Astra vs West Ham Betting Tips

Astra mounted an impressive fightback at Upton Park last week during the first leg of this Europa League 3rd Qualifying Round.

West Ham scored partway through the first half and at the beginning of the second half to go 2-0 up, thanks to Enner Valencia and Mauro Zarate.

They looked almost home and dry at this point, but a red card for James Collins set the stage for an impressive comeback. Rick Boldrin scored 20 minutes from time to allow Astra to claw their way back into the match, and an Angelo Ogbonna own goal saw them complete the comeback.

They are now in a fairly strong position going into the second leg of this match, with a draw in their pockets along with 2 away goals to lean on.

Their draw against Viitorul on Sunday made it 3 draws in their last 5 games, with one being a win and the other ending in defeat.

This leaves them in 6th position in the Romanian domestic league after 4 games of the new season played.

West Ham are yet to kick off their own domestic campaign, and could have one eye on the away clash against Arsenal on Sunday during their game against Astra on Thursday.

They lost against Werder Bremen in a friendly match on Sunday, which makes it 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss in their last 5 matches.

But their collapse against Astra on Thursday could well be preying on their minds, as letting a 2 goal lead slip in what should have been a straightforward home win must effect them psychologically.

Astra will go on the defensive from the off in this match, knowing that a 1-1 or 0-0 draw will hand them the tie on away goals. With Enner Valencia now injured as well, I think West Ham could have a tough time, and I think it will be a low scoring game. Odds of 4/5 for Under 2.5 Goals look like very good value as well.