Merseyside Derby at Anfield ..

And the march goes on … !!

United’s sprint to the final seems to relentless and they showed their intents with a convincing 4-0 win over Aston Villa. Though Villa are not at their best, Ronaldo’s performance was excellent with a cheeky goal and three assists. There were some worries that Alex Ferguson might rest some of key players in anticipation of the Champions League quarterfinal with Roma in midweek but thankfully, only van der Sar was rested.

In the other matches, Bolton were very unlucky to lose to 10 men Arsenal, Sunderland were very lucky with an injury time goal which will move them closer to safety and finally, Derby were relegated to the Coca-Cola League Championship !!!

Liverpool vs Everton 

The biggest game today will be the Merseyside derby where Liverpool hosts their main rival and threat to their customary 4th place. Liverpool come into this game with high hopes and good form (sans the defeat at Old Trafford where they were simply outclassed by Man Utd). However, knowing Rafa Benitez and with his favourite tournament coming up in midweek, it has to be seen if he will rest some of his players tonight.

I hope he does not do any major changes to the side since this is an important game. Mascherano is definitely out but the rest of the team that played against Utd should start this game.

Everton have a mini injury crisis with Cahill out for the rest of the season. Andrew Johnson and Steven Pienaar face late fitness tests. Everton have not won at Anfield for a very long time and I do not see them doing it in this match.

Prediction : Liverpool to win .. 2-0, 3-0 !!

Tottenham vs Newcastle

Kevin Keegan finally got his first win since his retun to St James Park when Newcastle defeated Fulham 2-0 last weekend. However, Spurs are no Fulham and under Juande Ramos they are capable of producing good football. Last week match saw the return of Mark Viduka and Keegan was able to field his attacking trio of Viduka, Owen and Martins.

Spurs might rest Ledley King but Woodgate is expected to play against his former side. Spurs’ own attacking partnership of Keane and Berbatov are expected to create havoc against a weaker Newcastle defence which sees Cacapa missing with injury.

Prediction : Spurs win over sorry Magpies !!

Chelsea vs Middlesbrough 

Nothing much to say abt this game except the fact that Chelsea are unbeaten at home for almost four years and that record is not going to be blemished today !!

Prediction : Chelsea win .. 2-0 or 3-0 !!