Southampton v Nottingham Forest

Southampton vs Nottingham Forest Preview

Last weekend was not the kind of result that Premier League newcomers Southampton had in mind as the south coast club were dealt a 1-0 defeat away from home at Newcastle United which made for a disappointing return to the English top flight, while Nottingham Forest picked up a point by way of a 1-1 draw at home with Bournemouth and the Tricky Trees will be hoping to add to their points tally when they take on another south coast club on Saturday afternoon.

Southampton registered a 1-0 win against Leeds United in the Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium at the end of last season to bring Premier League football back to St Mary's Stadium and The Saints will be eager to get themselves off the mark this Saturday in this opening home game of the season.

The hosts ended last season by winning three of their final four games in the Championship which also included picking up vital wins against Leeds United and West Brom towards the end of the regular season so The Saints will feel quietly confident about their chances here, while the goals market also appeals as seven of Southampton's last 10 home games overall have resulted in both teams scoring.

Nottingham Forest finished last season's Premier League campaign fourth from bottom in the table and therefore sitting just above the relegation zone so needless to say the visitors will be keen to avoid a repeat of last season's tense finish.

Two wins from their final three league games towards the end of last season helped secure Nottingham Forest's top flight status for another season thanks to important wins against Sheffield United and Burnley, both of which were also achieved away from home as well.

The bigger picture shows Forest struggled to pick up wins on a regular basis though in the domestic top flight as Nuno Espírito Santo's side managed to capture just three wins from their final 14 league matches which included an earlier 3-1 home win against Fulham at their City Ground but also includes slipping to seven defeats in the process as well.

The theme of both teams scoring goals though has been a regular occurrence where Nottingham Forest have been concerned as no fewer than eight out of their last 10 games in the Premier League have resulted in both teams finding the back of the net and this trend looks set to continue at St Mary's Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Southampton v Nottingham Forest Verdict

Southampton and Nottingham Forest will be eager to pick up their first win of the new season here this Saturday and both sides will fancy their chances against the other; three of the previous five meetings have also resulted in both teams scoring as well.

Therefore, our main bet will be BTTS Yes @ 1.70

Other side bets worth considering:

Draw @ 3.40

Correct Score: 1-1 @ 7.00