Premier League Betting: Fulham vs. Liverpool

Liverpool are after a disappointing 2:0 loss to Arsenal in Carling League Cup action; however, the loss scarcely knocked a bother out of Rafa Benitez. He has bigger worries to contend with at the moment: state of his Premier League and Champions League campaign namely, both of which are off track and in danger of slipping away.

There have been encouraging signs of an awakening on the Reds bench. They are flush off an important 2:0 victory over Manchester United in Premier League action at the weekend. The huge victory could not have come at a better time for Benitez and his men and now they will be heading to Craven Cottage with much more optimism than they had occasion for just a few weeks ago.

Soccer Betting Odds:

Fulham  +½  -110   +290   2½  O Ev   U -120   Draw   +230    
Liverpool  -½  -110   -110 2½  O Ev   U -120   Draw   +230    

Match Time: 11:00 am Eastern Time Saturday October 31, 2009
Venue: Craven Cottage

Soccer Betting Analysis:  Liverpool have had a lopsided season and much of the problem lies with a long injury list. Ahead of their big clash with Man U, Liverpool were on a four-match losing streak in all competitions. It was the first time in 22 years the Reds were found staring into such an abyss. Yet, somehow, Liverpool made the seemingly impossible, possible and beat Man U at Anfield.

In fact, of the top nine teams going into action last weekend, only Liverpool and Chelsea won their matches. Arsenal could not win at second bottom West Ham; Manchester City couldn't finish off Fulham; Sunderland lost at Birmingham; Burnley's winning home record was ended by Wigan; Villa settled for a draw with Wolves and Spurs surprising lost at home to, previously travel-sick, Stoke.

All these results conspired in favour of Liverpool and they remained in the top half of the top ten as a result, fifth to be exact on 18 points after ten cycles. Liverpool will be looking to recover lost ground against Fulham, who largely struggled at the start of the season but seem to have found pace lately.

Fulham are on a five-match undefeated run in all competitions; most recently, they stormed back from a two-goal deficit to draw against Manchester City on the away.

Soccer Betting Verdict: Though Fulham are showing encouraging signs lately, they will be hard pressed to get anything out of this match, especially now that the Reds have been roused and are bent on launching a comeback. Liverpool are the favourites in this match and at 110, they are the value play.

Soccer Free Picks: Liverpool -110 | Under 2.5 goals -120