There’s plenty to sink our teeth into this weekend, as the FA Cup semi-finals join forces with the Premier League to lay on a feast of football…

 

It’s that time in the season once again, as the silverware begins to come into sight for some whilst the drop zone starts to loom ever larger for others.

And, as we wait for that to all kick-off, there’s one thing even more immediately on the horizon – the Rush Football Weekend Preview – let’s get to it…

Bournemouth v Middlesbrough

This is a big game for both sides. If Bournemouth lose they are at risk of getting involved in the basement battle whilst Boro have to win to keep their own hopes realistically alive. It should be an open game, then, in which case we can only see a win for the home side.

Hull v Watford

Watford are safe now and that’s why we see Hull winning this one. The Tigers are very good at home and will fancy their chances against a Hornets team that has nothing to play for. Win here, and Hull will be putting the pressure firmly on the side that’s coming up next…

Swansea v Stoke

Indeed, Swansea need to win this one, too. Stoke are home and hosed for another year whilst the Swans are well out of form and in need of a result. If they lose here and Hull win that could be that so it’s time for Paul Clement’s men to roll their sleeves up and get stuck in.

West Ham v Everton

Everton will still feel they can finish above the likes of Arsenal even if they have played more games and will be looking for another big win here. West Ham, meanwhile, have not had much luck at home but with the pressure of going down starting to subside, they may be able to put on a display.

Burnley v Manchester United

United really struggled on Thursday in the Europa League and could have done without going the full 120 minutes against Anderlecht. Indeed, Zlatan Ibrahimovic got injured in this one and so Burnley, at home, will prove rather tough opposition. The Clarets need one more win you feel, and will be going all out.

Liverpool v Crystal Palace

Liverpool need to keep winning to stop the likes of United and Arsenal reeling them in when they play their games in hand. Palace, though, represent a very tough test under Sam Allardyce who will be determined to frustrate Jurgen Klopp’s men. How they deal without Mamadou Sakho could be key.

Chelsea v Tottenham

This is a huge game regardless so when you add the fact that these are the two title protagonists we get a very interesting affair. The Blues are limping at the moment whilst Spurs are looking rampant so whoever wins here should land a massive psychological blow as well as a place in the FA Cup final.

Arsenal v Manchester City

This game is vital to both, but you feel that Arsenal’s season really does hinge on it. If the Gunners can win a trophy they might be able to get over what’s been another torrid year for them. City, meanwhile, could also do with a trophy to lift confidence and we think the first goal will decide where this game heads dramatically here.

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