ARSENAL v HULL CITY betting preview

Joe Finegan

Published: 18 December 2009 11:34 PM MSTPosted in: Betting Previews and Tips

ARSENAL v HULL CITY

Premier League

Saturday, December 19^th, 2009

The Emirates. Kickoff 17.30

How disgusted is Arsene Wenger that Burnley didn’t just roll over and play dead like wolves did against the Gunners’ Premier League rivals Manchester United? Burnley put up a tough display and were definitely helped by Cesc Fabregas’ injury just before half-time. There’s no doubt that Wenger is furious with Wolves for gifting United three points, but also with his own sides’ ineptness at putting away an inferior Burnley side.

However, Hull at The Emirates presents a great opportunity for the Gunners to return to winning ways immediately. Hull have failed to win away from home this season and have conceded 21 goals, hardly the form that will make Arsenal nervous. Arsenal’s home form has been pretty solid, losing only once in the league (to Chelsea) and scoring 22 goals.

With all the top sides in the Premier League expected to claim three points in their respective fixtures, the pressure will really mount on Arsenal if they fail to put away Hull with conviction.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Amazingly, last season Hull managed to win this fixture 2-1. Arsenal had a pretty torrid time – they relied on a Paul McShane own goal to get them on the scoresheet. However, Arsenal gained their revenge when the sides met in the FA Cup at The Emirates, with the same scoreline reversed. Before last season, there were no league meetings between Arsenal and Hull since the 1914/15 season. Not really recent enough for form purposes.

TEAM NEWS

Fabregas is out for up to two weeks with a hamstring injury. Long-term casualties Rosicky, Van Persie, Bendtner and Djourou are still out. Denilson should fill Fabregas’ midfield role.

Hull have no worries to contend with.

VERDICT

It’s fairly certain that Arsenal will win this but current odds of 1.23 wouldn’t tempt the greediest of punters. However, the likely format of this game will be that Arsenal will win and keep a clean sheet too. They will be trying to tame the Tigers from the first whistle so expect Arsenal to score early and maintain that advantage throughout. The Gunners should win both halves and make their pressure count by racking up the corner count.

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