Match
Overview : Saturday, 9th November 2002
Middlesbrough
come into this match looking to get their recent good
form back on track after an away defeat to Newcastle and
only a home draw against Leeds. They have a near full
strength squad to pick from, after resting most of the
first team in their midweek Worthington Cup game. Only
Alen Boksic is a doubt after a heavy bought of flu. Liverpool
are obviously full of confidence after winning their last
six matches and they should include Michael Owen (calf)
and Jamie Carragher(groin).
This
is a tough game for Liverpool. Middlesbrough have an excellent
home record, they are unbeaten, having won four and only
conceded 4 goals, which is only bettered by Man Utd. Liverpool
are on fire at the minute. Having won their last six Premiership
games (they are unbeaten in 14 matches), Michael Owen
already bagging 8 goals, they are unbeaten away and have
won 4 and only lost once. Liverpool will find it tough
to break down a Boro defence led by Gareth Southgate and
Ugo Ehiogu, but I feel they have the firepower to do so.
Even with a good overall defensive record, Middlesbrough
have not kept a clean sheet in their last three games.
Michael Owen, who was rested midweek, should be sharp,
and even if he doesnt score, he has been assisted by Danny
Murphy and John Arne Riise who have helped with 7 goals
between them. Defensively, they are sound and with keeper
Dudek rested, they should be fresh and up for this one.
Arsenal have started winning again and they will not want
to let points slip here. Expect a tight game but the Reds
should inflict Boro's first home defeat. Medium stake
here.
