LIVERPOOL take on Southampton in Tuesday night's action from the Premier League. Sam Ingram (@SamIngram_) shares his views from St Mary's.
Southampton vs Liverpool | Tuesday 17th May 2022, 19:45 | Sky Sports
A deflected Grealish effort and a diving header towards the corner of his own net ensured Vladimir Coufal's West Ham side only took a point off Manchester City in the title race. The draw leaves the door slightly ajar for Liverpool but doesn't change the landscape too much in the Premier League run-in.
The Reds still need City to drop points again, whilst two wins from their remaining two are the least that's required. The first obstacle that will attempt to throw Jurgen's men off-course is Southampton. One look at recent form will indicate that this will be a real test for the Saints.
Seven losses from Southampton's ten league outings make for bleak reading. With just one win victory against Arsenal as the only three-point haul in that timeframe, it's safe to say that the St. Mary's faithful haven't been blessed with the football on show in recent months.
Put simply; it has been a disastrous end to the season for the South Coast outfit and one that leaves them only six points ahead of Burnley in the final relegation spot.
Fortunately for The Saints, Leeds have played one more game meaning the prospect of the drop is mathematically impossible, although still far too close for comfort.
From a betting perspective, I expect more misery for Liverpool's opponents. Fresh off the back of an FA Cup lift and with the bit between their teeth to usher the quadruple over the line, expect this Liverpool side to do everything in their power to make sure they're part of the conversation come the final day.
Liverpool have scored in both halves in 12 out of 18 away fixtures. That's a Premier League best this season. On the other hand, Southampton have conceded 28 goals from 12 matches since the beginning of March as they limp towards the summer.
Considering the two contrasting veins of form and what's still left to fight for, the best way into the fixture has to be to get the visitors on side. At William Hill, Liverpool to bag a goal in each half and win the game is a fair 2.10. It feels generous to me, as it's something that could come in at a canter.
For those seeking a longer punt on Tuesday night's solitary Premier League match – delving into Paddy Power's ‘featured prices' provides a meaty 7.50 price to consider.
The suggested punt is Liverpool to win each half and have the most corners in each half. The lofty odds are largely thanks to Southampton's knack for racking up corners, as they have done all season. We'll need some luck to land this one, with sustained pressure in Southampton's defensive third required from minute one.
Liverpool outperforms Southampton stats-wise for corners, but only just. Here are the corner totals for both sides, separated into Southampton Home/Liverpool Away totals; First half – 3.61/3.78. Second half – 2.67/3.06.
So, the 7.50 seems the correct price given Liverpool needs to win both halves. But, with the game state how it is and Liverpool arriving as the only team needing points, it may just sneak in.
Best Bets
Southampton vs Liverpool – Liverpool to win and Liverpool to score in both halves (11/10 William Hill)
Southampton vs Liverpool – Liverpool to win each half and Liverpool most corners in each half (13/2 Betfair)
