Sat 11th April 2009, 12:45pm @ Anfield
Liverpool will aim to get back to winning ways with the early kick off against Blackburn Rovers at Anfield. The reds have another opportunity to place pressure on league leaders Manchester United by taking back top spot in the league.
Concerns about the fitness of Steven Gerrard resurfaced after Wednesday’s nights Champions League defeat against Chelsea, but although Liverpool’s long held unbeaten record at Anfield has gone, an impressive 25 game unbeaten Premiership run at Anfield remains.
Blackburn have got themselves a degree of security after Paul Ince’s departure. Allardyce has dragged the team out of the relegation zone and they have a 5 point cushion, currently lying in 14th place.
Javier Mascherano is likely to return for Liverpool after missing Wednesday’s game through suspension, and the Fulham game due to a late return from international duty.
** Liverpool fans will be walking in support of Michael Shields from St George’s Plateau in Liverpool city centre to Anfield before the game. Arrive in town by around 10.30. (More info) **
History
Liverpool left it late, but completed a 3-1 victory over Blackburn earlier this season at Ewood Park.
Liverpool have won 40 and lost 10 times in the 66 Anfield clashes between these two sides.
Blackburn’s last win at Anfield was in 2000 when the side knocked the reds out the FA Cup in the 4th round, before that, the last win in the league for Rovers was in 1993.
In the last 6 Anfield league meetings there have been 3 draws and 3 Liverpool victories. Last season’s home clash went the reds way – our 3-1 win coming courtesy of Gerrard, Torres and Voronin.
Betting
Liverpool are favourites with the bookies.
Liverpool 1/3
Draw 9/2
Blackburn 12/1
You can get 6/1 for the reds to run out 1-0 or 2-0 winners.
Get a Free £20 bet with Paddy Power when you place a £10 bet.
TV
The match is on live on Sky Sports 1 in the UK. Further information can be found in the forum.
Opposition Links
Official Blackburn Website
Blackburn Football Shirts
In the Forum
Pre Match Blackburn Discussion