West Ham v Fulham
Sunday October 4, 3pm
Last meeting: (18-01-09) West Ham 3-1 Fulham. David Di Michele's early goal was cancelled out by a stunning 35-yard strike from former Hammer Paul Konchesky. But the home side battled back to take all three points with Mark Noble netting a penalty and Carlton Cole sealing the win.
The opposition: Fulham were mightily impressive against Arsenal last week, and they would have taken the points but for a virtuoso performance from young keeper Vito Mannone. They ended up losing 1-0 – their third straight league defeat – and now sit just one place above West Ham in 17th.
Danger men: Zoltan Gera is a creative presence in midfield, and he will be eager to pick out the runs of Andy Johnson up front. Roy Hodgson's team have only scored five goals so far this season, but Johnson will pose a threat if he gets the right service.
Prediction: West Ham 2 Fulham 0.
Did you know? Sean Davis is the only Fulham player to have played in all four divisions, as the Cottagers made an incredible ascent from the old third division to the Premier League in the space of just four seasons. The midfielder now plays for Bolton.
Betting tip: West Ham have leaked nine goals in their last three games, but Fulham’s misfiring attack could provide the perfect chance for the back four to prove their credentials. Up the other end, Carlton Cole and co. are creating chances, if not scoring a hatful. Odds on a 2-0 scoreline in favour of the Hammers is 8/1.
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