Rob's Prediction: Blackpool Vs Wigan

Blackpool put up a brave fight against Arsenal but eventually, their prowess put paid to any hopes Blackpool had of getting back into the game. Nevertheless, they play with a lot of passion and Ian Holloway can be proud of his side's achievement this year. Most notably, their win at Anfield will live long in the memory.

However, Wigan find themselves at the wrong end of the table in a crucial relegation battle. There hasn't been a lot to smile about for Wigan's fans this season, but there have been a few bright sparks, even if the worst did come to the worst.

The Latics go into the game off a spirited defeat to Chelsea which I watched last weekend at Stamford Bridge, which is why there was no Rob's Prediction last weekend, which I apologise for. It was one of the most dire games of football I've seen but nevertheless, was a spirited fight from Roberto Martinez's team and they were, I have to say, unfortunate to come away with nothing and there was controversy with the winning goal. So close to a point yet no cigar. Shame.

This is a very crucial game for both sides and I expect a cagey game with defences coming out on top and with not many goals being conceded. I suspect Blackpool shall concede and that Wigan will come away with a share of the spoils - I can't see a win unfortunately, but a hard fought point which would be better than nothing at all. Then we can win at Sunderland and begin to believe again, I hope.

ROB'S PREDICTION
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A cagey game that will be fought hard by both teams - Blackpool don't disappoint, entertainment wise. Then again, neither do the Latics. Both teams show great heart and this will be a heartfelt game. I don't see many goals. I just see two goals in a one-one draw.

Blackpool 1-1 Wigan Athletic

ROB'S OTHER PREDICTIONS
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Birmingham Vs Sunderland - This is a very difficult game to predict. I think that Sunderland are on a poor run and Birmingham have not been great. I see Sunderland scraping a draw. For once, I agree with Mark Lawrenson.1-1

Everton Vs Blackburn - Everton will win this game - Blackburn's away form is dire to say the least and Steve Kean won't be so keen to face Everton in this game. Everton have slowly improved and have had a disappointing season, but it may yet bear fruit.1-0

West Brom Vs Chelsea - I think Chelsea are just far too strong for West Brom - I see Roy's record coming to an end today but it will be a stern test for Chelsea.0-1

West Ham Vs Aston Villa - I think that West Ham are a bit of an unpredictable side. Villa had a morale boosting win over Newcastle - this is a tough game to say but I just wonder if West Ham might come away with a narrow win.1-0

Arsenal Vs Liverpool - More misery for Arsene Wegner's troops against Liverpool, I think. I can't see Liverpool beating Arsenal, but I can see them scraping a point.2-2

Newcastle Vs Man Utd - One outcome, one winner. Newcastle will put up a fight but I just think Manchester United will be far too strong for Alan Pardew's troops to muster a result.0-2

Chelsea Vs Birmingham - Well Chelsea have not scored many goals recently. However, I think they'll win this by an unconvincing scoreline by their standards.2-0

Tottenham Vs Arsenal - This is the friendly of the weekend - Not. Tottenham have had a really hard time of it recently and I think this game will end in a draw which may give Spurs fans some solace after their disappointment with Real Madrid in the Champions League.1-1

ROB'S FINAL THOUGHT
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Wins for Wigan and Huddersfield Town shall make a great weekend. Here's Hoping!

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