By User:Anthony Winward, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=50559911
Middlesbrough were completely out-classed by Everton last weekend as they suffered their second defeat in a row. It was the first time they’ve faced what we consider to be a top-eight side this season and they failed to register a shot on target with their goal coming curtesy of an OG that should never have stood. The only other goal in their last three came from a corner against a Palace side that haven’t kept a clean sheet in 10, as creating chances has become more of a problem for Boro as the games have passed.
Despite dominating, Spurs were only able to beat Sunderland 1-0 last weekend as they remain unbeaten in the league. That win came at a cost though, with Eric Dier and Moussa Dembelle picking up hamstring injuries while talisman Harry Kane left on a stretcher. This will be the first time in 71 leagues games that Kane hasn’t featured in Spurs’ starting line-up and although he’s not playing his finest at the moment it is sure to have an effect on the team.
Spurs are tempting at 1.91 given their record against promoted sides is an impressive W11-D1-L0 under Pochettino. However, injuries in the midfield and the unknown factor of how they’ll perform without Kane puts us off. Given Boro’s ineffectiveness going forward of late there is certainly an ‘unders’ feel to this game but at 1.73 we prefer both teams not to score, as has happened in five of Spurs’ last seven encounters with promoted sides.
Best Bet: BTTS – No at 1.85
Match Specials
William Hill
