NJ's Premier League Weekend

By Nishant Joshi

Hull vs Sunderland



24th April 15:00 GMT

Sacking Phil Brown was a move which Hull could have made 12 months ago, but when you're on the brink of relegation, why would you ever hire Iain Dowie to save you? Having managed both Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic in the Premiership, he has managed to relegate both sides, quite emphatically, and at the first time of asking too. So, with a dozen or so games left and the side in deep trouble in the relegation zone, who would be first on your list to steer you away?

Phil Gartside and the committee at Hull FC obviously thought that Iain Dowie was their best option, and one has to wonder for the mental health of somebody who is picking a man who has all the managerial nous of an African elephant.

With Hull still mired firmly in the relegation zone, Hull will get their just desserts for firstly sticking with Phil Brown once it became apparent that he was woefully out of his depth; and secondly for compounding Brown's failures by hiring a man who would surely have a more successful career as a bailiff than a manager. Two decisions which are mind-boggling when the chairman has been emphasising just how big of a financial blow relegation would be.

Hull play host to Sunderland on Saturday in what is effectively a must-win game, with only two to play after this. Darren Bent has scored 23 goals for Sunderland in the league this season, and with Hull's defence so leaky, it would be folly to not make a play on Bent to score as he looks to cement a place in the England squad.

NJ's Bet:

Darren Bent to score anytime - 4.5pts @ 2.45 (Expekt)

Nishant Joshi