EPL Predictions: 12/8 Matches

My first week of EPL predictions, beginning with Saturday's matches...

Aston Villa v. Portsmouth

After a slow start, Martin O'Neill has his boys in their form of early last season. A run of bad luck against the Premiership leaders shouldn't be enough to drag down Villa. 

Portsmouth are a distracted club—manager arrested, top players leaving next month. They're also desperate for points. 

Sorry Pompey—not in this match.

Prediction: Villa 2-1 Pompey

Everton v. Fulham

Everton are coming off a tough UEFA Cup match earlier in the week. They stay home to face a scrappy Fulham side—who have better played on the road than their record would indicate.

Fulham has found ways to throw away points all season long. Look for the visitors to get close without getting the cigar here.

Prediction: Everton 2-1 Fulham

Manchester United v. Derby County

Welcome back to management, Paul Jewell. Are you REALLY sure you wanted to do this? 

United is in fine form; Derby is facing relegation. The only way I watch this match is if someone holds me hostage.

Prediction: United 4-0 Derby

Chelsea v. Sunderland

Chelsea have finally begun to find their form.  Although their victories haven't been very impressive (with the exception of a 6-0 drubbing of Manchester City), the Blues continue to find ways to win. 

Roy Keane's side, meanwhile, continues to struggle—and although I believe they'll escape relegation, they won't escape Stamford Bridge.

Prediction - Chelsea 4-1 S-Land

Newcastle v. Birmingham

Birmingham and Newcastle are two clubs that are seemingly impossible to figure out. 

Newcastle have decent players but can't get a result. And with Joey Barton opening his fat trap all week, I don't see the Barcode getting much out of this match—especially after Birmingham beat Spurs 3-2 last weekend. 

I expect both teams to get quality chances, but finishing will be at a premium. These two are fit to be tied.

Prediction: Newcastle 1-1 Birmingham

Reading v. Liverpool

Liverpool come into the match having FINALLY found a measure of form. That said, Rafael Benitez still doesn't know when to leave well enough alone. 

There shouldn't be too many worries here for the Reds, as they should be able to outclass Reading with ease.

Prediction: Reading 0-2 Liverpool

Stay tuned for Sunday's picks...