Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the English Premier League match.
The odds on the visitors are slightly better than those for the hosts, but it's not like we're talking about Liverpool here! Why is that? We'll explain at the end, so let's follow the reasoning through the text.
Everton
Can we say things are looking up for Everton? Four matches unbeaten, eight points, and only two goals conceded. Indeed, the team hasn't faced opponents like Arsenal or Real Madrid, but just Leicester City, Crystal Palace, Newcastle United, and Ipswich Town. Mind you, Newcastle were a Champions League side not too long ago. The upcoming opponents, Fulham, fall into the same category — solid, but beatable.
Fulham
Fulham, on the other hand, have been less fortunate with their recent fixtures, having faced Manchester City — the current champions, and Aston Villa, the conquerors of Bayern Munich. They did well in both matches, even scoring once against Aston Villa and twice against Manchester City. Manchester City's defence was certainly tested by Fulham's 11 shots, four on target: their xG was actually higher than the opponents' (2.60-1.57). Against Aston Villa, despite the defeat (1:3) and Joachim Andersen's sending off, Fulham generated more potential (1.78—1.68 xG). How so? Right, there was a penalty — a literal missed opportunity.
Everton vs Fulham Prediction
Such potential from Fulham needs to find an outlet somewhere. Where better than against a team with a weak defence (despite recent good results)? Here's the kicker: in their last six Premier League meetings, the home side hasn't won once, with only two draws. Thus, backing a Fulham win or at least a double chance seems wise. But we'll opt for something in between — a zero handicap.
