Wigan v Arsenal (FA Cup, Semi Final)

Let’s get one thing straight. There’s no way I’m backing Arsenal at around 1/2 on the fixed odds to beat Wigan in the first FA Cup semi-final (KO 5.07pm, ITV).

I think Arsenal have been close to pathetic in some of their recent matches. Showing next to no fighting spirit when the going gets tough in both their 3-0 defeat against Everton and most notably in their 6-0 drumming against Chelsea.

It would be a huge mistake to under underestimate Wigan’s chances. After all, we all did that last season and look what happened, they beat Man City to lift the trophy.

This season they have already knocked out Premier Leagues clubs Crystal Palace, Cardiff City and Manchester City in the defence of the FA Cup and are very much in the mix to be a Premier League team again themselves next season and are currently guaranteed a play off place.

Wigan don’t really have anything to prove – Arsenal do and that’s a fact that’s not lost on Wigan boss Uwe Rosler who admits his side are massive underdogs but takes this as a positive as he feels they “can’t lose” with all the expectation on Arsenal.

The head to head records, as you would expect, show advantage Arsenal…..

HEAD TO HEAD RECORD
(Max last 10 only)
May 2013 Premier Arsenal 4-1 Wigan
Dec 2012 Premier Wigan 0-1 Arsenal
Apr 2012 Premier Arsenal 1-2 Wigan
Dec 2011 Premier Wigan 0-4 Arsenal
Jan 2011 Premier Arsenal 3-0 Wigan
Dec 2010 Premier Wigan 2-2 Arsenal
Nov 2010 Carling Cup Arsenal 2-0 Wigan
Apr 2010 Premier Wigan 3-2 Arsenal
Sep 2009 Premier Arsenal 4-0 Wigan
Apr 2009 Premier Wigan 1-4 Arsenal

I can’t see a scenario where Wigan don’t score today. Arsenal’s defence is particularly concerning and they’ve conceded 12 goals in their last four matches.

For Arsenal and Arsene Wenger in particular the FA Cup now becomes top priority. The 3-0 defeat to Everton last weekend certainly damaged their hopes for a top four finish in the Premier League and if they do miss the cut and DON’T win the FA Cup then surely it’s the end of the road for Wenger?

I’m a seller on the Star Spreads superiority market and also a buyer of bookings at what looks a tempting starting point of 36.

RECOMMENDED BET (scale 1-10 points)

BUY BOOKINGS for 10 points at around 36 with Star Spreads
SELL ARSENAL / WIGAN for 10 points at around 1.1 with Star Spreads

RUNNING RETURN (APRIL): LOSS 358.00 POINTS

RUNNING RETURN (YEAR): PROFIT 76.00 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.