Celtic V Inverness CT
As things stand Celtic are 4 points behind Rangers and level on games played so every games is crucial. They are 3 – 2 down from the first leg of the champions league tie against Barca so progress there is probably dead and buried. What im getting at here is that the League is now their priority and they will treat every game with the fullest of attention. I had taken them on Sunday to beat the 1.25 handicap against St Mirren but they failed. Maybe it was too soon after the Barca game but they looked a bit tired and were lucky to win with a late goal from Nakamura.
Their home form has been very good with 9 wins from 12 and with a goal difference reading 32 scored to only 2 conceded. McManus, Wilson and Kennedy are out for this game but Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink is available and is expected to make the starting 11.
Inverness have been something of a bogey team for Celtic in the past and had a resounding 3 – 2 win over the Hoops back in December. However that was at home, take Inverness on the road and they are not so effective having tasted defeat 9 times. Celtic have already beat Inverness 5 – 0 at Parkhead in September. The away side are not in the best of form lately and have only registered a single win in 2008. Apart from David Proctor being a slight concern, Inverness have a full team to pick from.
Verdict
Celtic left it late on Sunday evening and I can’t see them being so sloppy in front of their home fans. Rangers face a tricky tie away to Hearts so a win here is a must. As I mentioned before Inverness have often upset Celtic but the stakes are high here and I can only see a comfortable win for the home side. With a goalscoring record of + 30 goals in 12 games at Parkhead im confident they can beat the handicap too.
I dont expect this price to be still around come kick off.
PICK
Celtic -1.75 (1.94 @ ladbrokes) 7 points
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
Manchester City V Everton
Manchester City V Everton
A win tonight for the home side will see them draw level on points with Everton and keep the dream of a champions league football on track. A few factors to consider here, firstly under Sven Man City have played quite well and have a very good home record. 9 wins from 13 and only one defeat is very good and im sure even the most loyal of fans would not have expected that at the start of the year. My only criticism is that they tend to play very defensively and can be a bit of a bore to watch at times. Nonetheless league standings don’t lie and they will be full of confidence coming into this one. Another fact is that Everton had a game midweek, sure it was at home and they didn’t have to travel but a game is still 90 minutes of effort and Man City may just be that small bit fresher tonight. I don’t see much between these two teams so every little bit in favour of one or the other could be the difference. Everton actually have a good away record but I often think that they raise their game for certain teams and don’t often beat teams that they are capable of beating.
Verdict
Man city’s unbeaten record was lost last time out though losing to Arsenal is hardly an embarrassment. Having conceded 3 goals in that game id be expecting a much better display defensively as its usually their most dependable section. Everton have a potential match winner in Yakubu and seeing him up against Richard Dunne and Micah Richards will be interesting. Benjani may yet prove to be an inspired buy for City and ive a feeling he may just make the difference tonight. Im not expecting many goals and I don’t expect City to lose 2 in a row at home either so il take City draw no bet in case of a stalemate.
1 – 0 to the home side is my prediction
PICK
Manchester City 0 (1.85 @ centrebet) 5 points
A win tonight for the home side will see them draw level on points with Everton and keep the dream of a champions league football on track. A few factors to consider here, firstly under Sven Man City have played quite well and have a very good home record. 9 wins from 13 and only one defeat is very good and im sure even the most loyal of fans would not have expected that at the start of the year. My only criticism is that they tend to play very defensively and can be a bit of a bore to watch at times. Nonetheless league standings don’t lie and they will be full of confidence coming into this one. Another fact is that Everton had a game midweek, sure it was at home and they didn’t have to travel but a game is still 90 minutes of effort and Man City may just be that small bit fresher tonight. I don’t see much between these two teams so every little bit in favour of one or the other could be the difference. Everton actually have a good away record but I often think that they raise their game for certain teams and don’t often beat teams that they are capable of beating.
Verdict
Man city’s unbeaten record was lost last time out though losing to Arsenal is hardly an embarrassment. Having conceded 3 goals in that game id be expecting a much better display defensively as its usually their most dependable section. Everton have a potential match winner in Yakubu and seeing him up against Richard Dunne and Micah Richards will be interesting. Benjani may yet prove to be an inspired buy for City and ive a feeling he may just make the difference tonight. Im not expecting many goals and I don’t expect City to lose 2 in a row at home either so il take City draw no bet in case of a stalemate.
1 – 0 to the home side is my prediction
PICK
Manchester City 0 (1.85 @ centrebet) 5 points
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Rangers and Celtic today
Rangers V Gretna
The title looks like it could go down to the wire in Scotland and for a change it might make an exciting finish to the season
Both Rangers and Celtic are in action today and to put it mildly, neither team can possibly afford to drop points, especially at home and Rangers should have far too much for whipping boys Gretna at Ibrox today. The home side have scored 36 goals at home this season in 13 games and won 11 of those 13 games by 2 goals or more. They did play during the week and had a 1 – 1 draw in Greece to send them through to the next round of the UEFA Cup so confidence will be high.
Gretna have stormed up the leagues since being formed only a few short years ago. But in reality they look out of their dept in the top flight and are already planning for next year in the first division. They are nine points adrift at the bottom of the league and their squad is down to the bare bones as it is. With 33 goals concede away from home its virtually impossible to see taking anything from this game and in my opinion it will be damage limitation from the kick off.
Verdict
Rangers did have a tough midweek fixture but even at that should have far too much for Gretna on home soil. Even if they make lots of changes to the starting 11 as I fully expect their home record is tremendous and they should win this one comfortably
PICK
Rangers –2.25 ( 1.85 @ stan james) 6 points
St Mirren V Celtic
A vital game for the travelling side. Already trailing Rangers by 4 points and barring a miracle, Rangers will have another 3 points today so anything other than a win and Celtic may as well concede the title race now. Their champions league hopes were all but dashed midweek when they lost 3 – 2 at home to Barca in an entertaining game. However the sloppiness of the goals conceded will be an area of concern for Celtic and I fully expect Gordan Strachan to have worked on it and we should see a better defensive display today. Celtic have won 8 times on the road this year and need that strong form to continue today.
Scott Brown is back in as well as Hinkel and their presence is a boost for Strachan.
St Mirren have already taken a draw at Parkhead this year but that may have came down to over confidence from the home side. They have conceded 22 goals at home this year, a feat only bettered by Gretna. In fact they have only scored 12, another stat on which they are close to lowly Gretna so home form is not their strongest point. Recent results have improved though and they are on the back of a three game unbeaten run but it will severely test them to keep that run going.
Verdict
I feel im rambling on a bit about Celtic but a win today is a must. There can be no room for complacency and the players know it. Im expecting a much better defensive display and I don’t think that if they take a 1 – 0 lead that they will be able to rest on it. I think they will push for a second to make the game safe and should cover the handicap. Maybe –1.25 just in case
PICK
Celtic –1.25 ( 1.74 @ mansion) 6 points
The title looks like it could go down to the wire in Scotland and for a change it might make an exciting finish to the season
Both Rangers and Celtic are in action today and to put it mildly, neither team can possibly afford to drop points, especially at home and Rangers should have far too much for whipping boys Gretna at Ibrox today. The home side have scored 36 goals at home this season in 13 games and won 11 of those 13 games by 2 goals or more. They did play during the week and had a 1 – 1 draw in Greece to send them through to the next round of the UEFA Cup so confidence will be high.
Gretna have stormed up the leagues since being formed only a few short years ago. But in reality they look out of their dept in the top flight and are already planning for next year in the first division. They are nine points adrift at the bottom of the league and their squad is down to the bare bones as it is. With 33 goals concede away from home its virtually impossible to see taking anything from this game and in my opinion it will be damage limitation from the kick off.
Verdict
Rangers did have a tough midweek fixture but even at that should have far too much for Gretna on home soil. Even if they make lots of changes to the starting 11 as I fully expect their home record is tremendous and they should win this one comfortably
PICK
Rangers –2.25 ( 1.85 @ stan james) 6 points
St Mirren V Celtic
A vital game for the travelling side. Already trailing Rangers by 4 points and barring a miracle, Rangers will have another 3 points today so anything other than a win and Celtic may as well concede the title race now. Their champions league hopes were all but dashed midweek when they lost 3 – 2 at home to Barca in an entertaining game. However the sloppiness of the goals conceded will be an area of concern for Celtic and I fully expect Gordan Strachan to have worked on it and we should see a better defensive display today. Celtic have won 8 times on the road this year and need that strong form to continue today.
Scott Brown is back in as well as Hinkel and their presence is a boost for Strachan.
St Mirren have already taken a draw at Parkhead this year but that may have came down to over confidence from the home side. They have conceded 22 goals at home this year, a feat only bettered by Gretna. In fact they have only scored 12, another stat on which they are close to lowly Gretna so home form is not their strongest point. Recent results have improved though and they are on the back of a three game unbeaten run but it will severely test them to keep that run going.
Verdict
I feel im rambling on a bit about Celtic but a win today is a must. There can be no room for complacency and the players know it. Im expecting a much better defensive display and I don’t think that if they take a 1 – 0 lead that they will be able to rest on it. I think they will push for a second to make the game safe and should cover the handicap. Maybe –1.25 just in case
PICK
Celtic –1.25 ( 1.74 @ mansion) 6 points
Premiership on Sunday
Blackburn V Bolton
Two very similar teams face off at Ewood park toady. Im torn between two bets and really should leave this one alone but I cant help myself. My two selections are taking Blackburn to win and the other one is taking under 2.5 goals.
Blackburn are in 10th place but have actually taken more points on the road (1 more only). What im getting at here is that their home form is hardly the stuff of giants and only Derby have scored less at home. Then again they have played Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Everton and a few more decent teams so all in all its not too bad a record. Goals are my main concern as Blackburn have only scored 2 in the last 5 home games and Santa Cruz has been well marshalled since he burst onto the scene.
Samba, Dunn and Pedersen should return to give Hughes some more options.
Bolton had a terrific result midweek drawing 0 – 0 with Atletico Madrid against all the odds. Since Anelka left for Chelsea they have looked a bit shot shy up front and have failed to score in 4 of their last 6 league games. They are just three points above safety but still have a game in hand and I fully expect them to drag themselves out of the relegation zone before it gets too late. Their away record is poor with just the one win, that coming last time out against fellow strugglers Reading. Their once dependable defence has let in almost 2 goals a game on the road, another area of concern for Gary Megson.
Helguson and Gardner are rated as slightly doubtful but may just about make it. A few changes to the starting 11 are expected from the midweek visit to Spain.
Verdict
Torn between two results here. Blackburn should be fresh enough to take advantage of Bolton’s trip to Spain. I don’t see many goals in this one but the home side should just about do enough to nick it. Ive had bad luck in the under/ over market lately so im inclined to leave this one go. Blackburn should win this 1 or 2 – 0
Good luck!
Pick
Blackburn –0.5 (1.87 @ canbet) 4 points
Two very similar teams face off at Ewood park toady. Im torn between two bets and really should leave this one alone but I cant help myself. My two selections are taking Blackburn to win and the other one is taking under 2.5 goals.
Blackburn are in 10th place but have actually taken more points on the road (1 more only). What im getting at here is that their home form is hardly the stuff of giants and only Derby have scored less at home. Then again they have played Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Everton and a few more decent teams so all in all its not too bad a record. Goals are my main concern as Blackburn have only scored 2 in the last 5 home games and Santa Cruz has been well marshalled since he burst onto the scene.
Samba, Dunn and Pedersen should return to give Hughes some more options.
Bolton had a terrific result midweek drawing 0 – 0 with Atletico Madrid against all the odds. Since Anelka left for Chelsea they have looked a bit shot shy up front and have failed to score in 4 of their last 6 league games. They are just three points above safety but still have a game in hand and I fully expect them to drag themselves out of the relegation zone before it gets too late. Their away record is poor with just the one win, that coming last time out against fellow strugglers Reading. Their once dependable defence has let in almost 2 goals a game on the road, another area of concern for Gary Megson.
Helguson and Gardner are rated as slightly doubtful but may just about make it. A few changes to the starting 11 are expected from the midweek visit to Spain.
Verdict
Torn between two results here. Blackburn should be fresh enough to take advantage of Bolton’s trip to Spain. I don’t see many goals in this one but the home side should just about do enough to nick it. Ive had bad luck in the under/ over market lately so im inclined to leave this one go. Blackburn should win this 1 or 2 – 0
Good luck!
Pick
Blackburn –0.5 (1.87 @ canbet) 4 points
Saturday, February 23, 2008
La Ligo tonight
Sevilla - Real Zaragoza
Hopefully Sevilla have rested enough from their midweek efforts in the champions league. They lost 3 – 2 to Fenerbache but in truth it was a decent result and with two away goals they now must be big favorites to go through to the next round. Anyway back to the league and a win is crucial for the home side as they bid to get back into the top four and give themselves a chance for a place in Europe next year. They are pretty dependable at home where they have taken 8 wins from 12 scoring 29 in the process. Last time out they drew 1 – 1 with Barca. Goals have not been a problem either with 2 – 3 goals the average for all their home games.
Ernesto Chevantón,Christian Poulsen, Ivica Dragutinovic and Khalid Boulahrouz are all out but otherwise Sevilla have a strong side to chose from.
Zaragoza had big things predicted for them this season but so far it hasn’t gone according to plan. Their main problem has been the away form with only one win in 11 attempts and that came way back in October. Their away goals record reads at –12 which is almost as poor a record as there is in the league. Brazilian midfielder Matuzalem returns to the squad for the trip to Sevilla having been out of action since the defeat against Barcelona in late September. The only two injured players are Pablo Aimar and Carlos Cuartero who are both out.
Verdict
Good team with a good home record in need of three points against a very poor travelling team also in need of three points. I think that Sevilla simply will have too much up front for the visitors tonight and should win this with 1 or 2 to spare. I think the odds are slightly higher because of Sevilla’s midweek trip to Turkey but I don’t think it will affect them too much.
PICK
Sevilla win (1.8 @ stan james) 6 points
Hopefully Sevilla have rested enough from their midweek efforts in the champions league. They lost 3 – 2 to Fenerbache but in truth it was a decent result and with two away goals they now must be big favorites to go through to the next round. Anyway back to the league and a win is crucial for the home side as they bid to get back into the top four and give themselves a chance for a place in Europe next year. They are pretty dependable at home where they have taken 8 wins from 12 scoring 29 in the process. Last time out they drew 1 – 1 with Barca. Goals have not been a problem either with 2 – 3 goals the average for all their home games.
Ernesto Chevantón,Christian Poulsen, Ivica Dragutinovic and Khalid Boulahrouz are all out but otherwise Sevilla have a strong side to chose from.
Zaragoza had big things predicted for them this season but so far it hasn’t gone according to plan. Their main problem has been the away form with only one win in 11 attempts and that came way back in October. Their away goals record reads at –12 which is almost as poor a record as there is in the league. Brazilian midfielder Matuzalem returns to the squad for the trip to Sevilla having been out of action since the defeat against Barcelona in late September. The only two injured players are Pablo Aimar and Carlos Cuartero who are both out.
Verdict
Good team with a good home record in need of three points against a very poor travelling team also in need of three points. I think that Sevilla simply will have too much up front for the visitors tonight and should win this with 1 or 2 to spare. I think the odds are slightly higher because of Sevilla’s midweek trip to Turkey but I don’t think it will affect them too much.
PICK
Sevilla win (1.8 @ stan james) 6 points
Six nations feast of rugby
Massive day of rugby action today
Wales V Italy
Italy have done very well in their two matches to date but a lot of it was to do with the quality of the opposition. On both occasions I think that both Ireland and then England underestimated the Italians and though they were beaten twice they did bring some respectability to their game. The Italians won’t win over too many fans with their physical approach to things but it is effective. More or less stopping the other team play free flowing rugby and putting in some mammoth hits. Italy coach Nick Mallett has made several changes to his team and has brought in Andrea Marcato in place of David Bortolussi, who is out with a shoulder problem. Canavosio and Robertson are injured while Andrea Lo Cicero has dropped to the bench. Marco Bortolami returns as a replacement.
Wales have two wins to their name but its hard to judge them just yet as they beat an England side that fell apart and a Scotland side who look like they will be happy just to avoid the wooden spoon. James Hook has been in fantastic kicking form and is proving to be very reliable from set pieces. Warren Gatland has made several changes to the side that beat Scotland naming a whole new front row, with Gethin Jenkins, Rhys Thomas and hooker Matthew Rees all making their first starts this season. Mark Jones returns to the wing instead of Jamie Roberts and Stephen Jones and Dwayne Peel will start in the half-backs.
Wales lost in Rome last season and having viewed the two Italian games so far will not be taking their challenge lightly at all. As things stand it looks like Wales will be the team to challenge France for the title and they should win today, the question is by how much? The bookies look to have got it fairly accurate with the 13 – 14 point line but I think that if Wales can play the free flowing stuff that they are capable of then they should be able to cover the spread, if only just. Kicking may be crucial to our bet today but with Hook on his own patch and in form, I feel we have a huge advantage. small stakes for me
PICK
Wales – 13 (2 @ bet365) 4 points
Ireland V Scotland
There was a sense that everything was ok in the Irish camp after coming so close to catching France in Paris in the last round but for me it was a false feeling. Lets face it, France took their foot off the pedal and made a few changes but if they hadn’t then they could have beaten the Irish by a cricket score. Ireland have fallen a way back from previous glories and the absence of Paul O Connell is a huge loss to them, in the lineout especially but more so psychologically as his presence is a big help. He’s back on the bench today so hopefully we will see him at some stage.
Anyway onto today and Eddie O Sullivan has called up Tommy Bowe to the wing. Mick O'Driscoll is also promoted to the starting line-up in place of Malcolm O Kelly where he will start alongside Donncha O'Callaghan.
Scotland also ring the changes with Scott MacLeod and Alasdair Strokosch introduced to the pack, with Rory Lamont and Simon Webster returning from injury. Paterson has been moved to stand off. Scotland have two of the together games out of the way now so in a sense they should be able to relax and play within themselves. They have some very strong physical runners and need the likes of Lamont to play well and Paterson to have his shooting boots on. Ireland for some reason don’t seem to like playing the Scots and they have done nothing in this comp to suggest that they can beat the line which is set at 12.
This could go down to the wire and for me a lot will depend on who gets the kicking right, O Gara or Paterson. I can’t see a free flowing game with too many scores so I think the best option may be under on the points total. Neither side are renowned for their high scoring games and as mentioned before I think this could all cone down to accuracy from the frees.
PICK
Ireland V Scotland total points under 39 points ( 2 @ will hill) 4 points
France V England
France were very nearly caught by Ireland after relaxing a bit once they had taken a commanding lead. Im not so sure that they will do the same today if they are in the same position. Vincent Clerc was instrumental in the last victory with three tries and his confidence will be sky high. There is a lot riding on this game tonight. Lets not forget that England knocked France out of the world cup last year at the semi final stage on their own turf, so revenge will be a factor in this. However England have gone backwards since then while the French seem to have gone from strength to strength. Lievremont has dropped several players and came into this tournament with a virtually different team than the one that competed at the world cup. So far it has worked well. Pascal Pape makes the cut today as does Morgan for the injured Jean-Baptiste Elissalde. Parra will partner Montpellier fly-half Francois Trinh-Duc who comes in for David Skrela.
England have not made too many changes, scrum-half Richard Wigglesworth will make his debut while Sheridan and Vickery return to boost the pack.
I like watching the French play, they are exciting, fast and can create a score out of virtually nothing and we have all seen them do it. England lack a real pacy man to cut a defence open and need to find a match winner like they had in Jason Robinson( easier said than done I know! )
I just can’t see England lasting with the French for this one. The line is set at 7 and I think that over two halves that the French can cover this. They just look likely to score tries out of nothing and if England let their concentration dip for two minutes at any stage then they will be caught. The French also look to be in peak physical condition and if they get in front then I don’t expect them to let up at any point.
PICK
France –7 points ( 2 @ bet365) 5 points
Wales V Italy
Italy have done very well in their two matches to date but a lot of it was to do with the quality of the opposition. On both occasions I think that both Ireland and then England underestimated the Italians and though they were beaten twice they did bring some respectability to their game. The Italians won’t win over too many fans with their physical approach to things but it is effective. More or less stopping the other team play free flowing rugby and putting in some mammoth hits. Italy coach Nick Mallett has made several changes to his team and has brought in Andrea Marcato in place of David Bortolussi, who is out with a shoulder problem. Canavosio and Robertson are injured while Andrea Lo Cicero has dropped to the bench. Marco Bortolami returns as a replacement.
Wales have two wins to their name but its hard to judge them just yet as they beat an England side that fell apart and a Scotland side who look like they will be happy just to avoid the wooden spoon. James Hook has been in fantastic kicking form and is proving to be very reliable from set pieces. Warren Gatland has made several changes to the side that beat Scotland naming a whole new front row, with Gethin Jenkins, Rhys Thomas and hooker Matthew Rees all making their first starts this season. Mark Jones returns to the wing instead of Jamie Roberts and Stephen Jones and Dwayne Peel will start in the half-backs.
Wales lost in Rome last season and having viewed the two Italian games so far will not be taking their challenge lightly at all. As things stand it looks like Wales will be the team to challenge France for the title and they should win today, the question is by how much? The bookies look to have got it fairly accurate with the 13 – 14 point line but I think that if Wales can play the free flowing stuff that they are capable of then they should be able to cover the spread, if only just. Kicking may be crucial to our bet today but with Hook on his own patch and in form, I feel we have a huge advantage. small stakes for me
PICK
Wales – 13 (2 @ bet365) 4 points
Ireland V Scotland
There was a sense that everything was ok in the Irish camp after coming so close to catching France in Paris in the last round but for me it was a false feeling. Lets face it, France took their foot off the pedal and made a few changes but if they hadn’t then they could have beaten the Irish by a cricket score. Ireland have fallen a way back from previous glories and the absence of Paul O Connell is a huge loss to them, in the lineout especially but more so psychologically as his presence is a big help. He’s back on the bench today so hopefully we will see him at some stage.
Anyway onto today and Eddie O Sullivan has called up Tommy Bowe to the wing. Mick O'Driscoll is also promoted to the starting line-up in place of Malcolm O Kelly where he will start alongside Donncha O'Callaghan.
Scotland also ring the changes with Scott MacLeod and Alasdair Strokosch introduced to the pack, with Rory Lamont and Simon Webster returning from injury. Paterson has been moved to stand off. Scotland have two of the together games out of the way now so in a sense they should be able to relax and play within themselves. They have some very strong physical runners and need the likes of Lamont to play well and Paterson to have his shooting boots on. Ireland for some reason don’t seem to like playing the Scots and they have done nothing in this comp to suggest that they can beat the line which is set at 12.
This could go down to the wire and for me a lot will depend on who gets the kicking right, O Gara or Paterson. I can’t see a free flowing game with too many scores so I think the best option may be under on the points total. Neither side are renowned for their high scoring games and as mentioned before I think this could all cone down to accuracy from the frees.
PICK
Ireland V Scotland total points under 39 points ( 2 @ will hill) 4 points
France V England
France were very nearly caught by Ireland after relaxing a bit once they had taken a commanding lead. Im not so sure that they will do the same today if they are in the same position. Vincent Clerc was instrumental in the last victory with three tries and his confidence will be sky high. There is a lot riding on this game tonight. Lets not forget that England knocked France out of the world cup last year at the semi final stage on their own turf, so revenge will be a factor in this. However England have gone backwards since then while the French seem to have gone from strength to strength. Lievremont has dropped several players and came into this tournament with a virtually different team than the one that competed at the world cup. So far it has worked well. Pascal Pape makes the cut today as does Morgan for the injured Jean-Baptiste Elissalde. Parra will partner Montpellier fly-half Francois Trinh-Duc who comes in for David Skrela.
England have not made too many changes, scrum-half Richard Wigglesworth will make his debut while Sheridan and Vickery return to boost the pack.
I like watching the French play, they are exciting, fast and can create a score out of virtually nothing and we have all seen them do it. England lack a real pacy man to cut a defence open and need to find a match winner like they had in Jason Robinson( easier said than done I know! )
I just can’t see England lasting with the French for this one. The line is set at 7 and I think that over two halves that the French can cover this. They just look likely to score tries out of nothing and if England let their concentration dip for two minutes at any stage then they will be caught. The French also look to be in peak physical condition and if they get in front then I don’t expect them to let up at any point.
PICK
France –7 points ( 2 @ bet365) 5 points
Friday, February 22, 2008
Premiership on Saturday
Portsmouth V Sunderland
There are a few things swaying me towards the home win here. Firstly, Pompey have their stars back from African Cup Nations duty and can call on a fully fit squad and secondly, Sunderland’s quite awful away record. The Black Cats have the worst away record in the top flight having taken just two points from a possible 33, conceding 32 goals in the process.
It may be fair to say that Portsmouth’s home form has been nothing to shout about with only three victories but it’s a problem that Harry Redknapp is keen to address and this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Also bear in mind that they have faced all the top sides already (at home) When Benjani was sold to Man City I wondered what Redknapp was up to but the arrival of Defoe from Tottenham looks like being a cracking bit of business. Defoe fitted into the team effortlessly on his debut scoring once and could have had a few more also. In that game against Chelsea they looked more than comfortable and could have taken the three points if not for some good saves by Cech and some wayward shooting.
Sunderland are out of the relegation zone for now but as mentioned before have a quite shocking away record. With 7 wins at home it fair to say that their best work comes at the stadium of light and Roy Keane will be determined to get something out of this trip. However with just 2 goals from their last 7 outings on the road it going to take a big big effort and I for one cant see them taking anything from this. They beat Pompey 2 – 0 at home just over a month ago but much has changed since and Portsmouth have a much stronger squad to chose from now.
Verdict
Revenge will be on the minds of Portsmouth and I fully expect them to take three points here and with a bit to spare. I like both teams and I would like to see Sunderland stay up but for now I hope Portsmouth take the three points here and push further towards that place in Europe for next season.
Pompey are 1.7 for the win which looks good but I think that taking them –1 goal on the Asian handicap which is priced at 2.21 @ mansion represents better value and worst case scenario is a money back result.
A 2 – 0 home win is the call
PICK
Portsmouth – 1 Asian handicap (2.21 @ mansion) 6 points
There are a few things swaying me towards the home win here. Firstly, Pompey have their stars back from African Cup Nations duty and can call on a fully fit squad and secondly, Sunderland’s quite awful away record. The Black Cats have the worst away record in the top flight having taken just two points from a possible 33, conceding 32 goals in the process.
It may be fair to say that Portsmouth’s home form has been nothing to shout about with only three victories but it’s a problem that Harry Redknapp is keen to address and this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Also bear in mind that they have faced all the top sides already (at home) When Benjani was sold to Man City I wondered what Redknapp was up to but the arrival of Defoe from Tottenham looks like being a cracking bit of business. Defoe fitted into the team effortlessly on his debut scoring once and could have had a few more also. In that game against Chelsea they looked more than comfortable and could have taken the three points if not for some good saves by Cech and some wayward shooting.
Sunderland are out of the relegation zone for now but as mentioned before have a quite shocking away record. With 7 wins at home it fair to say that their best work comes at the stadium of light and Roy Keane will be determined to get something out of this trip. However with just 2 goals from their last 7 outings on the road it going to take a big big effort and I for one cant see them taking anything from this. They beat Pompey 2 – 0 at home just over a month ago but much has changed since and Portsmouth have a much stronger squad to chose from now.
Verdict
Revenge will be on the minds of Portsmouth and I fully expect them to take three points here and with a bit to spare. I like both teams and I would like to see Sunderland stay up but for now I hope Portsmouth take the three points here and push further towards that place in Europe for next season.
Pompey are 1.7 for the win which looks good but I think that taking them –1 goal on the Asian handicap which is priced at 2.21 @ mansion represents better value and worst case scenario is a money back result.
A 2 – 0 home win is the call
PICK
Portsmouth – 1 Asian handicap (2.21 @ mansion) 6 points
Swansea V Luton tonight
Just a quick preview. I have lots of plans for the weekend with more football picks, some rugby picks and some GAA stuff so please check back.
Swansea V Luton
With an eleven point lead at the top of the table its fairly safe to assume that Swansea are heading up as champions. A fairly faultless league campaign has seen them rack up 20 wins from 31 attempts and they are scoring goals for fun averaging almost 2 goals a game and they have scored in all bar 4 games this season.
Their home record is equally impressive and they are aiming for a 10th consecutive home win. The Swans were beaten 1 – 0 midweek in the first-leg of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy southern area final. Perhaps a bit of complacency had crept in but that’s the kind of shot in the arm some teams need throughout the season and there is little chance of it happening again tonight.
Luton on the other hand are having a dismal season. Lots of off the field problems saw them deducted 10 points for going into administration and they have been in trouble ever since then.
Added to that they have the worst away record in the league and have only the one win to their credit. A lot of their players departed at the start of January and they are left with a young inexperienced outfit.
Verdict
Swansea’s midweek defeat should have them focused on the job in hand. They have not tasted defeat too often so manager Roberto Martinez will be keen to get back to winning ways. Luton are renowned for their battling performances but it’s hard to see them getting any joy here having conceded 8 goals in their last two games. Swansea can win this and win it comfortably, providing that the mind is right, which I think it will be. If they score early on then I get the feeling that this could be over well before the 90th minute.
PICK
Swansea –1, -1.5 (1.95 @ betsson) 6 points
Swansea V Luton
With an eleven point lead at the top of the table its fairly safe to assume that Swansea are heading up as champions. A fairly faultless league campaign has seen them rack up 20 wins from 31 attempts and they are scoring goals for fun averaging almost 2 goals a game and they have scored in all bar 4 games this season.
Their home record is equally impressive and they are aiming for a 10th consecutive home win. The Swans were beaten 1 – 0 midweek in the first-leg of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy southern area final. Perhaps a bit of complacency had crept in but that’s the kind of shot in the arm some teams need throughout the season and there is little chance of it happening again tonight.
Luton on the other hand are having a dismal season. Lots of off the field problems saw them deducted 10 points for going into administration and they have been in trouble ever since then.
Added to that they have the worst away record in the league and have only the one win to their credit. A lot of their players departed at the start of January and they are left with a young inexperienced outfit.
Verdict
Swansea’s midweek defeat should have them focused on the job in hand. They have not tasted defeat too often so manager Roberto Martinez will be keen to get back to winning ways. Luton are renowned for their battling performances but it’s hard to see them getting any joy here having conceded 8 goals in their last two games. Swansea can win this and win it comfortably, providing that the mind is right, which I think it will be. If they score early on then I get the feeling that this could be over well before the 90th minute.
PICK
Swansea –1, -1.5 (1.95 @ betsson) 6 points
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Saturday championship and League one plans
Norwich V Barnsley
13th placed Norwich entertain 14th placed Barnsley and will look to maintain their unbeaten home record which dates back to early November. Norwich have looked a little more composed in recent times and apart from that 4 – 0 defeat last weekend to Leicester, their away form has improved which has taken them out of relegation problems.
As mentioned above, their home form has been solid if unspectacular and they have taken some decent draws against the likes of Charlton, Wolves and Hull.
Barnsley meanwhile come into this game on the back of their amazing 2 – 1 FA Cup win over Liverpool at Anfield. Not even the most loyal supporters could see a victory in that game, especially after the home side took the lead. But a late late Howard goal sealed the deal and in the process created one of the shocks of the season. However its back to the basics on Saturday and an away trip to Norwich will not be the easiest place to try and get settled back into the League routine. Barnsley’s away form makes for dismal reading. One win in sixteen attempts gives them the poorest away record in the league and their recent results read with a 2 – 0, 3 – 0 and a 4 – 0 defeat.
Verdict
Both teams come into this one with completely different results from last weekend. Norwich suffered their heaviest defeat of the season whereas Barnsley had that remarkable win at Anfield. There is a large amount of expectation on Barnsley to reproduce the goods again but it will be a big ask. Teams that “overachieve” (no offence to fans intended) are often brought back to earth with a bang and that may be the case again here. Norwich also have a point to prove after their defeat last weekend and will look to make home advantage count.
Neither side are prolific in the goalscoring charts and Barnsley have failed to score in the last three away games.
I’m leaning towards the 1 – 0 win for the home side and think that the odds for the home win are ok for a medium sized bet.
Coventry V Leicester
Chris Coleman will look to get his new job off to a good start against Leicester and help push the Sky Blues further away from that dreaded drop zone. Coventry have been very unpredictable this season but have being playing a bit more fluently and with a bit more confidence lately, especially at home where they have taken 7 points from the last possible 12. Not incredible reading I know but for a team in 20th position they do seem to be keeping their head just above water and can take another 3 points against a poor travelling Leicester side. Their away record is poor so it’s safe to assume that they keep their best performances for their home crowd. Chris Coleman has spoken of his surprise at the players confidence which can only be a good sign and the new manager has indicated that Saturdays clash will be treated like a cup final by the home side.
Leicester are just one point ahead of their opponents but having played 2 games more are still very much relegation candidates, With just 2 wins and 8 draws on the road this season they could be described as a draw specialist of sorts but this label has deserted them in recent weeks with only 3 goals and 2 points in their last 6 efforts. They failed to register a single shot on target against Watford in their last away game and this is more evidence of the fact that they have one of the poorer strike rates in the championship. Much like their opponents they seem to save their better performances for the home games and will look to keep this game tight and take a point.
Verdict
Two similar teams on view but I think home advantage may be crucial in this one. It also has to be taken into account that the Coventry players are playing in front of new management so a 100% focused and committed performance is to be expected. The “honeymoon period” may just be enough to give the hosts a narrow victory and leapfrog their opponents.
Coventry to win 1 or 2 - 0
Bristol Rovers V Tranmere
17th placed Bristol Rovers take on 5th placed Tranmere here but don’t let the league positioning fool you.
Bristol may be a long way off the top but on closer inspection are only 11 points adrift with a mammoth 4 games in hand. It may also come as a surprise to many that a top 6 finishing position is still in the minds of Paul Trollope and his charges. The recent FA Cup success against Southampton was another indication of how they are moving in the right direction and a ¼ final draw at home to Chelsea is a huge bonus.
Back to the league form though and with three wins on the trot at home Bristol are moving in the right direction. They have tasted defeat only once in their last 14 matches, collecting nine clean sheets in the process and have a tough defence to break down.
13 goals in their last 7 home games would indicate that their forward unit is playing well together and this will be a good test for them against a Tranmere side looking for their 4th consecutive clean sheet on their travels.
Tranmere’s defence has pivotal in their recent good form. 5 clean sheets in their last 6 outings has helped them take 14 points from a possible 18 and that’s the kind of form that has taken them to the playoff spots. With 1st place all but wrapped up by Swansea and 2nd place being fought out for by Doncaster, Forest and Carlisle, Tranmere may just look to keep the good results coming and consolidate a playoff place and give themselves a chance of promotion.
Verdict
Just a quick glance over the stats and you will struggle to find any reason why there will be goals in this one. Tranmere’s defence has been amazingly good but it cant last and I think Bristol Rovers may just do enough to nick this 1 – 0.
Taking the home side draw no bet pays out at 1.82 at canbet and with the added insurance if it’s a draw is good enough for me
PICKS
Norwich -0.5 (1.94 @ canbet) 5 points
Coventry 0,-0.5 (2.13 @ pinnacle) 6 points
Bristol Rovers +0 ( 1.82 @ canbet) 4 points
13th placed Norwich entertain 14th placed Barnsley and will look to maintain their unbeaten home record which dates back to early November. Norwich have looked a little more composed in recent times and apart from that 4 – 0 defeat last weekend to Leicester, their away form has improved which has taken them out of relegation problems.
As mentioned above, their home form has been solid if unspectacular and they have taken some decent draws against the likes of Charlton, Wolves and Hull.
Barnsley meanwhile come into this game on the back of their amazing 2 – 1 FA Cup win over Liverpool at Anfield. Not even the most loyal supporters could see a victory in that game, especially after the home side took the lead. But a late late Howard goal sealed the deal and in the process created one of the shocks of the season. However its back to the basics on Saturday and an away trip to Norwich will not be the easiest place to try and get settled back into the League routine. Barnsley’s away form makes for dismal reading. One win in sixteen attempts gives them the poorest away record in the league and their recent results read with a 2 – 0, 3 – 0 and a 4 – 0 defeat.
Verdict
Both teams come into this one with completely different results from last weekend. Norwich suffered their heaviest defeat of the season whereas Barnsley had that remarkable win at Anfield. There is a large amount of expectation on Barnsley to reproduce the goods again but it will be a big ask. Teams that “overachieve” (no offence to fans intended) are often brought back to earth with a bang and that may be the case again here. Norwich also have a point to prove after their defeat last weekend and will look to make home advantage count.
Neither side are prolific in the goalscoring charts and Barnsley have failed to score in the last three away games.
I’m leaning towards the 1 – 0 win for the home side and think that the odds for the home win are ok for a medium sized bet.
Coventry V Leicester
Chris Coleman will look to get his new job off to a good start against Leicester and help push the Sky Blues further away from that dreaded drop zone. Coventry have been very unpredictable this season but have being playing a bit more fluently and with a bit more confidence lately, especially at home where they have taken 7 points from the last possible 12. Not incredible reading I know but for a team in 20th position they do seem to be keeping their head just above water and can take another 3 points against a poor travelling Leicester side. Their away record is poor so it’s safe to assume that they keep their best performances for their home crowd. Chris Coleman has spoken of his surprise at the players confidence which can only be a good sign and the new manager has indicated that Saturdays clash will be treated like a cup final by the home side.
Leicester are just one point ahead of their opponents but having played 2 games more are still very much relegation candidates, With just 2 wins and 8 draws on the road this season they could be described as a draw specialist of sorts but this label has deserted them in recent weeks with only 3 goals and 2 points in their last 6 efforts. They failed to register a single shot on target against Watford in their last away game and this is more evidence of the fact that they have one of the poorer strike rates in the championship. Much like their opponents they seem to save their better performances for the home games and will look to keep this game tight and take a point.
Verdict
Two similar teams on view but I think home advantage may be crucial in this one. It also has to be taken into account that the Coventry players are playing in front of new management so a 100% focused and committed performance is to be expected. The “honeymoon period” may just be enough to give the hosts a narrow victory and leapfrog their opponents.
Coventry to win 1 or 2 - 0
Bristol Rovers V Tranmere
17th placed Bristol Rovers take on 5th placed Tranmere here but don’t let the league positioning fool you.
Bristol may be a long way off the top but on closer inspection are only 11 points adrift with a mammoth 4 games in hand. It may also come as a surprise to many that a top 6 finishing position is still in the minds of Paul Trollope and his charges. The recent FA Cup success against Southampton was another indication of how they are moving in the right direction and a ¼ final draw at home to Chelsea is a huge bonus.
Back to the league form though and with three wins on the trot at home Bristol are moving in the right direction. They have tasted defeat only once in their last 14 matches, collecting nine clean sheets in the process and have a tough defence to break down.
13 goals in their last 7 home games would indicate that their forward unit is playing well together and this will be a good test for them against a Tranmere side looking for their 4th consecutive clean sheet on their travels.
Tranmere’s defence has pivotal in their recent good form. 5 clean sheets in their last 6 outings has helped them take 14 points from a possible 18 and that’s the kind of form that has taken them to the playoff spots. With 1st place all but wrapped up by Swansea and 2nd place being fought out for by Doncaster, Forest and Carlisle, Tranmere may just look to keep the good results coming and consolidate a playoff place and give themselves a chance of promotion.
Verdict
Just a quick glance over the stats and you will struggle to find any reason why there will be goals in this one. Tranmere’s defence has been amazingly good but it cant last and I think Bristol Rovers may just do enough to nick this 1 – 0.
Taking the home side draw no bet pays out at 1.82 at canbet and with the added insurance if it’s a draw is good enough for me
PICKS
Norwich -0.5 (1.94 @ canbet) 5 points
Coventry 0,-0.5 (2.13 @ pinnacle) 6 points
Bristol Rovers +0 ( 1.82 @ canbet) 4 points
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Tuesday 19th Feb
Busy night tonight and tomorrow in the champions league with a few vital games being played. I fancy a few low scoring games over the two days as teams will be a little cautious to start off with. Also some games in the Championship tonight and one that takes my fancy
Wolves V Scunthorpe
It may seem a bit mad to say but I still think Wolves are a decent outfit. Maybe in the scoring stakes they are not prolific but on their day, the defence is quite solid and capable of holding out decent opposition. Admittedly they were very poor in their FA Cup exit to Cardiff and will be looking to bounce back to winning ways tonight against bottom of the table Scunthorpe. A place within the top 6 is still possible and along with returning to winning ways should be motivational factors tonight. Their home form has been a little erratic to say the least but they have still won 50% of the home games and should improve that stat against a team with only one point and two goals in their last 5 on the road. Scunny’s great start to the year has fallen and they look like a team destined for League one next year. Scoring goals has been a problem for them and 2 goals in their last 8 games is the kind of record that wont keep them up. When Wolves get their defence in order then they can be very efficient. Mick McCarthy will be keen to keep a clean sheet and take an important three points. 1 or 2 – 0 win looks likely.
Olympiakos V Chelsea
Its very hard to oppose Chelsea at the moment. Even while they were missing players to the ACON they were grinding out the results. Now they have John Terry and Frank Lampard available again and Michael Essien and Didier Drogba back in the team. Basically I believe they will do enough to beat the Greeks tonight. It may not be pretty but i think Chelsea have enough quality to grind out a 1 - 0 win.
PICK
Wolves win (1.73 @ bet365) 5 points
Chelsea to win 1 - 0 (6.5 @ bet365) 1 point
Wolves V Scunthorpe
It may seem a bit mad to say but I still think Wolves are a decent outfit. Maybe in the scoring stakes they are not prolific but on their day, the defence is quite solid and capable of holding out decent opposition. Admittedly they were very poor in their FA Cup exit to Cardiff and will be looking to bounce back to winning ways tonight against bottom of the table Scunthorpe. A place within the top 6 is still possible and along with returning to winning ways should be motivational factors tonight. Their home form has been a little erratic to say the least but they have still won 50% of the home games and should improve that stat against a team with only one point and two goals in their last 5 on the road. Scunny’s great start to the year has fallen and they look like a team destined for League one next year. Scoring goals has been a problem for them and 2 goals in their last 8 games is the kind of record that wont keep them up. When Wolves get their defence in order then they can be very efficient. Mick McCarthy will be keen to keep a clean sheet and take an important three points. 1 or 2 – 0 win looks likely.
Olympiakos V Chelsea
Its very hard to oppose Chelsea at the moment. Even while they were missing players to the ACON they were grinding out the results. Now they have John Terry and Frank Lampard available again and Michael Essien and Didier Drogba back in the team. Basically I believe they will do enough to beat the Greeks tonight. It may not be pretty but i think Chelsea have enough quality to grind out a 1 - 0 win.
PICK
Wolves win (1.73 @ bet365) 5 points
Chelsea to win 1 - 0 (6.5 @ bet365) 1 point
Sunday, February 17, 2008
FA Cup on sunday
Sheffield Utd V Middlesborough
Sheffield United have fallen a long way since they were in the premiership but a few short seasons ago. They are now just hovering above the drop zone in the Championship and have some very important games coming up. However it’s the FA Cup that has to be concentrated on today and the visit of Middlesborough. Bryan Robson departed as boss and was quickly replaced by Kevin Blackwell on Thursday. The home team have looked a little more composed in recent times with them unbeaten in 5 games and in this round courtesy of a 2 – 1 win over Man City in the last tie. Scoring goals has been a big problem for them this season with only 34 goals from 32 games, a stat that sees them amongst the lowest scorers in the league. They have only scored 2 or more in five of their home games from a total of sixteen.
Middlesborough are also very similar to Sheffield in the scoring charts. 23 goals in 26 games in total leave's them only ahead of Derby in the goalscoring table. Their away games haven’t been too exciting either with 6 of the last 7 finishing under 2.5 goals.
Middlesborough seem to have found their feet though in the premiership this season and for the first time in a long while they look to be safe from relegation, even at this early stage. They are no pushovers and rely on a defensive style to their game and it’s hard to see where a shot shy team like Sheffield United will punish them . Boro are not exactly prolific in front of goals either though and may struggle against a side going for their third clean sheet in a row.
I wouldn’t rule out the 0 – 0 draw here or possibly a 1 – 0 win for Boro.
PICK
Sheffield United V Middlesborough under 2.5 goals ( 1.73 @ paddy power) 4 points
Sheffield United have fallen a long way since they were in the premiership but a few short seasons ago. They are now just hovering above the drop zone in the Championship and have some very important games coming up. However it’s the FA Cup that has to be concentrated on today and the visit of Middlesborough. Bryan Robson departed as boss and was quickly replaced by Kevin Blackwell on Thursday. The home team have looked a little more composed in recent times with them unbeaten in 5 games and in this round courtesy of a 2 – 1 win over Man City in the last tie. Scoring goals has been a big problem for them this season with only 34 goals from 32 games, a stat that sees them amongst the lowest scorers in the league. They have only scored 2 or more in five of their home games from a total of sixteen.
Middlesborough are also very similar to Sheffield in the scoring charts. 23 goals in 26 games in total leave's them only ahead of Derby in the goalscoring table. Their away games haven’t been too exciting either with 6 of the last 7 finishing under 2.5 goals.
Middlesborough seem to have found their feet though in the premiership this season and for the first time in a long while they look to be safe from relegation, even at this early stage. They are no pushovers and rely on a defensive style to their game and it’s hard to see where a shot shy team like Sheffield United will punish them . Boro are not exactly prolific in front of goals either though and may struggle against a side going for their third clean sheet in a row.
I wouldn’t rule out the 0 – 0 draw here or possibly a 1 – 0 win for Boro.
PICK
Sheffield United V Middlesborough under 2.5 goals ( 1.73 @ paddy power) 4 points
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Saturday picks
Doncaster V Leeds
Leeds have slipped up in recent times and im not too sure as to where things are going wrong, however 3 points in their last 6 games is an indication that they are slowly dropping out of contention for an automatic return to the championship. Dennis Wise has jumped ship and today they face an in form Doncaster with one of the best home records in the league.
Doncaster's midweek win at Bournemouth has consolidated their intent and another 3 points here today would be a massive boost for the club. Having outplayed and beaten Leeds already at Elland road they will not be afraid of the big club and besides, Leeds have not had the greatest of luck on their away travels this season. Since that shocking 4 - 0 defeat to Swansea a few weeks back, Doncaster have turned things around winning four consecutive matches with three 2 - 0 scorelines and one 3 - 0 scoreline. Their defence has been immense and it will take a big effort from Leeds to breech them today.
Leeds do still have the potential to be one of the best teams in the league but at the moment their confidence is shot to pieces. As they are one of the "big teams" left in the league most teams want to beat them so when you consider all the factors involved motivation should not be a problem for Doncaster,
Doncaster to win 1 or 2 - 0
PICK
Doncaster 0, -0.5 (1.88 @ betsson) 6 points
Other pick that i dont have a preview for but meet the criteria are as follows
Hereford to beat Chesterfield ( 2 @ betfred) 3 points
Leeds have slipped up in recent times and im not too sure as to where things are going wrong, however 3 points in their last 6 games is an indication that they are slowly dropping out of contention for an automatic return to the championship. Dennis Wise has jumped ship and today they face an in form Doncaster with one of the best home records in the league.
Doncaster's midweek win at Bournemouth has consolidated their intent and another 3 points here today would be a massive boost for the club. Having outplayed and beaten Leeds already at Elland road they will not be afraid of the big club and besides, Leeds have not had the greatest of luck on their away travels this season. Since that shocking 4 - 0 defeat to Swansea a few weeks back, Doncaster have turned things around winning four consecutive matches with three 2 - 0 scorelines and one 3 - 0 scoreline. Their defence has been immense and it will take a big effort from Leeds to breech them today.
Leeds do still have the potential to be one of the best teams in the league but at the moment their confidence is shot to pieces. As they are one of the "big teams" left in the league most teams want to beat them so when you consider all the factors involved motivation should not be a problem for Doncaster,
Doncaster to win 1 or 2 - 0
PICK
Doncaster 0, -0.5 (1.88 @ betsson) 6 points
Other pick that i dont have a preview for but meet the criteria are as follows
Hereford to beat Chesterfield ( 2 @ betfred) 3 points
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Arsenal V Blackburn
Arsenal V Blackburn
The gunners have a serious chance to extend the lead at the top of the table on Monday evening.
The weekend results could not have worked out any better for Arsenal with Manchester United losing 2 - 1 in the Manchester derby and Chelsea and Liverpool playing out a stale 0 - 0 draw.
With Eboue, Toure and Song set to return the future is looking good for the home side and they will hope to use their home form to maximum effect.
Arsenal have been immense at home with 11 wins from 13 matches. The have averaged over 2 goals a game and Adebayor will look to find the net and with 8 goals in the last 6 matches he is on top of his game. Flamini and Van Persie are out and so is Almunia but Wenger has enough players to chose from so all is not lost.
Blackburn sit in 9th place and are having a good season. They are a side that Arsenal often find it hard to play against because of their robust physical style of play. Goalkeeper Brad Freidal often saves his best performances for games against the Gunners and a good performance from him is essential if Blackburn are to take anything from the game.
They are coming into this game on the back of three draws though it must be added that their away form has improved with 4 games since defeat. 12 goals in their last 6 away games is also impressive though apart from Villa and Man City they have not faced any of the "top" sides in that period.
The gunners have a serious chance to extend the lead at the top of the table on Monday evening.
The weekend results could not have worked out any better for Arsenal with Manchester United losing 2 - 1 in the Manchester derby and Chelsea and Liverpool playing out a stale 0 - 0 draw.
With Eboue, Toure and Song set to return the future is looking good for the home side and they will hope to use their home form to maximum effect.
Arsenal have been immense at home with 11 wins from 13 matches. The have averaged over 2 goals a game and Adebayor will look to find the net and with 8 goals in the last 6 matches he is on top of his game. Flamini and Van Persie are out and so is Almunia but Wenger has enough players to chose from so all is not lost.
Blackburn sit in 9th place and are having a good season. They are a side that Arsenal often find it hard to play against because of their robust physical style of play. Goalkeeper Brad Freidal often saves his best performances for games against the Gunners and a good performance from him is essential if Blackburn are to take anything from the game.
They are coming into this game on the back of three draws though it must be added that their away form has improved with 4 games since defeat. 12 goals in their last 6 away games is also impressive though apart from Villa and Man City they have not faced any of the "top" sides in that period.
Hughes is without thel trio Christopher Samba, David Dunn and Morten Gamst Pedersen, who are all suspended. Ryan Nelsen and Andre Ooijer are both suffering from hamstring problems and are rated very doubtful.
Verdict
As i already mentioned before things are all falling into place for Arsenal. A win will put them 5 points clear at the top and they have beaten better sides than Blackburn at the Emirates this year.
Adebayor is on fire and if he gets half a chance he will take it. Arsenal to win 2 - 0 for me
PICK
Arsenal - 1, -1.5 ( 1.83 @ canbet) 6 points
Adebayor first goalscorer (4.5 @ paddy power) 2 points
Verdict
As i already mentioned before things are all falling into place for Arsenal. A win will put them 5 points clear at the top and they have beaten better sides than Blackburn at the Emirates this year.
Adebayor is on fire and if he gets half a chance he will take it. Arsenal to win 2 - 0 for me
PICK
Arsenal - 1, -1.5 ( 1.83 @ canbet) 6 points
Adebayor first goalscorer (4.5 @ paddy power) 2 points
Sunday evening
Unfortunately Chelsea just couldnt break the Liverpool backline despite a few chances. I still think that the bet selection is good and with the proper staking plan could be profitable over the course of a year.
Anyway, onwards and upwards with some action in La liga tonight
Valencia V Real Betis
Valencia and Betis both need three points here tonight with the hosts still in with a shout of a European spot while the visitors need points to keep themselves above the bottom three.
Valencia's home form which was usually their strong point has been very poor this term. They are without a win in 4 games and have failed to score in those four games also. However, the home team are looking to build on their 2-0 victory away at Valladolid last weekend and with only 9 points berween them and a place in Europe you can expect a determined effort from the home side tonight. Valencia have also shown they have the measure of Betis in recent weeks, beating them home and away in the Copa del Rey. David Villa is back after injury and his presence will be a major boost for the home outfit.
After three previous defeats to Valencia already this season, Betis will look to turn their luck around but the facts are that they are a very poor travelling side. With only 2 wins from 11 and 7 goals scored, they have an away strike-rate that is only worsened by bottom side Levante.
The worst part of their away stats are that they have failed to score in 7 away games and if their lacklustre efforts persist in front of goal tonight then they will be up against it from the start
Valencia look to have turned a corner and if they can get things right can be one of the better sides in La Liga. I think they have enough to take the three points here.
PICK
Valencia win (1.8 @ william Hill) 6 points
Anyway, onwards and upwards with some action in La liga tonight
Valencia V Real Betis
Valencia and Betis both need three points here tonight with the hosts still in with a shout of a European spot while the visitors need points to keep themselves above the bottom three.
Valencia's home form which was usually their strong point has been very poor this term. They are without a win in 4 games and have failed to score in those four games also. However, the home team are looking to build on their 2-0 victory away at Valladolid last weekend and with only 9 points berween them and a place in Europe you can expect a determined effort from the home side tonight. Valencia have also shown they have the measure of Betis in recent weeks, beating them home and away in the Copa del Rey. David Villa is back after injury and his presence will be a major boost for the home outfit.
After three previous defeats to Valencia already this season, Betis will look to turn their luck around but the facts are that they are a very poor travelling side. With only 2 wins from 11 and 7 goals scored, they have an away strike-rate that is only worsened by bottom side Levante.
The worst part of their away stats are that they have failed to score in 7 away games and if their lacklustre efforts persist in front of goal tonight then they will be up against it from the start
Valencia look to have turned a corner and if they can get things right can be one of the better sides in La Liga. I think they have enough to take the three points here.
PICK
Valencia win (1.8 @ william Hill) 6 points
Sunday 10 th february
Hello all. Despite wanting to post yesterday i decided to stick to my guns and leave a busy day out of my schedule. Im back today though and intend to get the month back on track
Chelsea V Liverpool
I tried this bet last time out with Chelsea to win 1 - 0 or 2 - 0 and am a stubborn sort so im going to try again. Basically Chelsea have recorded a fair amount of wins with these scorelines and despite the absence of some players today i feel that they will be able to keep Liverpool scoreless, especially with Torres out. Anelka looks dangerous and Chelsea are grinding out results and can take another 3 points against a poor travelling Pool side.
PICK
Chelsea to win 1 - 0 (7 @ betdirect) 2 points
Chelsea to win 2 - 0 (8 @ betdirect) 2 points
I shall be back with a little more later on so check back
The Manchester derby has too many side issues for me to get involved with so its a no bet area for me.
Chelsea V Liverpool
I tried this bet last time out with Chelsea to win 1 - 0 or 2 - 0 and am a stubborn sort so im going to try again. Basically Chelsea have recorded a fair amount of wins with these scorelines and despite the absence of some players today i feel that they will be able to keep Liverpool scoreless, especially with Torres out. Anelka looks dangerous and Chelsea are grinding out results and can take another 3 points against a poor travelling Pool side.
PICK
Chelsea to win 1 - 0 (7 @ betdirect) 2 points
Chelsea to win 2 - 0 (8 @ betdirect) 2 points
I shall be back with a little more later on so check back
The Manchester derby has too many side issues for me to get involved with so its a no bet area for me.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Weekend review
Ive been in shocking form of late and its a good thing that my bank has been building up for the last few months. I suppose its inevitable that a bad streak comes along every now and then so ive decided to take a break for a few days. Im not helping anyone at the moment and certainly not doing my balance any favors.
So its a few days break for me and hopefully il be back recharged and ready to get back to the old way of picking winners.
Stay safe and good luck
So its a few days break for me and hopefully il be back recharged and ready to get back to the old way of picking winners.
Stay safe and good luck
Sunday afternoon
Just the one game for me here today. I have one African Cup pick and one La Liga pick for later so check back.
Inter Milan V Empoli
Top V 2nd from bottom in what should be a very one-sided affair today. Inter are powering their way through the league and have won the last 9 games at home. Ibrahimovic is playing very well and scoring for fun and the evens available for him to score at anytime today looks like a good choice. 26 goals scored at home in 10 matches is an indication of what they have to offer up front and they will be keen to get back to winning ways after last weeks drab 0 – 0 drab away to Udinese.
Halfway through the season, Empoli are in 19th place and look like one of the main contenders to finish in the bottom three and get relegated to Serie B. Goals have been their main problem with only 15 scored and its hard to see them getting any change against an Inter side who have the meanest defensive record in Seria A.
Their best chance may be to keep it as tight as possible at the back and try to hit Inter on the counter but this looks unlikely.
Verdict
Inter dropped two points last week but had a tremendous cup win over Juve midweek. The confidence is high and if they can score early on then this could be a rout. Empoli have been beaten 3 – 0 three times on the road and something similar is what id expect today.
PICK
Inter Milan – 1.5 , -2 ( 1.96 @ unibet) 5 points
Ibrahimovic anytime scorer ( 2 @ gamebookers) 2 points
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GAA Today
I had promised something so here goes. Due to it being the first round i decided that there is no point going in heavy as there too much that i dont know about a few teams at this stage.
A small double just to start off the season for me.
Galway to beat Laois
Clare to beat Carlow
Double pays out at 2.42 @ bet365 and il have 2 points on that
Inter Milan V Empoli
Top V 2nd from bottom in what should be a very one-sided affair today. Inter are powering their way through the league and have won the last 9 games at home. Ibrahimovic is playing very well and scoring for fun and the evens available for him to score at anytime today looks like a good choice. 26 goals scored at home in 10 matches is an indication of what they have to offer up front and they will be keen to get back to winning ways after last weeks drab 0 – 0 drab away to Udinese.
Halfway through the season, Empoli are in 19th place and look like one of the main contenders to finish in the bottom three and get relegated to Serie B. Goals have been their main problem with only 15 scored and its hard to see them getting any change against an Inter side who have the meanest defensive record in Seria A.
Their best chance may be to keep it as tight as possible at the back and try to hit Inter on the counter but this looks unlikely.
Verdict
Inter dropped two points last week but had a tremendous cup win over Juve midweek. The confidence is high and if they can score early on then this could be a rout. Empoli have been beaten 3 – 0 three times on the road and something similar is what id expect today.
PICK
Inter Milan – 1.5 , -2 ( 1.96 @ unibet) 5 points
Ibrahimovic anytime scorer ( 2 @ gamebookers) 2 points
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GAA Today
I had promised something so here goes. Due to it being the first round i decided that there is no point going in heavy as there too much that i dont know about a few teams at this stage.
A small double just to start off the season for me.
Galway to beat Laois
Clare to beat Carlow
Double pays out at 2.42 @ bet365 and il have 2 points on that
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Saturday review
Sometimes late goals work for you and sometimes they dont and today was a day to forget for me. Late goals killed my bets at Swansea and Birmingham but there can be no excuse about the Reading pick. I havent seen any highlights so im not in a position to comment on some of the football games. I had the "pleasure" of sitting through the rugby and i have a few bald patches on my head from tearing at my hair in frsutration. Just what Ireland were doing at various stages of the game is beyond me and there were a few questionable decisions by the referee which didnt help.
To compound my misery i actually fancied Wales to win in the second game but decided against it as i wanted to cut my loses for the day.
I had promised one GAA pick but after the day i had i decided against it. I had one team lined up all week and gave up on them and didnt back them. ( By the way they won at best priced 2.1)
Starting the month off well never happens for me for some reason. In hindsight i still think the selections were reasonable but look, sh*t happens and i wont let it get me down.
Ive to get back on track though and will start again tomorrow.
Got a few things in mind, will post them up in the morning.
To compound my misery i actually fancied Wales to win in the second game but decided against it as i wanted to cut my loses for the day.
I had promised one GAA pick but after the day i had i decided against it. I had one team lined up all week and gave up on them and didnt back them. ( By the way they won at best priced 2.1)
Starting the month off well never happens for me for some reason. In hindsight i still think the selections were reasonable but look, sh*t happens and i wont let it get me down.
Ive to get back on track though and will start again tomorrow.
Got a few things in mind, will post them up in the morning.
Ireland V Italy - six nations rugby
Hopefully the first of many six nations previews as Ive always found it a very profitable area for me.
Ireland V Italy
Where to begin with the Irish? The hopes of the nation were so high heading for the world cup but somewhere along the way some very serious went wrong. Failing to progress beyond the group stages was a complete disaster and rumours of in fighting, gambling addictions and marriage break ups were rife in the Irish media as several people tried to put the finger on what exactly went wrong. The truth of it is that we will never know. Where they under prepared, over prepared or what? The fact is that they never realised their potential. For me rugby is a huge confidence game, poor teams playing with great confidence are capable of upsetting the odds at any time and during the world cup the Irish confidence was at zero meaning they were up against it before the games even started. I’m quite happy to say though that despite all the troubles and the media circus that the team returned to, most of the players have got their confidence back. Ronan O Gara for example shouldered most of the blame when he returned to Ireland but has been in irresistible form since then and has single handedly dragged Munster into the quarterfinals of the Heineken cup. All the Irish contingent playing at Leinster have got their form back too despite being knocked out of the Heineken cup at the group stages.
Eddie O Sullivan is not my favourite person but a stubborn character and he is giving his team the chance to redeem themselves with other than the four players unavailable through injury, suspension and retirement, he has kept faith with the remaining members of the starting line-up that was whacked 30-15 by Argentina. Eoin Reddan has retained the scrum-half jersey keeping Stringer on the bench.
Ulster hooker Rory Best will start ahead of Bernard Jackman, Malcolm O'Kelly will join Donncha O'Callaghan at lock while Geordan Murphy and Andrew Trimble were named on the wings.
Italy are also coming off the back of a poor world cup campaign. Their aim in this tournament every year is to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon and they will quietly fancy their chances of achieving this with Scotland in their final home game. It would be silly of me to write the Italians off, as they are a tough tackling heavy hitting side. However their fitness often catches them out and when they go behind they tend to slip away as the game progresses. Nick Mallett has surprised many with his selection for Italy's starting first fifteen this weekend. He has named Andrea Masi - a centre by trade - at fly half in place of the dropped Ramiro Pez which could leave Italy exposed in the half backs. The Biarritz man, making only his first Test start at number 10, will be partnered by Pietro Travagli, who will be earning only his third cap so they will be largely inexperienced in some quarters
Verdict
The temporary home of Irish rugby is Croke Park and it’s an 85,000 ticket sellout. Im not sure how many of you reading this have been there but I can tell you its one of the best stadiums in the world and on a packed day the atmosphere is something amazing. I really think that the day will get to the Italians, as they will not be used to playing in this kind of atmosphere. They are inexperienced in some sections and are facing a really fired up Irish side.
As I mentioned before these Irish players were heavily criticised in the Irish media a few months back and have a lot to prove to the fans and to themselves.
Anything other than a comfortable home win will be viewed as a disaster and I expect them to get it. Ireland beat a much better England by thirty points here last season and also cruised past Italy 51 – 24 in Rome. The 16 point handicap at bet365 should be covered with a few to spare.
Good luck!
PICK
Ireland - 16 points ( 2 @ bet365) 6 points
Ireland V Italy
Where to begin with the Irish? The hopes of the nation were so high heading for the world cup but somewhere along the way some very serious went wrong. Failing to progress beyond the group stages was a complete disaster and rumours of in fighting, gambling addictions and marriage break ups were rife in the Irish media as several people tried to put the finger on what exactly went wrong. The truth of it is that we will never know. Where they under prepared, over prepared or what? The fact is that they never realised their potential. For me rugby is a huge confidence game, poor teams playing with great confidence are capable of upsetting the odds at any time and during the world cup the Irish confidence was at zero meaning they were up against it before the games even started. I’m quite happy to say though that despite all the troubles and the media circus that the team returned to, most of the players have got their confidence back. Ronan O Gara for example shouldered most of the blame when he returned to Ireland but has been in irresistible form since then and has single handedly dragged Munster into the quarterfinals of the Heineken cup. All the Irish contingent playing at Leinster have got their form back too despite being knocked out of the Heineken cup at the group stages.
Eddie O Sullivan is not my favourite person but a stubborn character and he is giving his team the chance to redeem themselves with other than the four players unavailable through injury, suspension and retirement, he has kept faith with the remaining members of the starting line-up that was whacked 30-15 by Argentina. Eoin Reddan has retained the scrum-half jersey keeping Stringer on the bench.
Ulster hooker Rory Best will start ahead of Bernard Jackman, Malcolm O'Kelly will join Donncha O'Callaghan at lock while Geordan Murphy and Andrew Trimble were named on the wings.
Italy are also coming off the back of a poor world cup campaign. Their aim in this tournament every year is to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon and they will quietly fancy their chances of achieving this with Scotland in their final home game. It would be silly of me to write the Italians off, as they are a tough tackling heavy hitting side. However their fitness often catches them out and when they go behind they tend to slip away as the game progresses. Nick Mallett has surprised many with his selection for Italy's starting first fifteen this weekend. He has named Andrea Masi - a centre by trade - at fly half in place of the dropped Ramiro Pez which could leave Italy exposed in the half backs. The Biarritz man, making only his first Test start at number 10, will be partnered by Pietro Travagli, who will be earning only his third cap so they will be largely inexperienced in some quarters
Verdict
The temporary home of Irish rugby is Croke Park and it’s an 85,000 ticket sellout. Im not sure how many of you reading this have been there but I can tell you its one of the best stadiums in the world and on a packed day the atmosphere is something amazing. I really think that the day will get to the Italians, as they will not be used to playing in this kind of atmosphere. They are inexperienced in some sections and are facing a really fired up Irish side.
As I mentioned before these Irish players were heavily criticised in the Irish media a few months back and have a lot to prove to the fans and to themselves.
Anything other than a comfortable home win will be viewed as a disaster and I expect them to get it. Ireland beat a much better England by thirty points here last season and also cruised past Italy 51 – 24 in Rome. The 16 point handicap at bet365 should be covered with a few to spare.
Good luck!
PICK
Ireland - 16 points ( 2 @ bet365) 6 points
Premiership on Saturday
Birmingham V Derby
Two teams stuck in the bottom four and while survival is all but gone for Derby, Birmingham still have a very realistic chance of surviving, They has performed admirably in their previous 3 games against Arsenal, Manchester Utd and Chelsea but were quite shocking against Sunderland on Tuesday night. They went down 2 – 0 and if they are to go down at the end of the season then they will look back to Tuesday night as they day when they threw it away.
But, if ever a team needed a chance to get back on track, then they have been presented with the perfect opportunity today. Derby are just a very poor side who will battle on but still not achieve anything notable. The championship has beckoned for a long time now and with only 8 points taken from a possible 72 says it all really.
Scoring has been their major problem in recent times for Brum despite having strikers like Garry O'Connor, Cameron Jerome, Mikael Forssell and January signing James McFadden but surely they will have too much attacking power for Derby, who have conceded 30 goals in 12 games on the road.
Verdict
Birmingham will look to bounce back from recent defeats and take 3 points which is vital for them. They won’t be afraid of Derby and as long as they are not too complacent should win this one easy.
PICK
Birmingham –0.5, -1 (1.87 @ mansion) 5 points
Chelsea V Portsmouth
Pompey have a poor home record while Chelsea just keep on grinding out win after win. Since Portsmouth came to the premiership a few years back they have never beaten Chelsea. In fact they still haven’t scored against them at home and with their home record looking as poor as it has I would expect that to continue again today. They have signed Defoeand while I think he will prove to be a good signing it may take him a while to get used to the set up at Fratton Park. Benjani is on his way to Man City which I find a bit strange as he was the only person that seemed able to score goals for Pompey.
Despite the absence of John Terry the Chelsea defence has been in excellent form with only one goal conceded in the last 4 outings and they are just as good on the road with only 2 conceded in their last 8 away games
Anelka has proven to be a good signing so far and has fitted into the team quite well. With six 1 – 0 wins and six 2 – 0 wins to their name already this season I think the best option is to dutch both scorelines. If Portsmouth score then this bet is down obviously but I don’t see them getting any joy against a watertight Chelsea defence.
PICKS
Chelsea to win 1 – 0 (7 @ skybet) 1.5 points
Chelsea to win 2 – 0 (7 @ skybet)1.5 points
If either selection wins then the payout will be the same, which is 7.5 points profit
Rugby picks to follow soon
Two teams stuck in the bottom four and while survival is all but gone for Derby, Birmingham still have a very realistic chance of surviving, They has performed admirably in their previous 3 games against Arsenal, Manchester Utd and Chelsea but were quite shocking against Sunderland on Tuesday night. They went down 2 – 0 and if they are to go down at the end of the season then they will look back to Tuesday night as they day when they threw it away.
But, if ever a team needed a chance to get back on track, then they have been presented with the perfect opportunity today. Derby are just a very poor side who will battle on but still not achieve anything notable. The championship has beckoned for a long time now and with only 8 points taken from a possible 72 says it all really.
Scoring has been their major problem in recent times for Brum despite having strikers like Garry O'Connor, Cameron Jerome, Mikael Forssell and January signing James McFadden but surely they will have too much attacking power for Derby, who have conceded 30 goals in 12 games on the road.
Verdict
Birmingham will look to bounce back from recent defeats and take 3 points which is vital for them. They won’t be afraid of Derby and as long as they are not too complacent should win this one easy.
PICK
Birmingham –0.5, -1 (1.87 @ mansion) 5 points
Chelsea V Portsmouth
Pompey have a poor home record while Chelsea just keep on grinding out win after win. Since Portsmouth came to the premiership a few years back they have never beaten Chelsea. In fact they still haven’t scored against them at home and with their home record looking as poor as it has I would expect that to continue again today. They have signed Defoeand while I think he will prove to be a good signing it may take him a while to get used to the set up at Fratton Park. Benjani is on his way to Man City which I find a bit strange as he was the only person that seemed able to score goals for Pompey.
Despite the absence of John Terry the Chelsea defence has been in excellent form with only one goal conceded in the last 4 outings and they are just as good on the road with only 2 conceded in their last 8 away games
Anelka has proven to be a good signing so far and has fitted into the team quite well. With six 1 – 0 wins and six 2 – 0 wins to their name already this season I think the best option is to dutch both scorelines. If Portsmouth score then this bet is down obviously but I don’t see them getting any joy against a watertight Chelsea defence.
PICKS
Chelsea to win 1 – 0 (7 @ skybet) 1.5 points
Chelsea to win 2 – 0 (7 @ skybet)1.5 points
If either selection wins then the payout will be the same, which is 7.5 points profit
Rugby picks to follow soon
Friday, February 1, 2008
A few Saturday picks
Swansea V Oldham
I may be about the only person that will oppose Swansea this weekend but I think its worth it.
Swansea have been in terrific form lately winning 10 of the last 12 and just powering their way through the league to open up a 10 point lead at the top of the table. Goals have not been a problem as they have flowed freely all season. 2 goals scored a game is an impressive stat and with only 22 conceded they have one of the meanest defences in the league. However with 4 games inside the last 12 days in the league and a dissapointing FA cup exit also to consider I think that fatigue has to catch up eventually.
Oldham are no mugs. They sit in 13 position but mainly due to a terrible home record in which they have recorded only the three paltry wins. Their away record makes much better reading though with only three defeats in 14 league games with a good scoring record ( 17- 11 ) With 7 games undefeated on their travels their defence has proven to be quite efficient with only 7 clean sheets overall. They grabbed lots of attention when they went to Everton in the FA Cup and controlled the home side to take a deserving victory proving that they can mix it with the best.
Verdict
Swansea have to feel the fatigue factor eventually and will slip up at some stage between now and the end of the season( though I do think they will win the league quite easily in the end)
Oldham are a team that are set perfectly to catch them out and have an away record that most teams can only dream of. A win is probably pushing my luck but if Oldham can demonstrate the same defensive qualities that they have in recent times then a low scoring draw is a very realistic shout. Small stakes though
Reading V Bolton
Its hard to see anyone backing Bolton at any stage unless they unearth some hidden goalscoring talent from somewhere.
Two consecutive 0 – 0 results and relegation is now a very serious threat. Against Fulham last Tuesday night they never ever looked like scoring but it must be said that Fulham looked content with the draw in what was a largely forgetable game. They are still winless on the road and have lost 8 games and have conceded just over two goals a game.
Reading although level on points with Bolton, are a far better team in my eyes. At home they have a 6-1-5 record with 14 goals scored and 17 conceded and they will look to their home form to see them out of danger at the wrong end of the table. They have conceded 50 goals which is a shockingly bad stat but it must also be taken into account that 13 of these came in two bizarre games.
They had two tough games in their last two outings with narrow defeats to Man U and Chelsea.
Verdict
Readings last two games were as hard as they get and although they lost both , they performed admirably in both. Their defence may not be the strongest but should be able to keep to keep a shot shy Bolton side out. Reading are a better side overall and will be eager to take the 3 points on offer.
Reading to win 1 or 2 – 0
PICK
Oldham double chance ( 2.25 @ paddypower) 2 points
Reading win (2.15 @ bet365) 5 points
Much more to follow in the morning (see my earlier post for info)
I may be about the only person that will oppose Swansea this weekend but I think its worth it.
Swansea have been in terrific form lately winning 10 of the last 12 and just powering their way through the league to open up a 10 point lead at the top of the table. Goals have not been a problem as they have flowed freely all season. 2 goals scored a game is an impressive stat and with only 22 conceded they have one of the meanest defences in the league. However with 4 games inside the last 12 days in the league and a dissapointing FA cup exit also to consider I think that fatigue has to catch up eventually.
Oldham are no mugs. They sit in 13 position but mainly due to a terrible home record in which they have recorded only the three paltry wins. Their away record makes much better reading though with only three defeats in 14 league games with a good scoring record ( 17- 11 ) With 7 games undefeated on their travels their defence has proven to be quite efficient with only 7 clean sheets overall. They grabbed lots of attention when they went to Everton in the FA Cup and controlled the home side to take a deserving victory proving that they can mix it with the best.
Verdict
Swansea have to feel the fatigue factor eventually and will slip up at some stage between now and the end of the season( though I do think they will win the league quite easily in the end)
Oldham are a team that are set perfectly to catch them out and have an away record that most teams can only dream of. A win is probably pushing my luck but if Oldham can demonstrate the same defensive qualities that they have in recent times then a low scoring draw is a very realistic shout. Small stakes though
Reading V Bolton
Its hard to see anyone backing Bolton at any stage unless they unearth some hidden goalscoring talent from somewhere.
Two consecutive 0 – 0 results and relegation is now a very serious threat. Against Fulham last Tuesday night they never ever looked like scoring but it must be said that Fulham looked content with the draw in what was a largely forgetable game. They are still winless on the road and have lost 8 games and have conceded just over two goals a game.
Reading although level on points with Bolton, are a far better team in my eyes. At home they have a 6-1-5 record with 14 goals scored and 17 conceded and they will look to their home form to see them out of danger at the wrong end of the table. They have conceded 50 goals which is a shockingly bad stat but it must also be taken into account that 13 of these came in two bizarre games.
They had two tough games in their last two outings with narrow defeats to Man U and Chelsea.
Verdict
Readings last two games were as hard as they get and although they lost both , they performed admirably in both. Their defence may not be the strongest but should be able to keep to keep a shot shy Bolton side out. Reading are a better side overall and will be eager to take the 3 points on offer.
Reading to win 1 or 2 – 0
PICK
Oldham double chance ( 2.25 @ paddypower) 2 points
Reading win (2.15 @ bet365) 5 points
Much more to follow in the morning (see my earlier post for info)
January review + February preview
January was officially my worst month for a long long time. I finished up with -6.44 points which reflects some very poor selections on my behalf. The start of the month was my worst time and i was playing catch up for most of the month.
Anyway for February im going to be a bit more selective in my choices for football. The six nations rugby begins tommorow and i cant wait for it as ive always found it a profitable area for me. Also starting is the GAA national league season which begins tomorrow.
All in all im looking forward to February, most readers may not be familiar with GAA but its the national sport here in Ireland and something i have played at a decent level for many years. There are not too many bookmakers that offer these games but i find that the best odds are usually found at paddypowers, bet365, Ladbrokes and boylesports. If you dont have an account at any of these and wish to sign up, then sign up at the recommended bookies list found to the right, that way, you get the latest sign up bonus and i get a free pint for myself ;)
Moving onto the weekend ahead, it will be a busy one. I have football, Rugby and GAA to cover so check back. All should be posted by 10 am tomorrow morning.
Anyway for February im going to be a bit more selective in my choices for football. The six nations rugby begins tommorow and i cant wait for it as ive always found it a profitable area for me. Also starting is the GAA national league season which begins tomorrow.
All in all im looking forward to February, most readers may not be familiar with GAA but its the national sport here in Ireland and something i have played at a decent level for many years. There are not too many bookmakers that offer these games but i find that the best odds are usually found at paddypowers, bet365, Ladbrokes and boylesports. If you dont have an account at any of these and wish to sign up, then sign up at the recommended bookies list found to the right, that way, you get the latest sign up bonus and i get a free pint for myself ;)
Moving onto the weekend ahead, it will be a busy one. I have football, Rugby and GAA to cover so check back. All should be posted by 10 am tomorrow morning.
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