Manchester United vs. Everton Preview

With four games left in the Barclays Premier League season, the finishing line is in sight for Manchester United who hold a five point lead over enemies Manchester City at the top of the table heading into this fixture with beaten F.A Cup semi-finalists Everton.

Victory here for the Red Devils would almost certainly hand them the title even with a fiery Manchester derby at the Etihad to come.

And boss Sir Alex Ferguson can take his side into that pivotal match full of confidence once more if their sizeable buffer can be maintained.

United were abject to say the least during a recent 1-0 defeat to Wigan Athletic but in typical style they hit back with a bang at the next available opportunity, beating struggling Aston Villa 4-0 with consummate class and ease.

Ferguson was reportedly livid at his side’s performance against the Latics and a similar slump seems unlikely between now and the end of the campaign – especially after critics were answered so definitively next time out.

They are likely to face sterner resistance against an in form Everton outfit however the Toffees may now run out of steam following their F.A Cup semi-final exit to Liverpool at Wembley.

Everton had the tie at their mercy after taking the lead but were pegged back by their bitter rivals before Andy Carroll stole the show late in the day.

David Moyes will have a real task on his hands trying to pick his team back up for the remainder of the season and a trip to Old Trafford to face the champions elect is hardly what the doctor ordered.

Everton’s commitment may also be questioned now as technically they have absolutely nothing to play for in the final four games.

Despite Everton’s clear improvement, their record on the road remains negative and in opposition comes a United side who have romped to fourteen victories at home scoring 46 goals in the process.

The league leaders have been far from spectacular on many occasions this season yet their ability to consistently find results has been quite outstanding.

Wingers Nani and Ashley Young are likely to find some joy attacking the Everton back line especially if the visitors are still feeling the effects of their F.A Cup exertions.

And Wayne Rooney will as ever be determined to spearhead his team’s assault against his former club.

There is not much on offer by way of price for a Manchester United success but it is the only result which looks possible taking both clubs’ situation into account.

Everton have been beaten on all of their last five outings at Old Trafford and that trend does not look like being bucked with a Premier League title on the line for the hosts.

It was 1-0 to United in last season’s corresponding fixture and a similar score line can probably expected this time around, with Ferguson’s men authoritative if not emphatic.

It is for that reason that the handicap should probably be left alone but a half time/full time bet is advisable at 4/5 as United look capable of gaining superiority early on.

Go To bet365

#Ad

16/04/2012     © Frixo 2024