EPL Weekend Preview

The English Premier League’s final week is upon us. Ten games on Sunday with plenty at stake.

Let’s start from the top.

Manchester United vs Wigan Athletic: ManU is sitting at the top the tables going into the final game day. They are tied with Chelsea on points with 84, but have the edge on goal differential. ManU needs the win to ensure the title; Wigan will put up a fight, but ManU has too many weapons. 2-0 for United and another Premier League title.

Chelsea vs Bolton: Chelsea wants the title bad. But they aren’t going to get it. Yes, they will beat Bolton, I’ll even go so far as to say they will crush Bolton. The goal differential is too great to make up in just one game. Unless every ManU player and Alex Ferguson have a total collapse, I can’t see Chelsea winning the title. I’ll go with Chelsea 4-0, but like I said, not enough. Don’t worry Chelsea fans, you have an opportunity for revenge in the Champions League final.

Arsenal vs Sunderland: Arsenal is in a state of turmoil right now. With the departure of Mathieu Flamini and the potential exit of Alexandre Hleb, Arsenal’s midfield will be taking a huge hit. I don’t think Arsene Wenger commands as much respect as he used to from his players. I see Sunderland getting the upset here, 1-0

Liverpool vs Tottenham: What a great match up this is. I have a feeling we will see some goals. Torres, Gerard and company have been in good form as of late, but you can never count out the likes of Berbatov coming to life for Tottenham. After a disappointing loss to Chelsea in Champion’s League semis I see Liverpool finishing the regular season on a high note. 3-2 for Liverpool.

Everton vs. Newcastle: Kevin Keegan has brought Newcastle out of the relegation fight and into a side that looks like they may be worthy of being in the top half of the table. They are still a few key players and an attitude adjustment away from heading back to Europe for continental play, but I think they may surprise people next season. For this game, Everton can clinch their spot in Europe next year with a win or a tie, I see some defense here, with American keeper Tim Howard having a big game for Everton. 0-0.

Aston Villa vs West Ham: Let’s face it, Aston Villa could be considered a surprise. They still have a chance for European play. This is a good team, that does the little things right. They beat West Ham, despite the fact that Gareth Barry may already be looking ahead to playing with one of the Big 4 next season, (ManU, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool) but it won’t be enough to win them a spot in Europe. 2-1 for Villa.

Blackburn vs. Birmingham: Sorry Birmingham fans, relegation is upon you. Blackburn is too good. Brad Friedel is too good. A good season for Blackburn will come to an end with a victory. Maybe one more key addition will be what they need to make it to Europe next season. 2-0 Blackburn.

Portsmouth vs Fulham: I want Fulham to win so badly here. A Fulham victory means another year of Premiership soccer next season for the adopted “Team America.” Portsmouth is good. They have proven that by making it to the FA Cup final. Fulham fans, hope that Portsmouth is looking ahead to the FA Cup final, an away victory is what you need. I see a 1-1 tie. Which won’t be enough to stay in the top flight.

Manchester City vs Middlesbrough: Man City will lose this game. At least I hope they do. Before you start calling me a Man City hater. I like the team. I do not like the owner. Poor Sven Goran Eriksson, I think he has done a great job with what he has, and I think if he were able to bring in a few quality players to fill some of the needs this team has they would be a strong contender for Europe. Whatever happens it looks like Sven is heading out the door. 2-o Middlesbrough.

Reading vs. Derby County: What can I say about this game. Two of the worst teams in the league battle it out on the last day, with HUGE relegation implications. If Reading can win, which I think they will, they will leapfrog Fulham (unless Fulham can win away from home) and be safe for another season. Derby is done, and they are already looking ahead to next season. They will want to go out on a high note though and this is just the game they need. I see a really hard fought, gritty match. Reading on top 1-0.

Head down to your local pub and watch these games!! Games start at 10am EST, I don’t think that’s too early to have pint! Enjoy!