The title should betray my feelings on betting on International football. It's very hard to be that clued up when the teams only get together once every few months and then you can't always be sure of the teams put out. There are some sides that are priced more on past endeavours than recent history and that allows for a bit of a poke, but I would recommend stearing clear of blowing any serious reddies on them. Music this time comes from The Donna's with Do You Wanna Hit It? A fantastic riff makes this an absolute belter of a tune. Even if it is girls with guitars, what's that all about eh?
Serbia v Northern Ireland, Friday 1930
My first tip is this intriguing match. After rioting quite spectacularly in Italy before their last qualifier, Serbia will play this match behind closed doors. They have got some promising players, and the magnificent Nemanja Vidic, but they are yet to shine in this campaign. Norn Iron on the other hand have probably overperformed in terms of results. Although, with their 'style' of play under Worthington you would struggle to use perform in any other context about them. They have got some real battlers in the side and are adept at keeping it tight at the back and looking for set piece goals to sneak matches. And without the usual vociferous Eastern European backing I think the Serbs may struggle to break them down. I'm not sure if Norn Iron can last the whole match, but I'd be very tempted by 2.3 at Betfred about a Half Time Draw.
Slovenia v Italy, Friday 1945
Another match this evening is this, and there will be some fireworks I would have thought. Slovenia appointed national football icon, and all-round flaming mentalist, Zlatko Zahovic as manager before the campaign and he has not been short of opinions on Italian football. He has said that it is on the slide and has predicted an easy 2-0 win for Slovenia. Christ. Whilst I would agree that Italy is definitely not a vintage team at present, Slovenia are hardly Brazil 1970 either. They're a bunch of cloggers with their star player playing for FC Groningen in Holland. I'm sure they'll put on a performance, and might even keep it tight, but I would expect Italy to triumph. In Cesar Prandelli they finally have a man not flogging the old brigade to death and finally introducing some flair. Both Cassano and Pazzini have been in fine form since their January moves to the Milan clubs and should combine to lethal effect. Odds of 2.3 are widely available on an Italy win and I think they're one of the better bets of the weekend.
Bulgaria v Switzerland, Saturday 1645
Two of the other teams in England's qualifying group meet in Bulgaria on Saturday afternoon. Switzerland always seem to produce some talented kids now, but they seem to struggle to produce strikers. There really have been one of note since Stephane Chapuisat except the injury prone Alex Frei. For this reason as much as anything else they don't tend to produce cracking games. They're similar in style to Stoke sadly, but without Rory Delap to hurl a missile in. Bulgaria would be a lot more threatening with Dimi Berbatov up top, but he's followed the traditional Man Utd route and retired from his country as soon as he turned 30. The fucking traiterous sod. Anyhoo, this is a match to avoid viewing. Under 2.25 goals at 1.83 at Victor Chandler for me.
Bosnia v Romania, Saturday 1815
My last tip comes from Eastern Europe again with the up and coming Bosnia against the used to be good Romania. The last memorable thing Romania did was probably when the 90's team of characters like Popescu and Hagi all dies their hair bleach blond, the cads! They have been, with the notable exception of the excellent Christian Chivu, pretty goddam dogshit. Bosnia are obviously not a particularly old team, with the country only a recent addition to the world map. Players like Musimovic and Dzeko are a class above anything that Romania have to offer and they should put them to the sword without much struggle. Odds of 2.25 on Bosnia look very backable to me so fill yer boots!
Friday, 25 March 2011
Friday, 18 March 2011
What to do, what to do...
Well, I had my most successful week in terms of tips last week when casting my eyes towards mainland Europe. However comma that did mean that I didn't really get the chance to abuse prime prats like Big Fat Sam Allardicio or Sir Wrigley quite as much as makes me happy. So I'm at a bit of a crossroads taking this blog forward. I would love to write 2 blogs every weekend, but sadly I haven't the time for it. I will try and combine both this week with a selection of some from the Prem, and also some for around Europe. Hopefully this will give a happy medium, although any feedback on which way those that read this would like it to go would be greatly received? Last weekend saw Arsenal's annual capitulation continue apace. Dominating Man Utd before neglecting to bother actually shooting straight can only go on so long before you are punished. With Djourou and Vermaaelen now ruled out for the rest of the season I am rescinding my tip of the Gunners as a good bet for the league. They've shot it. We also saw all the remaining combatants from the UK leaving the Europa League with barely a whimper. Liverpool produced another god awful display, devoid of the 'famous' Anfield atmosphere. Man City failed to push on from a 1-0 lead at HT, not helped by Mario Balotelli's rather un-necessary sending off before the break. And Rangers sent out a shadow team with the hugely important Co-Op Cup Final this weekend. Music comes from a new favourite of mine Anti-Flag with No Paradise.
West Brom v Arsenal, Saturday 1500
As I am seeing an Arsenal supporting friend on Saturday, it brings me no huge pleasure to declare the Gunners season over. But, in my opinion, that's exactly the stage they find themselves at. I have moaned before about the lack of a second voice at Arsenal, and the 'nice' culture between the players. That's all a bit old hat now. What isn't though is the return of Mad Jens! One of the biggest characters to ever grace English football in the last decade is back at 41 to cover Almunia, a man who admitted to 'hating' him only 3 years ago. This should provide some fantastic entertainment! He is also doing his coaching badges so some sort of comedy Prof Arsene and Mad Jens team might be somewhere down the line, oh fuck yes. Anyway, back to the football. I think West Brom will rarely get a better time to face the Gooners than when they're sitting licking their wounds complaining about the injustice of it all. They have been fairly poor since xmas, but I think they will definitely score in this, and that gives them a chance. Coral are still 2.1 on WBA and the Draw and I'll happily take that action.
Everton v Fulham, Saturday 1730
In one of the less inspiring late kick-offs this season on ESPN we have under-performing Everton hosting poor travellers Fulham. I think Everton had been generally underpriced for a lot of the season at home as people assumed they'd get out of their shit run, but it seems now that might have swung the other way. I think you'd have seen this game with Everton around the 1.7 mark a month ago before Fulham got their strikers back. To compound the Toffees misery they have injuries as usual, but Mikel Arteta has looked somewhere approaching what he's capable of recently. They will look to him for inspiration and flair and I think he'll provide some good performances until the end of the season before looking at the summer as his last chance for a big move. The Mark Viduka Effect as it's more commonly known. As mentioned, Fulham now have some strikers back and fit and have looked a more rounded team for it. They have also picked up a cracking 1 win away all season. They wont add to that here for my money. Betfair are still at 2.1 and it wont be above even money for long so take it whilst it's hot!
Chelsea v Man City, Sunday 1600
I'm writing about this mainly as a reason to vent my spleen at that fucking thick twat Tony Gale. I've been bombarded with his 'expert' views on Mario Balotelli on SSN all morning, and I'm at boiling point. He's a fucking clown, a dickhead of the highest order, Gale that is. Balotelli is definitely a liability, but until Man City are challenging for the title or regular 'Champions' League qualifiers, he is exactly the sort of player they will have to chance it on. He's supremely talented, but a flawed character and still worth persisting with for at least another season. Gale saying he should be bombed out immediately, that he's not that good anyway, and that the Kiev team that beat them 2-0 only a week ago were incredibly poor. I hate the man. How can someone who is so consistently wrong in his statements on national TV still be given more airtime? That'll do for now. This will be a tight match, Citeh determined not to concede and Chelsea firing as many blanks as Boycie. In my opinion Bet365 are taking a chance on 1.85 on under 2.5 and I'll happily take them on.
Bologna v Genoa, Sunday 1400
This match will probably follow most of Genoa's this season and be an incredibly dull affair. They rely on keeping it tight at the back and trying to pinch a goal here and there, and it's enough to keep them out of danger. Bologna take more chances and are being rewarded for it at home with a very impressive 7 wins at home already. They beat Juventus at Delle Alpi only 3 games ago and have picked up a draw and another away win in the intervening period. Genoa have not been great away from home and have only scored 11 in 15, but have only conceded a paltry 14. It should be a tight game, but at the odds on offer I'm willing to back Bologna. The teams are roughly similar in league position with Bologna one place above Genoa so I think Bolgna are good value slight fav's. Odds of 2.75 are still available at William Hill but they wont be for long.
Bayer Leverkusen v Schalke 04, Sunday 1430
In a suprising league table in Germany Dortmund have romped clear to an almost unassaiable lead, with Leverkusen the chasers. They are comfortable in 2nd place and are playing some very good football themselves. Schalke have fared ok in the Champions League and Germany's DFB Pokal Cup, but league form has left them struggling well off the top. This led to the sacking of their manager Felix Magath this week. Always a prickly character, Magath demands a lot of players and is not keen on the press. This very quickly makes his life difficult when results don't go his way as the press are quick to apply pressure and many players revolt. After quickly appointing ex-Hoffenheim manager Ralf Ragnick they should see a turnaround in results, but not quickly enough for this game. Bet365 go 2.5 on Leverkusen -1.0 asian and I'd fill yer boots, they'll cover it.
Gaziantepsor v Istanbul BB, Saturday 1300
On to my current favourite league, the Turkish Super Lig! I keep a very close eye on this at work, and have been doing very well personally out of it of late. Gaziantep have been a major source of income as they are very good at home, particularly in dispatching the lesser lights. Istanbul BB are constantly in the shadow of Gala and Fener in Istanbul and will be unlikely to ever set the league alight. They are comfortably mid-table this season, and have been ticking over nicley. But, all their better away performances have been against teams like Sivasspor and Kasimpasa, who are utter dogshit. Gaziantep will be a different proposition and should fancy their chances of a victory. I'm happy to take them with a -1.0 asian hcap and Bet365 go 2.32 on that.
Eskisehirspor v Karabukspor, Sunday 1200
A similar feel to this game with 2 teams that aren't a million miles apart. Eskisehir have had some goo dresults lately, unbeaten in 5 and on a 4 match winning run. Karabuk have drawn the last 2 and only won away twice all season. They score a lot at home, but they are similar to many teams in this league in that their defence would embarass an under 13's girls team at times. They have conceded 25 in 13 away and Eskisehir must be looking to gain another 3 points and try and push on from an impressive 5th position they currently occupy. Basically, take the form team against a team who are weak away. They are still 2.15 with Blue Sq and that will be below even money come kick off so get on now.
West Brom v Arsenal, Saturday 1500
As I am seeing an Arsenal supporting friend on Saturday, it brings me no huge pleasure to declare the Gunners season over. But, in my opinion, that's exactly the stage they find themselves at. I have moaned before about the lack of a second voice at Arsenal, and the 'nice' culture between the players. That's all a bit old hat now. What isn't though is the return of Mad Jens! One of the biggest characters to ever grace English football in the last decade is back at 41 to cover Almunia, a man who admitted to 'hating' him only 3 years ago. This should provide some fantastic entertainment! He is also doing his coaching badges so some sort of comedy Prof Arsene and Mad Jens team might be somewhere down the line, oh fuck yes. Anyway, back to the football. I think West Brom will rarely get a better time to face the Gooners than when they're sitting licking their wounds complaining about the injustice of it all. They have been fairly poor since xmas, but I think they will definitely score in this, and that gives them a chance. Coral are still 2.1 on WBA and the Draw and I'll happily take that action.
Everton v Fulham, Saturday 1730
In one of the less inspiring late kick-offs this season on ESPN we have under-performing Everton hosting poor travellers Fulham. I think Everton had been generally underpriced for a lot of the season at home as people assumed they'd get out of their shit run, but it seems now that might have swung the other way. I think you'd have seen this game with Everton around the 1.7 mark a month ago before Fulham got their strikers back. To compound the Toffees misery they have injuries as usual, but Mikel Arteta has looked somewhere approaching what he's capable of recently. They will look to him for inspiration and flair and I think he'll provide some good performances until the end of the season before looking at the summer as his last chance for a big move. The Mark Viduka Effect as it's more commonly known. As mentioned, Fulham now have some strikers back and fit and have looked a more rounded team for it. They have also picked up a cracking 1 win away all season. They wont add to that here for my money. Betfair are still at 2.1 and it wont be above even money for long so take it whilst it's hot!
Chelsea v Man City, Sunday 1600
I'm writing about this mainly as a reason to vent my spleen at that fucking thick twat Tony Gale. I've been bombarded with his 'expert' views on Mario Balotelli on SSN all morning, and I'm at boiling point. He's a fucking clown, a dickhead of the highest order, Gale that is. Balotelli is definitely a liability, but until Man City are challenging for the title or regular 'Champions' League qualifiers, he is exactly the sort of player they will have to chance it on. He's supremely talented, but a flawed character and still worth persisting with for at least another season. Gale saying he should be bombed out immediately, that he's not that good anyway, and that the Kiev team that beat them 2-0 only a week ago were incredibly poor. I hate the man. How can someone who is so consistently wrong in his statements on national TV still be given more airtime? That'll do for now. This will be a tight match, Citeh determined not to concede and Chelsea firing as many blanks as Boycie. In my opinion Bet365 are taking a chance on 1.85 on under 2.5 and I'll happily take them on.
Bologna v Genoa, Sunday 1400
This match will probably follow most of Genoa's this season and be an incredibly dull affair. They rely on keeping it tight at the back and trying to pinch a goal here and there, and it's enough to keep them out of danger. Bologna take more chances and are being rewarded for it at home with a very impressive 7 wins at home already. They beat Juventus at Delle Alpi only 3 games ago and have picked up a draw and another away win in the intervening period. Genoa have not been great away from home and have only scored 11 in 15, but have only conceded a paltry 14. It should be a tight game, but at the odds on offer I'm willing to back Bologna. The teams are roughly similar in league position with Bologna one place above Genoa so I think Bolgna are good value slight fav's. Odds of 2.75 are still available at William Hill but they wont be for long.
Bayer Leverkusen v Schalke 04, Sunday 1430
In a suprising league table in Germany Dortmund have romped clear to an almost unassaiable lead, with Leverkusen the chasers. They are comfortable in 2nd place and are playing some very good football themselves. Schalke have fared ok in the Champions League and Germany's DFB Pokal Cup, but league form has left them struggling well off the top. This led to the sacking of their manager Felix Magath this week. Always a prickly character, Magath demands a lot of players and is not keen on the press. This very quickly makes his life difficult when results don't go his way as the press are quick to apply pressure and many players revolt. After quickly appointing ex-Hoffenheim manager Ralf Ragnick they should see a turnaround in results, but not quickly enough for this game. Bet365 go 2.5 on Leverkusen -1.0 asian and I'd fill yer boots, they'll cover it.
Gaziantepsor v Istanbul BB, Saturday 1300
On to my current favourite league, the Turkish Super Lig! I keep a very close eye on this at work, and have been doing very well personally out of it of late. Gaziantep have been a major source of income as they are very good at home, particularly in dispatching the lesser lights. Istanbul BB are constantly in the shadow of Gala and Fener in Istanbul and will be unlikely to ever set the league alight. They are comfortably mid-table this season, and have been ticking over nicley. But, all their better away performances have been against teams like Sivasspor and Kasimpasa, who are utter dogshit. Gaziantep will be a different proposition and should fancy their chances of a victory. I'm happy to take them with a -1.0 asian hcap and Bet365 go 2.32 on that.
Eskisehirspor v Karabukspor, Sunday 1200
A similar feel to this game with 2 teams that aren't a million miles apart. Eskisehir have had some goo dresults lately, unbeaten in 5 and on a 4 match winning run. Karabuk have drawn the last 2 and only won away twice all season. They score a lot at home, but they are similar to many teams in this league in that their defence would embarass an under 13's girls team at times. They have conceded 25 in 13 away and Eskisehir must be looking to gain another 3 points and try and push on from an impressive 5th position they currently occupy. Basically, take the form team against a team who are weak away. They are still 2.15 with Blue Sq and that will be below even money come kick off so get on now.
Friday, 11 March 2011
A fork in the road...
I'm going to try something highly irregular this week and look to some of those strange foreign leagues for my bets. I really don't like punting on the cups so whilst I might throw one or two bets in, personally I'll be casting my glance away from England. This week saw Arsenal ushered out of Europe and Arsene Wenger still seemingly unable to comprehend how his team were beaten by a clearly better team in the vast majority of both legs. It might not always appear so, but I am a massive fan of the Frenchman's. He should receive great credit for basically laying the blueprint for diet, fitness and scouting that all clubs now look to follow in England. The man's a genius, but he is losing his marbles and is far too stubborn. I've mentioned before how he needs a number 2 that does more than nod and resemble a paedophile, as Pat Rice seems to. Someone who will tell him it's not a sin to occasionally call his players a bunch of fooking bottlers, they wont learn otherwise. We also saw Totteringham surpass the Gunners in this years Champions League. Whilst they put in their worst performance of the tournament so far, they deserve great credit for making themselves very watchable and succeeding in their first campaign. Music this week comes from Velvet Revolver with the tuuune Sucker Train Blues.
Birmingham v Bolton, 1245 Saturday
Having told you how I hate the cups, my first bet is in, drum roll please...the FA Cup. Look at me, going back on my word, like the disgusting gambler I am. Anyhoo, the reason I picked this match out is that I genuinely think if Birmingham could just retire from the FA Cup now they would. They have just won the Carling Cup and caused a backlog of matches in doing so. They have just dropped into the bottom 3 in the Prem and will desperately want to avoid injuries going into the run-in. Bolton have no such problems. They can afford the thrill of a cup run still with them safely tucked up in mid-table. I realise Bolton are away, but I'm willing to take a punt on Bolton's best XI being too much for Brum's reserves. Let's face it, their first team is pretty wank. Boylesports are 2.62 on Bolton now, that will be around 2.4 by kick-off in my opinion.
Roma v Lazio, 1400 Sunday
My first foreign pick is in the Eternal City Derby between Roma and Lazio. Whilst Roma are the 'home' team for this match, they'll be playing in the same stadium Lazio play their home matches in. So the fear factor of an away trip is immediately halved there. Roma have been pretty dreadful of late, culminating in Ranieri resigning a couple of weeks back. Ex-player Vincenzo Montella has taken over and has had mixed results. The problem seems to lie in their piss poor defence. Phillipe Mexes is a cracking player, but a stroppy French sod, who is happy to throw a wobbler when things don't go his way. And if that isn't a stereotype, I don't know what is!? He's the experienced man supposedly and his less than calm demeanour must rub off on his colleagues. Lazio have quietly been grinding out results all season, with Hernanes their star man. The Brazilian is destined for a big move and has re-found his early season form of late. Stan James are standout at 3.4 on Lazio, and I would again expect to see that nearer 3.0 come Sunday.
Almeria v Atletico Madrid, 1700 Saturday
The first match of the weekend in La Liga is a Madrid derby involving the cities 2nd and 3rd teams. Almeria have been punching above their weight for a few years now in La Liga and have been looking likely to succumb to relegation this season so far. However comma they have got some memorable results and are tight at the back. Atleti were widely tipped to challenge Real and Barca more this season and have failed miserably. It seemed to be ignored that they won the Europa League without winning a match in 90 minutes, and that their defence was as porous as ever. When you then add in Diego Forlan looking tired and bored, and Aguero seeming to be waiting for a bus to take him to England, it adds up to a mess. This is nothing new for Atleti, they revel in their failures like no other team. Victor Chandler are 2.5 on Almeria Draw No Bet and I'll take that on.
Ankaragucu v Galatasaray, 1300 Sunday
Now then...In my current job I keep a close on the Turkish Super Lig and bet on it a fair deal myself. There isn't a standout bet for me this week, but I do like the odds on this game. Gala are hovering around lower mid-table this season and are as poor as they have been in many a year. Fenerbahce and Besiktas have got pots of money in comparison and shrewd signings by Bursaspor and Trabzonspor have seen those clubs pulling clear of Gala too. This has led to them being slightly over-priced most weekends for me, especially away from home. These 2 teams are pretty evenly matched, with Ankara better at home than Gala are away. For this reason I'll be backing Ankara art an industry best 3.0 widely available now.
Vitesse v Heerenveen, 1945 Saturday
My last tip will come from the land of tulips, clogs and lax drug laws, the Netherlands. The league that gifted us strikers such as Afonso Alves and Mateja Kezman is a goalfest most weeks. Most defences seem about as full of holes as organised religion. Generally one team will run away with the league somewhat and this year it is the turn of PSV. Ajax are broke and in a state of rebuilding and Twente have failed to reach the heights of Schteve McClaren's reign. Who'd have ever thought you'd say that abotu a team? However comma the game I am looking at is a mid-table affair between newly minted Vitesse and Heerenveen. Vitesse spent big in the summer in the hope of breaking into the Champions League, but a sluggish start put paid to that plan before xmas. Since the break though they have looked a more settled side and home form has been very decent. They are desperate for points as they are still just above the relegation places, whereas Heerenveen are comfortable mid-table thanks to some impressive home form. This home form has masked a pretty poor return of only 2 wins from 12 away from their gaff. Betfair are still 2.66 on a Vitesse win and I'd say that'll be nearer 2.5 by kick-off.
Birmingham v Bolton, 1245 Saturday
Having told you how I hate the cups, my first bet is in, drum roll please...the FA Cup. Look at me, going back on my word, like the disgusting gambler I am. Anyhoo, the reason I picked this match out is that I genuinely think if Birmingham could just retire from the FA Cup now they would. They have just won the Carling Cup and caused a backlog of matches in doing so. They have just dropped into the bottom 3 in the Prem and will desperately want to avoid injuries going into the run-in. Bolton have no such problems. They can afford the thrill of a cup run still with them safely tucked up in mid-table. I realise Bolton are away, but I'm willing to take a punt on Bolton's best XI being too much for Brum's reserves. Let's face it, their first team is pretty wank. Boylesports are 2.62 on Bolton now, that will be around 2.4 by kick-off in my opinion.
Roma v Lazio, 1400 Sunday
My first foreign pick is in the Eternal City Derby between Roma and Lazio. Whilst Roma are the 'home' team for this match, they'll be playing in the same stadium Lazio play their home matches in. So the fear factor of an away trip is immediately halved there. Roma have been pretty dreadful of late, culminating in Ranieri resigning a couple of weeks back. Ex-player Vincenzo Montella has taken over and has had mixed results. The problem seems to lie in their piss poor defence. Phillipe Mexes is a cracking player, but a stroppy French sod, who is happy to throw a wobbler when things don't go his way. And if that isn't a stereotype, I don't know what is!? He's the experienced man supposedly and his less than calm demeanour must rub off on his colleagues. Lazio have quietly been grinding out results all season, with Hernanes their star man. The Brazilian is destined for a big move and has re-found his early season form of late. Stan James are standout at 3.4 on Lazio, and I would again expect to see that nearer 3.0 come Sunday.
Almeria v Atletico Madrid, 1700 Saturday
The first match of the weekend in La Liga is a Madrid derby involving the cities 2nd and 3rd teams. Almeria have been punching above their weight for a few years now in La Liga and have been looking likely to succumb to relegation this season so far. However comma they have got some memorable results and are tight at the back. Atleti were widely tipped to challenge Real and Barca more this season and have failed miserably. It seemed to be ignored that they won the Europa League without winning a match in 90 minutes, and that their defence was as porous as ever. When you then add in Diego Forlan looking tired and bored, and Aguero seeming to be waiting for a bus to take him to England, it adds up to a mess. This is nothing new for Atleti, they revel in their failures like no other team. Victor Chandler are 2.5 on Almeria Draw No Bet and I'll take that on.
Ankaragucu v Galatasaray, 1300 Sunday
Now then...In my current job I keep a close on the Turkish Super Lig and bet on it a fair deal myself. There isn't a standout bet for me this week, but I do like the odds on this game. Gala are hovering around lower mid-table this season and are as poor as they have been in many a year. Fenerbahce and Besiktas have got pots of money in comparison and shrewd signings by Bursaspor and Trabzonspor have seen those clubs pulling clear of Gala too. This has led to them being slightly over-priced most weekends for me, especially away from home. These 2 teams are pretty evenly matched, with Ankara better at home than Gala are away. For this reason I'll be backing Ankara art an industry best 3.0 widely available now.
Vitesse v Heerenveen, 1945 Saturday
My last tip will come from the land of tulips, clogs and lax drug laws, the Netherlands. The league that gifted us strikers such as Afonso Alves and Mateja Kezman is a goalfest most weeks. Most defences seem about as full of holes as organised religion. Generally one team will run away with the league somewhat and this year it is the turn of PSV. Ajax are broke and in a state of rebuilding and Twente have failed to reach the heights of Schteve McClaren's reign. Who'd have ever thought you'd say that abotu a team? However comma the game I am looking at is a mid-table affair between newly minted Vitesse and Heerenveen. Vitesse spent big in the summer in the hope of breaking into the Champions League, but a sluggish start put paid to that plan before xmas. Since the break though they have looked a more settled side and home form has been very decent. They are desperate for points as they are still just above the relegation places, whereas Heerenveen are comfortable mid-table thanks to some impressive home form. This home form has masked a pretty poor return of only 2 wins from 12 away from their gaff. Betfair are still 2.66 on a Vitesse win and I'd say that'll be nearer 2.5 by kick-off.
Friday, 4 March 2011
It suddenly became very interesting...
Well, what a week that was! In a very decent Careless Final last Sunday afternoon, Arsenal managed to once again find a new way of fucking everything up. It will come as no surprise to regular viewers that the winning goal they conceded came from an error from both centre half and goalkeeper. Whilst Thomas Vermaelen looked like Wenger had finally got something right in the centre backs market, Laurent Kocielny has looked out of his depth all too often this season. This was likely to happen, in fact I mentioned it in a blog before the season began, as he was only playing in France's Ligue 2 3 years ago. He simply needs time, and a diet of steak and guiness, if he is too make an impact in England. We also saw a cracking match between 2 of the Sky 4 on Tuesday with Chelsea coming from behind (oo-er) to beat Man Utd. After the FA once again showed the balls that they're famous for in not banning Wayne Rooney for his deliberate elbow on James McCarthy. The commonly peddled myth that no retrospective action can be taken is ill-researched, it's bollocks. In Serie A only this season they looked at Milos Krasic diving and decided that even though the referee said he'd seen it and took action, that the referee was wrong. Krasic was handed a 2 match ban. Utterly spineless as usual. The match was a cracker and once again proved Sir Wrigley to be a fucking awful graceless twat. They were beaten by the better team and having been fortunate enough to be able to field Wayne Rooney, and for him to stay on the pitch after his constant abuse of officials, was incensed by the failure to send off David Luiz. Horrible, horrible man. Music this week comes from Germany, Beatsteaks with Hello Joe.
Birmingham v West Brom, 1245 Saturday
The weekend begins with yet another Midlands derby. The things have been coming thick and fast with Birmingham represented by 4 teams in the Prem this season. Birmingham should still be riding the crest of a wave after their brilliant victory against Arsenal, and their first silverware in a long...long time. They have been pretty solid at the back all season and have been kept back by the lack of goals from their forwards. Nikola Zigic seems to have recently decided that his height of around 9 foot 4 might be a useful tool, and they have looked a much better team for it. West Brom haven't looked much better under Woy Hodgson since his appointment as boss. They still leak goals far too much and don't score nearly enough when Odemwingie isn't on form. I see this one going Brum's way. They should be able to keep WBA at bay and nick a goal or two. Billy Hill's are 2.4 and that seems fine to me.
Arsenal v Sunderland, 1500 Saturday
From the winners of the Careless Cup to the vanquished losers. Arsenal have in recent seasons taken major defeats like this very seriously and their form has suffered. There is also the all to familiar injury crisis at this stage with more than half the first choice XI being ruled out for this match. Thankfully then, they are playing the almightily poor Sunderland on Saturday. Steve Bruce seems destined to buy decent players, get some impressive results, but fail to turn these performances out anywhere near regularly enough. He's plainly underachieving at Sunderland and I feel would be out of work were it not for a very good start. He has spent a fortune for someone who's team seem very at home in the middle of the table and he really should be under more pressure. Having seen Arsenal bring in some fringe players like Chamakh and Bendtner against Orient in the FA Cup this week and grab goals, I am confident they will again perform well in this chance against the Wearsiders. Victor Chandler go 2.1 on Arsenal -1.25 and I'm happy with that.
Bolton v Aston Villa, 1500 Saturday
In a match that promises very little in entertainment we see faltering Villa travelling to the Reebok. Having put out a reserve side against Man City in the FA Cup and been soundly beaten, Ged Houllier is feeling the pressure. His claims that the key players were rested for this match will sound very hollow if Bolton win. After the initial goals and euphoria surrounding Darren Bent's move, the team has regressed back to the lifeless bunch of chancers they looked early in the season. Ashley Young has disappointed in every match barring the last one, Gaby Agbonlahor looks like the headless chicken he is and Emile Heskey...well he's shit isn't he? Both sides are near enough to the relegation places to make these 3 points very important so we should see plenty of endeavour if not skill. I fancy a draw at a widely available 3.4.
Fulham v Blackburn, 1500 Saturday
Another team that looked impressive a little while back, but has been crap of late is Blackburn. Fulham are on the up! Having gained a few wins at home, they got a very creditable draw at Man City. We also saw the continuation of the ongoing cock measuring contest between Mark Hughes and Roberto Mancini. Hughes seems completely unable to accept Citeh are better for him leaving, and Mancini has been drawn into this pathetic spat. We now have Hughes claiming a lack of respect because Mancini didn't look at him when shaking hands, and Bobi claiming 'he did it first'. Immature in the extreme, but mildly amusing. Anyway all this being said, with one teams form in the proverbial shitter and one on the up there can only be one outcome, can't there? Take Paddy Power's 1.75 on Fulham.
Newcastle v Everton, 1500 Saturday
This should be a fairly even match on paper. Both teams are shy of a goalscorer with Saha once again injured for the Toffees and Carroll departed from Newcastle. Everton have something of an injury crisis at present with Cahill and Fellaini both missing from midfield, and generally they're the best players. Cahill provides energy and a consistent goal threat and Fellaini is up and down like a yoyo. They will definitely miss the pair with Arteta looking a shadow of his former self all season. A mirror for Everton really. They look tired and bored most weeks, and Moyes looks just as listless. Newcastle have been brilliant in beating Arsenal, Liverpool and thrashing Villa, but without Carroll their threat is halved. However comma I think they should still beat a pathetic at times Everton. Betfair are a standout at 2.72 and I think it's worth a punt.
West Ham v Stoke, 1500 Saturday
As with all West Ham matches, this could have plenty of action, and go either way. The Hammers have some raw striking talent in Demba Ba and Victor Obinna as well as the experience of Robbie Keane. The energy of Scott Parker in midfield and the more than capable Matt Upson and Robert Green at the back. This should really be enough to keep them up if they could string more than 2 results together. Stoke are Stoke. They're big, tough and quite often dirty, but they get results. They'll not play football or produce any sort of flair, but they'll bully enough teams to get enough wins to be well clear of relegation. Whether the fans will continue to accept this lack of progress will be interesting though. West Ham's best results have come at home so far and if they play as they can then their pacy front line will cause Stoke's 4 giants at the back problems. I think they will probably also concede though, as they're seemingly incapable of doing anything the easy way. Stan James are a best priced 2.2 on over 2.5 goals and that should cover.
Man City v Wigan, 1730 Saturday
The late match on TV sees a truly pathetic Wigan outfit taking on Citeh at Eastlands. Having failed to beat Fulham last weekend, City will be very glad Spurs failed against Blackpool. They really need to be winning home matches like that if they are to gain Champions League football next season. The win over Villa's reserves was impressive and Mario Balotelli was also very good before he decided he was all angry as usual. If someone could harness his fantastic natural ability and take the excesses out of his game, he could really be something special. Carlos Tevez had a bit of a rest and should be very fresh for this match too, giving them plenty of classy striking options. Wigan were soundly beaten by Man Utd last weekend and looked as poor at the back as they have all season. They don't score many either and this is a recipe for disaster in the long run. I see another thrashing for Wigan in front of both their fans this week. Victor Chandler go 2.11 on City -1.5 and I'd be happy with that in this one.
Liverpool v Man Utd, 1330 Sunday
THE BIG ONE. With United having dropped points against Chelsea and also now missing both first choice centre backs for the trip to Anfield. Arsenal should really have gone 1 point behind United on equal games by the time this kicks off. This should provide plenty of inspiration for both teams to gain a win. I think, although he wouldn't admit as much, Fergie would settle for a draw here. Whilst Pool are underperforming, they still have the weapons to hurt United shorn of their most impressive players. This seasons startling unbeaten run was built on the pairing at centre back of Rio and Vidic and they have never missed both before. They have been poor away anyway and this will be a real test. Liverpool should be up for this with Gerrard, Carragher and King Kenny all well aware of what a win would mean to the fans. If they can stop United winning the Prem, then the season wont seem quite as bad as it has at various points so far. If Andy Carroll is fit his power will unsettle United, Suarez movement will drag them out of position. They're in for a hell of a match. The 2.88 available on Pool at most bookies will go fast and I'll be all over it.
Birmingham v West Brom, 1245 Saturday
The weekend begins with yet another Midlands derby. The things have been coming thick and fast with Birmingham represented by 4 teams in the Prem this season. Birmingham should still be riding the crest of a wave after their brilliant victory against Arsenal, and their first silverware in a long...long time. They have been pretty solid at the back all season and have been kept back by the lack of goals from their forwards. Nikola Zigic seems to have recently decided that his height of around 9 foot 4 might be a useful tool, and they have looked a much better team for it. West Brom haven't looked much better under Woy Hodgson since his appointment as boss. They still leak goals far too much and don't score nearly enough when Odemwingie isn't on form. I see this one going Brum's way. They should be able to keep WBA at bay and nick a goal or two. Billy Hill's are 2.4 and that seems fine to me.
Arsenal v Sunderland, 1500 Saturday
From the winners of the Careless Cup to the vanquished losers. Arsenal have in recent seasons taken major defeats like this very seriously and their form has suffered. There is also the all to familiar injury crisis at this stage with more than half the first choice XI being ruled out for this match. Thankfully then, they are playing the almightily poor Sunderland on Saturday. Steve Bruce seems destined to buy decent players, get some impressive results, but fail to turn these performances out anywhere near regularly enough. He's plainly underachieving at Sunderland and I feel would be out of work were it not for a very good start. He has spent a fortune for someone who's team seem very at home in the middle of the table and he really should be under more pressure. Having seen Arsenal bring in some fringe players like Chamakh and Bendtner against Orient in the FA Cup this week and grab goals, I am confident they will again perform well in this chance against the Wearsiders. Victor Chandler go 2.1 on Arsenal -1.25 and I'm happy with that.
Bolton v Aston Villa, 1500 Saturday
In a match that promises very little in entertainment we see faltering Villa travelling to the Reebok. Having put out a reserve side against Man City in the FA Cup and been soundly beaten, Ged Houllier is feeling the pressure. His claims that the key players were rested for this match will sound very hollow if Bolton win. After the initial goals and euphoria surrounding Darren Bent's move, the team has regressed back to the lifeless bunch of chancers they looked early in the season. Ashley Young has disappointed in every match barring the last one, Gaby Agbonlahor looks like the headless chicken he is and Emile Heskey...well he's shit isn't he? Both sides are near enough to the relegation places to make these 3 points very important so we should see plenty of endeavour if not skill. I fancy a draw at a widely available 3.4.
Fulham v Blackburn, 1500 Saturday
Another team that looked impressive a little while back, but has been crap of late is Blackburn. Fulham are on the up! Having gained a few wins at home, they got a very creditable draw at Man City. We also saw the continuation of the ongoing cock measuring contest between Mark Hughes and Roberto Mancini. Hughes seems completely unable to accept Citeh are better for him leaving, and Mancini has been drawn into this pathetic spat. We now have Hughes claiming a lack of respect because Mancini didn't look at him when shaking hands, and Bobi claiming 'he did it first'. Immature in the extreme, but mildly amusing. Anyway all this being said, with one teams form in the proverbial shitter and one on the up there can only be one outcome, can't there? Take Paddy Power's 1.75 on Fulham.
Newcastle v Everton, 1500 Saturday
This should be a fairly even match on paper. Both teams are shy of a goalscorer with Saha once again injured for the Toffees and Carroll departed from Newcastle. Everton have something of an injury crisis at present with Cahill and Fellaini both missing from midfield, and generally they're the best players. Cahill provides energy and a consistent goal threat and Fellaini is up and down like a yoyo. They will definitely miss the pair with Arteta looking a shadow of his former self all season. A mirror for Everton really. They look tired and bored most weeks, and Moyes looks just as listless. Newcastle have been brilliant in beating Arsenal, Liverpool and thrashing Villa, but without Carroll their threat is halved. However comma I think they should still beat a pathetic at times Everton. Betfair are a standout at 2.72 and I think it's worth a punt.
West Ham v Stoke, 1500 Saturday
As with all West Ham matches, this could have plenty of action, and go either way. The Hammers have some raw striking talent in Demba Ba and Victor Obinna as well as the experience of Robbie Keane. The energy of Scott Parker in midfield and the more than capable Matt Upson and Robert Green at the back. This should really be enough to keep them up if they could string more than 2 results together. Stoke are Stoke. They're big, tough and quite often dirty, but they get results. They'll not play football or produce any sort of flair, but they'll bully enough teams to get enough wins to be well clear of relegation. Whether the fans will continue to accept this lack of progress will be interesting though. West Ham's best results have come at home so far and if they play as they can then their pacy front line will cause Stoke's 4 giants at the back problems. I think they will probably also concede though, as they're seemingly incapable of doing anything the easy way. Stan James are a best priced 2.2 on over 2.5 goals and that should cover.
Man City v Wigan, 1730 Saturday
The late match on TV sees a truly pathetic Wigan outfit taking on Citeh at Eastlands. Having failed to beat Fulham last weekend, City will be very glad Spurs failed against Blackpool. They really need to be winning home matches like that if they are to gain Champions League football next season. The win over Villa's reserves was impressive and Mario Balotelli was also very good before he decided he was all angry as usual. If someone could harness his fantastic natural ability and take the excesses out of his game, he could really be something special. Carlos Tevez had a bit of a rest and should be very fresh for this match too, giving them plenty of classy striking options. Wigan were soundly beaten by Man Utd last weekend and looked as poor at the back as they have all season. They don't score many either and this is a recipe for disaster in the long run. I see another thrashing for Wigan in front of both their fans this week. Victor Chandler go 2.11 on City -1.5 and I'd be happy with that in this one.
Liverpool v Man Utd, 1330 Sunday
THE BIG ONE. With United having dropped points against Chelsea and also now missing both first choice centre backs for the trip to Anfield. Arsenal should really have gone 1 point behind United on equal games by the time this kicks off. This should provide plenty of inspiration for both teams to gain a win. I think, although he wouldn't admit as much, Fergie would settle for a draw here. Whilst Pool are underperforming, they still have the weapons to hurt United shorn of their most impressive players. This seasons startling unbeaten run was built on the pairing at centre back of Rio and Vidic and they have never missed both before. They have been poor away anyway and this will be a real test. Liverpool should be up for this with Gerrard, Carragher and King Kenny all well aware of what a win would mean to the fans. If they can stop United winning the Prem, then the season wont seem quite as bad as it has at various points so far. If Andy Carroll is fit his power will unsettle United, Suarez movement will drag them out of position. They're in for a hell of a match. The 2.88 available on Pool at most bookies will go fast and I'll be all over it.
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