West Ham v Burnley preview (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

West Ham v Burnley preview

8:10am Thursday 26th November 2009 in

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West Ham v Burnley Premier League
Saturday, November 28

Last meeting: Burnley 0-1 West Ham (05-04-2005) The last time these two teams met they were both playing in the Championship. A Teddy Sheringham strike in the 83rd minute was enough for the Hammers to claim the points at Turf Moor. Mark Noble is the only surviving member of the squad that lined up that day.

The opposition: Unstoppable at home and fallible away, Burnley are a side seemingly playing two different seasons. Five wins at Turf Moor are balanced by five losses on the road, painting a picture of inconsistency. However, such a record must seem like a dream for West Ham, as the Clarets are riding high in tenth.

Danger men: Twenty-two year-old striker Steven Fletcher is a threat for Burnley, having scored six goals already this season. Should boss Owen Coyle opt for a more attacking formation against the Hammers, Fletcher is likely to be paired with veteran Robbie Blake up front. The 33-year-old is a tricky customer capable of the impossible. Just ask Manchester United.

Did you know? Burnley have occupied the same ground for longer than any other club in the Football League, with the exception of Lancashire rivals Preston North End, after they moved to Turf Moor in 1883. Preston's Deepdale ground was opened in 1878.

Prediction: West Ham 3 Burnley 1.

Betting tip: In-form Guillermo Franco is a good bet to continue his scoring touch against Burnley. Find odds of 45/1 with Paddy Power for him to score first and West Ham to win 3-1.