Saturday’s main course serves up a half-dozen mid-afternoon match-ups for Fantasy managers to sink their teeth into. Considering that both sides are gearing up for a double Gameweek 34, Arsenal’s home encounter against Watford will be keenly observed.
Despite tasting victory once in their previous four matches, Arsenal bagged seven goals over that stretch and posted the fifth-best shot-conversion rate (13.7%). On the flip side, the Gunners conceded the joint-third-most goals (seven) and joint-fourth-most big chances (seven). Watford, meanwhile, managed a solitary goal but kept it relatively tight at the back, conceding four goals and the joint-fifth-fewest shots inside the box (25).
At the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth entertain a Manchester City outfit that recorded four defeats and a sole win in their previous six match-ups. Notwithstanding the Cherries’ lifeless showing at White Lane last Gameweek, only Liverpool registered more goals (13 to eight) in their past four fixtures. Conversely, the Sky Blues carded three blanks and the fourth-worst shot-conversion rate (6%) of any team in the league.
West Ham United renew their quest for a Champions League berth as they clash with Crystal Palace at the Boelyn Ground. The Irons haven’t lost on familiar soil since Gameweek 3 and lay claim to the joint-fourth-best defensive record in home matches (14 goals conceded). The Eagles enter this head-to-head in pitiable form, having not secured a win in 13 matches. Those managers who’ve invested in the Hammers’ attack will be encouraged that only two teams shipped more goals than Palace (10) over the previous six Gameweeks.
Shifting our focus away from the standout matches, Norwich City attempt to register consecutive wins when whey duel with Newcastle United at Carrow Road. In the North East, Sunderland desperately need to scoop maximum points against West Bromwich Albion if they harbour any aspirations of beating the drop. Finally, Stoke City and Swansea City do battle in a mid-table clash at the Britannia Stadium.
