English Premier League: Matchday two predictions
By Orri Benatar
Matchday two doesn’t have too many big-time clashes, but the potential for some exciting encounters. Here are my picks for week two.
I had a rough start to the season with my predictions. Last week, I went 4 for 10 with the only correct results being top-six victories. So basically, I only picked the obvious results last weekend.
No matter. Hopefully, matchday two will be a different story with another top-six clash and a ridiculous amount of matches in London. For more info on my picks and the latest EPL news, check out the latest episode of the Top Flight Podcast.
Cardiff 1-3 Newcastle
The Magpies attack looked good against Spurs. It should look even better in Wales against a stale Cardiff City.
Everton 1-0 Southampton
The Toffees defense will bring in a new starter with the absence of Phil Jagielka. With Kurt Zouma likely getting the nod, Everton should have no problem against a bad Saints offense.
Leicester 2-1 Wolves
James Maddison and Ruben Neves both shined on matchday one. Luckily for Maddison, his teammates will play better at home against Wolves. The Foxes’ attack is too fast for the Wolves defense.
Tottenham 2-0 Fulham
Tottenham shouldn’t have any issues in their final EPL match at Wembley. Fulham will need some time for all the new signings to build some chemistry.
West Ham 2-2 Bournemouth
The Cherries haven’t lost to the Hammers since August 2016. The last two matches were draws and it’s gonna be three straight at the London Stadium.
Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal
The second and biggest all-London match of the day should be full of excitement. The game of the week is also the 196th edition of Chelsea v Arsenal. They drew both matches last season and they will draw again to start 2018-19. The Gunners will make offensive adjustments while Chelsea’s midfield should once again control most of the play.
Burnley 0-2 Watford
Burnley played another Europa League game on Thursday and went to extra time with a majority of their first-team. Joe Hart’s clean sheet streak will end against Watford.
Man City 6-0 Huddersfield
Even without De Bruyne, this game will have a big scoreline. Huddersfield struggled against Chelsea and will struggle even more at the Etihad. Someone gets a hat-trick in this contest.
Brighton 1-3 Man United
Man United should play better at Brighton on Sunday. With Lukaku likely to start, the Belgian should begin to score some goals at the AmEx.
Crystal Palace 1-3 Liverpool
The Reds will try to take advantage of De Bruyne’s absence and build a big enough table lead before playing City in early October. The front three will penetrate the Palace defense and score some more goals.