Match Prediction: Bolton at Villa Park

If we go on the old saying that the league table doesn't lie then this match is going to be a tough one. Bolton are sitting in 5th and have done okay away from home.

I'm not going to go over anything I've posted before about how may points we've had out of the past few games as nobody needs reminding of this. What I am going to say is if we are going to want to be challenging for a European place this season then this a game we should be getting something out of and right now I'd be happy with a point, if not slightly disappointed.

It was nice to see Petrov and Baros get on the score sheet the other night and having those players playing with a little confidence, knowing that they do know where the goal is could well be the deciding factor of the match. In most games we create chances and if we've got those two playing well along with Sutton I fancy our chances.

The problem is Bolton have a few players that know where the goal is also but with Petrov and Baros now on off the mark I feel as if I should put my hope with them.

Bolton have won as many games away from home as they have lost or draw but we've still only lost once at home and won more than we've drawn. Villa Park is a hard place to come for any team and that should work in our favour.

I'm also expecting a big crowd because of the recent offer from the club and if the crowd can get behind the team it will have a positive effect.

The big worry for Villa is who plays in goal. There is no confirmed news on the fitness of Stuart Taylor which may mean we see a first team start for Austrian Robert Olejnik; who then deputises for him on the bench?

We also know how direct Bolton can be which may mean Hughes plays at right back and Mellberg moves into the centre which would also mean Ridgewell or Cahill dropping to the bench. Bouma should be back as he only needed stitches and Gareth Barry is also back after serving his ban.

Like I said above I'd be happy with a point but disappointed but that's not my prediction. I can't predict Villa dropping points at home and this is a vital match. I'm going for 2-1 with Baros or Petrov getting atleast one.

Beating Bolton would take us one point above them and set us up nicely for the next four matches; United (H), Spurs (A), Charlton (A) and Chelsea (H).

Nearly forgot. Add your prediction below and if you get it right you'll stand a chance to win one of these t-shirts.