Betting Picks

Manchester City versus Everton

Wednesday, March 24, 2010, 15:45 EST

While the NCAA has taken over the United States for a few weeks, the Sportsbook is full of a variety of exciting sporting events. March Madness odds are available, but it’s hardly the only event taking place. The NBA and NHL head towards the playoffs, and in England, Premier League soccer is at the center of everyone’s attention.

This week an exciting matchup takes place between two clubs fighting for a spot in the Europa League, and possibly a qualifying birth in the Champions League. Everton travels to Manchester City for match of two teams in the top half of the table, separated by eight points in the table.

Manchester City sits at fifth spot, two points behind Tottenham Hotspur for the fourth position, but only three points ahead of seventh place Aston Villa.  Everton sits at eight, but strong play of late has them moving up the table and starting to threaten the second tier teams behind Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal, who are far ahead of the rest of the league.

Both teams come into the match with plenty of confidence, as Manchester United has three draws and three victories in their last six matches.  Moreover, they have yet to lose a home Premier league game this season, which does not bode well for Everton, a club in desperate need of three points to stay competitive.

The Toffees have had success scoring of late, with nine goals in their last three matches; two victories and a draw. With only three road victories this season, however, Everton will have a tough battle at the City of Manchester Stadium.

However, when the two clubs met earlier in the year, Everton triumphed, albeit at home, by a score of 2-0.

Manchester City forward and former Everton player Joleon Lescott has been ruled out of the rematch with his former club.  It is the second time an injury has prevented Lescott from facing the Toffeemen. Prior to the match against Fulham, he pulled a muscle in his leg during warmup, and will be sidelined for some time.  Everton meanwhile will be without Victor Anichebe after a collision in the game against Bolton.

Bet:

Manchester City comes in as a large favourite, and with good reason. They are a powerhouse at home, and have played well all season.  They have plenty of reason to continue their strong play as they fight Hotspur, Liverpood, and Villa for fourth position.  Everton has confidence, but not enough talent to earn a victory on the road.  They are a long shot to catch sixth position, but they have the ability to play well enough to earn an impressive road draw in Manchester City.

Sportsbook reviews will help balance out all the sporting events this month and keep track of the odds and lines.  There is still time to bet on March Madness and enjoy exciting college basketball action this spring.