Everton v Sunderland Match Preview

A team which loves to attack comes up against a team that does not want to attack. Looks like a one sided game is on the cards. In case it was not clear, Everton is the team expected to take the game right to Sunderland's goal in the game. Everton will look to stop a streak of 4 consecutive draws and it can be argued that they did enough to warrant a win in all 4 matches. Sunderland on the other hand has limited the opponents to a single goal in their last 3 matches but has scored none in that period.

I honestly do not expect Sunderland to be able to limit Everton this time round. Everton has shown their attacking intent throughout the season and will not hold back especially at home. With Sunderland likely to sit back and soak up pressure, Everton will be able to retain possession and try to pass their way through Sunderland's defence. One special thing about Everton though is that they possess the talents of Fellaini who provides an outlet if everything else fails. Once the first goal goes in, the others should start flowing as Sunderland gets forced to attack. Everton should take full advantage of the space they should get on the wings, with Colback and Bardsley not the best players in those positions defensively. With the talents on their flanks, expect Everton to make Sunderland pay.

Sunderland's solo ray of hope comes in the form of their goal scoring talent, Steven Fletcher. Priced at 12million, his transfer was criticised by many but I argue instead that it has proven to be a massive bargain, given his place in the team. WIth his chance conversion ratio(which is very high), he might be able to fashion a goal for himself against Everton, who sometimes over-commits players into attacks and is vulnerable defensively. Other than that, I highly doubt that Sunderland will have much in terms of clear cut chances or even shots.

Predictions:
I reckon that the traveling Sunderland fans will find this to be a very long game, with Everton cruising to a huge win. Things will only get worse for Sunderland if their captain Cattermole gets himself sent off when faced with the quick feet of Pienaar and Osman(whose England call-up is very much deserved). A 4-0 or 4-1 victory for Everton looks to be on the cards. I would recommend a bet on Baines getting on the scoresheet but the odds are too low on that and more value can be had on putting a flutter on him scoring first. Braver punters might also want to consider taking Coleman to score last at a nice 20/1.