Chelsea came out firing on all cylinders last weekend with that massive 5-1 thrashing of Bournemouth in the Premier League, showing that the lads under Xabi Alonso have what it takes to push for a top-four finish this season. The absence of any European ties means the boys get a full week of solid training sessions which is doing wonders for their sharpness and fitness levels right now. Everton on the other hand remain unbeaten after six games with two wins and four draws but they have been grinding out results through sheer defensive grit rather than flashy attacking play.
Team Form
Everton have picked up ten points from their opening fixtures by keeping things tight at the back and frustrating opponents but their attack has not been firing enough to blow teams away. Chelsea meanwhile have shown they can turn games into goal fests and with no midweek distractions they look well rested for this trip to Goodison Park. The Toffees have only scored sparingly this campaign so high-scoring shootouts do not suit their style at all.
- Chelsea netted five against Bournemouth and boast one of the league’s most potent attacks
- Everton conceded late against Hull City and have kept clean sheets in most wins
- Both sides sit on ten points but Chelsea play with more freedom and attacking intent
Tactical Analysis
David Moyes has drilled his Everton side to play compact and hit on the counter but against a Chelsea team that loves to open up matches this could backfire if the visitors grab an early goal. The Merseyside outfit relies heavily on set-piece threats and solid organisation at home yet Chelsea’s fluid movement and pace on the break should create plenty of chances. If Everton try to match Chelsea’s end-to-end style they risk leaving gaps that the Londoners will exploit with ease.
Betting Proposal
After weighing up the rested legs at Chelsea and Everton’s low-scoring nature the smart money is on the visitors to at least avoid defeat on the road. Chelsea to win at 2.15 or the double chance on Chelsea not to lose at 1.60 both look like strong types for this fixture.
