Serie A 7 April

Saturday’s games

An in form Chievo will travel to Atalanta, in the hope of cementing their position above the drop zone. At one stage in the season, the flying donkeys seemed a sure bet to go down, but coach Del Neri has transformed them and they now look like a far stronger outfit. Atalanta are floating in the middle of the table, with little ambition of a UEFA Cup spot, they have not won since January but did hold Fiorentina to a 2-2 draw last week. Chievo have a full squad to choose from and I recommend a one point bet on them (+1/2) at 1.81.

[Chievo lost 1-0]

Catania started the season well but have dropped like a stone down the table, losing four of their last five matches. Since the Palermo incident they no longer play at their home stadium and the fans are not happy with recent performances. They take on Roma at a neutral venue and they will have their work cut out if they are to get any points from this match. Of course Roma will be fielding a weakened side, keeping their top men rested for the Manchester United game next week, but in my experience when the other players are given an opportunity to show their quality, they step up to the task. That coupled with the fact that Catania also have a number of injuries makes me think that Roma are a very good bet. Have a four point bet on Roma (-1/2) at 1.97.

[Roma won 2-0]

Lazio are in stunning form at the moment, winning their last seven games, they have overtaken Palermo to move into third position and now have their sights set on overtaking Roma (who are currently 7 points ahead). Messina travel to the Stadio Olimpico hoping to climb out of the drop zone, but they are not in good shape, losing their last two matches. I think Lazio are fair value (-1 ½) at 2.03 and recommend a two point wager.

[Lazio won 1-0]

The big game of the weekend is AC Milan v Empoli, just one point separates the sides and this battle could well be critical in deciding who will be playing European football next season. Empoli are in great form and have a full strength squad, AC will be recovering form their match against Bayern and will be wondering whether they should rest players for next week’s tie. I was amazed to see such a big handicap being offered and I think Empoli are great value (+1) at 1.93, I recommend a two point bet.

[Milan won 3-1]

None of the other games represent much value for me.