Liverpool Fc: Predictions for the Manchester City Clash at Anfield

Liverpool welcome current champions Manchester City to Anfield on Sunday in an eagerly awaited clash that could give fans pointers about things to come from both camps this season.

Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool side will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat at the hands of West Brom on Premier League opening day, while Roberto Mancini's City side will be looking to show more creativity going forward than they did against Southampton.

Here are a few predictions for the clash.

1. No Assaidi

By this I mean he's not in the eighteen-man squad.

Assaidi will be desperate to make a debut appearance in red, and while a home game against the current champions of English Football seems to be a perfect stage, it's also a huge danger. Assaidi will be better served to play against an easier side, preferably at Anfield, and to make a mark then.

2. No Goals in the First Ten Minutes

While I expect both keepers to make a save or two early on, I don't think the opening stages of the match will be particularly enticing as both sides look to establish a foothold in the match before kicking on. Look for Liverpool to dominate possession and both sides to keep their shape.

3. Liverpool Go into Halftime with a Lead

I think Liverpool will take advantage of their home support and make an impact in the first half. Liverpool will dominate possession with City trying to hit on the break, but I have a feeling that the first goal of the game will go to Liverpool.

Like I said, the game will be very tight and the balance may lie in a decision from a referee or a piece of magic from any of the players capable.

I think Liverpool will push the balance their way in the first half.

If you want me to be very exact, I think Gerrard will put the reds in the lead from the penalty spot.

4. City Equalise Before Sixty Minutes

It could be argued that there is no better time to be attacking Liverpool at the moment, with Agger out, Enrique coming back from a spell on the sidelines and Carragher losing what little pace he had (for me Caotes plays instead, or Kelly).

City will be confident they can get a goal, rightly so considering the attacking talent they've got to showcase.

I expect the Citizens to equalise early in the second half.

5. Liverpool to Score Two to Win 3-1

I've just got that feeling.

It's the opening day, against a side we have done well against in the past. We are a different side against top-class opposition, and with motivation to kick on in front of home support, Liverpool may well get their three points.

Score prediction: Liverpool 3-1 Manchester City.

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