Stevenage v Everton. Stage set for a shock?

The column had a tiny profit of 0.5 points last night but I’m still not sure how!!

Certainly, the Arsenal 4 Coventry 0 final scoreline landed our total goals bet (a buy at 3.9) but it wasn’t a score that really reflected the game, particularly with the way Coventry played in the second half.

But….. I’ll take it.

I’m sure there will be a giant killing act somewhere today – the skill is trying to find which match.

The locals at the Lamex Stadium in Stevenage will be hoping it’s them as they host Everton in the teatime game which is live on BT SPORT.

In the history of the world Stevenage have only played Everton once – but as luck would have it – that also came this season in the Capital One Cup in August…..

Aug 2013 Capital One Everton 2-1 Stevenage

Whilst Everton progressed – they needed extra time to get the winner which was surprising given the relative league positions of the two sides.

Stevenage are having a wretched season in League One, propping up the table with just 22 points, but they can forget their woes for a day in front of the sell-out crowd which coupled with the TV rights will be timely boost to the clubs finances.

Stevenage boss Graham Westley is confident he can find another FA Cup upset to match their 3-1 third-round win against Newcastle in 2011.

“We are not thinking about a replay. We know our best chance of beating them will be here,” Westley said.

“We went into the tie against Newcastle struggling in League Two.

“Not many saw that upset coming but we thought differently then and we are feeling in a similar mindset now.”

Everton are of course having a great season themselves and are a much stronger team now than they were when playing Stevenage in August, so shouldn’t really come unstuck here.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez – who won the FA Cup last season with Wigan – says that his side will not take any chances against lower-league opposition.

“We are going to try to be as good as we can and make sure we don’t let the home side have the advantage they will otherwise have,” he said.

Everton are the obvious choice, but Stevenage with home advantage will give it everything and I’m not sure there will be too many goals – so am happy to sell the market at around 3.05 with Star Spreads.

RECOMMENDED BET (1-10 points)

SELL TOTAL GOALS for 5 points at around 3.05 with Star Spreads

RUNNING RETURN (JANUARY): PROFIT 16.05 POINTS

• Any spread prices quoted are indicative and as always prices are subject to fluctuation.
• Please note the opinion, views and forecasts above are of the author and not of Star Spreads.