THE always-excellent Harley Dale (@Harleeyy) has taken a deep dive into Sunday's early Premier League clash between Southampton and Everton.
Southampton vs Everton | Sunday 25th October 2020, 14:00 | Sky Sports
Southampton host unbeaten Everton at St Mary’s this Sunday in what should be a competitive affair with both teams believing they can nick the three points.
Saints got off to a shaky start this campaign, picking up zero points in their first two matches but have since collected seven in their last three. The hosts possess quality all over the pitch so it’s no surprise to see them get the rub of the green in their most recent fixtures.
There were questions arising before the season as to whether all of Everton’s new signings could gel together and put on a cohesive performance and so far they’re proving the doubters wrong. With 13 points from a possible 15, the Toffees are sitting nicely at the top of the table coming into this match.
Everton will be without a few key players, however, with Richarlison suspended after picking up a red card in the Merseyside derby, and James Rodríguez, who remains a doubt after picking up a knock last weekend. Seamus Coleman is also ruled out which is a big blow in the back line.
Although they’ve been churning out positive results, the Toffees have scored three or more goals away from home in just one of their last 25 away league matches – coming against relegated Watford. With a potential five assists removed from the squad, the service to in-form striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin may be hard to come by this time round.
Given that the match should stay competitive, I’m happy to add a card for each team to Everton to score Under 3 Goals in a Bet Builder which pays 3/4 on bBt365.
The visitors have seen 1+ card away from home in 19/21 away games since the start of last season, with the Saints reciprocating the same statistics for their home results. Therefore, this looks like great value to me.
The next bet I like is Abdoulaye Doucoure to be booked at 9/2 on Bet365. The Frenchman will be operating on the right side of a middle three, up against Nathan Redmond and Che Adams who are both very direct and draw in fouls.
Doucoure picked up nine yellows during his spell at Watford last season so he is known for over-committing in certain situations. Three central midfielders have seen a yellow card versus the Saints at St Mary’s so far this term. Everton will want to preserve their unbeaten run at any cost so I wouldn’t be surprised to see Doucoure be the fourth.
Best Bets
Southampton vs Everton – Everton to score Under 3 Goals and both sides to collect Over 0 Cards (3/4 Bet365)
Southampton vs Everton – Abdoulaye Doucoure to be carded (9/2 Bet365)
