Boxing day

BOXING DAY

The boxing day fixtures are one of British footballs truly historical events, what once was a chance for the family to go and support their team has changed in recent years if only because of the ever rising prices of tickets.  But the matches still hold high sentimental value amongst fans and normally thoughts up some intriguing fixtures.  Looking ahead to this years fixtures there are some truly titanic fixtures ahead.

Everton host Wigan at Goodison, the toffees have drawn three and won two their last five.  Only losing two matches at home this year against a Wigan side who have lost four of their last six.  My only doubt of a home win is the suspension of Fellani, but I still believe they have to much power and form for a poor Wigan side.

Fulham play Southampton, strangely the visitor's come into the match in slightly better form. Fulham normally have a strong home record but currently that has deserted them, I'd still believe they will record a home win but I wouldn't bet money on it.  Southampton have struggled this season but have still managed to score goals regularly.   I'd fancy both teams to score here but the result could go either honestly..

Manchester united face Newcastle at old trafford,  the visitor's are missing Tiote, Cabaye & more importantly form.  Injuries have made a major impact on the geordies season and facing a in form Manchester Utd side wont be helping their cause tomorrow.   I can only see a comfortable home win.

Norwich welcome the goal hungry Chelsea to Carrow Road, Norwich have one their last five at home in the league including wins against Arsenal & Man Utd.  Chelsea prior to their trip to Asia had a poor away record and this will be an acid test for them.  Last year these two played out a nil nil draw.  Tomorrow this could well be an interesting match, could Norwich cope with Chelsea's movement and energy.  Personally I can see the match being a draw or away win but much will depend on Rafa's team selection.

QPR face West Brom in what I didn't expect to say is a match could see Harry Redknapp collect three points, the hosts have suddenly found some steel in their play and the visitor's have just hit a little dip in form.   In truth if QPR are to survive the will have to start winning matches fast.  I would fancy goals in this match and possible the start of the great escape.

Reading play Swansea in what should be a match for goals, Reading has been poor this season but have normally found the net at home and Swansea always play open attacking football.   I would foresee goals and a possible away win here.

At the stadium of light Sunderland face Man City.  The home team have been poor and struggled for goals and few would give them a chance.  But I have doubts when looking at City's record at Sunderland and also their boxing day record this might not be such a plain ride.  This could be a close affair but much will depend on the home side's tempo at the start.  A slow start and the match could be over by half time.

Aston Villa against Spurs is probably the most difficult game to call, Villa have specialised in low score draws at home whilst Spurs have been inconsistent on the road.  My opinion is if Gareth Bale plays I believe Spurs will win.

The late match sees Liverpool travel to the Britannia,  Stoke undefeated at home in their last 15 matches but don't have Delap which could be a factor.  For Liverpool this is a real test for the revival under Rodgers. I wouldn't expect many goals and possible a match littered with fouls and lacking in tempo.

What ever happens people enjoy your matches and stay lucky