Manchester City vs Liverpool Match Preview

Manchester City vs Liverpool
3 January 2012
20.00 GMT
Etihad Stadium

History:
Total Appearances: 162
Liverpool Wins: 80
Manchester City Wins: 41
Draws: 41

Last Premier League Meeting: 27 November 2011 – Liverpool 1-1 Manchester City (Lescott og)

Form:
Liverpool: The Reds have been one of the hardest teams to read this season. They seem to have stepped up well against the best teams in the league, while having struggled against the strugglers. Last gameweek, Liverpool pulverized Newcastle, dominating the game and winning 3-1. The two weeks before that, Liverpool drew twice to bottom five teams. They have taken just 12 points from a possible 21 in the last seven games, and need to start picking up consistent wins if the Premier League dream is to become a reality. Ringing in the new year with a win could push Liverpool from sixth up to fourth.
Manchester City: League-leaders Manchester City are undoubtedly in their worst patch of form at the moment. They have dropped crucial points in three of their last five games, and have let a big lead in the table slip to one where they now leading only on goal difference over rivals Manchester United. On Sunday, City lost to Sunderland, 1-0, just their second defeat of the season.

Injury News:
Liverpool: With Steven Gerrard’s return, Liverpool are a different team. His effect cannot be underestimated; he changes the Reds, making the players around him better. He will be in the starting XI to face City. Lucas remains out long term with a knee injury.
Manchester City: No major injuries to report.

Key Battles:
Liverpool Defense vs Manchester City Attack: This is how this game will be fought. The league’s leading attack will face off against its leading defense. Mario Balotelli vs Martin Skrtel. Yaya Toure vs Jay Spearing. David Silva vs Jose Enrique. Take your pick. The majority of this match will be played in the Liverpool half. It is up to the Reds to hold off the City advances and catch them on the break. That is how to beat Manchester City.

Bet365 Odds:
Home Win: 10/11
Draw: 5/2
Away Win: 3/1

Anfield Red Score Prediction: Manchester City 1-1 Liverpool