Premier League Betting - Portsmouth vs. Everton

Portsmouth FC hover too close to the relegation zone for comfort and their dire position is further compounded by having missed an opportunity against Middlesbrough last week when they allowed a late goal to settle for a draw. With Middlesbrough sharing in the spoils, Portsmouth took a point for their effort and managed only to inch up the ranks.

The pessimistic outlook does not look like it will improve against a solid Everton FC when they host the visitors on Saturday at Fratton Park. Bookies are not overly optimistic, tipping the home side at slightly less favourable odds than Everton FC. This is because Everton FC is enjoying a good run of results lately. And after easily beating Stoke City last weekend they cast their bid for a Champions League spot; clearly, as they are in the chase for the coveted spot alongside the big boys – Manchester United, Chelsea FC, Liverpool FC, Arsenal FC and Aston Villa – they are something of the heavyweight in this matchup.

Soccer Betting Line:

Portsmouth FC pk -105 +170 2 O -130 U +110 Draw +220

Everton FC pk -115 +160 2 O -130 U +110 Draw +220

Match Time: 08:45 AM Eastern Time Saturday March 21 2009

Venue: Fratton Park

Soccer Betting Analysis:

Portsmouth FC +170: Portsmouth FC really need this win to avoid dipping lower in the standings. Will they get it is another question entirely. Currently, as things stand, they are not looking hot-to-trot. They lost five of their last six matches at Fratton Park, most recently, to Chelsea FC. In their last six matches, they are 1-2-3. Given the mood on the bench, how are they expected to bounce back and beat a confident Everton?

Everton +160: The bookies tip Everton slightly better than the home side and sports bettors can infer quite a lot from that. Granted, the margin is not huge, but it is obvious the market is leaning towards the away win. And with Everton on an impressive run, winning three of their last six matches, drawing two and losing one, it would appear their odds hold weight.

It must be pointed out that the three match wins came on home ground, the best they managed on the away in their last six were two draws and a loss. However, the fact that they are in the race for a Champions League spot is seen as a huge motivator for them to nick the away victory. Added to the fact that Portsmouth is on a poor run and slightly demoralized and Everton looks even better on the money line.

Soccer Betting Verdict: The best scenario for Portsmouth would be a win. Odds makers are not confident of such a result. At best, Portsmouth might be able to carve out the draw. There is value in taking the draw at +220. That would surely be a disappointment for the visitors and their bid for a Champion’s League spot; hence, they will be playing for the win. The run they are on makes them a good play for the win.

Soccer Free Picks: Everton FC +160 | Over 2 goals -130