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Back in the day – a nostalgic glance at the weekend’s matches
Saturday 3pm – Everton v West Brom – betting odds: EFC 4/5 Draw 13/5 West Brom 7/2 – more bets
In April 1985, Everton prepared to face West Brom at Goodison, just look this weekend, on the back of a stirring victory in the FA Cup.
Just days before, the Blues had come from behind in their Villa Park semi-final to defeat Luton Town after extra time and reach their second Wembley final in succession.
Squad player Ian Atkins was a surprise starter for Howard Kendall’s men and he opened the scoring after only three minutes to keep the feel-good factor flowing.
Johnny Giles’ side were comfortably placed in mid-table but had no answer to the treble-chasing Blues as a brace from Graeme Sharp and a Kevin Sheedy strike saw Everton rack up another three points on their inexorable march to the league title.
Sunday 1.30pm – Newcastle v Liverpool – betting odds: Newcastle 15/8 Draw 12/5 LFC 7/5 – more bets
Kenny Dalglish took his Liverpool side to St James Park in February 1989 looking to make up ground on league leaders Arsenal.
Indifferent league form had seen the champions win less than half of their First Division fixtures and their hopes of making up the 11 point advantage the Gunners held over them took a blow when Brazilian striker Mirandinha, who had scored the Toon’s winner at Anfield earlier in the season, gave them an early lead.
Ian Rush swiftly levelled after being set-up adroitly by a prone John Aldridge but the Reds’ defensive frailties betrayed them again when Danish striker Frank Pingel headed them back in front from a corner early in the second half.
Liverpool were again quick to hit back with John Aldridge heading home a Ronnie Whelan free-kick but could not find a winner – the four points Newcastle won were enough to save them from the drop while Liverpool ended up losing the title on goals scored to Arsenal.
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