Have a loss-proof flutter on Southampton
If last Saturday's game between Southampton and Sheffield Wednesday saw the two biggest clubs in League One collide, then Tuesday evening's clash pitting the Saints against Charlton Athletic at The Valley can't be far behind, given that the Addicks post the division's third best average attendance.
Like the last side the south coast promotion hopefuls disposed of, Charlton aren't performing as well as you'd expect a club of their stature to do though, with a dismal run of form that has seen them collect just one point from eight fixtures showing no sign of ending anytime soon.
Their London derby defeat to Dagenham and Redbridge at the weekend saw the gap between them and the relegation zone close to nine points and the supporters that have already decided that Chris Powell won't make it as a manager to suggest that they are in genuine danger of going down.
Having played several times fewer than many of the struggling sides, fear of the drop appears premature but there is definitely something severely wrong at The Valley, as a team boasting quality players like Jose Semedo and Bradley Wright-Phillips shouldn't even have to consider the possibility.
Will a big match and a big crowd prove exactly what is required to get off the foot of the form table? The improvement in Southampton's away record in recent weeks indicates not, as they have won on tricky trips to Colchester and Bournemouth to boost their bid for second. At [1.92] to beat a team in turmoil, Nigel Adkins' men have to be fancied.
Thanks to our special offer for those opening new Betfair accounts, you can bet up to £25 on this match and have your stake refunded if your punt proves unsuccessful.
Disagree and think Charlton will triumph? The hosts are [4.4] outsiders...
Published: 22 Mar 2011
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