Well followers and occasional glancers, it's been a while since I delved into the realms of midweek European betting on here. I have been betting myself on matches, but have found time at a premium to guide yourselves around the important ties in the 'Champions' League and the Europa League. Both competitions now enter their final throes with us at the Quarter Finals stage, and thankfully it means we can assume those in the Europa League now care. It is a tinpot cup of little or no significance anyway. I'll leave the usual rantings to the weekend and will focus on providing a tip for each match.
Inter Milan v Schalke, Tuesday 1945
Last years 'Champions' League winners Inter host Germany's Schalke in the first of the weeks matches. Inter managed to pretty much hand the title to city rivals AC on Saturday night in a 3-0 defeat. Alex Pato looking particularly impressive in scoring a brace for AC. This should leave Inter to focus on retaining this trophy and it would be some achievement in light of Rafa Benitez's best efforts to ruin Jose Mourinho's work at the start of the campaign. The useless goatie bearded Spanish prick that he is. Since the appointment of Leonardo Inter have shown signs of improvement, with Sneijder and Eto'o in particular impressing recently. Schalke have been up and down in the Bundesliga having spent big on Huntelaar, Jurado and Raul in the summer. None of these could be considered to be a resounding success, with Raul the most regular performer. I can only see an Inter win in this, but they are prohibitively short for me. I prefer Ladbrokes odds of 2.1 on Eto'o to score anytime, I'll be on that.
Real Madrid v Tottenham, Tuesday 1945
I was having a chinwag with a fellow at the office the other day about how Redknapp's stock is about to go past it's highest point here. Real Madrid will beat Spurs over 2 legs, of that there should be no doubt, and Spurs are looking very unlikely to requalify through league position. Considering the money spent on this team, wages included, they should not have gone backwards this term. Redknapp's cheerleaders will point at injuries, particularly in defence, as key to this. My retort would simply be, 'Well he bought the bunch of injury prone twats'. And he did. The droopy faced mong. Taking a punt on one out of Gallas, King and Woodgate is probably a chance worth taking. Making those 3 of your 4 centre backs is bad management, and the blame should be firmly at Sloppy Chops door. They are all unlikely to be fit for this match. Real Madrid lost, at home, at the weekend, and with that went the 9 year run of Jose's. They were without Ozil, Benzema and Ronaldo (the greasy, diving, absolute tool one), and this has to be factored in as they are all with a chance of featuring against Spuds. I really think Madrid are going to walk this. Spurs have provided plenty of entertainment this season, but a player like Ozil will make a leaky backline look like Niagara Falls given the chance. I'll again be looking to Laddies for my bet with quotes of 2.5 on Madrid winning to nil.
Chelsea v Man Utd, Wednesday 1945
The 'BIG ONE' for Sky and fans of the 'EPL', or tossers as I prefer to think of them. This has fucking horrendous match written all over it for me. United are likely to pack the midfield and play to not concede, and Chelsea are firing blanks. Having laid my opinions of David Luiz on this blog before the weekend I was not suprised to see renowned world beaters John Walters and Ricardo Fuller make him look a fool. He needs someone to sit him down and remind him defending should always be his first priority. Also if John Terry is your defensive partner, for fuck sake don't leave him exposed. United and Rooney recovered from a terrible first half performance to beat West Ham 4-2 from 2-0 down. Rooney with a hat-trick that has the press again asking if he has rediscovered his 'mojo'. He is undoubtably an above average performer, and works his arse off, but the shitty first touch is still very evident at present. The most impressive performer for me was Antonio Valencia or Hernandez. Hernandez looks like a fantastic signing and is a player I am looking forward to watching for many a season. He wont start this though so he's fairly irrelevant to the betting. I fancy a cagey start and a 2.1 qoute at Betfair for the half time draw looks reasonable to me.
Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk, Wednesday 1945
The most intriguing clash for me comes from Camp Nou on Wednesday. Ukranian champions Shakhtar have a selection of hard working Eastern Europeans allied with South American flair from the likes of Douglas Costa and Jadson. With Barcelona still looking off early season form, they could be in for a tough match in what is priced as the most easy to pick Quarter Final. Shakhtar are absolutely formidable at home and Barca will need to take a lead over there if they hope to progress, in my opinion. They again looked flat in narrowly beating Villarreal in El Madrigal on Saturday evening, but they have often reserved their best performances for Europe. The players for Shakhtar will no doubt all see this as a chance to get their names in managers thoughts for the summer with a big performance, and will go in under no pressure either. I really think this is going to be an upset the more I look at it. You can get 2.78 on Under 2.5 goals at Betfair and I think that's worth doing the way Barca have played lately.
Europa League, all matches Thursday 2005
I think Porto may well win the tournament this year. They have got some brilliant players like Falcao, Hulk and Rolando that will probably move on in the summer, but have the chance to win a European tournament before they leave having tied up their league on Sunday night at Benfica. I would back all the home teams to win their matches. And I would probably hcap Porto and Kiev to do so if anyone is looking for some Thursday betting!
Monday, 4 April 2011
Saturday, 2 April 2011
Friday, 1 April 2011
The end is nigh...
Well, here we are, after another week or so of horrifically boring international football. We have learnt England can easily beat a team ranked almost 100 places below them and 1 position above San Marino. We have learnt England's back up aren't as hateable as the first choice 'Golden Generation', as they are more willing to work for their places. And we have also learnt that Jack Wilshire is the second coming of christ, or something in that ballpark. Now, young Jack is without a doubt a fine prospect, and having come through at the 1 club in England that places technical ability above size and speed he's standing out for In-Ger-Lund. The problem lies in the fact that those around him can't do the same thing and pass the ball without undue haste. He will no doubt flourish at Arsenal, and will look good for In-Ger-Lund, but I hardly think he's going to dominate the world for his country without help. And that help will not be found in Andy Carroll or Ashley Young. Young is another perfectly decent player the media have got excited about as the feel they have campaigned to get him in the team. Sadly the fact he can barely cross or shoot and is a thoroughly shameful diver has escaped them. Oh well...the hurt goes on for the patriots. Music this week is the loud and proud Millencolin with Farewell My Hell.
West Ham v Man Utd, Saturday 1245
The weekend kicks off with the still hopeless away United travelling to resurgent West Ham. Since signing around 43 new strikers in January, the Hammers have seen a steady improvement with enough goals being scored to keep eyes away from their still very pedestrian backline. Demba Ba in particular looks a good acquisition, pace to burn and no little skill too. He should give United's defence a run for their money in the absence of the Braaappp-tastic Rio Ferdinand. There should be no little motivation for the Reds here knowing that anything less than a win and Arsenal beating the constantly shit Blackburn at home will leave them with a game in hand and only a 3 point gap. Wayne 'Gobshite, cheating, granny shagging, general twat' Rooney has been talking of United being 'up' for this one so expect the ref to be called something horrendous everytime he gets within 20 feet of England's talisman. Can we not have him taken out back and shot? I would be loathe to back West Ham as United invariably get results when needed keeping them ahead of Wenger's Gunners. Bet365 go 2.2 on the half time draw and I think that's worth a tickle.
Stoke v Chelsea, Saturday 1500
Another game that sees a team struggling away this season travelling to a tough venue. Chelsea have masked recent poor performances with stringing together a couple of wins and neutrals and fans alike marvelling at David 'Sideshow Bob' Luiz rather magnificent barnet. Tis a cracker though. What does get my goat though is that people are queueing up to throw plaudits at him for scoring goals and galloping forward although he has given away 2 penalties already and leaves the leaden booted Terry exposed to a quick counter with his forays upfield. His first job as a central defender is defending, the clue is in the positions name. No amount of goals will make him a good defender and whilst he is employed there he has yet to convince me he's the complete package. Roque Junior got forward well, and we all know how that turned out at Leeds. Anyhow, Stoke are still playing something more approaching NFL with all their reliance on set-plays. But, it is still causing teams problems and getting them results so it's hard to argue. Oh, and Torres is looking more shot with every passing week, even getting booed when replacing Fernando Llorente for Spain in midweek. I fancy another half time stalemate in this. Stan James are standout at 2.2 for that.
Wigan v Spurs, Saturday 1500
Spurs, as Sloppy Chops will never tire of saying, are down to the bare bones this week. The only fit central defender they have is Michael Dawson, and he's struggling. They are also missing the man Messi looks up to in Gareth Bale out too. With the Champions League Quarter Final against Madrid coming up in the week they will not be chancing anyone for this match as I think Redknapp knows the Champions League qualification next year through the league is slipping away. He will no doubt bemoan his 'luck' in losing all his centre backs, but let's examine the evidence. He has bought a bunch of crocks...and they're crocked. Not bloody rocket science is it? No doubt his wonderful chums in the Red Tops will lap his usual bollocks up though. Wigan are a shower of shit themselves, but are capable of a result with players like Rodalega and the increasingly impressive James McCarthy in the side. I can easily see a Spurs slip up here so I'll be backing the home side. Stan James again appear confidently against me and are out at 3.3 on such an eventuality.
Lecce v Udinese, Sunday 1400
I am again including my current favourite team Udinese in my tips. They are a truly spectacular side to watch when in form, all attacking flair and goals. Antonio Di Natale is hardly a new boy, buy even at 32 he is consistently banging in the goals in the twilight of his career. With a young support cast including Kwadye Asamoah and next big thing Alexis Sanchez, he is ably assisted. Lecce have been terrible all season and look set for a spell in Serie B the way things stand. The international break shouldn't have harmed Udine too much, Di Natale is out of Italy's future planning so should be fresh to cause Lecce defenders nightmares. Victor Chandler are 2.3 on Udinese -1.0 asian and I would expect them to cover that pretty easily here.
Hoffenheim v Hamburg, Saturday 1430
Second foreign tip comes from the German Bundesliga with upstarts Hoffenheim hosting Hamburg. About 5 years or so ago Hamburg had a team including the talents of Rafa Van Der Vaart setting Germeny alight playing some wonderful football. Those days appear behind them at the moment with a more prosaic style of football currently keeping them comfortably mid-table after a couple of disappointing seasons. Hoffenheim are the little village team bankrolled by a local multi-millionaire from the regional divisions all the way to the big time. Their thrilling rise was all masterminded by huge Arsene Wenger fan Ralf Ragnick, who has recently departed in the wake of star player Luis Gustavo being sold behind his back to Batern Munich. This may be a blessing in disguise as they had begun to exhibit signs of stalling and getting complacent. They're still far from on top form, but they are decent at home and I think are worth a punt when they are marginal favs for this. Take Victor Chandlers 2.6 on them.
Karabukspor v Gaziantepspor, Saturday 1200
The first match of the Turkish SuperLig this weekend comes from Karabukspor with them hosting favourites of mine Gaziantep. Whilst I have been following Gaz for a few weeks now they aren't one's to go mad for goals at all and this rings especially true away from home with a pitiful 14 scored in 13, although only conceding 9. They keep it tight and try and sneak it most weeks, and it does often work! I have a feeling they might slip up this week. Karabuk have played 13 at home winning 7 and scoring 23, so they should put Gaziantep's defence under some pressure, and I think at current prices they're worth a go to do just that. Get on with Betfair and you can still get 2.88 on what should be at most a 2.5 in my view.
Istanbul BB v Bucaspor, Sunday 1500
Second Turkish tip comes from the capital with Bucaspor the visitors. Istanbul have been a bit of a suprise package this season with some good results propelling them to mid-table and still with an outside chance at Europa League qualification on the cards. They have been particulaly successful at home with 6 wins from 12 matches so far whereas Bucaspor have failed to get an away win all season. I really don't think against a defence as tight as Istanbul's they're going to start this week. Strangely BB have scored more goals away from home than in their own stadium this season, but I'd be willing to back them to improve their tally this weekend. I fancy them for a few goals so I'll take a handicap against odds on prices. Bet365 go 2.67 on a -1.0 asian and I'd be happy to take them on with that.
Brentford v Carlisle, Johnstones Paint Trophy Final, Sunday 1330
Here we then. The big one. The second trophy given out in the English football calendar. The Johnstones Paint Trophy Final. Wowsers. I have always wanted to make the trip to Griffin Park for some reason, it appeals as it's a proper community club in London I think? And I once went to Carlisle. Twas a wet and cold place fulfilling most stereotypes about being grim oop north that weekend. So I'm leaning towards The Bees for this one. Looking at league positions we find Carlisle in 11th in League 1 and Brentfors looking down on them from a lofty 9th position. There would appear to be little between the sides, but Brentford have barely conceded a goal on their way to the final and for that reason, as well as the small journey and no doubt large crowd cheering them on I think they might sneak it. They are marginal favs with most bookies around he 2.6 mark. If you don't want to call what will surely be a tight game I think goals might be at a premium so odds of 10.0 on a 0-0 draw with Bet365 look appealing to me too.
West Ham v Man Utd, Saturday 1245
The weekend kicks off with the still hopeless away United travelling to resurgent West Ham. Since signing around 43 new strikers in January, the Hammers have seen a steady improvement with enough goals being scored to keep eyes away from their still very pedestrian backline. Demba Ba in particular looks a good acquisition, pace to burn and no little skill too. He should give United's defence a run for their money in the absence of the Braaappp-tastic Rio Ferdinand. There should be no little motivation for the Reds here knowing that anything less than a win and Arsenal beating the constantly shit Blackburn at home will leave them with a game in hand and only a 3 point gap. Wayne 'Gobshite, cheating, granny shagging, general twat' Rooney has been talking of United being 'up' for this one so expect the ref to be called something horrendous everytime he gets within 20 feet of England's talisman. Can we not have him taken out back and shot? I would be loathe to back West Ham as United invariably get results when needed keeping them ahead of Wenger's Gunners. Bet365 go 2.2 on the half time draw and I think that's worth a tickle.
Stoke v Chelsea, Saturday 1500
Another game that sees a team struggling away this season travelling to a tough venue. Chelsea have masked recent poor performances with stringing together a couple of wins and neutrals and fans alike marvelling at David 'Sideshow Bob' Luiz rather magnificent barnet. Tis a cracker though. What does get my goat though is that people are queueing up to throw plaudits at him for scoring goals and galloping forward although he has given away 2 penalties already and leaves the leaden booted Terry exposed to a quick counter with his forays upfield. His first job as a central defender is defending, the clue is in the positions name. No amount of goals will make him a good defender and whilst he is employed there he has yet to convince me he's the complete package. Roque Junior got forward well, and we all know how that turned out at Leeds. Anyhow, Stoke are still playing something more approaching NFL with all their reliance on set-plays. But, it is still causing teams problems and getting them results so it's hard to argue. Oh, and Torres is looking more shot with every passing week, even getting booed when replacing Fernando Llorente for Spain in midweek. I fancy another half time stalemate in this. Stan James are standout at 2.2 for that.
Wigan v Spurs, Saturday 1500
Spurs, as Sloppy Chops will never tire of saying, are down to the bare bones this week. The only fit central defender they have is Michael Dawson, and he's struggling. They are also missing the man Messi looks up to in Gareth Bale out too. With the Champions League Quarter Final against Madrid coming up in the week they will not be chancing anyone for this match as I think Redknapp knows the Champions League qualification next year through the league is slipping away. He will no doubt bemoan his 'luck' in losing all his centre backs, but let's examine the evidence. He has bought a bunch of crocks...and they're crocked. Not bloody rocket science is it? No doubt his wonderful chums in the Red Tops will lap his usual bollocks up though. Wigan are a shower of shit themselves, but are capable of a result with players like Rodalega and the increasingly impressive James McCarthy in the side. I can easily see a Spurs slip up here so I'll be backing the home side. Stan James again appear confidently against me and are out at 3.3 on such an eventuality.
Lecce v Udinese, Sunday 1400
I am again including my current favourite team Udinese in my tips. They are a truly spectacular side to watch when in form, all attacking flair and goals. Antonio Di Natale is hardly a new boy, buy even at 32 he is consistently banging in the goals in the twilight of his career. With a young support cast including Kwadye Asamoah and next big thing Alexis Sanchez, he is ably assisted. Lecce have been terrible all season and look set for a spell in Serie B the way things stand. The international break shouldn't have harmed Udine too much, Di Natale is out of Italy's future planning so should be fresh to cause Lecce defenders nightmares. Victor Chandler are 2.3 on Udinese -1.0 asian and I would expect them to cover that pretty easily here.
Hoffenheim v Hamburg, Saturday 1430
Second foreign tip comes from the German Bundesliga with upstarts Hoffenheim hosting Hamburg. About 5 years or so ago Hamburg had a team including the talents of Rafa Van Der Vaart setting Germeny alight playing some wonderful football. Those days appear behind them at the moment with a more prosaic style of football currently keeping them comfortably mid-table after a couple of disappointing seasons. Hoffenheim are the little village team bankrolled by a local multi-millionaire from the regional divisions all the way to the big time. Their thrilling rise was all masterminded by huge Arsene Wenger fan Ralf Ragnick, who has recently departed in the wake of star player Luis Gustavo being sold behind his back to Batern Munich. This may be a blessing in disguise as they had begun to exhibit signs of stalling and getting complacent. They're still far from on top form, but they are decent at home and I think are worth a punt when they are marginal favs for this. Take Victor Chandlers 2.6 on them.
Karabukspor v Gaziantepspor, Saturday 1200
The first match of the Turkish SuperLig this weekend comes from Karabukspor with them hosting favourites of mine Gaziantep. Whilst I have been following Gaz for a few weeks now they aren't one's to go mad for goals at all and this rings especially true away from home with a pitiful 14 scored in 13, although only conceding 9. They keep it tight and try and sneak it most weeks, and it does often work! I have a feeling they might slip up this week. Karabuk have played 13 at home winning 7 and scoring 23, so they should put Gaziantep's defence under some pressure, and I think at current prices they're worth a go to do just that. Get on with Betfair and you can still get 2.88 on what should be at most a 2.5 in my view.
Istanbul BB v Bucaspor, Sunday 1500
Second Turkish tip comes from the capital with Bucaspor the visitors. Istanbul have been a bit of a suprise package this season with some good results propelling them to mid-table and still with an outside chance at Europa League qualification on the cards. They have been particulaly successful at home with 6 wins from 12 matches so far whereas Bucaspor have failed to get an away win all season. I really don't think against a defence as tight as Istanbul's they're going to start this week. Strangely BB have scored more goals away from home than in their own stadium this season, but I'd be willing to back them to improve their tally this weekend. I fancy them for a few goals so I'll take a handicap against odds on prices. Bet365 go 2.67 on a -1.0 asian and I'd be happy to take them on with that.
Brentford v Carlisle, Johnstones Paint Trophy Final, Sunday 1330
Here we then. The big one. The second trophy given out in the English football calendar. The Johnstones Paint Trophy Final. Wowsers. I have always wanted to make the trip to Griffin Park for some reason, it appeals as it's a proper community club in London I think? And I once went to Carlisle. Twas a wet and cold place fulfilling most stereotypes about being grim oop north that weekend. So I'm leaning towards The Bees for this one. Looking at league positions we find Carlisle in 11th in League 1 and Brentfors looking down on them from a lofty 9th position. There would appear to be little between the sides, but Brentford have barely conceded a goal on their way to the final and for that reason, as well as the small journey and no doubt large crowd cheering them on I think they might sneak it. They are marginal favs with most bookies around he 2.6 mark. If you don't want to call what will surely be a tight game I think goals might be at a premium so odds of 10.0 on a 0-0 draw with Bet365 look appealing to me too.
Friday, 25 March 2011
Only for punters is this...
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!
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, 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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