Expect a cagey affair at Fratton Park at BetUK.com

Tonight’s Premier League encounter between Portsmouth and Sunderland (live on Setanta 1 at 8pm) could be a cagey affair as it is still technically possible for the visitors to be relegated and they will be anxious to avoid defeat.

As we saw in last Monday’s relegation ‘six-pointer’ between Newcastle and Middlesbrough, the ensuing tension invariably leads to half-time stalemate.

Portsmouth’s supporters are well versed in supping their half-time pint with their side level. Pompey have been all-square at the break in eight of their last 11 Premiership games on the south coast.

Similarly, last season, Portsmouth went in at the break level in 11 of their last 15 fixtures at Fratton Park.

As the prospect of relegation has become greater in recent weeks, Sunderland have achieved four half-time draws in their last six league games on the road.

Moreover, having failed to score in their last six away matches, Ricky Sbragia will no doubt be content to keep a tight ship until at least half-time.

With these stats in mind we’re going to recommend backing Draw/Draw in the Half-time/Full-time market at 4/1 with BetUK.