Hull have been up against it even before the Premier League kicked-off owing to some of the excellent work by the teams who would most likely be in the relegation dogfight with them this season. However, following a bright display against Chelsea, Hull have the potential to make the most of the opportunity that they have to ply their trade in the Premier League, especially following the arrival of Tom Huddlestone and Jake Livermore from Tottenham, the latter on loan.
Norwich City, on the other hand, were coming of a very good season, having finished eleventh last season, and have been active in the transfer market his season. Their opening day performance against Everton suggests that they should steer clear of the relegation battle. However, it will be matches like this that will decide where they end up come the end of the season.
What to expect from the Match
An Entertaining Contest…
Hull manager Steve Bruce abandoned the 3-5-2 formation that served his side so well in Championship last season to deploy a 4-3-3 set-up with loanee striker Danny Graham leading the line. Hull goalkeeper Allan McGregor was outstanding against Chelsea, and he’ll need to be at his best to ensure that Hull come out of this fight with something more than pride.
Norwich played some of the most entertaining football among the newly promoted teams last season, and they look set to continue it this term. Goals will definitely not be in short supply, especially considering the attacking threat the team now possess with summer signings Nathan Redmond, Gary Hooper and Ricky van Wolfswinkel.
Players to watch out for
Allan McGregor (Hull City):The Scot wandered to the edge of his box to fell Fernando Torres with five minutes gone and conceded a penalty,but earned himself an instant reprieve, diving low to his right to pound away Lampard’s well-hit spot-kick and keep the scores level. He had a terrific game after that, and was one of the brightest spots in the 2-0 defeat.If he can maintain similar performance level this week, Hull might just be in with a chance to nick a point, or even three.
Ricky van Wolfswinkel(Norwich City):With 19 minutes and Norwich staring at defeat, van Wolfswinkel rose above Phil Jagielka to head the ball into the top corner to snatch a point from Everton last weekend, and he is sure tcarry his form into this weekend. Highly rated across Europe, van Wolfswinkel surprised many people when he decided to sign for Norwich, but he has the ability and the eye-for-goal to ensure that Norwich’s investment reaps rich rewards. He is surely going to be a handful for the Hull defense.
Predicted Starting line ups
Hull City: Thearrival of Huddlestone and Livermore may see Hull revert to the more familiar 3-5-2 formation that they played last year. It would mean that both the new signings would start, ahead of a 3 man defense. Either of Sango or Aluko may partner Graham up front.
Norwich City:Norwich could make just the one change following the availability of new signing Leroy Fer. Van Wolfswinkel is expected to lead the line alone as Gary Hooper is still a doubt due to a shin injury. Wes Hoolahan will be linking up midfield and attack.
Predictions
Norwich should win this comfortably given the quality that they have brought into the side this summer and the balance of the side. Place you bet on van Wolfswinkel to score this weekend.
Hull City 0-2 Norwich City
(van Wolfswinkel (2))