How to Bet on Cards in the Premier League Amid Rising Discipline Issues
With five red cards issued in just one day of Premier League action recently, England’s top flight is seeing its biggest rise in discipline issues in years. This season, stricter officiating around time-wasting and dissent has led to more cards, making it an exciting time for bettors interested in card markets. We’ll take a closer look at matches with high card potential and offer insights into how to make the most of this trend.
The Rise in Premier League Card Counts
During the previous season, the Premier League averaged 4.53 cards per game, already a marked increase over the previous campaign. This season’s figures have surged even higher, reaching an average of 5.41 cards per game through the first eight matchdays. As referees tighten their standards, betting on cards becomes a promising option, particularly in high-stakes games with clubs known for aggressive playstyles.
Premier League Fixtures with High Card Potential
Leicester City vs Nottingham Forest
Matches involving Nottingham Forest have topped the Premier League card charts this season, with an average of 7.12 cards per game. Under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest’s intensity leads to an impressive 3.75 cards drawn per match, especially in away games, which have consistently seen six or more cards. When Leicester faced Southampton last weekend, a whopping nine cards were handed out, indicating a pattern that may continue when they face Forest.
Aston Villa vs Bournemouth
Aston Villa’s opponents average over three cards per game at Villa Park, making them the league’s top card-forcing side. Under Unai Emery, the Villans pressure their competition, leading to a high card count. Bournemouth’s players have received three or more cards in every clash against Villa since their promotion, suggesting another heated encounter on the cards.
Chelsea vs Newcastle United
Chelsea, the team with the highest card count last season, maintains this trend under new leadership. Their eight matches have already amassed 57 cards, or around 7.12 per game. Last week’s game at Anfield resulted in seven cards, showcasing their continued penchant for intense, physical play. Newcastle, who rank fifth for cards received, often draw high card counts in top-half clashes, promising a feisty fixture.
Arsenal vs Liverpool
When Arsenal and Liverpool face off, fireworks are likely. Arsenal has developed a reputation for cards, with three red cards already this season and an average of 3.12 cards per game. Their prior home game against Liverpool ended with 10 yellows and a red, a likely harbinger of another thrilling clash as they look to close Liverpool’s four-point lead.
Key Tips for Betting on Cards in the Premier League
- Identify High-Intensity Matches: Games between rivals or teams in the title race or relegation battle often result in higher card counts.
- Follow Trends with Key Teams: Teams like Nottingham Forest, Chelsea, and Aston Villa have shown consistently high card numbers, providing reliable betting insights.
- Consider Referee Tendencies: Certain referees are more card-happy, and knowing their trends can be valuable when betting on specific matchups.
As discipline continues to shape this season, betting on cards in the Premier League offers plenty of potential. Look out for the most heated fixtures and players prone to pushing limits, and you’ll be well-placed to make informed bets in this trend-defining season.
Premier League Outright Market | Odds |
Leicester vs Nottingham Forest – Over 5.5 Cards | 2.10 |
Aston Villa vs Bournemouth – Over 2.5 Cards for Bournemouth | 1.83 |
Chelsea vs Newcastle – Over 5.5 Cards | 1.83 |
Arsenal vs Liverpool – Over 2.5 Cards for Arsenal | 1.57 |
Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at time of publishing and subject to change.
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