Sat 21 Dec 2013 15:00 – Fulham v Man City

(Craven Cottage) Referee: Kevin Friend Fulham secured their second home win of the season against Aston Villa last weekend and now welcome one of the title favourites to Craven Cottage. Manuel Pellegrini’s Manchester City have only won two away games all season but will be clear favourites going into this game. For those brave enough to back the home side, Fulham are available at 8/1 but there could be some more sensible match betting options in this game.

The first notable statistic in this game relates to the goal betting options. Fulham score an average of 1.1 goals per game at home and concede an average of 1.6 goals per game, while City score an average of 1.5 goals per game away from and concede and average of 1.6 per game. In total, 62.5 % of the respective games involving both teams have produced over 2.5 goals.

There is also a very good chance of under 35.5 booking points with 62.5% of Fulham’s games and 87.5% of City’s game producing this result. The corner betting market reveals that City do not concede many corners away from home, with an average of just 2.9 against, and they have an average margin of +4.3; so City should be backed to win the corner battle in this game.

It is worth noting that City will be without the injured Sergio Aguero for this game but they may have Nastasić and Jovetic available after their recovery from injury. Fulham are still without Rodellega and Hangeland but could welcome back Amorbieta after his recent lay-off.

It is tempting to assume that this game will be a convincing away win, but Man City have not been convincing on the road this season. And they will miss Sergio Aguero, despite having a strong squad of word class talent to call upon. Fulham look to have made a quick improvement under new Coach Rene Meulensteen, and could make life difficult for the visitors this week. City should still win, but it will not be as comfortable as some of their recent home results. There is a good chance of over 2.5 goals and under 35.5 booking points and Man City can also be expected to win the most corners by a margin of at least +2.

Match prediction: Fulham 1-2 Man City