Walker's Word - Weekend 25-26 November 2006

Saturday 25 November

Charlton Athletic vs Everton
Even the introduction of new manager Les Reed could not inspire Charlton to victory last weekend as they slumped 2-0 at Reading. They face tough opposition in Everton who themselves have won just two in their last eight league games since beating Liverpool 3-0 back in September. However, Everton keep things tight and have been involved in four 1-0 results in their last four games and will frustrate the rock bottom Premiership club. The Toffees have not won at The Valley since 2001 with the Addicks recording two wins and two draws since but this record could change on Saturday.

Walker’s Word
1x2: Everton @ 7/5 (Paddy Power)
AH: Everton level ball @ 19/20 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (VCBet)

Bolton Wanderers vs Arsenal
Bolton have been the scourge of Arsenal in recent seasons, beating them twice last season in both the league and FA Cup and also the season before. They have secured 1-1 and 2-2 draws in the campaigns before that with Arsenal not winning at the Reebok Stadium in the Premiership since 2002. There is some bad blood between the two sides and Arsenal could be in danger of losing further ground on Chelsea and Manchester United this weekend. Despite a fantastic recent home record against the Gunners, the bookmakers are offering fantastic odds on a win for Sam Allardyce’s side.

Walker’s Word
1x2: Bolton @ 5/2 (Ladbrokes)
AH: Bolton + ½ @ 17/20 (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)

Sunday 26 November

Newcastle United vs Portsmouth
The league table could be turned on its head for this contest as Newcastle could pull away from the relegation zone with a win. Portsmouth are flying high in third place at the moment but have already been beaten 3-0 at St James’ Park this season in the Carling Cup. The Magpies have won two out of three league meetings in the North East, with a draw in between a couple of years ago. Glenn Roeder’s side have had a dreadful run of late, but will be buoyed by two battling away draws, especially at Arsenal last weekend.

Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 13/10 (Paddy Power)
AH: Newcastle – ¼ @ 21/20 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (VCBet)

Manchester United vs Chelsea
The top of the table clash sees Chelsea three points behind Manchester United who have won their last seven league matches since their 1-1 draw with Reading back in September. Chelsea also come into this match strongly, having won five of their last six league matches, the blip being a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham three weeks ago. Both sides lost in the Champions League this week, perhaps with one eye on this weekend’s game. United won this fixture 1-0 last season, but have only beaten Chelsea four times in 14 Premiership fixtures at Old Trafford. A draw won’t particularly help either side’s title ambitions but it won’t be the end of the world either.

Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 21/10 (UK Betting)
AH: Chelsea level ball @ 9/8 (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)

David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.