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