By Daniel Feliciano

26th May, 2023 | 5:10pm

Mark Lawrenson predicts result of Everton clash v Bournemouth in Premier League relegation scrap

Mark Lawrenson has made his prediction ahead of the crunch Premier League clash between Everton and Bournemouth this weekend.

The Toffees are on the brink of relegation from the top flight, but know a win at Goodison Park on the final day will preserve their Premier League status for another year.

With the home crowd advantage and the fact Bournemouth are already safe from the drop, Lawrenson told Paddy Power (26 May) that he is backing the blues to claim all three points.

“Bournemouth, let’s pat them on the back and say they’ve done fab,” he said.

“Everybody thought that they would possibly be the worst team in the league but they’ve been excellent. Everton have been here before, and I don’t just mean the current lot.

“They’ve needed last-day win before and they’re at home. I know there are one or two players missing but I’m going to go for them to win and stay up. Everton 2-1 Bournemouth.”

Safety

There’s no doubting that heading into the game on Sunday we are the favourites to avoid relegation because our destiny is in our own hands.

But there are going to be issues on the day with injuries with Dominic Calvert-Lewin ruled out, Nathan Patterson ruled out, goals needed and lots of pressure.

However it will help that the team go into the game knowing exactly what they need to be successful and to avoid the drop and that it simply doesn’t matter what everyone else is doing.

The players need to be able to play with some freedom on the day to not get caught up, but surely they’ll be able to use the energy of the crowd to push forward and get the win they need.

If we can do what Lawrenson and many others expect us to do then there will be a big party at Goodison Park after the game and everyone can enjoy the summer, but if not then a big reset will be needed.