Premier League Week 9 Predictions: Early Score Projections for Top Matches

Week 9 of the Premier League has some stellar matches to prepare for and, as we continue to near the winter period, they will have implications on the final Premier League Table.

Last Saturday's action out of the Premier League was exciting. A total of 27 goals from the eight top teams were scored, leaving the opposition wishing to move on to their next respective matches. While that may not happen again in Week 9, the potential is there for some high-scoring contests.

That doesn't mean that Week 9 won't be just as fun to watch, though. Some of the week's top matches appear to be close matchups where a simple mistake early in the match could end up deciding the outcome.

Here's a look at Week 9's top matchups.

Sunderland vs. Newcastle United

The last time Sunderland and Newcastle United met, Newcastle was dealt a 3-0 loss at home. They'll obviously be looking to exact revenge, though it won't be easy.

Even though Sunderland hasn't played well up to Week 9, Newcastle has a goal differential of negative-three. If the Magpies find themselves down early in the match, then it could prove difficult for them to come back.

Newcastle has won three of its last six, whereas Sunderland has yet to notch a victory on the year. If nothing else, the Magpies should be confident in their abilities to net at least one more goal than their counterparts.

While the score may not necessarily reflect it in the end, expect Newcastle to handle Sunderland and control the match. Expect Newcastle to control the tempo and handle the ball a vast majority of the time.

Prediction: 0-2

Aston Villa vs. Everton

This match could very well end up being the most tightly contested of Week 9. Aston Villa is 3-1-4 on the year, but that doesn't mean Everton should underestimate Paul Lambert's team.

Despite a losing mark and goal differential of negative-one, Aston Villa seems poised to battle for a top-10 spot in the EPL rankings. Currently at No. 13, Aston Villa need only pass West Brom, Swansea City and Newcastle to break the top 10.

Everton on the other hand, has been consistently strong. The Toffees have played in three draws through just eight matches but, with only one loss, the club has proven difficult to defeat.

There's potential for this game to be relatively high-scoring. Both clubs are strong on the attack, and it appears highly unlikely that this game will end 1-0 or 1-1.

This match could feasibly go either way, but it's difficult to pick against the team with just one loss.

Prediction: 2-3

Chelsea vs. Manchester City

Manchester City defeated West Ham United with relative ease, but defeating Chelsea will be no easy task. In the most exciting match featuring top-10 clubs in Week 9, look for Chelsea to give Man City stiff competition.

Against West Ham, Sergio Aguero scored twice. Containing him and not allowing him to dominate on the attack will be key for Chelsea. Amongst other attackers, Aguero needs to be kept silent.

Overall, both clubs are exceptionally talented. Both teams are contenders for the Premier League title, and this match will certainly have that type of feel.

Man City does lead the EPL in goals, though, and will have the advantage on the attack. Everton, with a goal differential of just plus-two, will need to focus on defense throughout.

Prediction: 1-1