Fulham’s “Big Five” unbeaten record is likely to end tonight

Man Utd v Fulham, 8pm, Premier League, Free Bets, Best Odds

If this match was taking place at Craven Cottage, you’d fancy Fulham to take at least a point considering their magnificant home record. Roy Hodgson’s side are unbeaten against the “Big Five” this season but Manchester United currently boast the second highest home points average in Premier League history. Here’s why the champions should justify their 1/4 odds:

» Manchester United have won ten consecutive Premier League home games after drawing their opener against Newcastle. Last season they drew their first match at Old Trafford only to win the next twelve.

» Since that opening day 1-1 tie with Newcastle, Hull have been the only team to score away to the champions in the league this season.

» Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have won their last seven matches against Fulham, as well as the last five meetings between the sides at Old Trafford.

» Fulham have failed to win any of their ten Premier League away games this season. They have won six league games on the road in the last four years, three of which came on their final three away days last season.

» The Red Devils have gone over a year without losing a league match at home and have won their last eleven meetings with London clubs at Old Trafford.

One good omen for Fulham…

» Fulham are unbeaten in four meetings with the top five sides and have drawn as many away league games as they have lost (six). They have drawn on the road against Liverpool and Aston Villa. Five of their six away draws have finished goalless, which is 14/1 with Boylesports.

Will Fulham end the streak?

» Manchester United need to shut Fulham out for 64 minutes in order to claim the European record for the longest spell without conceding.

» The Cottagers have scored just three away goals this season but there is little value in the hosts winning to nil at 8/13 with Paddy Power.

» Fulham have scored in five of their eight trips to Old Trafford however and have grabbed nine goals in the course of those games. All bar two of those came before the 64th minute.

If you disagree with the stats and fancy an upset then you can back Fulham to win or draw on the double chance at 16/5 with Boylesports.

Posted: February 18th, 2009 by Michael Lintorn |