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Baggies not down and out yet

February 10th, 2018 | Ian Carnaby's Sports News

I doubt that the Premier League relegation struggle will look much clearer after this weekend’s fixtures. In fact, I thought perming the draws, three from four and all four in the following matches: Everton v Crystal Palace, Swansea v Burnley, West Ham v Watford and Stoke v Brighton, might be a sensible move to small stakes.

The interesting thing about West Brom v Southampton last week was that it didn’t look like a relegation six-pointer. It was a good match, with Southampton getting people forward at long last, Ward-Prowse maintaining his improvement and Lemina looking a powerhouse in midfield.

Even so, West Brom might have saved it and I formed the impression that they are far from doomed. While there is Chris Brunt and his trusty left foot there is hope but, all joking aside, if the Sturridge move works they have the striking power to get out of trouble. Rondon is a quality player and Jay Rodriguez is faring much better than Saints fans thought when he left, with their blessing, at the end of last season.

Of course, the Baggies have to go to Chelsea on Monday evening but how would you price that up? Chelsea looked tired and out of sorts against Watford and you don’t turn these things around with a few days’ talking. I assume West Brom will be about 8/1 and I wouldn’t go outright for the win but I’d look carefully at the Asian markets, with a view to backing them to avoid defeat.

I don’t see a banker at a reasonable prize. It wouldn’t be Liverpool at Southampton on Sunday because the Saints will be on the up after last week’s effort and it may be one of those special St Mary’s occasions. The best of Liverpool would be good enough, for sure, but this may be a very tense and closely-fought game.

I suppose, if you’re looking for some 4/6 where most people would suggest 8/15 or 1 to 2, it would have to be BRISTOL CITY against a hapless Sunderland at Ashton Gate. However, the Robins have had a lot of games recently with much expectation heaped upon their shoulders. A fair bet but not a major one.

BRISTOL CITY 20 units at 4/6 to beat Sunderland
WEST BROM 15 units at best price to gain a point or more at Chelsea

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