The UEFA Cup Group A: Nurnberg vs. Everton

Four wins from the last four games is Everton’s current form as they go into this UEFA cup group stage tie. In the Premier league they have won two games on the trot since losing to neighbors Liverpool, an easy Carling cup game away to League one side Luton, as well as their first Group A UEFA cup game at home to modest Larisa.

FC Nurnberg have yet to open their group stage games in this present edition of the UEFA cup, and to do so against a side like Everton will possibly be their hardest obstacle. They have more to think about in the Bundesliga than the UEFA cup, as they are presently occupying the third from bottom spot and hardly look to be moving away but down. They have won just one game in the last thirteen in all competitions and really seem to be struggling. Here’s another curious fact. Nurnberg have never won a home game in any European competition. From the three games they have played in their history, the best they have done is earn two draws and a defeat in Europe. Not too good statistics going into this game.

Everton meanwhile seem to have found some kind of form recently after a bit of an up and down start to the season. Coach David Moyes will probably have to make do without left back Leighton Baines again after he injured his ankle in the league game away to Derby just over a week ago, and his main job before this match is getting his players not to think about the Chelsea game the following Sunday. If Everton can keep concentrated they should be able to walk this one. Nurnberg are going from bad to worse and very quickly too, but if given half the chance could do some damage.

I’m going for an away win here. Everton have too good a team to do anything here except win and I’m sure David Moyes will be making sure his players keep their minds on the job at hand.

Prediction: Away win (2-0)