Newcastle's season-long inconsistency accounts for their parlous position and they face another tricky assignment today when they welcome a West Brom side far from clear of the drop zone. Nevertheless, the degree of difficulty associated with Albion's task is reflected perfectly in their starting price: Ladbrokes install them as lengthy 10/3 underdogs, whereas Newcastle are as Coral's even money favourites to collect three points from what promises to be a tough and close affair.

Stan James's 6/4 odds against the opening period finishing 0-0 has found favour amongst punters, while the likelihood of it finishing goalless at 90 minutes, a 9/1 shot by Betfred, has been snapped up by those anxious to add some insurance to their weekend wager.

It would surprise few were the contest to end in stalemate – Skybet chalk 23/10 against a draw, but if United are to keep their hopes of avoiding relegation alive, beating their nearest rivals strengthens their case.

Punters who feel they will win but are unable to be any more precise may, therefore, fancy Ladbrokes’ 3/1 for them to enjoy to a one-goal margin of victory.

There was a time when a visit to Anfield meant only one thing: 90 minutes of hell and a certain defeat. But no longer as the sense of intimidation has evaporated.

If Sunderland's players can grasp this, they could score what would still be considered a shock and win; backers who believe it possible can get a mammoth 10/1 (Stan James) against a Black Cats victory.

The most popular result in the correct score market is a 2-0 home victory, offered 13/2 (Paddy Power). However, optimistic punters confident that Sunderland will boost their survival hopes can get 12/1 (Winner.com) against them securing a 1-0 win.

Middlesbrough's pursuit of the league title should maintain its momentum when they welcome Blackburn to the Riverside.

The home team, BetVictor's 4/6 jollies, are within sight of the home straight, but they should beware any form of complacency, especially against a Rovers team still far from certain of retaining their Championship status. Blackburn might be 5/1 with Skybet, but it would be foolish to interpret those odds as a sign that this is a foregone conclusion for Boro.

Astute punters who agree might be inclined to consider the 13/2 chalked by Paddy Power against the match finishing 1-1 while taking advantage of Ladbrokes' 11/2 for Boro to win 1-0.

Hartlepool face a tricky trips to Notts County, against a side boasting an impressive home record currently the equal of any team occupying one of the division's play-off berths.

County open as Ladbrokes' even money favourites, Pools are an enormous 4/1 (Paddy Power) to secure maximum points. Granted, this will most certainly not be an easy romp for Pools, but those odds are far too long. Backers who concur can get 10/1 (Winner.com) against them registering a timely 1-0 victory.

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