Southampton v West Brom
Saturday, 17:30
Live on BT Sport 1

Saints still struggling for wins
Southampton have been unconvincing so far this season under new boss Mauricio Pellegrino with the side struggling for consistency. The Saints have only won twice and have claimed just one victory in their last seven games in all competitions. Goals have been a problem for Southampton and the Argentine has yet to resolve the issues which dogged previous manager Claude Puel during the last campaign.

Saints fans were unhappy with the lack of entertainment, particularly at home last season, but it does not seem to have improved significantly in the opening two months under Pellegrino. Their sole victory at St Mary's Stadium came against West Ham in August. In their last game, Southampton could only draw 2-2 at home to Newcastle after a brace from Manolo Gabbiadini which leaves them 11th in the Premier League.

Baggies could prove tough to beat
West Brom have been similarly unspectacular although you always know what you will get with a Tony Pulis side and once again there appears no danger of being embroiled in a relegation battle. The Baggies are one place above Southampton in the table in tenth despite failing to win any of their last six games in the competition. Brighton and Arsenal are the only sides to defeat them in the opening eight league games.

The Baggies may not be the great entertainers but have proved difficult to beat and their 1-1 draw at Leicester City on Monday led to the dismissal of Foxes boss Craig Shakespeare. West Brom have not won since August and this will be a priority for Pulis, especially with tough games against Man City and Chelsea coming up, going into a clash against another mid-table side.

Hosts could struggle to justify short odds
The hosts look far too short at 1.86 considering their modest form this season. Southampton have failed to win their last four home games and there is precious little evidence to suggest the favourites are worth backing this weekend. The Saints lost at home to West Brom last season and could struggle to deliver again in front of their supporters.

The Baggies are available at 5.30 but this bet also requires a leap of faith because they have not won for two months. Pulis is unlikely to set them up in a particularly positive way and the visitors may be more focused on frustrating Southampton. West Brom appeal slightly more than the hosts but there is a much stronger bet in this market for the televised clash.

West Brom have drawn three of their last four league matches including their last two fixtures and there must be a strong chance of another stalemate. Southampton have also been held in two of their home games this season and the hosts may not have the creativity to break down their opponents. The draw is on offer at 3.55 and offers plenty of appeal in a game between two evenly-matched sides.

Lack of goals looks likely
Any viewers hoping for a feast of goals may be sorely disappointed with both teams struggling to find the net this season. West Brom and Southampton have only managed seven goals each in eight league games so it is no surprise under 2.5 goals is priced up as short as 1.65 especially with strong defensive records. This looks likely but is ultimately not a big enough price to recommend.

Opta Stat
Southampton have drawn a blank in nine Premier League home games so far in 2017, only three Premier League sides have failed to score in more home matches in a calendar year. The Saints are 16/5 to score no goals this weekend.


Ref Watch
Graham Scott takes charge of this evening clash and the referee has sent off one player from three Premier League games this season. The official dismissed five players in 28 games during the previous campaign.

Recommended Bet
Back the draw at 3.55


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