After a weekend without a F.A. Premier League (F.A.P.L.) London derby match (PLDs) including the rare opportunity to play one on a Leap Year’s Day, we are back with a double-header this weekend. On Saturday 7 March Arsenal entertain West Ham United at The Emirates Stadium in north London, and Crystal Palace welcome Watford to inside the M25 at Selhurst Park in south London.
Arsenal have won this fixture comfortably in the last 3 seasons: 3-0 in 2016-17; 4-1 in 2017-18; and 3-1 in 2018-19. Furthermore the Gunners’ F.A.P.L. form is improving under Mikel Arteta, being unbeaten in their last 5 (DDDWW), while David Moyes’ Hammers will be buoyed by their win over Southampton last time out (LDLLW). But it still looks like a home win banker!
Crystal Palace versus Watford is more difficult to call, with the Eagles looking for their third win in a row after 3 defeats (LLLWW) and the Hornets (LLDLW) really buzzing after showing the rest of the Premier League how to beat Champions-elect Liverpool last week.Palace have won the fixture twice in the last 3 encounters to Watford’s once: 1-0 in 2016-17; 2-1 in 2017-78; and 1-2 in 2018-19. The home side’s home form is anything but sure, so it could be anyone’s game. All in all an interesting weekend for PLDs in prospect.
Until next time enjoy your football, Andrew at PLDs.