2017-18 EPL: Manchester United vs Liverpool Preview
There can’t be any bigger English Premier League rivalry than Manchester United and Liverpool. When these teams face each other, the context of the season or the place on the table goes out of the window. All that matters is a fierce rivalry between the two sides that has withstood the test of time and the inflow of money at other clubs.
The two sides have slipped so much in recent years that this game is no longer the Premier League title decider. However, Jose Mourinho at Manchester United and Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool have done a great job of settling things at their respective clubs.
The fact that Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City has virtually hijacked the campaign and is sure to win the title, takes some context out of this contest although up for grabs is the second place. The rivalry is unparalleled and Old Trafford will be buzzing with anticipation on Saturday, March 10.
Season so far
United start the game second in the league after 29 games (62 pts, W19, D5, L5). That puts them just two points ahead of Liverpool and four ahead of Tottenham Hotspur. It will be tough for the Red Devils to bridge the gap at the top (16 points), but there is the battle for second brewing between United, Liverpool, and Tottenham.
Liverpool have had an up and down season, but have enthralled their supporters with their aggressive style of play. With 67 goals in the season, the Reds are the second-best scoring unit, only behind Manchester City. With a chance to usurp their bitter rivals with a win, the visitors will be eyeing a good performance.
Key Stats and battles
This will be the 170th league encounter between these sides with United having won 67 and Liverpool 55. The remaining 47 have been drawn.
This fixture has seen 16 red cards in the Premier League and only the Merseyside derby (21) has witnessed more in the history.
Mohamed Salah has scored in each of his last five league games. Daniel Sturridge (eight) and Michael Owen (six) have scored in more consecutive matches for the Reds.
Romelu Lukaku (United) needs one more goal to reach 100 Premier League goals record.
Prediction
Derbies generally throw the form book out of the window, but Liverpool look to continue their good form in the league. Back the visitors on draw no bet at odds of $1.91 at Sportsbet.
Salah’s irresistible form tempts us to back him in the market for finding the back of the net. Back the Liverpool striker to score anytime in the game at odds of $2.50 at Ladbrokes.
There are high chances that both teams will find a goal in the game. Back both sides to score at odds of $1.66 at Ladbrokes.
* Always gamble responsibly
