Esbjerg-OB preview

Friday 24/4 18.30

Esbjerg (10th) are doing poor in the league, and the situation is starting to look a bit problematic with FC Vestsjælland just six points behind. Esbjerg have lacked power since selling three key players in the winter break. Esbjerg still have a fine team, but they struggle with the consistency and perhaps also with the focus. Esbjerg have a second leg cup semi final in the following week, which is undoubtedly more import for the players. For this match, Esbjerg will be without the suspended duo of midfielder Erik Friberg and left back Jonas Knudsen. Especially Knudsen is an important player, since he is strong both in terms of defensive stability and offensive contribution. In his absence, Esbjerg are forced to move a central defender to the left back position. OB (9th) are quite comparable to Esbjerg. They have also been poor in 2015, and they need to start earning some points to move away from the relegation line. OB will be without captain Ari Skulason, but he is not the most important captain in the league (has been benched on several occasions), but it is concerning that the likely replacement left back Mikkel Kirkeskov has only seen 1 minute on the pitch in 2015. OB have some great offensive players in Rasmus Falk and Thomas Dalgaard, but they are not at the top of their game currently. Another good offensive player, winger Emil Larsen remains on the bench after some negative comments towards his own fans (plus he has been terrible when given the chance).

The pitch is awful in Esbjerg, and it would be surprising if the match turns out to be a good one. Especially since none of them can afford to lose. OB do not have a cup match in mind, and this should be a small advantage in a match, where we believe Esbjerg are too big favourites. There is a reason that they have only won 3 out of 13 home games this season.

Recommendation: 2 (AH +0.5) – 1.90 at Bet365