As the headline would suggest I am completing this blog from the comfort of my couch, as I sadly have very little on on my day off. But, enough of my melancholy, you're surely all waiting for this weeks batch of tips. This midweek we saw Arsenal dominate against a Stoke side again determined to prove that you can be successful without resorting to playing any actual football. We saw Man Utd again look an absolute shower in Europe, with the midfield once again looking like a complete overhaul is needed. And we saw Chelsea play a bit better and gain a decent away win against Danish side FC Kobenvahn. To my eyes Arsenal are still the bet for any of the Premier League as they look capable of turning on some style or battling, everyone else looks like Wimbledon's harder working B team. Musically I'm in a chilled out moment so I'm going to go for Television with Marquee Moon, 7 minutes of brilliance.
Aston Villa v Blackburn, 1500 Saturday
The early kick off this week comes from the Championship so we start alphabetically at Villa for the Prem. Whilst they looked much-improved after Darren Bent's move and won twice on the spin, they've been terrible since without anyone paying much attention. They are getting ever nearer the relegation spots and need to turn their form around quick sharp to pull away. Blackburn are still solid at home and capable enough away to pick up enough points to steer clear of relegation this season. This probably wont be a classic by any means, but I think Villa should have enough at home to nick this. They do need Ashley Young to pull his head out of his arse though. He seems to have been elsewhere ever since move to big clubs, and Liverpool, started last season. He's as important to them as Bent and they'll need him to supply the bullets for Bent. Anyhoo, Bent scores first at a widely available 4.5 is the one for me.
Everton v Sunderland, 1500 Saturday
An interesting match here with 2 teams capable of turning in an impressive performance, but too unpredictable to be looking at Europe. Everton are looking a bit shit again at present and the lack of a goalscorer outside of the erratic Saha is the main problem. I've already made my feelings known that Moyes should leave at the end of the season. He seems to need a new challenge and his formerly impressive side are now looking like they're on the slide. The club probably needs a fresh approach and someone who will now see the lack of finances as a challenge not a burden. Sunderland have never been shy of splashing the cash, but are not really moving much further forward at the moment. Steve Bruce has been very hit and miss, Gyan looks a great player potentially, but players like Riveros have been given little time to impress and cast aside. I think there's probably a manager who can do more for the club, but they seem perfectly happy to expensively underachieve at present. They've been generally shit away so far, and Everton's best performances have been at home, but they look short to me. Coral go 2.25 on Sunderland and the Draw and I think that's worth a punt.
Newcastle v Bolton, 1500 Saturday
Another contest that looks closely matched on paper is this one between promoted Newcastle and perennial mid to lower tablers Bolton. Both have put in some fantastic performances and some that were utter, utter dogshit. Newcastle have thrashed Villa and beaten Arsenal and Bolton were as high as 5th position at one point in the season. However comma as expected since the sale of star man and all round nutjob Andy Carroll the Geordie's have looked toothless. Strikers of the 'calibre' of Leon 'Not the' Best and Shola 'Shit' Ameobi are not going to get you out of the Championship, let alone see you up the Prem table. Bolton are also struggling for goals now that Johan Elmander has reverted to the form of his career before this season, that is to say he's useless. You can never be certain what will happen in a Newcastle game, but I think the omens point to a low scorer. Betfair go 1.88 on under 2.5 goals and that's what it all points to.
Wigan v Man Utd, 1500 Saturday
It's United's twice yearly guarantee of 3 points and a boost to goal difference at Wigan on Saturday afternoon. These are 2 of the teams I dislike most in the division for completely different reasons. The frankly embarrassing 'support' of Wigan irks me no end. When you flick on MOTD and see 6 blokes and a couple of kids cheering their 'beloved' Wigan side on it appals me. Almost as much as having to listen to Shearer and the other merry band of dickheads on the programme, the jug eared twat and the camp moron. I forget their names. There are so many sides with a brilliant support no matter the level that I would rather see in the country's top league. Man Utd annoy me as they're managed by a graceless Jock twat and that never used to bother me when they were good to watch. Now they're horrible, boring, slow, insipid, just gash. The persistence with Rooney pisses me off too, although it amuses me to know they're stuck with his £6mil a week wages or whatever stupid amount they bent over and took in negotiations. He's got the touch of a pub player and no amount of running around swearing will make me think he's anything more than a hard working, classless prole. Lets be honest, it'll be a thrashing and should really be investigated. United -1.5 is available at 2.5 at Bet365 and it's nailed on.
Wolves v Blackpool, 1500 Saturday
Having finally won a match against Spurs midweek Blackpool will be hoping for a few more to once again move away from relegation trouble. Wolves are also gaining the results their endeavour deserves, but not regularly enough. As with many sides this season, goals are a problem. The strikers are not pulling their weight and sadly it's probably going to see them relegated. I like professional Yorkshireman Mick McCarthy a lot and appreciate his brutal honesty about his sides failings and contentious issues. Much better than blaming anything but your own inadequacies like messrs Bruce and Wenger in particular. Blackpool will no doubt attack from the off and in Charlie Adam they possess a player that would improve the midfields at Man Utd, Liverpool or Chelsea. He might not be quick or athletic, but he has an eye for a pass and possesses a threat from set pieces, corner delivery stands out. It's this attacking flair that gives me enough confidence to take a chance on them this time. BlueSq go 2.25 on them Draw No Bet and that'll give a bit of cover.
West Ham v Liverpool, 1330 Sunday
Having spent almost 2 hours of my life watching Liverpool against the mighty Sparta Prague I am not in the best of moods with them at all. They were dire, devoid of invention and lacked a goal threat at all. But, what annoyed me most is listening to the commentators going on about Joe fucking Cole getting back 'to the form we know he's capable of'. Now, to me, he was shit. He's always been shit. He's a paceless attacking midfielder who can't shoot or cross. He could no doubt do some incredibly fancy tricks at 15, but he's 30 now. He wont get better. He did not fulfil his potential. Just fucking stop it. The Hammers have been impressive some matches and back to their early season crapness too often. In Robbie Keane, Demba Ba and Obinna they have the firepower ti get them out of trouble. I would imagine Liverpool themselves would take the last 2 players. It really depends on which West Ham team turns up, but I'll take a chance the strikers show up after the thrashing of Burnley. Odds of 2.62 are widely available on the home side Draw No Bet and I'm happy with that.
Man City v Fulham, 1500 Sunday
In a game that will be completely overshadowed by the Careless Cup final we see Citeh hosting Fulham. It's Mark Leslie Hughes first return to Eastlands since his sacking and a chance to gain some revenge for the 4-1 hiding he took at Craven Cottage. Whatever his apologists in the media say, Mancini has improved Citeh, they are better at the back and he has coaxed better performance out of Carlos Tevez. Which has also amusingly made him the best striker in Manchester, presumably much to Sir Wrigley's chagrin. Fulham are also still terrible away from home, crap, useless, the lot. They've won less than 10 away in 3 seasons and only once this term so far. Why this is isn't important, it helps us gamblers no end. Citeh will win this , I guarantee it. City -1.5 at 2.45 at Bet365 looks to good to be true to me.
Carling Cup Final 2011, Arsenal v Birmingham, 1500 Sunday
The first silverware of the season is up for grabs at the disappointing Wembley on Sunday. Considering it cost more than twice what the Emirates cost Arsenal and looks like a car park with a ridiculous arch over it it's a horrible waste of money. Which has also led to mental ticket prices to cover this overspend. Rant over. This can really only go one way, it's Arsenal's to lose. They'll no doubt be up against a 4-5-1 with the 1 ridiculously isolated and will need to break Brum down, but they should. The motivation for all of them will be huge, they are generally still very young and have won not a lot between them. The miss of Walcott will hurt, but they're hardly short of midfielders. If Fabregas is fit it is a foregone conclusion. Brum are obdurate and can put the yards in, but lack the skill to damage Arsenal. If Zigic plays there will probably be a set piece chance or 2, but Arsenal will have Johan Djourou back and he's actually good in the air. Get on the Gunners to end their trophy drought and start their march to the Premier League too!. Victor Chandler go 1.97 on Arsenal -1 asian and I'll be on that.
Friday, 25 February 2011
Friday, 18 February 2011
Some selected 'titbits'...
Now, usually I wouldn't bother with this FA Cup malarkey betting wise, but I've had a request for some views! I would warn you that these are not the sort of tips to be robbing your Nan's pension for, they're strictly what I'd do if I were betting on the matches, which I wont. At least I hope I wont. Who am I kidding? I'll be all over them like like an XL coat on Lionel Messi. Music wise I'll go for something leftfield for me...let's go with Dead Prez and their seminal rap BANGER Hip Hop.
Chelsea v Everton, 1230 Saturday
The weekend kicks off with a 4th Round replay between 2 teams hopelessly struggling for form. So far Fernando Torres big move has looked about as much of a success as the Sinclair C5, that is to say, utter dogshit. He's been making Wayne Rooney look good he's been that poor in his 2 matches so far, being hauled off before the finish in both. A sad state for the once just below World Class striker. However comma he is cup tied for this match so we will see the return of The Drog. The beast of a man is renowned for his epic strops when not the main man, so expect the Marseille move to be back in the papers come the summer, yawn. He should be keen to score points against Carlo Ancelotti in this though and has a good record against Everton. The Toffees themselves are forcing any pundits to bring out the old 'too good to go down' line at present. With every passing week they seem to be edging closer to the basement and are unable to follow one decent performance with another of late. Whilst they held Chelsea to a draw at home I don't see them getting much change at all in the one tournament Chelsea have a decent chance at winning. Bet365 go out on a limb at 2.6 on the inventively nicknamed Blues winning to nil and I'll be keen to test that out.
Man Utd v Crawley, 1730 Saturday
I'm sure by now those regular readers will have cottoned on to my thinly veiled disgust at Man Utd's current team and particularly midfield. If I were to say I honestly don't think it's much better than the midfield at Brum I would not be lieing to you. Workmanlike is the best description of the middle of the park. Fletcher, Gibson (Jesus bleeding wept) and Scholes as well as that fat lad Anderson are a shower, an absolute shower. I was a huge fan of the way United played around 3 or 4 years ago and to see them reduced to this saddens me a little, only a little mind. I'll not even go in to Wayne 'Wazza' Rooney's, truly horrific derby game last week before he shinned one in whilst falling on his fat arse. All this being said they are not even on the same sub-human level of scum Crawley are. The Conference big spenders have yet to reveal who is actually funding the club despite numerous questions being posed. And at the helm have World Class dickhead Steve 'Bent' Evans. A man previously convicted of fraud whilst masking his players real wages to get out of tax. Sub-human scum. I really hope they get their arses handed to them and that utter bastard Evans is struck down. Thankfully they should be. United are nothing if not consistent in thrashing the shit at home and Berbatov should get another chance to inflate his goal-tally against sub-standard opposition here. Skybet are 3.25 on the Bulgarian hitman to score 2 or more and he should oblige. I would also suggest boycotting The Sun as they are sponsoring Crawley, but I'd hope none of you read that godawful rag anyway.
Man City v Notts County, 1400 Sunday
Another replay sees Man City hosting Notts County who got a creditable draw at their home ground a few weeks back. City have struggled to break down teams, and the players coming off the bench are sadly lacking in motivation. This is the problem with signing modern day Winston Bogarde's like Emanuel Adebayor as they will happily sit like lemons picking up fat pay cheques as long as the club let them. They're not fussed about putting the effort in when given a chance as they genuinely don''t care about playing in the side. The men from Nottingham's best chance of progress should have been in the home leg and I would expect them to bow out with a scrap in the replay. It's a lot of players chance to put themselves in the shop window and they should make a game of it. Lord knows why but I expect the midget son of Ian Wright to grab one here. Extrabet go 3.75 on that eventuality.
Leyton Orient v Arsenal, 1600 Sunday
The lst match of the weekend proper sees The O's hosting this week's biggest winners Arsenal. For all those shrewdies like myself who spotted they looked excellent value at around 4.0-4.5, congratulations. You know who you are. They were always going to have a chance against Barcelona at home, they might be the best team ever, but they're not quite that good. They looked good for the first 25 minutes, but as has been pointed out elsewhere, they are used to the opposition giving up around then if they're behind in La Liga. I'm not stupid enough to call it the SPL, teams as good as Valencia and Villarreal don't deserve that, but they do have things their own way more often than not. Whether this played in their minds and they slacked off we'll never know, but the loudest roar ever heard in the Emirates gave the home side a boost that Barca seemed ill prepared for. Leyton Orient have been up and down this season in League 1 and will have to put in a superhuman effort to get anything except a fat cheque for TV rights. Arsenal's bench, reserve and youth players are all keen to impress, unlike at Citeh, and will be too good. Saying that, they're still leakier than a leaky thing at the back so Skybet's 2.0 on Both teams To Score looks reasonable for an away tie.
Chelsea v Everton, 1230 Saturday
The weekend kicks off with a 4th Round replay between 2 teams hopelessly struggling for form. So far Fernando Torres big move has looked about as much of a success as the Sinclair C5, that is to say, utter dogshit. He's been making Wayne Rooney look good he's been that poor in his 2 matches so far, being hauled off before the finish in both. A sad state for the once just below World Class striker. However comma he is cup tied for this match so we will see the return of The Drog. The beast of a man is renowned for his epic strops when not the main man, so expect the Marseille move to be back in the papers come the summer, yawn. He should be keen to score points against Carlo Ancelotti in this though and has a good record against Everton. The Toffees themselves are forcing any pundits to bring out the old 'too good to go down' line at present. With every passing week they seem to be edging closer to the basement and are unable to follow one decent performance with another of late. Whilst they held Chelsea to a draw at home I don't see them getting much change at all in the one tournament Chelsea have a decent chance at winning. Bet365 go out on a limb at 2.6 on the inventively nicknamed Blues winning to nil and I'll be keen to test that out.
Man Utd v Crawley, 1730 Saturday
I'm sure by now those regular readers will have cottoned on to my thinly veiled disgust at Man Utd's current team and particularly midfield. If I were to say I honestly don't think it's much better than the midfield at Brum I would not be lieing to you. Workmanlike is the best description of the middle of the park. Fletcher, Gibson (Jesus bleeding wept) and Scholes as well as that fat lad Anderson are a shower, an absolute shower. I was a huge fan of the way United played around 3 or 4 years ago and to see them reduced to this saddens me a little, only a little mind. I'll not even go in to Wayne 'Wazza' Rooney's, truly horrific derby game last week before he shinned one in whilst falling on his fat arse. All this being said they are not even on the same sub-human level of scum Crawley are. The Conference big spenders have yet to reveal who is actually funding the club despite numerous questions being posed. And at the helm have World Class dickhead Steve 'Bent' Evans. A man previously convicted of fraud whilst masking his players real wages to get out of tax. Sub-human scum. I really hope they get their arses handed to them and that utter bastard Evans is struck down. Thankfully they should be. United are nothing if not consistent in thrashing the shit at home and Berbatov should get another chance to inflate his goal-tally against sub-standard opposition here. Skybet are 3.25 on the Bulgarian hitman to score 2 or more and he should oblige. I would also suggest boycotting The Sun as they are sponsoring Crawley, but I'd hope none of you read that godawful rag anyway.
Man City v Notts County, 1400 Sunday
Another replay sees Man City hosting Notts County who got a creditable draw at their home ground a few weeks back. City have struggled to break down teams, and the players coming off the bench are sadly lacking in motivation. This is the problem with signing modern day Winston Bogarde's like Emanuel Adebayor as they will happily sit like lemons picking up fat pay cheques as long as the club let them. They're not fussed about putting the effort in when given a chance as they genuinely don''t care about playing in the side. The men from Nottingham's best chance of progress should have been in the home leg and I would expect them to bow out with a scrap in the replay. It's a lot of players chance to put themselves in the shop window and they should make a game of it. Lord knows why but I expect the midget son of Ian Wright to grab one here. Extrabet go 3.75 on that eventuality.
Leyton Orient v Arsenal, 1600 Sunday
The lst match of the weekend proper sees The O's hosting this week's biggest winners Arsenal. For all those shrewdies like myself who spotted they looked excellent value at around 4.0-4.5, congratulations. You know who you are. They were always going to have a chance against Barcelona at home, they might be the best team ever, but they're not quite that good. They looked good for the first 25 minutes, but as has been pointed out elsewhere, they are used to the opposition giving up around then if they're behind in La Liga. I'm not stupid enough to call it the SPL, teams as good as Valencia and Villarreal don't deserve that, but they do have things their own way more often than not. Whether this played in their minds and they slacked off we'll never know, but the loudest roar ever heard in the Emirates gave the home side a boost that Barca seemed ill prepared for. Leyton Orient have been up and down this season in League 1 and will have to put in a superhuman effort to get anything except a fat cheque for TV rights. Arsenal's bench, reserve and youth players are all keen to impress, unlike at Citeh, and will be too good. Saying that, they're still leakier than a leaky thing at the back so Skybet's 2.0 on Both teams To Score looks reasonable for an away tie.
Friday, 11 February 2011
TFIF...
That's Thank Frank It's Friday for those of you with delicate ears. After the absolute betting graveyard that is friendly football, we return to the 'proper' stuff starting at 1245 tomorrow. A quick word on the England 'performance' before we move on. Had Christian Eriksen's shot against the post gone in before England's winner we could very well have witnessed another defeat for EnGerLand and the headlines would have been very different. I realise it's all speculation as it did hit the post, but it should be taken into account. Glen Johnson is quite literally the worst right back I have ever seen. No amount of attacking prowess should ever cover up the fact he is a fucking hopeless defender. If he's good going forward then stick him on the wing, if not then drop him. Even Dalglish has put Martin Kelly in Johnson's right back slot a Pool. And being subjected to Big Fat Sam and that pair of prats Southgate and Chiles give us their 'insight' was like being taught Geography by Jade bleeding Goody. Dreadful stuff and another reminder of why ITV should just be cancelled, made by morons for morons. This weeks musical titbit comes from Bad Religion with Delirium of Disorder, a 2 minute belter of a tune.
Man Utd v Man City, 1245 Saturday
The weekend kicks off with a match that will go a long way to deciding if City will be making a title challenge this season. They have been playing not to lose against the big sides so far and those tactics would be fine if they were beating all the minnows, but they're not. If United get all 3 points in this one it will put them too far away for City to catch, and will give the Spuds another opportunity to cut City's advantage in the table. All in, it's a massive match for Mancini. His doubters, and there are many, would have you believe he's a fool for not attacking the best teams from the off. Although I'm sure they'd be equally as damning if he did and failed, he is a 'filthy foreigner' after all. He is building a team at City, and all the best teams are strong at the back. The problem comes when even his own teams fans get on his back too. They definitely have the players to give United a game, and should win the midfield battle with ease. The problem will come if Tevez is again left isolated. As brilliant as he is, he can't do it all all the time. United come into this on the back of a defeat at bottom club Wolves. This is the worst United team I can really remember, with honourable exceptions made of Rio, Vidic and Evra. The midfield is hopeless, Fletcher is being asked to do more than hassle opponents, and he can't. Giggs and Scholes can no longer do it week in week out, or at all in Scholes case of late, and Darron Gibson truly is the worst player in the entire league. I see this being a tight one with City possibly sneaking it! Coral's odds of 2.1 on City and the Draw look good to me.
Arsenal v Wolves, 1500 Saturday
Following on from their historic victory over United last week Wolves travel to the Emirates looking for more points to avoid relegation. The problem being that Arsenal have toughened up a bit this term and are looking very good outside shouts for the title if they can just keep some players fit. The latest to find themselves in the treatment room is Johan Djourou, although they say it'll only be for a couple of weeks. The long anticipated arrival of Djourou in the first team has been a revelation. Arsenal have looked very solid with him in the side and when paired with Thomas Vermaelen, if he's even still alive, they should form a cracking centre back pairing. This weekend they have all their forward players fit, and even Arshavin has been seen tracking back once or twice of late, a miracle indeed. Wolves will really struggle here I would have thought. They never lack effort, but the lack of class is really showing this season, they sadly look nailed on to drop to me. I'll happily handicap the Gunners by 1.75 at Victor Chandler's 2.02 odds.
Birmingham v Stoke, 1500 Saturday
One for the purists to avoid I'd imagine! There will be strictly no tippy tappy here, both managers will resort to some of the most turgid, uninspiring football known to man to get 3 points. And with their jobs on the line, who am I to judge. Both teams have got some decent results of late, and have actually been scoring goals, something fans of Brum in particular are really not used to. As ever set pieces will be key for both sides. Seb Larsson's deliveries make Brum a real threat with players like the man-giant Zigic in the side. And we are all aware of the threat posed by Rory Delap's superhuman throw in's for the Stokies. He is as close to a 'special teams' player in the NFL as the game has ever seen, literally better with his hands than his feet! I see this one being closely fought and I don't see either team winning by more than a single goal. I can see both teams scoring on current form, but I can't bring myself to back that for some reason. I like the look of Bet365's quotes of 8.0 on Robert Huth to score anytime, he has got more than Rooney this season after all!
Blackburn v Newcastle, 1500 Saturday
This week saw a new messiah arrive on Tyneside in the shape of Shefki Kuqi, Finlandian superstar. The beast of a man with the belly-flop celebration is the club's answer to replacing Andy Carroll for the remainder of the season. The fact he was recently released by Swansea, who are short of goals, will probably give you an idea of the likliehood of success of this one. There will probably be 3 worse teams than Newcastle this eason, and it may well save them, but major reinvestment will be needed in the summer if they plan to stick around. Blackburn have been ticking over ok under Steve Kean so far. The man that part-time Lamb Shank lookylikey Big Fat Sam said would be 'no good' as a manager has made Blackburn far more attractive to watch and a bigger threat up front. David Dunn in particular seems to be revelling in a role behind the forwards. They have always been good at home and that should continue under the new man. Betfair quotes of 2.2 on the home win look more than fair to me.
Blackpool v Aston Villa, 1500 Saturday
The resurgent Villa come up against a free-falling Blackpool in this one. Whilst they are still thrilling to watch and are always likely to score, Blackpool's ropey Championship defence is beginning to concede at an alarming rate. They are beginning to worryingly resemble Hull's spectacular 18 month fall after a great first 6 months in the top division. Rather than address the failings of his side Ian 'Olly' Holloway seems happier to play up to his Bristolian dickhead persona for the media. Gerard Houllier has rather more wisely kept a low profile and one about improving his Villa side, obviously made easier when you can spend £24mil on Darren Bent. Having been given a start up front for England, Bent got the goal that any sensible person could see he would when given a real chance. He's been the best English striker for 4 years, and whilst that might make for damning reading, it's no less true. They should beat Blackpool on current form, but a more appealing bet to me is Boylesports offer of 2.5 on over 3.5 goals.
Liverpool v Wigan, 1500 Saturday
Now I'll readily admit I was more than sceptical about Pool giving Dalglish the managers role, and was positively wetting myself after the first few results. However comma he has certainly turned a corner now. Beating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last weekend was a great result and all the more impressive for the tactics that saw them completely negate Chelsea's attacking threat. Whilst Chelsea aren't the team they were even 6 months ago, I had little faith in a Pool upset. Playing 3 at the back with Jamie 'eh, you know, eh' as a sweeper was a masterstroke. It gave them 3 players to mark Chelsea's Torres and Drogba and let Glen Johson have less defensive responsibilties, which can only be sensible. Cos hez well gash innit. Wigan look like following Wolves out of the Prem to me and I'll be happy to see them go. Shit team, twatty chairman and crap football has no place in the top flight in my opinion. Odds of 2.1 are widely available on Pool to win to nil, and with Steve Clarke coaching the defence now I'll take that.
West Brom v West Ham, 1500 Saturday
Another team dropping like Jordan's knickers are West Brom. The club parted ways with the likeable Roberto Di Matteo after another defeat last weekend and they were looking unlikely to turn a corner with him in charge. As usual the leagues managers have lined up to condemn the sacking as short-termist, but if they want to stay in the Prem then surely they have to think like that? Bringing in a proven firefighter like Woy Hodgson or even Big Fat Git would make more sense to me than gambling on Di Matteo, regardless of how nice a man he might be. The Hammers looked to have turned a corner before defeat at home to Brum last weekend set them back somewhat. I still think in Obinna and Robbie Keane they should get the goals that will keep them up this season. But, why there has not been a protest against the utter twats in charge yet is beyond my reckoning. Porn baron's Gold and Sullivan and 'feminism crusader' Karren Brady have made a complete joke of the club in only a year in charge. Brady, who has been so keen to stick up for female lino Sian Massey, has had few problems in the past decade being paid in money mostly made from young girls being paid very little to demean themselves in classy mags like Razzle. The utterly hyprocritical shitcunt. I see goals in this one with both teams leaking like drains. Get on over 3 at 2.25 with Bet365.
Sunderland v Tottenham, 1730 Saturday
The late televised match will be Spurs travelling to the Stadium Of Light to take on Steve Bruce's team. Spurs have been on a role recently, although Redknapp is still persisting with Peter Crouch and Jermaine Defoe even though both are doing their level best to convince us all they're utter toilet. The man who always seems to pose a threat is vodka loving hitman Roman Pavluychenko. Sloopy Chops refusal to give him more of a chance is utterly ridiculous when Crouch and Defoe combined have contributed 2 goals between them in the league. If they miss the Champions League this season it will mostly be due to the man with a face like dripping candle wax's stark refusal to rotate. Sunderland have been the same as they ever were. Much stronger at home than on their travels, capable of beating anyone when in form, but just as capable of losing to anyone when their not. Bruce has spent a lot of money to tread mid-table water and questions should be asked of why their has been no discernable improvement in the side. God knows what will happen here, it entirely depends which Mackems team shows up. The best bet I can see is Bet365' 1.8 on both teams to score.
Bolton v Everton, 1600 Sunday
The only match on Sunday sees the up and down Everton travelling to a rather abysmal lately Bolton side. With Louis Saha in form of late, Everton have shown how much better they are when there is someone around to put some chances away. They haven't played that badly most of the season, but no goals = no wins in football, and they've looked about as potent as Boycey for much of it. Bolton started off well, mostly due to the goals of Johan Elmander, but he has now reverted to the form of the rest of his career and is no longer scoring. So, really, it's a tale of 2 strikers. If Saha can continue his form then Everton should win this easy, especially with Gary Cahill also looking less and less like an international defender with every match. I'm willing to take a punt on the Toffees and Boylesports are standout at 2.75 on an away win.
Fulham v Chelsea, 2000 Monday
Monday night football returns, minus the 2 stooges Gray and Keys obviously. This can only be a good thing. I've never seen the importance of Keys at all, he offers nothing except bumming up to Gray at all. This seems to in turn led to Gray going from being mildly interesting a few years back to just being a parody of himself now. He'd become stale and this excuse for Sky to sack him should freshen the channel up with any luck. Although not if Droopy Chops lad is allowed anywhere near the slot. The fooking tosser. back to the match and it's the West London derby with interlopers Chelsea taking on the team bearing their boroughs name, Fulham. The Cottagers have a decent record in this derby in recent years and with Torres still adapting and the rest of team looking like they need to be taken out back and shot they must fancy their chances. With Danny Murphy back to pulling the strings and Moussa Dembele adding some more attacking thrust along with the hugely under-rated Clint Dempsey, they've got a chance here. Take Fulahm and the Draw Double Chance at Coral at odds of 2.1 and thank me later!
Man Utd v Man City, 1245 Saturday
The weekend kicks off with a match that will go a long way to deciding if City will be making a title challenge this season. They have been playing not to lose against the big sides so far and those tactics would be fine if they were beating all the minnows, but they're not. If United get all 3 points in this one it will put them too far away for City to catch, and will give the Spuds another opportunity to cut City's advantage in the table. All in, it's a massive match for Mancini. His doubters, and there are many, would have you believe he's a fool for not attacking the best teams from the off. Although I'm sure they'd be equally as damning if he did and failed, he is a 'filthy foreigner' after all. He is building a team at City, and all the best teams are strong at the back. The problem comes when even his own teams fans get on his back too. They definitely have the players to give United a game, and should win the midfield battle with ease. The problem will come if Tevez is again left isolated. As brilliant as he is, he can't do it all all the time. United come into this on the back of a defeat at bottom club Wolves. This is the worst United team I can really remember, with honourable exceptions made of Rio, Vidic and Evra. The midfield is hopeless, Fletcher is being asked to do more than hassle opponents, and he can't. Giggs and Scholes can no longer do it week in week out, or at all in Scholes case of late, and Darron Gibson truly is the worst player in the entire league. I see this being a tight one with City possibly sneaking it! Coral's odds of 2.1 on City and the Draw look good to me.
Arsenal v Wolves, 1500 Saturday
Following on from their historic victory over United last week Wolves travel to the Emirates looking for more points to avoid relegation. The problem being that Arsenal have toughened up a bit this term and are looking very good outside shouts for the title if they can just keep some players fit. The latest to find themselves in the treatment room is Johan Djourou, although they say it'll only be for a couple of weeks. The long anticipated arrival of Djourou in the first team has been a revelation. Arsenal have looked very solid with him in the side and when paired with Thomas Vermaelen, if he's even still alive, they should form a cracking centre back pairing. This weekend they have all their forward players fit, and even Arshavin has been seen tracking back once or twice of late, a miracle indeed. Wolves will really struggle here I would have thought. They never lack effort, but the lack of class is really showing this season, they sadly look nailed on to drop to me. I'll happily handicap the Gunners by 1.75 at Victor Chandler's 2.02 odds.
Birmingham v Stoke, 1500 Saturday
One for the purists to avoid I'd imagine! There will be strictly no tippy tappy here, both managers will resort to some of the most turgid, uninspiring football known to man to get 3 points. And with their jobs on the line, who am I to judge. Both teams have got some decent results of late, and have actually been scoring goals, something fans of Brum in particular are really not used to. As ever set pieces will be key for both sides. Seb Larsson's deliveries make Brum a real threat with players like the man-giant Zigic in the side. And we are all aware of the threat posed by Rory Delap's superhuman throw in's for the Stokies. He is as close to a 'special teams' player in the NFL as the game has ever seen, literally better with his hands than his feet! I see this one being closely fought and I don't see either team winning by more than a single goal. I can see both teams scoring on current form, but I can't bring myself to back that for some reason. I like the look of Bet365's quotes of 8.0 on Robert Huth to score anytime, he has got more than Rooney this season after all!
Blackburn v Newcastle, 1500 Saturday
This week saw a new messiah arrive on Tyneside in the shape of Shefki Kuqi, Finlandian superstar. The beast of a man with the belly-flop celebration is the club's answer to replacing Andy Carroll for the remainder of the season. The fact he was recently released by Swansea, who are short of goals, will probably give you an idea of the likliehood of success of this one. There will probably be 3 worse teams than Newcastle this eason, and it may well save them, but major reinvestment will be needed in the summer if they plan to stick around. Blackburn have been ticking over ok under Steve Kean so far. The man that part-time Lamb Shank lookylikey Big Fat Sam said would be 'no good' as a manager has made Blackburn far more attractive to watch and a bigger threat up front. David Dunn in particular seems to be revelling in a role behind the forwards. They have always been good at home and that should continue under the new man. Betfair quotes of 2.2 on the home win look more than fair to me.
Blackpool v Aston Villa, 1500 Saturday
The resurgent Villa come up against a free-falling Blackpool in this one. Whilst they are still thrilling to watch and are always likely to score, Blackpool's ropey Championship defence is beginning to concede at an alarming rate. They are beginning to worryingly resemble Hull's spectacular 18 month fall after a great first 6 months in the top division. Rather than address the failings of his side Ian 'Olly' Holloway seems happier to play up to his Bristolian dickhead persona for the media. Gerard Houllier has rather more wisely kept a low profile and one about improving his Villa side, obviously made easier when you can spend £24mil on Darren Bent. Having been given a start up front for England, Bent got the goal that any sensible person could see he would when given a real chance. He's been the best English striker for 4 years, and whilst that might make for damning reading, it's no less true. They should beat Blackpool on current form, but a more appealing bet to me is Boylesports offer of 2.5 on over 3.5 goals.
Liverpool v Wigan, 1500 Saturday
Now I'll readily admit I was more than sceptical about Pool giving Dalglish the managers role, and was positively wetting myself after the first few results. However comma he has certainly turned a corner now. Beating Chelsea at Stamford Bridge last weekend was a great result and all the more impressive for the tactics that saw them completely negate Chelsea's attacking threat. Whilst Chelsea aren't the team they were even 6 months ago, I had little faith in a Pool upset. Playing 3 at the back with Jamie 'eh, you know, eh' as a sweeper was a masterstroke. It gave them 3 players to mark Chelsea's Torres and Drogba and let Glen Johson have less defensive responsibilties, which can only be sensible. Cos hez well gash innit. Wigan look like following Wolves out of the Prem to me and I'll be happy to see them go. Shit team, twatty chairman and crap football has no place in the top flight in my opinion. Odds of 2.1 are widely available on Pool to win to nil, and with Steve Clarke coaching the defence now I'll take that.
West Brom v West Ham, 1500 Saturday
Another team dropping like Jordan's knickers are West Brom. The club parted ways with the likeable Roberto Di Matteo after another defeat last weekend and they were looking unlikely to turn a corner with him in charge. As usual the leagues managers have lined up to condemn the sacking as short-termist, but if they want to stay in the Prem then surely they have to think like that? Bringing in a proven firefighter like Woy Hodgson or even Big Fat Git would make more sense to me than gambling on Di Matteo, regardless of how nice a man he might be. The Hammers looked to have turned a corner before defeat at home to Brum last weekend set them back somewhat. I still think in Obinna and Robbie Keane they should get the goals that will keep them up this season. But, why there has not been a protest against the utter twats in charge yet is beyond my reckoning. Porn baron's Gold and Sullivan and 'feminism crusader' Karren Brady have made a complete joke of the club in only a year in charge. Brady, who has been so keen to stick up for female lino Sian Massey, has had few problems in the past decade being paid in money mostly made from young girls being paid very little to demean themselves in classy mags like Razzle. The utterly hyprocritical shitcunt. I see goals in this one with both teams leaking like drains. Get on over 3 at 2.25 with Bet365.
Sunderland v Tottenham, 1730 Saturday
The late televised match will be Spurs travelling to the Stadium Of Light to take on Steve Bruce's team. Spurs have been on a role recently, although Redknapp is still persisting with Peter Crouch and Jermaine Defoe even though both are doing their level best to convince us all they're utter toilet. The man who always seems to pose a threat is vodka loving hitman Roman Pavluychenko. Sloopy Chops refusal to give him more of a chance is utterly ridiculous when Crouch and Defoe combined have contributed 2 goals between them in the league. If they miss the Champions League this season it will mostly be due to the man with a face like dripping candle wax's stark refusal to rotate. Sunderland have been the same as they ever were. Much stronger at home than on their travels, capable of beating anyone when in form, but just as capable of losing to anyone when their not. Bruce has spent a lot of money to tread mid-table water and questions should be asked of why their has been no discernable improvement in the side. God knows what will happen here, it entirely depends which Mackems team shows up. The best bet I can see is Bet365' 1.8 on both teams to score.
Bolton v Everton, 1600 Sunday
The only match on Sunday sees the up and down Everton travelling to a rather abysmal lately Bolton side. With Louis Saha in form of late, Everton have shown how much better they are when there is someone around to put some chances away. They haven't played that badly most of the season, but no goals = no wins in football, and they've looked about as potent as Boycey for much of it. Bolton started off well, mostly due to the goals of Johan Elmander, but he has now reverted to the form of the rest of his career and is no longer scoring. So, really, it's a tale of 2 strikers. If Saha can continue his form then Everton should win this easy, especially with Gary Cahill also looking less and less like an international defender with every match. I'm willing to take a punt on the Toffees and Boylesports are standout at 2.75 on an away win.
Fulham v Chelsea, 2000 Monday
Monday night football returns, minus the 2 stooges Gray and Keys obviously. This can only be a good thing. I've never seen the importance of Keys at all, he offers nothing except bumming up to Gray at all. This seems to in turn led to Gray going from being mildly interesting a few years back to just being a parody of himself now. He'd become stale and this excuse for Sky to sack him should freshen the channel up with any luck. Although not if Droopy Chops lad is allowed anywhere near the slot. The fooking tosser. back to the match and it's the West London derby with interlopers Chelsea taking on the team bearing their boroughs name, Fulham. The Cottagers have a decent record in this derby in recent years and with Torres still adapting and the rest of team looking like they need to be taken out back and shot they must fancy their chances. With Danny Murphy back to pulling the strings and Moussa Dembele adding some more attacking thrust along with the hugely under-rated Clint Dempsey, they've got a chance here. Take Fulahm and the Draw Double Chance at Coral at odds of 2.1 and thank me later!
Friday, 4 February 2011
The one stop shop for punters...
Good morning all and sorry for not putting a blog up last week. I was very busy at work and also only an addict bets on cup matches! Just so you can all now self-diagnose! This weekend sees a return to the Premier League and then a break for some international friendlies, where England can once again marvel at such things as possession football and tactics. This week has seen the huge drama that is the January Transfer Window, dun dun dun. Sky Sports News would have you believe this is some sort of world altering time period such is the hype and ecstasy on display on that channel on the last day. Presenters are dispatched all over the country to stand outside training grounds in the cold to be lied to by sloppy faced tools like 'Arry Redknapp, and they believe him! The man with a face like a lava slide was telling SSN in the morning that no business would be done. He then seemingly sent out his 'crack' team to make ridiculous bids for anyone who has scored a goal in La Liga this season, and Charlie Adam. But, topping all that was the news that an injury prone, shadow his former self striker who doesn't always start for his national team is worth £50mil. And even more startling is that a man who was 2nd top scorer for his side in his country's second tier competition behind Michael Chopra is worth £35mil 8 months later. Sweet fucking christ. This weeks recommended music comes from the old school, it's The Undertones with Teenage Kicks.
Stoke v Sunderland, Saturday 1245
We start the weekend off just down the road from where I'll be spending my weekend in glorious Stoke. It's a common misconception that Stoke are formidable at home, they're actually no better than they are away. This is probably due to the same reason as Blackpool's stellar away form, they don't alter their tactics at all. Most teams will sit on the back foot for a while when away and are therefore better staffed to cope with the aerial, physical bombardment you get from Tony Pulis' men. Having let go of Tuncay and Gudjohnsen recently I think it is safe to assume Total Football is off the menu. Sunderland have actually looked better more often than not in the absence of Darren Bent this season, good job since they've flogged him. If you are desperate for goals and are happy for one man to get them then Bent's your man. Sadly most teams endeavour to move on from that after a season or 2 which is why we will see Bent moving on. All this being said, I think this is a hard match to call. God only knows why, but I think there might be goals in this! Victor Chandler are top price on over 2.5 at 2.37.
Aston Villa v Fulham, Saturday 1500
talking of yer man Bent, it's his lot up first alphabetically at 3pm. They take on a rejuvenated Fulham who have been pulling away from the relegation places of late. Moussa Dembele's return to fitness has been a huge factor, as has Danny Murphy's return to form. The loan signing of Gael Kakuta from neighbours Chelsea seems a good move to me. He's a tricky wee get with plenty of pace. Villa's main business was obviously the signing of Bent, and he's already notched 2 goals for his new team. He'll thrive in a system set up to supply a lone forward with plenty of chances and should get 10 goals easily by seasons end. I also fancy him to open the scoring in this one. Fulham's form might have improved, but they'll get sod all at Villa Park. Betfred are largest on Mr D Bent scoring first, I'll have some of that.
Everton v Blackpool, Saturday 1500
Ah, the curious case of Everton...David Moyes has undoubtebly worked miracles on a small budget at the Toffees, but this season something has gone awry. Whether it's just that he's taken the team as far as he can or not is open to debate, but I think he's lost motivation. Last season saw Steven Pienaar playing well above himself, same for Louis Saha, and Mikel Arteta looks to have peaked last term too. This leaves them very short of inspiration. I think Moyes knows his spine is potentially getting weaker and also that he hasn't got the funds to buy ready made replacements for any of them. I would not be at all suprised to see him walk away at season's end. Blackpool managed to keep hold of star man Charlie Adam, and I think it'll serve him well to be playing rather than warming Spurs bench. He scored against West Ham in their midweek defeat and his reaction looked like a man with a point to prove. He'll know he needs to maintain his form to get a move to Liverpool or Man Utd at the end of the season and that should be enough for him. I think you've got to oppose Everton at under 1.5, get on Blackpool and the Draw at 2.67 with Coral.
Manchester City v West Brom, Saturday 1500
Now, I tuned in to the Baggies match against Wigan midweek and I have to say I was pleasantly suprised by the entertainment on offer. Neither team was outstanding, but both were committed to winning and it made for good end to end stuff. Since gaining all manner of plaudits around mid-December WBA's form has dipped dramatically and with only the loan signing of Carlos Vela in the window, they might get pulled further into the relegation struggle. Citeh have made extremely hard work of limited opponents of late, Notts County and Birmingham should not be a challenge to a team with title aspirations. Edin Dzeko has looked lively, if not particularly graceful so far, and that bodes well. If they can get him to show the form that made him a star in the Bundesliga it'll add another dimension to their attack. Back them to win this match to nil and you shouldn't be disappointed. Coral are again standout at 2.5.
Newcastle v Arsenal, Saturday 1500
Whilst Andy Carroll was without a shadow of a doubt hugely overpriced by Liverpool, his value to Newcastle was huge. They have been left to choose between the striking prowess of messrs Shola Ameobi, Leon Best and Peter Lovenkrands. Dogshit one and all. The offer was too good to turn down, but they need to find one of these players in some sort of form or the rest of the season is going to be an uphill struggle. They looked absolutely toothless against Fulham in midweek, in a match they'd have fancied with Carroll in the side. Arsenal might have had to come behind against Everton, but they were much the better side and the goal should never have been given to Saha. I have also seen a lot of criticism in the press of Cesc Fabregas for 'gobbing off' at the referee. Now, as with Phil Brown not too long ago, these accusations by David Moyes have been proven completely unfounded. It's a disgusting slur on one of the very few truly World Class players in the league, and the press should be made to wear the stocks if he ends up leaving soon. He is merely showing the fight and captains spirit that the team and Fabregas personally are constantly accused of lacking. Why he is picked on and Wayne 'Facking shit ref, you facking cunt' Rooney and John 'Tiny Tears' Terry are lauded for similar actions can only be xenophobia. I see a comfortable Arse win here. Totesport go 1.75 on that outcome and that's enough for me.
Tottenham v Bolton, Saturday 1500
Having been soundly thrashed by Fulham in the FA Cup last weekend, Spurs put in one of their best performances of the season to beat Blackburn away. Shorn of nearly all centre halves they repelled Rovers for 87 minutes after Peter Crouch nodded them in front. No mean feat. They will fall short this season though and I would aim a lot of criticism at Harry 'Droopy Jowls' Redknapp for this. The clown must have known his strikers were shit before the window opened, I did, and he must have also known his injury prone defence was an accident waiting to happen, again I did. If he didn't he's incompetent, and if he did and chose to not bid for any defenders and to go whoring his club round Spain on the last day for a striker, then he's a tool. But, you already knew that. Bolton are another team who were lauded pre-xmas, by me included, who have fallen away a bit since. I can't see that changing here. if Spurs had enough to beat an in-form Rovers away, they'll win this. Hills go 2.4 on them leading at HT and FT and that interests me.
Wigan v Blackburn, Saturday 1500
A borefest waiting to happen it would seem. Wigan might have been involved in a thriller with WBA in midweek, but their form would suggest that was a blip on the path to the Championship. Thank fuck. Blackburn have been ticking along nicely under Steve Kean and have made a couple of interesting signings in Mauro Formica and Ruben Rochina. Formica is an Argentinian playmaker and was attracting interest from France and Rochina is a Spanish striker who had been impressing in the Segunda in Spain for Barcelona B. A couple of signings that show he's a manager far removed from Big Fat Bastard Allardyce. The Lamb Shank lookalike had stated that Kean wouldn't be cut out for management, but so far he's already improved the Fat One's boring outfit inot a team with a lot more flair. And he's shipped out permanent dickhead El Hadij Diouf, the awful spitting shitbag. I think they could do this, but I'm not exactly confident enough to put the holiday funds on it! Victor Chandler go 2.1 on Balckburn in the Draw No Bet market and that's the one for me.
Wolves v Man Utd, Saturday 1730
The late kick off sees now bottom Wolves taking on still unbeaten United at Molineux. The sports writers in this country have been appallingly keen to inform all those listening that after 2 goals against Aston Villa at hoem that Wayne Rooney is probably the best player the world has ever seen, ever. He's not. He's an above average player who would be shown up by most players in La Liga for the hard toiling troll that he is. Saying this he was always a player that scored in spurts, as that filthy prossie will no doubt confirm. Boom Boom. Wolves have been grafting all season, but lack that bit of quality or presence that would see them from relegation battlers to comfortable mid-table a la Stoke. United have drawn plenty on their travels so far, and Wolves will hope to ad to that list. I do think United are coming into their traditional post-xmas form though, and that will be far too much for Wolves. Nani in particular has impressed me, and has picked up his compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo's habit of shooting from anywhere within 30 yards out. This makes Boylesports quotes of 3.0 on him to score anytime look worth a poke.
West Ham v Birmingham, Sunday 1330
Two of the most disappointing sides so far this season meet around lunchtime on Sunday. Both have picked up a bit of late, in no small part down to rejuvenated strikers. The Hammers have seen Victor Obinna in scintillating form and Nikola Zigic is looking more like he's played football before every match. Away from home Brum tend to be very workmanlike and happy to hold out for a draw most of the time whilst tyring to nick one from a set piece. Zigic gives them hope that against a leaky Hammers defnece they might just do it. However comma With the partnership of Keane and Obinna already seeing both score away at Blackpool, Hammers fans must be optimistic. All it really takes to survive in this league is a glut of goals. Get on the Irons at the still widely available 2.1.
Chelsea v Liverpool, Sunday 1600
The weekend ends with a huge match for numerous reasons. Fernando Torres has joined Chelsea for an astonishing £50mil and the fans of his new club will be looking for a huge effort to score against his former employees. After seeing the usual parade of knuckle-draggers on SSN burning his shirt in Scouseland, it'd serve the tools write too. Liverpool also have a new striker on show, man-biting Luis Suarez. He has been given the goal on his debut against Stoke, and it was heading in however slowly, and that has led to all sorts of wild claims of his ability from Merseyside. Having watched a bit of the Eredivisie as well as the World Cup I can confirm he should adapt better than other imports from that league like Afonso Alves and Mateja Kezman. He is more than just a goalscorer and is happy to be a link man as well as being quick enough to get in behind defences. I think Chelsea are still light years in front of Pool currently and couldn't back the Scousers to leave with anything. I think Chelsea will come haring out and should lead at HT and FT. 888sport go 2.5 on that outcome and that will conclude my weekend's punting.
Stoke v Sunderland, Saturday 1245
We start the weekend off just down the road from where I'll be spending my weekend in glorious Stoke. It's a common misconception that Stoke are formidable at home, they're actually no better than they are away. This is probably due to the same reason as Blackpool's stellar away form, they don't alter their tactics at all. Most teams will sit on the back foot for a while when away and are therefore better staffed to cope with the aerial, physical bombardment you get from Tony Pulis' men. Having let go of Tuncay and Gudjohnsen recently I think it is safe to assume Total Football is off the menu. Sunderland have actually looked better more often than not in the absence of Darren Bent this season, good job since they've flogged him. If you are desperate for goals and are happy for one man to get them then Bent's your man. Sadly most teams endeavour to move on from that after a season or 2 which is why we will see Bent moving on. All this being said, I think this is a hard match to call. God only knows why, but I think there might be goals in this! Victor Chandler are top price on over 2.5 at 2.37.
Aston Villa v Fulham, Saturday 1500
talking of yer man Bent, it's his lot up first alphabetically at 3pm. They take on a rejuvenated Fulham who have been pulling away from the relegation places of late. Moussa Dembele's return to fitness has been a huge factor, as has Danny Murphy's return to form. The loan signing of Gael Kakuta from neighbours Chelsea seems a good move to me. He's a tricky wee get with plenty of pace. Villa's main business was obviously the signing of Bent, and he's already notched 2 goals for his new team. He'll thrive in a system set up to supply a lone forward with plenty of chances and should get 10 goals easily by seasons end. I also fancy him to open the scoring in this one. Fulham's form might have improved, but they'll get sod all at Villa Park. Betfred are largest on Mr D Bent scoring first, I'll have some of that.
Everton v Blackpool, Saturday 1500
Ah, the curious case of Everton...David Moyes has undoubtebly worked miracles on a small budget at the Toffees, but this season something has gone awry. Whether it's just that he's taken the team as far as he can or not is open to debate, but I think he's lost motivation. Last season saw Steven Pienaar playing well above himself, same for Louis Saha, and Mikel Arteta looks to have peaked last term too. This leaves them very short of inspiration. I think Moyes knows his spine is potentially getting weaker and also that he hasn't got the funds to buy ready made replacements for any of them. I would not be at all suprised to see him walk away at season's end. Blackpool managed to keep hold of star man Charlie Adam, and I think it'll serve him well to be playing rather than warming Spurs bench. He scored against West Ham in their midweek defeat and his reaction looked like a man with a point to prove. He'll know he needs to maintain his form to get a move to Liverpool or Man Utd at the end of the season and that should be enough for him. I think you've got to oppose Everton at under 1.5, get on Blackpool and the Draw at 2.67 with Coral.
Manchester City v West Brom, Saturday 1500
Now, I tuned in to the Baggies match against Wigan midweek and I have to say I was pleasantly suprised by the entertainment on offer. Neither team was outstanding, but both were committed to winning and it made for good end to end stuff. Since gaining all manner of plaudits around mid-December WBA's form has dipped dramatically and with only the loan signing of Carlos Vela in the window, they might get pulled further into the relegation struggle. Citeh have made extremely hard work of limited opponents of late, Notts County and Birmingham should not be a challenge to a team with title aspirations. Edin Dzeko has looked lively, if not particularly graceful so far, and that bodes well. If they can get him to show the form that made him a star in the Bundesliga it'll add another dimension to their attack. Back them to win this match to nil and you shouldn't be disappointed. Coral are again standout at 2.5.
Newcastle v Arsenal, Saturday 1500
Whilst Andy Carroll was without a shadow of a doubt hugely overpriced by Liverpool, his value to Newcastle was huge. They have been left to choose between the striking prowess of messrs Shola Ameobi, Leon Best and Peter Lovenkrands. Dogshit one and all. The offer was too good to turn down, but they need to find one of these players in some sort of form or the rest of the season is going to be an uphill struggle. They looked absolutely toothless against Fulham in midweek, in a match they'd have fancied with Carroll in the side. Arsenal might have had to come behind against Everton, but they were much the better side and the goal should never have been given to Saha. I have also seen a lot of criticism in the press of Cesc Fabregas for 'gobbing off' at the referee. Now, as with Phil Brown not too long ago, these accusations by David Moyes have been proven completely unfounded. It's a disgusting slur on one of the very few truly World Class players in the league, and the press should be made to wear the stocks if he ends up leaving soon. He is merely showing the fight and captains spirit that the team and Fabregas personally are constantly accused of lacking. Why he is picked on and Wayne 'Facking shit ref, you facking cunt' Rooney and John 'Tiny Tears' Terry are lauded for similar actions can only be xenophobia. I see a comfortable Arse win here. Totesport go 1.75 on that outcome and that's enough for me.
Tottenham v Bolton, Saturday 1500
Having been soundly thrashed by Fulham in the FA Cup last weekend, Spurs put in one of their best performances of the season to beat Blackburn away. Shorn of nearly all centre halves they repelled Rovers for 87 minutes after Peter Crouch nodded them in front. No mean feat. They will fall short this season though and I would aim a lot of criticism at Harry 'Droopy Jowls' Redknapp for this. The clown must have known his strikers were shit before the window opened, I did, and he must have also known his injury prone defence was an accident waiting to happen, again I did. If he didn't he's incompetent, and if he did and chose to not bid for any defenders and to go whoring his club round Spain on the last day for a striker, then he's a tool. But, you already knew that. Bolton are another team who were lauded pre-xmas, by me included, who have fallen away a bit since. I can't see that changing here. if Spurs had enough to beat an in-form Rovers away, they'll win this. Hills go 2.4 on them leading at HT and FT and that interests me.
Wigan v Blackburn, Saturday 1500
A borefest waiting to happen it would seem. Wigan might have been involved in a thriller with WBA in midweek, but their form would suggest that was a blip on the path to the Championship. Thank fuck. Blackburn have been ticking along nicely under Steve Kean and have made a couple of interesting signings in Mauro Formica and Ruben Rochina. Formica is an Argentinian playmaker and was attracting interest from France and Rochina is a Spanish striker who had been impressing in the Segunda in Spain for Barcelona B. A couple of signings that show he's a manager far removed from Big Fat Bastard Allardyce. The Lamb Shank lookalike had stated that Kean wouldn't be cut out for management, but so far he's already improved the Fat One's boring outfit inot a team with a lot more flair. And he's shipped out permanent dickhead El Hadij Diouf, the awful spitting shitbag. I think they could do this, but I'm not exactly confident enough to put the holiday funds on it! Victor Chandler go 2.1 on Balckburn in the Draw No Bet market and that's the one for me.
Wolves v Man Utd, Saturday 1730
The late kick off sees now bottom Wolves taking on still unbeaten United at Molineux. The sports writers in this country have been appallingly keen to inform all those listening that after 2 goals against Aston Villa at hoem that Wayne Rooney is probably the best player the world has ever seen, ever. He's not. He's an above average player who would be shown up by most players in La Liga for the hard toiling troll that he is. Saying this he was always a player that scored in spurts, as that filthy prossie will no doubt confirm. Boom Boom. Wolves have been grafting all season, but lack that bit of quality or presence that would see them from relegation battlers to comfortable mid-table a la Stoke. United have drawn plenty on their travels so far, and Wolves will hope to ad to that list. I do think United are coming into their traditional post-xmas form though, and that will be far too much for Wolves. Nani in particular has impressed me, and has picked up his compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo's habit of shooting from anywhere within 30 yards out. This makes Boylesports quotes of 3.0 on him to score anytime look worth a poke.
West Ham v Birmingham, Sunday 1330
Two of the most disappointing sides so far this season meet around lunchtime on Sunday. Both have picked up a bit of late, in no small part down to rejuvenated strikers. The Hammers have seen Victor Obinna in scintillating form and Nikola Zigic is looking more like he's played football before every match. Away from home Brum tend to be very workmanlike and happy to hold out for a draw most of the time whilst tyring to nick one from a set piece. Zigic gives them hope that against a leaky Hammers defnece they might just do it. However comma With the partnership of Keane and Obinna already seeing both score away at Blackpool, Hammers fans must be optimistic. All it really takes to survive in this league is a glut of goals. Get on the Irons at the still widely available 2.1.
Chelsea v Liverpool, Sunday 1600
The weekend ends with a huge match for numerous reasons. Fernando Torres has joined Chelsea for an astonishing £50mil and the fans of his new club will be looking for a huge effort to score against his former employees. After seeing the usual parade of knuckle-draggers on SSN burning his shirt in Scouseland, it'd serve the tools write too. Liverpool also have a new striker on show, man-biting Luis Suarez. He has been given the goal on his debut against Stoke, and it was heading in however slowly, and that has led to all sorts of wild claims of his ability from Merseyside. Having watched a bit of the Eredivisie as well as the World Cup I can confirm he should adapt better than other imports from that league like Afonso Alves and Mateja Kezman. He is more than just a goalscorer and is happy to be a link man as well as being quick enough to get in behind defences. I think Chelsea are still light years in front of Pool currently and couldn't back the Scousers to leave with anything. I think Chelsea will come haring out and should lead at HT and FT. 888sport go 2.5 on that outcome and that will conclude my weekend's punting.
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