Tip Brighton - Liverpool

Liverpool make the trip to the Amex in the early Saturday kick-off for a Premier League match against Brighton and Hove Albion. Liverpool, the reigning champions of the division, are second in the table after nine games, trailing leaders Tottenham by goal difference. Brighton are 16th with nine points from nine games, last weekend's 2-1 victory at Aston Villa easing the pressure on the Seagulls. The visiting side will be licking their wounds from a chastening 2-0 home defeat to Atalanta in the Champions League on Wednesday night. Jurgen Klopp had complained about the relentless fixture list in a recent - partially censored - interview with Sky Sports. This European defeat proved his point that the demanding schedule would inevitably backfire. Trying to spare players from injury caused by the heavy workload means putting in substitutes who are not ready to step up, such as the teenagers fielded against Atalanta. A perfect UCL record up until that point allowed Klopp to roll the dice. A fast-approaching lunchtime meeting with Brighton forced his hand. While that win over Villa was Brighton's first victory in eight games, they are now unbeaten in four of their last five matches. 

As respectable as that overall record is, Brighton can't take the same pride in their form at their place. They have failed to win their last eight Premier League games on home soil. Graham Potter will need to improve that record if he is to ensure Brighton steer clear of the relegation zone. Although Liverpool are a fearsome opponent, the Reds are winless in their last three away games in the league. Brighton may not be able to capitalise on their opponents shaky away form given their poor record against Liverpool. They are winless in 10 matches against Liverpool, losing the last eight. A comparatively light fixture list gives them a good chance of making the afternoon uncomfortable for their visitors. We suggest backing both teams to score.