Our David John says Bournemouth can pick up a much-needed win against Brighton in the Premier League on Friday.
Bournemouth v Brighton (2000 BST, Sky Sports Premier League, Main Event & Mix)
We correctly predicted Brighton’s early goal drought in the Premier League would end at home to West Brom last weekend and boss Chris Hughton will be keen for his team to strike again quickly with another three points.
Punters certainly believe that will be the case as they have been a popular punt this week in the build up with their win odds trimmed before a trip along the south coast to the Vitality Stadium.
Pascal Gross emerged as the hero with his two goals and an assist against the Baggies and it already seems reasonable to conclude that Brighton’s survival prospects will rely heavily on good form at the Amex Stadium in front of some fervent home support.
Hughton will have to find a way to winkle out some additional points on the road and this does look, on paper at least, a very reasonable opportunity against a team that sits second bottom after four straight defeats and just one goal scored – only the shenanigans at Crystal Palace have been worse.
Manager Eddie Howe still has a job but his disappointment found a new level in the 3-0 defeat to Arsenal and a passive display from players who were "well below their best" has started to make him feel increasingly concerned.
The Englishman has taken much of the responsibility for the stuttering start himself and has promised better against Brighton.
“This is a chance to grow and improve,” he said. “We have always shown a real character to bounce back quickly.”
There is recent evidence to back that up as well.
Having suffered heavy defeats to Chelsea and Tottenham in the spring as they teetered on the edge of the relegation fight, Howe oversaw an immediate 4-0 thrashing of Middlesbrough to spark an unbeaten run down the home stretch and comfortable top-flight survival.
Captain Simon Francis echoed Howe’s sentiments and admits he has never known a period in the Premier League when the team has been this subdued but I have a feeling a line in the sand has been drawn – possibly on the beach by Bournemouth pier.
Marry that up with it still being a bit early to be placing maximum faith in Brighton, particularly on the road, and the hosts suddenly look an attractive option.
The Cherries have edged out to a tempting price and can get up and running properly for the campaign in copycat fashion to the performance produced last week by Friday’s rivals.
Prediction: Bournemouth 2-0 Brighton - Sky Bet scoreline odds: 17/2
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Posted at 1300 BST on 14/09/17.
