
Relegation Six-Pointer: Everton vs. Wolves in a crucial Premier League clash.
A crucial relegation six-pointer takes place at Goodison Park as Everton host Wolves. Both sides are desperate for points, promising a tense and potentially pivotal encounter.
Match Expectations
Everton are teetering on the brink of the relegation zone after a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Man Utd. This extended their winless streak in the Premier League to six matches (five losses, one draw) and exposed glaring defensive vulnerabilities. The pressure is mounting on manager Sean Dyche to find a solution to their scoring woes and defensive frailties. Wolves enter the match following a disappointing 4-2 loss to Bournemouth. Defensive vulnerabilities, highlighted by conceding three penalties in that fixture, raised fresh concerns. Despite showing moments of attacking threat, their inconsistency, particularly away from home, remains a worry. While Wolves have slightly better xG than the scorelines reflect, it seems that they too sit precariously close to the relegation zone, making this a must-win game.
Schedule
- Date: Thursday, December 5th, 2024
- Time: 19:30 GMT
- Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool
- TV: Amazon Prime Video (UK), Peacock (US)
Potential Lineup
- Everton (Predicted): Dyche is likely to make changes after the defensive debacle at Old Trafford. A potential return for Calvert-Lewin could boost the attack. Defensive alterations are also expected, with one of Branthwaite or Tarkowski potentially making way for O’Brien. Harrison, Mangala, and Patterson are also options for change.
- Wolves (Predicted): Johnstone may replace Jose Sa in goal after some costly errors in recent matches. The attacking threat of Strand Larsen and Cunha will be key for Wolves, with the potential inclusion of Podence.
Potential Problems
Everton’s main problem is their lack of goals and creativity in attack. Their defense, though usually organized, has shown signs of cracking under pressure. Wolves, despite having decent underlying stats, struggle with inconsistency, especially away from home. Their defensive vulnerabilities, exposed against Bournemouth, remain a concern.
Who to Watch
For Everton, Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s potential return could provide the much-needed spark in attack. His presence up front would give them a focal point and a target man. For Wolves, Matheus Cunha’s pace, skill, and ability to both create and finish chances make him their most dangerous player.
Head-to-Head
Recent head-to-head records indicate generally close matches, often decided by fine margins. Wolves edged the last meeting 1-0 earlier this season.
Prediction
Wolves to win (52% confidence): Although Everton’s home advantage and desperation for points are factors, their inability to score consistently, combined with Wolves’ potential threat on the counter-attack (especially with Cunha), gives Wolves a slight edge.
Potential Score: Everton 0 – 1 Wolves (42% confidence). I anticipate another low-scoring, tight affair, possibly decided by a single goal or a set piece.
Conclusion
This match is a true relegation six-pointer, and the tension will be palpable at Goodison Park. Both teams are fighting for their Premier League lives, making this a high-stakes encounter with potentially huge implications for their respective seasons.