Watford vs Liverpool – Saturday 12th August 2017 – 12:30 - Sky Sports Football

Watford are 19/4 with Stefano Okaka, Troy Deeney, Richarlison and Jerome Sinclair all at 9/1 to open the scoring.

Watford face Liverpool at Vicarage Road Saturday lunchtime, in the opening weekend of the 2017/18 Premier League season.

The Hornets come into this match in mixed form, with two goalless draws in their last two matches.

Their last win came on July 22nd, a 1-0 win against Spanish side Eibar, courtesy of an Etienne Capoue goal.

The former Tottenham man was an excellent addition for the Hornets, he will be a key player this season.

Watford ended the season in poor form, conceding nine goals, including a 5-0 final day defeat to Manchester City.

This pre season proves that new manager Marco Silva has a huge job on his hands.

Pressure On Silva

The Hornets will be looking for a strong start to the season, they face Liverpool at home and will be targeting a point.

After their poor finish last season, Marco Silva's side will need to prioritise improving in the Premier League.

It remains to be seen what the main target is this season, survival is the minimum requirement.

 

Hornets Underdogs

Watford come into this match as the underdogs, with Liverpool's pedigree informing the odds.

The Hornets will be looking to win this opening fixture, despite facing a strong attacking unit in Liverpool.

Watford will be looking for their second win in ten matches against the Reds, their last win a 3-0 victory in December 2015.

Big Challenge

The Reds come into this match on the back of a 3-1 win against Athletic Bilbao, a great result for Klopp's men.

Roberto Firmino opened the scoring from the penalty spot for Liverpool (21), with the Brazillian hauled down in the box.

That lead didn't last long though, with Inaki Williams equalising just seven minutes later (30).

Ben Woodburn capped another impressive performance with a goal (59), making it 2-1 to Liverpool in the second half.

Before new signing Dominic Solanke made it 3-1 (80), handing Liverpool an excellent home win.

It was an excellent run out for Liverpool, against a strong Spanish outfit, they will be ready for Watford.

Reds Need Winning Start

Liverpool had a great campaign last season, with the Reds finishing fourth in the Premier League.

It was an excellent achievement considering the calibre of sides around them, they also secured Champions League football.

Klopp will be feeling the pressure this season though, with the German needing to deliver silverware.

They have signed a good player in Mohammed Salah, but speculation still continues to surround the future of Coutinho.

Liverpool Favourites

Jurgen Klopp's side come into this match as favourites, with their record last season informing the bookies.

This will be a tough match for Liverpool, traditionally they have struggled against the likes of Watford.

Liverpool will be looking to make it four straight wins against Watford, a side they have a great record against.

 

Liverpool are 4/7 with Daniel Sturridge, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane all at 9/2 to score first.

 

Betting Tips

Tip 1 – Firmino to score first @ 9/2

Tip 2 – Liverpool to win 2-1 @ 7/1

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