading.

M Flamini
Arsenal - £4m
8 Points
Flamini scored the first for Arsenal in their emphatic win against the Fallen Kop Idols. Fair play to anyone who had money on Arsenal's three scorers!

G Little
Reading - £2.5m
6 Points
Two Key Contributions for Little in Reading's confident victory over Spurs.

D Drogba
Chelsea - £7.5m
16 Points
No doubt the best player of the weekend. Drogba's predatory hat-trick has shown us that he is bang-on form, and it will take something special to stop him at the moment.

A Shevchenko
Chelsea - £8m
10 Points
'Sheva' gave an all-round performance on Saturday, with two Key Contributions and a well-taken goal. He would have had another, but for a linesman's poor offside decision.

E-H Diouf
Bolton Wanderers - £4.5m
6 Points
Diouf is one of those players that you hate, but would love to see in your team! A goal and a Man of the Match performance on Saturday gave weight to those claims.


Drogba and Shevchenko are looking ominously good... Struggling West Ham are next at the Bridge on Saturday...

...I smell a rout...

Dave @ YTM HQ

Dave's YTM Predictions Week 13

Hopefully this week I will do a little better than a poor 4 out of 10 last weekend. There were a few upsets last weekend, and strong possibilities of some more come 6pm on Sunday evening. Here are my 'guesstimates' at the results in the Premiership...

Saturday

Blackburn vs Man United
Man United were in great form last weekend, and then went and got dumped out of the League Cup by Southend. True, that was a weakened side, but the team confidence will have definitely taken a knock. Blackburn were comfortably beaten by Villa last Sunday, and they will be looking for a more resilient performance at home against their local-ish rivals. McCarthy will again be the key for Rovers, but I feel Man U's class will overshadow him and his team-mates.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Chelsea vs Watford
Chelsea were stung last weekend by a good Spurs performance, and some might say, some dodgy decisions from Mr Poll. I personally think there is more to Terry's Red Card than we are being told, but I think I should probably keep that to myself! Watford got a valuable three points against Middlesbrough, and they would have been hoping to build on that. However, to follow it up with a trip to the Champions would not have been Aidy Boothroyd's first choice. Watford will battle bravely, but I think Chelsea will revert to winning ways.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

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Everton vs Aston Villa
Everton were surprised away at Fulham last weekend, and left the Cottage pointless. They will be looking to their home form to put them back on track for a high finish in the table. Villa are yet to win away from home this season, and O'Neill will be looking to get something out of this game on Saturday. Everton will come out looking for the three points, and I think their attack will be on song tomorrow, and Villa will have no answer to Johnson and Cahill.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Man City vs Newcastle
Toon chairman Freddie Shepherd and manager Roeder have a massive challenge on their hands if they are to appease the mighty Toon faithful. Three points on Saturday would do them wonders. Man City appeared to be on the up until they were beaten by Charlton last weekend. They will be looking at their phenomenal home form to push them through the season. They have yet to concede a goal this season at Eastlands! However, I don't know why, but I think Newcastle will knick this...
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Boro vs West Ham
West Ham had a great result last Sunday with a foul-tempered 1-0 win over the mighty Gunners. I really enjoyed the last ten minutes of that one! Pardew and his men have now won the last two games, and things are definitely looking a bit rosier at the Boleyn Ground. Middlesbrough's inconsistencies continue, and you really don't know which team will turn up to which half, as far as their performance is concerned. Because of that, I am on the fence.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

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Portsmouth vs Fulham
The mighty Fulham travel away to high-flying Pompey, in a match that would have been hailed at the start of the season as an absolutely nothing match, with the winner one step closer to relegation. However, Pompey's performances so far have been tremendous, and Fulham currently occupy a position in the top ten of the league, and relegation is something that neither set of fans will e talking about at the moment. Fulham's away form has vastly improved, and they will be looking to get something at Fratton Park. I think they will, but the game will be a bit dull for the neutral.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Goalless Draw

Sheff Utd vs Bolton
The Blades stunned the Toon Army last weekend, as they came away from St James Park with all three points. They will be looking to build on that success, and face a tough opposition in Bolton. Warnock's men have a battle on to stay in the Premiership, and Bolton are looking to rediscover their early season form. Bolton are a horrible football team to watch, but they do carve out results, and I reckon they are good for a point on Saturday.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Goalless Draw

Wigan vs Charlton
Wigan have had two tremendous away performances of late. First they took three points away from 'Fortress Craven Cottage', and then they did the same at the Reebok Stadium. Their home form is equally impressive, and they will be looking for all three points here today. Charlton have not lost a game in all competitions in the last five, and will be hoping to make that six with some braveheart defending. I think the Wigan are a good footballing outfit, and they will be good value for a slender win.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Sunday

Arsenal vs Liverpool
The big match this weekend pits the two Premiership choke-artists of recent seasons against each other in a battle for the title of 'Best Team that is not as good as Man U or Chelsea'. I know that's a little harsh, but it isn't that far from the truth. Both teams have a severe problem with beating teams at the top, and this is an opportunity for one of them to prove me wrong. However, I am gonna go with a score draw, and hopefully some quality flowing football. As much as I don't like Arsenal, I love watching them play football at their best. Liverpool are in good form, and will be good value for their point.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw (Hopefully 3-3!)

3-3?!?!? I think so, don't you?! Put £10 on all scores in EPL and win £5000... Click Here!

Reading vs Tottenham
Reading have had a terrible ruin of late, with their last four games being against Chelsea, Arsenal, Pompey and Liverpool. It is now the turn of Spurs, and Steve Coppell must be cursing his luck that he faces Martin Jol's men after such a huge morale-boosting win over Chelsea. Spurs are a class outfit, and when all of their players are on song, they can beat anybody. Reading will have their work cut out, but I believe their defence with hold firm, and they will get a good point out of this one.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Goalless Draw

Well, that's my rule ran over the weekend's fixtures.
Ben Rankin of the Mirror has done his predictions on the Mirror website. Click here to have a gander...

Good luck to all your teams this weekend. Leeds have a must win against the Us of Colchester, and I really hope Dennis Wise has something up his sleeve, 'cos we really need some magic! Heard a rumour we might be getting Alan Smith back on loan... That's do!!

Have a good weekend.

Dave @ YTM HQ

New players added for Transfer Window 2 (13-18 Nov)

Hilario – GK - Chelsea - 3.0
N Weaver – GK - Manchester City - 3.0
S Harper – GK - Newcastle United - 3.0
S Henchoz – Defender - Blackburn Rovers - 2.5
A Faye – Defender - Bolton Wanderers - 4.0
A Webster – Defender - Wigan Athletic - 5.5
D Agathe – Midfielder - Aston Villa - 2.5
I Osbourne – Midfielder - Aston Villa - 2.5
S Peter – Midfielder - Blackburn Rovers - 2.5
I Tal – Midfielder - Bolton Wanderers - 3.0
B Hughes – Midfielder - Charlton Athletic - 2.5
S Hunt – Midfielder - Reading - 2.5
A Quinn – Midfielder - Sheffield United - 2.5
N Montgomery – Midfielder - Sheffield United - 2.5
H Ghaly – Midfielder - Tottenham Hotspur - 4.0
C Sutton – Striker - Aston Villa - 3.5
C Kazim-Richards – Striker - Sheffield United - 2.5
S Kabba – Striker - Sheffield United - 2.0

Webster is expensive because we inherited his value from the Daily Record game.

We've also inputted their scores from games played so far this season so you can see how they rank against other players.

Cheers,
YTM HQ

Team of the Week 12

Well my predictions were pretty awful this weekend, but I'm not too bothered, as it meant that Chelsea were beaten and made the Premiership a whole lot more interesting!
Watford finally won in the Premiership, but they have to survive without Marlon King for the rest of the season... A difficult blow to take.
Liverpool look like going on a bit of a run at the moment, but it wouldn't surprise me if they ended up unexpectedly losing their next two games!

Here is the YTM Team of the Week in it's full glory...

S Carson
Charlton Athletic - £3m
6 Points
Man of the Match against Manchester City, and he is certainly giving Steve McLaren a dilemma for the upcoming friendly with Holland.

N Vidic
Manchester United - £5.5m
13 points
Another Clean Sheet for United, and another goal for Vidic, who is looking like a must buy for transfer window shoppers.

M Dawson
Tottenham Hotspur - £4.5m
8 Points
Scored the first goal against Chelsea, and looked solid throughout the match.

D Gabbidon
West Ham United - £4m
5 Points
A man of the match performance from the Welsh centre-back, who kept Henry & co. at bay in a famous Hammers victory.

L Rosenior
Fulham - £3m
5 Points
Rosenior is a full-back whose major problem is consistency. If he overcomes this and plays in this form for the rest of the season, he may force himself into the England reckoning.

C Ronaldo
Manchester United - £7m
9 Points
Ronaldo takes his place in the Team of the Week after a stunning free-kick that took the Red Devils a step closer to the three points against Portsmouth.

C Jensen
Fulham - £3.5m
9 Points
Jensen settled the game between Fulham and Everton with a deflected shot past Tim Howard.

A Lennon
Tottenham Hotspur - £5.5m
8 Points
Lennon was unstoppable against Chelsea on Sunday, and his goal was just reward for the number of times he left the Chelsea defence in tatters!

D Kuyt
Liverpool - £6.5m
10 Points
Liverpool seem to be on a bit of an unbeatable run, and Dirk Kuyt is contributing his fair share, with three goals in the last two matches.

D Bent
Charlton Athletic - £7m
6 Points
Bent scored a terrific header to condemn Manchester City to another defeat.

D Webber
Sheffield United - £2m
6 Points
Webber ghosted past the Newcastle defence to score the only goal in a disappointing game for the 50,000+ fans in St James Park.

Matt in the office says that Roeder will get the sack this week... I think that he is under serious pressure, but I don't quite understand the Premiership regarding managers at the moment. They are under pressure, but the board appear to be backing them to the hilt...

Football is a strange business...

Dave @ YTM HQ

November teams start well....

Well I have to say i'm pretty pleased with the start my 3 imaginary teams have made to the November Manager of the Month competition.

All 3 of my "blocks" kept a clean sheet and my main striker bagged a couple of goals.

Here are the teams I selected in the November preview:

Team 1: Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Young, Carsley, Barry, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Drogba.

59 points which would have put me 55th.

Team 2: Sorensen, Hughes, Ridgewell, Mellberg, P Neville, Gerrard, Lampard, Barry, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Drogba.

46 points which would have put me 686th. Ridgewell didn't play which was a blow. He's not injured so hopefully he'll be back for the next match.

Team 3: Van der Sar, G Neville, Vidic, R Ferdinand, Heinze, Young, Scholes, Valencia, Agbonlahor, Kuyt, Rooney.

58 points which would have put me 69th. Going with Heinze rather than Evra coud hurt this team.

Not bad out of over 63,000 teams although the leader already has 78 points so i am playing catch-up.

Cheers,
Tom
YTM HQ

YTM Predictions Week 12

It's another weekend of Fantasy Football predictions from the YTM HeadQuarters, and a few tasty London derbies to get my teeth into! Liverpool will be looking to convert their Champions League form to the Premiership, and Watford are still looking for that elusive first three points of the season. Will they succeed?... Let's see...

Saturday

Bolton vs Wigan
Wigan put on a good show in front of the Fulham faithful last weekend and came away with three points from a difficult fixture. Theyt face another one of those this weekend, and will be looking to frustrate Bolton and steal a goal through the strikeforce of Heskey and Kamara. Bolton do not concede many goals, however, and they will be looking to consolidate their position in 3rd, and bite back after their defeat to Man United. Bolton's tight defence will be the difference here.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Charlton vs Man City
It may be too early in the season to use the phrase 'Six-Pointer', but this match if definately a chance for one of these teams to push themselves out of danger and into some much-needed form. Charlton have been playing good football of late, and deserved their point away at Newcastle last weekend. Man City gained a valuable victory thanks to captain Dunne on Monday night, and will be looking to build on that victory. I think Charlton's good football will finally be rewarded on Saturday.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

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Fulham vs Everton
The Toffees have another away day in the capital, this time against Fulham. Having taken a point away from the Emirates Stadium, Everton will be looking for more this time around. My friends who were at Craven Cottage last Saturday said that Fulham did not deserve anything out of the game... and they will need to up their game if they are to withstand David Moyes' men. I predict a tough game, and Fulham's defence will be the key. If they can scratch out the unforced errors, a point looks likely.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Score Draw

Liverpool vs Reading
Liverpool had a big win in the Champions League midweek, and it seems that Rafa Benitez has finally decided on his best starting eleven! Reading have been unfortunate with the fixtures recently, having just played Chelsea, Arsenal and then in-form Portsmouth. They have Liverpool on Saturday, followed by the visit of Tottenham. Steve Coppell will certainly see this period as a 'damage limitation' exercise, and will look to defend at Anfield. Liverpool will be buoyant, and I fully expect a home win.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

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Man United vs Portsmouth
Man U had a shock in midweek as they lost away at Copenhagen. They simply tried to coast through the game, and at that level, they just cannot afford to do that! The Red Devils will no doubt be out to prove a point against Pompey this weekend, and they will be wanting to remind everyone that they are a class outfit. Pompey are on great form, and they will fancy their chances of coming away from Old Trafford with a point, but Fergie's men will be up for this one methinks.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Newcastle vs Sheff Utd
Newcastle performed heroically against Palermo in midweek to scrape an away win against a team joint-top of Serie A. They will be looking to build on that performance and start getting some positive results in the league. Sheffield manager Neil Warnock will be looking to stifle and frustrate the Toon Army, and I think they have the potential to do exactly that. With Hulse up front as well, you never know...
Dave's YTM Prediction: Goalless Draw

Watford vs Middlesbrough
Watford have drawn their last two games in the Premiership 0-0. Middlesbrough's last two games have both ended 1-0. I do not expect many goals in this game, but I do think that Boro will have the edge, and my money would be on the Yak to grab the winner.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Sunday

Aston Villa vs Blackburn
Villa suffered their first defeat of the season at the hands of Liverpool last weekend, and their match against Blackburn on Sunday will show whether they can deal with defeat or not. Blackburn had a great Thursday night in Europe, and will be looking to their star man Benni McCarthy to do the business again. I think there will be goals in this game, and I think Villa will get the majority.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Home Win

Tottenham vs Chelsea
A peach of a London derby at White Hart Lane this Sunday, and Chelsea will no doubt be tired after their heroics at the Nou Camp on Tuesday night. Tottenham will be just as fatigued, having won a superb game against FC Bruges on Thursday night. Tottenham have the potential to win this game. However, I can't see the Chelsea juggernaut being stopped at the moment, and my money is on an away win.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

Spurs win you think??? £10 can win you £4500 if you guess all ten Premier League results this weekend!!

West Ham vs Arsenal
Finally, Upton Park plays host to the mighty Gunners. West Ham won(!) at the weekend, and they will be hoping to build on that result on Sunday. However, Alan Pardew is no doubt a realist, and this match will be nothing like the last time these two sides met, when West Ham won 3-2 at Highbury. Arsenal will come away with the three points, and Pardew's men will realise that one win won't make them invincible.
Dave's YTM Prediction: Away Win

That's all folks! Hope your teams win at the weekend, unless you are a Barnsley fan...

Dave @ YTM HQ