English Premier League: Matchday 37 Saturday lineup – The end is near

For some the end is near, they almost draw the final curtain. For others, they look to use their extra game to their advantage in the race for Premier League life or European parties.

The second last day in theory but loads of football still coming our way. Everything just seems a lot better with the World Cup on the way. A bridge to fill hole left by no football. It would have been an empty feeling knowing we have to wait for club friendlies.

Turning our attention back to this week…

It’s all or nothing matches for those fighting the fight for another season in the Premier League. It’s been one of the biggest relegation battles in history, with teams from 11th place to 18th place having only six points separate them.

Saturday is filled with bottom-of-the-table clashes – after this weekend we will surely see who gets the drop spots and destined for certain doom.

https://twitter.com/stokecity/status/992660166951616512

Stoke City vs Crystal Palace

Paul Lambert with nothing to show for since taking over at Stoke City has his best chance of taking three points following a run of tricky fixtures. A win sees the Potters rise above 19th but only to 18th place, while being equal on points with Swansea until they wait for a result in their fixture.

Their goal difference is far too weak to over jump the Swans. This must be the end goal before their final fixture, to force somebody else into the relegation zone. Crystal Palace stands at the top of the pile in 11th place, a good eight points away from Stoke City.

https://twitter.com/stokecity/status/992499782278111233

A draw secures them safety, but will have to endure a Lambert side pushing for three points. Hodgson has the tools to hit the home side on the counter, so he will be looking to play on the break.

A performance such as last weekend against Liverpool is needed for Stoke City. Palace just need to continue in the fine form that saw them put five past Leicester City. Going for a Palace win in this one.

Bournemouth vs. Swansea City

Next 12th place vs. 17th place. Another two teams fighting for survival. The Cherries have the upper hand, whereas Swansea needs to get a win. They relying on Palace and Everton to get results against the two clubs  [Stoke City and Southampton] who threatens their position.

https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/992318294316199936

If Stoke wins it puts all the pressure on Swansea to fork out a result. If they don’t get the three points – Swansea still can’t afford to drop points. Bournemouth, previously a victim to one of the bottom three will be looking to bounce back from a miserable run of games.

Four games lost in consecutive games is not a good look for Howie. This stat must change. Going for a hard-fought draw here. With Swansea perhaps the team to drop into Stoke’s relegation spot on the table.