Sociedad – Rayo Vallecano

If matches against Barcelona are any indication, Sociedad should cruise here as they beat the catalans 3-1 two rounds ago just after Barca defeated Rayo Vallecano 6-0. But of course thinks don`t work this way in sports, and the hosts will have to fight their way to a win against a side in massive need of points.

Sociedad is on the 6th place in La Liga but has a game in hand and will move up to 5th if they get the three points here – the fight for an european spot is very tight so the hosts are motivated for the win. Sociedad lost 1-0 at Sevilla last round after the marvelous 3-1 win over Barcelona but their form is very good on short and medium term with 2 wins in the last 3 games. The hosts are one of the best home teams in Primera with an 8-3-1 statline so they are extremely hard to play against at Estadio Anoeta. Team news: for this game Real Sociedad has Bravo doubtful, Granero, Estrada, Ansotegi and Zaldua are 100% out.

Real Sociedad lineup: Zubikarai – Martinez, Martinez, Gonzalez, Angel – Bergara, Elustondo, Zurutuza – Canales, Vela, Griezmann

Bet with the best odds and highest limits at Pinnacle.

Rayo Vallecano arguably deserves better than their current 19th place as they play entertaining football and had a few great matches this season, but their defense destroyed them. The 59 goals conceded by Rayo in 26 matches is a La Liga record, surely not one they would have wanted to have. Rayo got a huge win against Valencia last round after a patch of bad form with 2 consecutive losses. Team news for Sociedad say Galeano, Tito and Trashorras are out, with Carlos doubtful.

Rayo Vallecano lineup: Ramiro – Gomez, Castro, Galvez, Rat – Baena, Niguez – Viera, Bueno, Falque – Larrivey

I will not underestimate Rayo but the fact is they are not so good and their defense is just horrible. Sociedad has been super impressive at home this season and after the Sevilla loss they are focused and hungry to bounce back with a good result here. The hosts are clearly the better team and with Rayo allowing so many goals I reckon Sociedad can not only win, but also cover a 1 goal handicap at Anoeta. My tip is Sociedad -1 asian handicap and I am surprised the odds are going up on the hosts – but not too worried. Correct score prediction is Real Sociedad – Rayo Vallecano 3-1.

Pick: Real Sociedad (-1 Asian Handicap)
Odds: 1.83 @ Pinnacle
Stake: 8
Possible profit: 6.64
Event date: 10 March