There’s still a long way to go before the Barclay’s premier league title is settled, although fans, pundits, and bookies across the country have been saying it’s a two horse race between Chelsea and Manchester City, since the first ball was kicked at the start of the 2014-15 season.
The excellent form of both teams so far has done nothing to change anyone’s mind, and it’s hard to see another team making a serious challenge for the finishing line on May 24th. Southampton is a bit of a dark horse and outsiders can and do win, but they are likely to come up short in the end. Even Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool remain in the hunt, but only for a top four finish. Check betting odds online today.
The race for top spot may well go down to the wire in the spring, but barring a few injuries to key players – always a possibility – or a dramatic loss of form, Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea side still looks the favourite to be crowned champions ahead of Manuel Pellegrini’s Man City; the suave little Portuguese maestro is to outmanoeuvre the cagey Chilean strategist.
Chelsea, who are still competing in the Champion’s League, FA Cup and Capital One cup, host Man City at Stamford Bridge on January 31st, the last time the two meet this season. The previous tie, at the Etihad Stadium, ended in a 1-1 draw, whereas in the season curtain raiser last August, Man City came from behind in a thrilling match, to win 3-2, and lift the Community Shield. As impressive as Man City’s win was, however, it came late against a ten man Chelsea team – Ivanovic having been sent off in the first half.
Of course, both teams have bags of talent, but here too Chelsea seem to have their noses in front. Man City’s recent signing, Wilfried Bony, definitely strengthens their attacking options, and Aguero is a world class striker when he’s fit. Chelsea’s Diego Costa, meanwhile, has proved to be a fantastic signing and although he’s been nursing an injury since day one, he’s still banging in the goals.
In the end, it may come down to the two keepers: City’s Joe Hart vs Courtois of Chelsea. Although Hart was excellent for City last season when they won the title, his form has been more inconsistent of late. By comparison, the giant Belgian, Courtois – another shrewd purchase by Mourinho – is the most commanding keeper in the league.
If only picking a winner was always that easy! That said, there are some other great sporting events where it’s anyone’s title. Take the popular Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival, from April 28th to May 2nd. One of the highlights of the Irish sporting calendars, there’s an exciting choice of races, including Festival Family Day, and everyone has a chance of picking a winner. You can follow Chelsea’s fortunes while still having a punt – bet online on 2015 Festival Family Day at The Punchestown Festival with William Hill.