Saturday, July 01, 2006

Everyone wants to back Portugal...

Every tipster seems to have gone for Portugal today. I know of three "professionals" who laid England for big money on the asian handicap, as soon as the line was produced, being singularly unimpressed by their performances so far.

You can see where this is going........ Of course I agree to a certain extent, England have hardly set the World Cup alight, but their progress in the tournament, so far, has never been in question. Feel that they must have one, hopefully 2-3, good performances in them.

Gerrard, Beckham and especially Lampard are all "due", in Cole and Rooney they have players capable of turning a match in an instant. The team will be strengthened by the return of Gary Neville, this will help them get forward quickly and hopefully, more often.

Portugal have a good squad, but are severely hit by the absence of Deco and Costinha, looks likely that Figo will move into the centre, a role he can fill, but I prefer him wide. Ronaldo is likely to play, but is, at best, 80% fit. This swings it England's way for me.

Sure that Big Phil Scolari, looking for his 12th straight finals victory, will have some tricks up his sleeve, hope it is not something too physical, 78 fouls, 18 yellow and 2 red cards, testify that they can mix it with the best. They are sure to try and upset Rooney early in the game, will not be surprised to see him booked.

I take England to win this, also think the game may not be the defensive battle everyone expects.

3 points England -1/2 2.16 asian line.
2.5 points over 2 goals 2.16 asian line.

Good Luck.

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