Below is an infographic from the guys over at MatchStory which shows the fixtures and difficulty ranking for every EPL 2013/14 match.
It's a great example of how to incorporate a lot of data into a simple visual aid.
Observations:
- Both Manchester derby matches are scheduled immediately after potential Champions League fixtures (matches 5 and 28), which could lead to some selection dilemmas as they attempt to compete on both fronts.
- Villa have a pretty horrible start, without a relatively ‘easy’ game until October, so don’t be surprised if they spend the early part of the season near the foot of the table. February and April provide opportunities for a late surge up the table, although a stressful March could disrupt their momentum.
- January is a significant month for two of the three newly-promoted clubs which could well shape their respective destinies. Cardiff’s is truly horrendous with away trips to 3 of last season’s top 4, while Crystal Palace enjoy 3 of their more winnable home games.
- Sunderland and West Brom could benefit from having all four of their hardest games scheduled before or after Champions League ties which could distract their opposition. Both have away games against one of the big four either side of the semi finals (matches 35 and 37).
- After a potentially lousy run of games at the back end of March which may cause Arsenal to stutter, the Gunners have a relatively easy finish to their campaign which could see them finish strongly.
Also if you click on the image you will be redirected to their website which also presents an interactive version that displays betting odds for every fixture.
Over & out,
- JW
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