Hobro-Esbjerg preview

Monday 28/9 19.00

Hobro (12th) rank last and they deserve that position. They have not been very good and has clearly suffered under many changes in the squad during the summer break. However, the last match against FC Copenhagen (1-0) proved that they are getting closer to finding a satisfying level and that they have made some fine signings (for instance Jung Bin-Park and Pål Kirkevold). Hobro still rely on strong defensive organisation and team spirit. Some concern about vital defensive midfielder Jonas Damborg who left the last match with an injury, but according to latest reports he should be playing here. Esbjerg (10th) have been a big disappointment this season. They got a lot of credit in previous season for playing attractive direct football, but this season they have not been spectacular and for once they rank among the lower teams in chance production. Defensively, it is especially concerning as Esbjerg give away many goals from personal mistakes. The situation is not made easier by a ban for central defender Michael Jakobsen combined with injuries for fellow defender Daniel Stenderup and Ryan Johnson-Laursen. Esbjerg have players to cover (moving midfielders to defence), but they are forced to make several rotations. They benefit from the return of striker Nicki Bille and captain and central midfielder Magnus Lekven from bans.

Esbjerg often have difficulties in matches against hard working physical teams as Randers, SønderjyskE and Hobro. They also lost the last match in Hobro 3-1 in a match, where Hobro really outplayed Esbjerg. In any case, I think that more than odds 4.00 for Hobro win as a great price. Again, I go for the straight win to maximize value, but odds 2.00 for Hobro not to lose are also good.

Recommendation: 1 – 4.25 at Cashpoint