By Gerard McGovern from London, United Kingdom – Olympic StadiumUploaded by BaldBoris, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20512002
By inheriting a Big Sam side, Slavan Bilic received a well organised but rather unimaginative West Ham team. As a result the Croat put an emphasis on attack which served them well for the majority of last term but that once organised defence now looks anything but. The warning signs were there when they conceded at least twice in eight of their last 10 games in 2015/16 and with little recruitment in the rear-guard it should come as no surprise to see them ship 13 goals in their first five games.
Southampton lost their opening two road games at Old Trafford and somewhat unfortunately at The Emirates but will come to the Olympic Stadium a much more confident side following three consecutive victories in three different competitions, including their first win in the league under Claude Puel. Their triumph over Swansea was the first time they’d kept a clean sheet in 17 league matches but they’re still without one in eight on their travels. Meanwhile, both teams have netted in 16 of the Hammers last 18 league games so it’s no surprise to see BTTS – Yes as short as 1.67.
We’re inclined to back the Saints with both teams scoring as they seem to be on an upward curve while West Ham look to be in free-fall and that looks far better value at 4.6 than the straight win.
Best Bet: Southampton to Win and Both Teams to Score at 4.75
Match Specials
William Hill
