With the FA Cup Semifinals this weekend, some of the Premier League matches have been moved to Tuesday and Wednesday. Here’s a preview of the midweek matches.
Liverpool – Arsenal – Tuesday – 20:00 GMT – Liverpool look to keep pace and grab the Premier League lead at home against Arsenal. The Gunners lost to Chelsea on the weekend in the FA Cup Semifinals and could secure their 4th place with a victory. With Manchester United playing at Old Trafford against a struggling Portsmouth side, Liverpool can’t afford to drop any points at home. In the past month, Liverpool have been clutch in Premier League games when they need the points and against the other top 4 teams. Steven Gerrard will be unavailable for Liverpool and Arsenal will be missing Robin van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor. Prediction – Liverpool wins 2-1
Chelsea – Everton – Wednesday – 20:00 GMT – A early preview of the FA Cup final in late May as both team won their semifinal matches this weekend. Everton was able to play solid defense against Man U, and goalkeeper Tim Howard came up with some clutch saves during the penalty kicks. Chelsea have had a great week, beating Liverpool in the Champions League, and Arsenal in the FA Cup Semifinals. Guus Hiddink has this team peaking at the right time and Everton will probably have a little bit of a letdown after a tough weekend match. Prediction – Chelsea win 2-0
Manchester United – Portsmouth – Wednesday – 20:00 GMT – Man United played several younger players and rested their top stars (Rooney, Ronaldo, van der Sar) against Everton in the FA Cup Semifinal match. Portsmouth are 6 points clear of relegation and any result at Old Trafford would be a success. With a rested and regular lineup, Sir Alex Ferguson’s club will have no trouble against Portsmouth. While Liverpool might temporarily take the Premier League lead, Manchester United will be focused on Wednesday night at Old Trafford. Prediction – Manchester United win 3-0
