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Premier League Preview: Bolton Wanderers - Blackburn Rovers
Two points and two places between the sides…
21-Nov-2009 7:40:17 PM
Kick-Off: Sunday, November 22, 13:30.
Reebok Stadium, Bolton.
Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers both go into Sunday’s Premier League game at the Reebok Stadium knowing they could do with a victory to stay clear of the bottom three.
Currently the two teams sit just two points and two league positions apart with Sam Allardyce’s Rovers in 14th, narrowly clear of Gary Megson’s Trotters.
Bolton have lost their last three games in disappointing fashion, 5-1 against Aston Villa in their last outing, which came on the back of two successive 4-0 defeats to Chelsea.
At home this season they have struggled for form, with one win from a possible six at the Reebok so far.
Meanwhile, Blackburn have had problems on their travels. Ewood Park has became a fortress for the 1995 Premier League winners this season, but away from home they have lost all five of their games, conceding 18 goals in the process.
In addition, Rovers have been hit by the news that manager Allardyce will be missing for the next three games as he prepares to undergo heart surgery.
According to the betting odds, Bolton go in as slight favourites to grab a much needed win.
FORM GUIDE
Bolton
Nov 07: Aston Villa 5-1 Bolton
Oct 31: Bolton 0-4 Chelsea
Oct 28: Chelsea 4-0 Bolton (League Cup)
Oct 25: Bolton 3-2 Everton
Oct 17: Man Utd 2-1 Bolton
Blackburn
Nov 07: Blackburn 3-1 Portsmouth
Oct 31: Manchester United 2-0 Blackburn
Oct 27: Blackburn 5-2 Peterborough (League Cup)
Oct 24: Chelsea 5-0 Blackburn
Oct 18: Blackburn 3-2 Burnley
TEAM NEWS
Bolton
Jlloyd Samuel is expected to slot back in at left-back after returning from suspension, although Tamir Cohen (groin) looks set to be out.
There are also doubts over Dan Shittu and Mustapha Riga (both hamstring).
Possible starting XI (4-4-2): Jaaskelainen, Steinsson, Cahill, Knight, Samuel, Lee, Muamba, Taylor, Gardner, K Davies, Elmander.
Blackburn
Vince Grella is expected to return from a thigh injury for Blackburn, who will make a late check on the fitness of Keith Andrews, who featured for the Republic of Ireland against France in midweek.
Possible starting XI (4-4-2): Robinson, Chimbonda, Samba, Nelsen, Givet, Diouf, Nzonzi, Emerton, Dunn, Di Santo, Roberts.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Bolton – Kevin Davies
Kevin Davies’ importance to Bolton cannot be underestimated – he makes them tick as an attacking unit. After his side’s recent poor form, the Trotters’ captain will be looking to lead from the front.
Blackburn – Jason Roberts
Jason Roberts came off the bench to score a brace against Portsmouth last weekend and he is likely to be rewarded with a start at the Reebok Stadium. The striker will be eager to take his chance and prove he is worthy of a regular spot up-front.
PREDICTION
Bolton have had time to reflect on three highly disappointing defeats and the pressure is on Gary Megson and his side to produce a result.
Blackburn have been unable to get going on the road this season and will have to fight hard to get anything here.
I think the hosts will come out on top in a hard-fought encounter.
Bolton Wanderers 1-0 Blackburn Rovers
Chris Myson, Goal.com UK
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