DIVISION 2 .............

Two final bets for this afternoon, both from League 2.

Going to give Martin Allen's , MK Dons, a chance to get back in my good books. They travel to Hereford who's season is fizzling out and they are now without a win in 6 starts.

Dons are just a point ahead of Swindon, in the final automatic promotion place,will have all of their classy loan signings in the squad today and will be scapping for every point.

I also have to take resurgent Peterbrough to see off Wycombe, whose form has deserted them and they have not even scored in 4 matches, two of which came against bottom 3 sides.

4 points MK Dons -1/4 ball asian line 2.05 Pinnacle Sports result 0-0 -2 points

4.5 points Peterbrough -1/4 ball asian line 1.862 Pinnacle Sports. result 3-3 -2.25 pts

Good Luck

ALBION ROVERS- ARBROATH

We have to stick with the visitors, who are mounting a serious promotion challenge, are in fine form and have served us well recently.

They sit 4 points behind Berwick, who go to basement club East Stirling, with a game in hand.

Arbroath are 8-2-0 in their last 10 starts, recording 12 away wins this season, they won the earlier fixture here 3-1 and have scored 10 goals in their last 4 visits. Hard not to see them adding to that tally today.

5 points Arbroath -1/2 ball asian line 1.85. won + 4.25 pts

Good Luck.

CRAWLEY TOWN- STEVENAGE BOROUGH ... ... CONFERENCE

Short and sweet today.

Crawley are missing several players through injury and have a virus at the club. The full extent of the problem is not yet known, but sounds bad. They are without a win in 5 starts.

Stevenage got back on track, with the midweek win at York , have no major problems and have won on their last two visits here. Anything around the 2.40 mark looks value, the 2.55 is huge.

5 points Stevenage -1/2 ball 2.55 Unibet lost -5 points

MURRAY-DJOKOVIC ........ ROUND 3

Goodness knows how many times these two friends, will play each other on the main tour, over the coming years. This is their third meeting so far and Djokovic has yet to taste defeat.

Not 100% sure that it will happen today, but I am certain that Murray is a lot fitter than he was in Indian Wells and I also feel the surface here suits him much better.

Add to the mix, the fact that victory will take him into the world top ten and we should see a very motivated Murray tonight. Under the circumstances, I feel his odds are way too big and we have to get involved. I make this pretty much a coin flip, maybe making Djokovic the narrowest of favourites, therefore, these prices are some 10% out of line.

4 points Murray to beat Djokovic 2.52 Betfair. lost -4 pts

Good Luck.

FRENCH LIGUE 2 ..........

Two bets here, a couple of weeks ago, I discussed with you dear reader, the increased number of goals we can expect in certain matches in this league as the season winds down. The article can be found here ..........

http://ubet2win.blogspot.com/2007/03/france-ligue-2.html

The Gueugnon-Grenoble game fits the bill perfectly, with both in mid table, a dozen + points clear of relegation worries, or promotion hopes. They are both above average for goals produced in their last 10 starts and shared 4 goals in the reverse fixture. Think this looks a likely "over".

Istres are 3 points adrift of "safety" and will be massively motivated to bridge that gap tonight. Ajaccio are probably the opponents they would have handpicked, the visitors have little to play for, have managed just 8 goals away from home all season, conceded 8 in the last 3 road trips and will be without a key defender .

The hosts have finally found some home form and collected 7 points from a possible 9, we have to keep them on our side.

4 points Istres -1/4 ball asian line 2.135 lost -4 pts

4.5 points Gueugnon-Grenoble "over" 2.25 goals 2.19 asian line. lost -4.5 pts

Good Luck.

FRIDAY EARLY BETS ...........

Having promised to put up post a inside the hour, I want to keep my word, so here are my bets without any detailed analysis.

Regular readers will know that I am loath to do this, but sometimes there is no other option.

In the two English games where I am taking the "overs", we have 4 teams that will be looking for the win, at this stage of the season, a draw will not really help any of them too much. Not saying they will not take it, if that is all that is on offer, but they will be looking for maximum points.

Genoa are strong at home, desperately need the points for an automatic promotion challenge and meet an Albinoleffe side, that would probably be happy to go on vacation now.

Carl Zeiss Jena sit just outside the relegation zone and will be looking to earn something from their home fixture with promotion chasing Hansa Rostock. The hosts are determined to preserve their Bundesliga 2 status and this could be a good time to meet the visitors, who have won only twice, in 10 starts , scoring just 8 goals, a total only better than the basement club.

3 points "over" 2.5 goals Tranmere-Carlisle 2.28 asian line. result 0-2 -3 pts

4 points "over" 2.25 goals Leeds - Preston 1.91 asian line . result 2-1 + 3.64 pts

4 points Genoa -3/4 ball asian line 1.72. result 1-0 + 1.44 pts

4 points CZJ 1/4 ball 1.79 asian line. result 1-2 -4 pts

I will be back a little later, with a look at the Ligue 2 matches and also the ATP tennis semi-finals from Miami.

Good Luck.

FRIDAY NEWS ..........

I am running late today, my first selection will be online in about one hour.

Please check back.

SONY ERICSSON OPEN TENNIS ......... MIAMI

Women's semi finals tonight, obviously I am very firmly with Serena Williams to win the event and nothing is going to sway me from that belief.

However, there does seem to be a little value in Shahar Peer to take a set from the majestic American. Not going to get overly involved, as Williams is very close to the peak of her powers, or at least the best we have seen so far, no telling how good a 100% committed Serena could be.

Peer is in good shape and in the Australian Open, was the only player to push Williams during the latter stages of the tournament, taking her to 8-6 in the deciding set of their quarter final. They had met only once previously, here in 2005, with the American winning 3 & 3, Peer has come a long way since then.

If Williams comes out strong, this could be quick, but the value looks to be in 3 sets and if something looks too big, we have to bet.

My main bet of the evening comes in the first semi and it is a strong selection. At times Anna Chakvetadze can look like a startled deer and absolutely terrified on court, however, underneath, she is a pretty fierce competitor.

Having said that, my bet has little to do with her and is more of an anti Justine Henin wager, do not misunderstand, I am a fan of the Belgian, but do not feel she is at her best just yet. The break up of her marriage has taken it's toll and I am not convinced that all is well in Camp Henin.

Early in the tournament she complained of some breathing problems, especially in her match with Razzano, where she trailed 5-1 in the 3rd set. All credit to her for turning that around, but she should never have got herself into that position, in the first place.

That is a worry, but my biggest concern is regarding her serve, barely breaking 50% of first serves in her matches to date and recording just 42% against Vania King. When also taking into account the double faults, which are now regularly around the 6-7 level, even in straight forward wins, you can see that she has a problem.

Under the circumstances, I just do not see why Henin is odds on to win in straight sets. The Russian is a fighter, her 4 losses this season have all been very close matches and against top ranked players. This should be no different.

2 points Williams to beat Peer 2-1 sets 4.70 Pinnacle Sports. lost -2 pts
5 points Henin NOT to win 2-0 sets 2.21 Pinnacle Sports. lost -5 pts

Good Luck.

COPA LIBERTADORES ..... RIVER PLATE- LDU QUITO

The Argentine side desperately need a win tonight to placate their supporters, following a shock home defeat at the weekend, a loss that has seen them slip further behind in the Championship race.

They are not used to losing at their Antonio Vespucio Liberti stadium, suffering only 10 league losses in 8 years, however, this also comes shortly after the unbelievable defeat by Copa Libertadores minnows, Caracas. Meaning that anything other than 3 points today, will be seen as unacceptable and heads will probably roll, including current coach Daniel Passarella.

I do not think that will happen, like most teams that play at high altitude, LDU are poor travellers, they have yet to record a domestic away win this season and have won only 2 of 12 road trips. In this competition they have won twice, in 14 matches outside of Ecuador.

River Plate really need this win and should run out comfortable winners, they met in 2005 the hosts winning 4-2 and something similar looks on the cards. They have a fine record in the Copa, winning 18 of 23 at home, usually only losing to the very best, or in "dead" matches.

4 points River Plate -1.25 goals 1.83 asian line. Result 0-0 -4 pts

Good Luck.

THURSDAY NEWS .............

I am going to take a quick look at the ATP tennis in Miami, only putting up one very small bet, but, having investigated the two matches, there are a few stats you might find of value.

Ljubicic leads Chela 5-0 on the h2h meetings, with perhaps surprisingly, three of the wins coming on clay. The Croatian served 13 aces and faced only one break point, in his win over Nienimem.

Chela beat the American qualifier Amer Delic, by an easy looking 3&2 scoreline, however, you should note that his opponent had 10 break points, double what the Argentine player earned. If he gives Ljubicic as many chances today, this will not take too long. I favour the shaven headed one, who looks to be on his way back to form, but cannot find any inspiration in the odds of 1.45 .

The late game features Guillermo Canas, two time conquerer of Roger Federer, in as many weeks, against Tommy Robredo. The Argentine player, was matched at 749-1 to win the tournament on Betfair, during his match with Fed-ex, that bet could now be layed off at 4-1, unfortunately that was not me who took that price !

Since returning from his 15 month ban, for taking a prohibited substance, which many people now accept was a "tournament staff error", he has posted an amazing 42-5 record and is in wonderful form. Guess that is obvious, you do not beat the world number one, twice, without being at the very top of your game.

The problem with him, or the good thing I suppose, is that he walks on court, expecting to be out there for several hours, losing the first set seems to faze him less than any other player on tour.Therefore, he is always worth a second look, to win his match in 3 sets, as he has done in 7 of his last 15 starts on faster courts and that will be my selection.

I will be back later with something for the football and my strong selection fot the women's tennis, where our outright bet on Serena, already looks excellent value.

2 points Canas to beat Robredo 2-1 sets 4.40 Betfair. LOST - 2 pts

Good Luck.

THE WEEK SO FAR ..............

Very pleasing day today, all 4 bets won, two of them, Denmark and the Serbia-Portugal draw, at big prices.

After just three days of the new week, 7 of the 10 bets posted have won and we are showing a profit of over 23 points. Let's hope we can push on from here and really cash in ..........

Good Night !

THE TWO ANDY'S .............

..... meet today, for the third time in 2007, in a rivalry that is set to run and run. I understand that messrs Roddick and Murray are not the greatest of pals, that probably has something to do with their respective coaches, who have some "history".

This season's mini series is tied at 1-1, with both wins coming in two , very close sets.

The Scot is looking to reach his 3rd final, of what looks set to be, his breakthrough year on tour, he is 22-4 so far and could move into the top 10 with a strong performance in Miami.

Murray rode his luck in a 3 set win over Paul-Henri Mathieu yesterday, saving 2 match points, he complained about the early start, which he offered as explanation, for a sluggish first set. In other words he is a typical teenager, who doesn't like to get up in the mornings !

These two are due a 3 setter and I strongly feel we will get it today. Whilst looking into this match, I came across some interesting stats.

In Miami, where the high bouncing, Laykold Cushion hardcourt, should suit Murray, Roddick has struggled, with 7 of his 13 wins going the distance.

When combined with the fact that Murray's improved fitness levels, have helped him win ALL 8 of his 3 set matches this year, we have the makings of a nice bet.

I am going to suggest a largish bet on Murray to win in three sets, with a "saver" on Roddick to do likewise.

4 points Murray to beat Roddick 2-1 sets 4.69 Pinnacle Sports. Result bet void Roddick retired
1.5 points Roddick to beat Murray 2-1 sets 4.40 Betfair.

Good Luck.

EURO 2008 QUALIFIER'S .... Wednesday

I have two more selections for today's football action and will be back later, with the ATP Tennis.

Italy suffered a World Cup hangover and got their 2008 campaign off to a very slow start. Wins over Ukraine and Georgia, mean that beating Scotland tonight, will leave them able to decide their own fate and that is too big an opportunity to miss.

The Azzurri tend to win, when they absolutely have to and this is such a case. Scotland have improved and put together some good results, with a team lacking any star players, but with plenty of fight and spirit. That can only take you so far at this level, they were fortunate to beat Georgia at the weekend and a similar showing in Italy can only end one way.

The handicap quote is tough, but the hosts should have enough class to cover, a 2 goal home win for me.

The Netherlands were held to a 0-0 home draw by Romania, last time out, a result that the visitors set their stall out for.

They travel to face a Slovenia side, that have only collected points against the group minnows, Luxembourg and Albania, so far. Therefore , the hosts cannot sit back and defend, they will have to look for the win, that will keep their slender qualification hopes alive.

This should suit the visitors, who will have more space to show their class.

Slovenia are without a couple of key players and are short of a holding midfielder, or much creative talent. Away win.

4.5 points Italy -1.25 goals asian line 1.752 Pinnacle Sports. Result won 2-0 profit +3.384 points

4 points Holland -3/4 ball asian line 1.70. Result won 1-0 profit +1.4 points

Good Luck.

SERBIA - PORTUGAL

Serbia was in a state of shock, following their 2-1 defeat at Kazakjstan on Saturday.

The blame for that loss, has fallen squarely on the shoulders of their Spanish coach, Javier Clemente, who chose to field something of an experimental line up, a decision which clearly backfired.

Their problems were compounded by the red card shown to star striker, Nikola Zigic, who is now suspended for tonight's match and which severely limits the hosts attacking options.

Still feel we can expect an improved showing by Serbia, in front of a passionate sell out crowd. They are tough to beat at home and have yet to concede in 3 group games. They will flood the midfield and attempt to stifle the wide threat from the visitors.

Portugal looked outstanding in their 4-0 home win over Belgium, where Ronaldo looked like the best player in the world. However, he got a knock in training yesterday and must face a late fitness test. The visitors are not the same team away from home, they have yet to record an away victory in the group and in qualification for the 2006 World Cup, dropped points in Russia, Slovakia and at minnows, Liechtenstein.

These two like to keep things tight and a draw would keep qualification hopes very much alive for both. Each would be within 2 points of leaders Poland, who they both have still to host.

Not many goals here and the draw is the logical choice.

4 points Serbia-Portugal draw 3.25 exchanges. Result 1-1 profit +8.73 points

Good Luck.

WEDNESDAY PLANS .........

I am looking at three football bets today, all in the Euro 2008 qualifiers and will have the first of these online in an hour or so.

The men's tennis in Miami also looks interesting, with Murray facing Roddick ( again) and Nadal meeting Djokovic for the second time in as many weeks. I will definitely be returning to this a little later.

Check back.

SONY ERICSSON OPEN TENNIS ......... WTA

Serena Williams was awesome yesterday and mentally, Maria Sharapova must be in tatters. At times in the second set, the Russian superstar was serving like Dementieva, at her worse.

Williams is still a little heavy, but looks much fitter than in Australia, this is bad news for every one else on the WTA Tour.

I really cannot see anyone stopping her from collecting a 4th title in Miami, she stands head and shoulders above the rest and is at the top of her game.

Maybe Justine Henin could push her a little in the final, but I doubt it, she has only ever beaten Williams on clay and is not in the sort of form, to beat the very motivated American.

Unless she gets injured, I simply cannot see any other winner of this tournament and think the odds are excellent value.

5 points Serena Williams to win the Sony Ericsson Miami Tennis outright 2.36 Pinnacle Sports.

Good Luck.

Germany-Denmark update ........... Free money

We had a quick look yesterday, at tomorrow's friendly between Germany and Denmark, where the hosts are resting many players.

There is some real value around for anyone based in the UK.

Corals have changed their coupon price for the Danes to 3.50, but it is still possible to bet, albeit for limited stakes, at 6.0 on the Ladbrokes coupon, in the betting shops. On the internet they are 4.0.

It is possible to LAY this at circa 4.80 on the exchanges, so some free money available to anyone who has access to a Ladbrokes shop.

I know this is only an option for a few of you, but feel 6.0 is too good for anyone to pass, if the opportunity is there.

Good Luck.

CONFERENCE ............

Going to discuss two matches in the Conference, where there is still an awful lot to play for.

First up is the Aldershot-Weymouth game, we have opposed the hosts twice recently, with the view that their season was winding down and that the manager's reign, looked to be coming to an end.

Not too much has changed to alter that view, especially now that Terry Brown has resigned and tonight is his final match in charge, you get all the news here first !

This was the quote from last week ........

I listened to an interview with their coach Terry Brown this morning, he stated that a "draw is no good to anybody" and that his team, especially the defence, had not really gelled this season. In a reflective conversation, it sounded as though his time at the club was coming to an end. just get the impression that this is a team treading water at present and one that we can readily oppose.

I expect them to play an open game, try to entertain the fans and give the well liked Brown, a nice send off.

Tonight's visitors need the win, they sit 4 points and three places, off the play-off spots and, with their free scoring approach, will definitely go for it. Therefore I am confident in taking the "over", Weymouth's last 10 games have produced 35 goals and this should provide plenty of entertainment.

Next up, I am taking Exeter, who have never lost in nine Conference meetings with Forest Green Rovers, to retain that record. This is something of a local derby and the visitors are the regions "big wigs", being very well supported at this level.

City are in the final play-off spot, but just on goal difference and will be looking for 3 points, especially as the team immediately below them in the table, have two home games this week.

I really like this one with the level ball option.

4.5 points over 2.5 goals Aldershot-Weymouth 1.83 asian line. Result 1-0 - 4.5 points

4.5 points Exeter City level ball asian line 1.86. lost 2-1 -4.5 points

Good Luck.

ROTHERHAM UNITED - BLACKPOOL

I have to side with the visitors here.

Following the announcement of the "super casino" license to Manchester, Blackpool's form slumped badly. The seaside resort had been widely expected to get the decision and this was devastating to the town and club's long term development.

They seem finally, to have put that disappointment behind them and have got their season back on track, they are unbeaten in 6, with 4 wins. Having edged back into a play-off spot, they can put some distance between theirselves and the chasing pack. Indeed with this, the first of 6 very win-able fixtures and the 2nd and 3rd placed clubs meeting at the weekend, a late run at an automatic place, has not yet been ruled out.

The Seasiders have won 9 times on the road this season, a total only bettered by leaders Scunthorpe and will be looking to push that total into double figures.

Rotherham are in big trouble, the administration points deduction they suffered has been too big a hurdle to overcome and they are 10 points from safety, with games running out.

The draw has absolutely no value for them and they will be forced forward, leaving space for the stronger visiting players to exploit. Only Crewe have conceded more home goals and they have lost 10 of their last 13.

Very few draws anyway for the Millers and they struggle to keep a clean sheet, the only recent one coming against Brentford, who are hardly prolific and a total of 15 conceded in 7 starts, tells it's own story.

An away win is very likely and is competitively priced.

4 points Blackpool -1/2 ball circa 2.27 exchanges 24h poker exc/ Betfair/ Redbet.

Result lost 1-0 -4 points

www.24hpoker.com

Good Luck.

SERENA WILLIAMS - MARIA SHARAPOVA

Probably the two biggest names in women's tennis clash in Miami today, for the first time since the Australian Open final.

Sharapova was humbled that day and lost 1&2, in a match that was as one sided, as the scoreline sounds. Pretty certain that defeat has left it's scars, the Russian has played just two tournaments since, losing on each occasion the first time, she has met a top 20 ranked player. She did beat Venus Williams in the previous round, turning the match around from a losing position, to beat both sisters in consecutive matches, is a tough ask.

Serena has not played since the Grand Slam event, she completed an easy 3&4 win over Safarova yesterday, which impressed many and afterwards said she had not played well and would get stronger as the tournament progressed. Obviously defeat today has not occured to her.

H2h is 3-2 in Williams favour, with all 3 of her wins coming on outdoor hardcourts, including a straight set win here in 2004. A three time winner of this event, she has won 22 of her last 23 matches here, losing only to her sister.

I feel Williams holds a massive psycological edge over her opponent and that it would take a herculean performance by Sharapova, to turn the tide. There is only one winner for me.

5 points Williams to beat Sharapova 1.769 Pinnacle Sports.

Result won 6-1 6-1 profit + 3.845 pts

Good Luck.

GUILLERMO CANAS - RICHARD GASQUET

Regular and long term readers will know that, Richard Gasquet, is a player that I hold in very high regard. He has the talent to become a top 5 player and just needs to find some consistency.

However, he put up some very poor stats in his win over Sebastian Grosjean, managing just 50% of first serves and winning 42% of points on his second.

Canas had a close looking match with Juan Carlos Ferrero, but played better than the bare result suggests, earning a lot of break points. The Argentine is in good shape, as we outlined last week, in his match against Henman and I made him favourite here, where the medium paced hardcourts, suit his game.

At the odds, I make him a serious selection.

4 points Canas to beat Gasquet 2.10 Betfair. WON 7-6 6-3 profit + 4.268 pts (after comm)

Good Luck.

OXFORD UNITED - DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE

This was meant to be the big one, the title decider, but things have not gone to plan for the biggest club in non-league football and Oxford look like they will have to take their chances in the play-offs.

As things stand, with an 11 point lead and a game in hand, The Daggers can virtually stagger over the finishing line. They are taking over 600 supporters tonight, for a midweek Conference game, that is live on television, which is an excellent turn out, think they are hoping for a major celebration.

However, surely Oxford will want to put on a show and restore some pride, to their loyal fans.

I see no reason why this should not be an open, attacking match, that is the Dagenham way, as their 11 away wins and 36 goals attest and a draw is of little benefit to either. Oxford have to go for the win and at least try, to put some end of season pressure, on the visitors.

Therfore, it is the "over" for me, which looks attractively priced.

4.5 points over 2.25 goals Oxford-Dagenham 1.91 asian line. Result 2-2 profit + 4.095 pts

Good Luck.

GERMANY - DENMARK

Odds are set to tumble on this match, which takes place on Wednesday.

Germany are resting 8 regular starters, who played against the Czech Republic at the weekend, for this friendly.

Denmark are taking the match seriously and have a named a very strong squad.

Shop around, you may still find some 5.0 in places, Interwetten have 4.60 and there is a little bigger on the exchanges.

3 points Denmark 4.70 betfair. Result won 1-0 profit + 10.767 pts (after comm.)

Back later.

MONDAY MORNING UPDATE .........

Good Morning !

Not too much good fortune yesterday, a small profit, but MK Dons and Venus Williams, both lost from winning positions. However, it was still a very pleasing week, especially with such limited opportunities on offer, full details are below. This week looks very promising, we start with lots of International fixtures and high class tennis, all of which is followed by the return of the major domestic leagues, at the weekend.

We have a scattering of football today, from around Europe and the Miami tennis has thrown up some very interesting matches. All of which we will take a look at later, so please check back.

WEEK 51 RESULTS 24 bets, 14 winners ( 58.33%), +20.0725 points, profit to stakes, or ROI 21.82 % (92)

Good Luck.

SONY ERICSSON OPEN TENNIS ......... WTA

MARIA-VENUS

Knowing the competitive nature of the Williams sisters, I am 100% certain that Venus will be very motivated by her sister winning in Australia.

She has yet to lose this season and a win over Sharapova, looks likely to set up a meeting with little sis in the next round, which would really be something to savour.

I am go to take a little on the American, as I do not feel her opponent is at her peak yet. Venus feels at home in Miami, where she is a 3 time winner and boasts a 34-5 record.

3 points Venus Williams to beat Sharapova 2.33 Pinnacle Sports Result 6-2 2-6 5-7 loss -3 points

MEXICO - PARAGUAY

Very quickly, Hugo Sanchez's Mexico side, owe us big time, after the poor performance against USA recently.

This will be the first home game in charge, for the biggest name in Mexican soccer and one, he will be desperate to win. Sanchez was very outspoken about his predecessor's in the job and has talked a good game, now it is time to produce the goods, in front of the fans who idolize him.

No slip ups this time.

4 points Mexico -1/2 ball 2.0 asian line. Result won 2-1 profit +4 pts

Good Luck.

MILTON KEYNES DONS - WALSALL

This may be live on SKY TV, but that has not stopped huge demand for tickets, at this sold out fixture.

Dons supporters know how absolutely vital this game is to their season.

With 4 of the next 6 away, all against strong sides, Martin "Mad Dog" Allen, will have targeted this as 3 "must have" points. He has added three loan players, all with a touch of class, to his squad this week. They are all from Premiership sides, but it is the addition of Dominic Blizzard, who was on loan at Stockport, that has really taken the eye. This is a major coup and he could be the key to an automatic promotion spot.

The reverse fixture ended 0-0, but MKD were unlucky not to take maximum points and Walsall, who are without a win in 6 away, were in much better form then. Home win.

4 points MKD -1/4 ball 1.97 asian line. Result 1-1 -2 points

Good Luck.

FORFAR ATHLETIC - GREENOCK MORTON

Well, I think we can eliminate the draw from our deliberations here. This is a division with very few stalemates, just 19% all season and that result, is of little use to these two.

Forfar are holding up the division and are 11 points adrift of safety, they are without 6 players today and clubs at this level, are lacking strength in depth.

Morton are top of the table and can increase their lead to 4 points with a win. They have 9 wins and a league high 30 goals, away from home, averaging over 2 per game. Recent history favours the visitors, who have won on their last 3 trips here. This should be number 4.

5 points Morton -1 goal 1.74 Pinnacle Sports. Result WON 4-0 profit + 3.7 pts

Good Luck.

EURO 2008 QUALIFIER'S

A very quick look at today's matches, where I have 3 bets. Going to rush through this, so I can watch the England game ........... a sucker for punishment !

Northern Ireland have improved greatly and field a stronger side today, than the one that drew 0-0 with Wales. This is a "must win" fixture for them and they face the group whipping boys, Liechtenstein, who have conceded 3 goals in each of their group matches to date.

The visitors should be able to sneak the win.

In Greece-Turkey ( no love lost there) and Czech Republic-Germany, we have two matches where the draw might suit both teams. In each case it would leave the countries involved, in pole position to qualify, at the top of their respective groups.

Therefore, in each case I am siding with the visitors plus the handicap start and will also take the draw double, for a massive payday !

5 points Northern Ireland -3/4 ball 1.74 asian line. Result won 4-1 +3.7 points

4 points Turkey +1/2 ball 1.71 asian line. Result won 4-1 + 2.84 points

4 points Germany +1/4 1.87 asian line. Result won 2-1 + 3.48 pts

2 points double Greece draw-Czech Republic draw 9.50 general. Result loss - 2 points

Good Luck.

GOOD AFTERNOON !

I will be back in a couple of hours with a look at tonight's International matches and will be posting two, maybe even three further bets.

Please check back.

STEVENAGE BOROUGH - ALTRINCHAM

We successfully opposed Stevenage in midweek, but strongly feel we should jump ship and back them today.

They have had a week to recover from their FA Trophy exertions and celebrations and must now concentrate on getting a concerted play-off push organised. They are 4 points adrift at present, with 2 matches in hand and are one of the division's better teams.

The visitors look to have done enough to secure their Conference future and following wins at Weymouth and Morecambe, they could be excused for stepping off the gas, with little to play for. They will be without 2 key players and lost this 4-0 last season, a confident home selection.

5.5 points Stevenage -3/4 ball 1.758 Pinnacle Sports. Result 0-1 - 5.5 points

Good Luck.

ELGIN CITY - ARBROATH

The visitors did us a big favour recently and I am not about to desert them today.

They are 7 adrift of top spot, with two matches in hand and looking to keep the pressure on their rivals. Arbroath have scored 9 in their last 3, won 5 from 6, are unbeaten in 10 and have won 11 of 14 away.

Having won the earlier meeting here in December, 4-0 and notching 5 in midweek, a similar scoreline against the hosts, who are missing 2-3 regulars, would not surprise.

5 points Arbroath -3/4 ball 1.952 Pinnacle Sports. result won 0-1 profit + 2.38 pts

Good Luck.

STOCKPORT COUNTY - ROCHDALE

I simply cannot pass on this price for the Hatters, yes they are a little short in midfield today and they have only collected one point from a possible 9, but their amazing run had to end sometime.

Just get the feeling that they will get back on track today. Jim Gannon's side have done us several favours and at even money. against a mid table, albeit, inform team, we must get involved.

My news is that the injury problems are not as bad as they originally looked and two key players will be available.

This is a local derby that County have dominated recently, they took the reverse fixture 3-0 and did the double over Dale last year.

Keith Hill must get a lot of credit for turning Rochdale's season around and they have tasted defeat only once in 13 starts. However, many of those have come against the division's lesser lights and County are one of the best.

The hosts are keen to get their season kick started and with their next two and 3 from 4, away from home, we should see a very motivated team today.

4.5 points Stockport -1/2 ball 2.0 asian line. Result 2-7 ! loss -4.5 pts

Good Luck.

LIBOURNE - METZ

My final selection of the day is the "over" in this Ligue 2 match up, which, I feel, has been set very low.

As we discussed in greater detail recently, this division should produce more goals, as the season winds down. I think both teams will score tonight and this 1.75 goal line quote, looks something of a gift.

Sorry that I could not go into greater detail, very short of time, back to normal tomorrow.

5 points over 1.75 goals Libourne-Metz asian line. Result 0-2 profit + 1.875 points

Good Luck.

GRAVESEND & NORTHFLEET - ALDERSHOT

If you scroll down to Tuesday's matches, you will see that I opposed Aldershot and the reasons why.

It looks like Newman will again be missing and the "Shots" will shortly be rebuilding for next season. They are without a win in 4 and have conceded 2 goals in each.

Gravesend are 4 points off the play-offs, with one game in hand, so for them, this is huge and so are their odds.

Only drawback is that they have never beaten Aldershot in the Conference, but there is always a first time.

4 points Gravesend -1/2 ball 2.0875 asian line. Result 1-1 loss - 4 pts

Back shortly.

MANSFIELD- MACCLESFIELD

I am going to side with Paul Ince's, Macclesfield Town.

They sit just 3 points outside the drop zone and need to start winning matches once more.

The hosts are in a bit of a mess, the club is up for sale, they lost at home to strugglers Boston last time out and they have some major injury problems. Their squad is very small and at training in midweek, 8 players were missing, plus one away on International duty.

Ince has added two players to his squad this week, one being an England U19 international and both are set to start tonight. Macclefield's desire is probably greater and I take them to get a result.

4 points Macclesfield +1/2 ball 1.75 asian line. Result WON 2-1, profit + 3.0 pts

Good Luck.

FRIDAY UPDATE ........

I have wasted 3 hours of my life, looking at the tennis in Miami, as I have decided not to bet anything. Montanes at circa 6.15 to beat Clement, did interest me a little, but he has too little form on faster courts.

So, it will be football only for today, where I have decided upon three bets, the first will be online in an hour or so, with the others to follow shortly after.

Good luck.

BIG REWARDS !

Loyal readers were rewarded yesterday, on a very quiet Thursday, we managed to find two bets, both won and showed a massive 14.445 points profit.

Let's hope that we can build on that today, the early signs are very good. There is plenty of football to choose from and we will definitely be looking at the tennis from Miami.

Please check back.

CANAS - HENMAN

In the late game, Tim Henman faces a huge task in trying to beat Guillermo Canas, who already has a tournament win and a victory over Roger Federer, to his name, this year.

The Argentine, leads the h2h 5-1, 4 of which have gone the distance, with 4 of the wins, coming on hardcourts. In the 21 sets they have played, 12 contained, 12 or more games, including 9 of the last 10. An amazing statistic.

Canas should be too strong, but it is likely to be close once again and I am taking him to win in 3 sets.

3 points Canas to beat Henman 2-1 sets 4.0 general// 4.50 Betfair. WINNER ! CANAS won 3-6 6-2 6-1 profit +10.185 (after comm)

Good Luck.

SONY ERICSSON OPEN TENNIS ......... ATP

Rain has again delayed play in Miami, so still time to place some bets.

I like Spadea to beat Ginepri at a big looking 2.42. This one will start on 45-60 minutes, so you will have to be quick.

H2h is tied at 2-2, Spadea won their earlier meeting here, 3&4 in 2005 and has a Miami semi-final appearance in 2004, to his name. He is 9-8 for the year, with most of the losses coming against top ranked players.

Ginepri has not played much this season and can be opposed.

3 points Spadea to beat Ginepri 2.42 Pinnacle Sports. WON 6-1 6-3 profit + 4.26 pts

Back shortly, with a strong bet for the late game.

MARKET MOVES ........

Two teams in the Copa Libertadores have come in for a little support on the asian lines this afternoon...

LIBERTAD -1 .25 goals 2.16 .............. down to 2.03

BOCA JUNIORS -3/4 ball 1.90 ............. 1.76

No football bets for me today, I will back shortly with a few words and at least one bet for the Miami tennis.

Good Luck.

COPA LIBERTADORES .....

I am a little busy this afternoon and have no time to write a preview of the Necaxa-Sao Paulo fixture, where I favour the draw.

This is a result that both teams can live with, they are favourites to progress and a point apiece, would leave them clear at the top of the mini league. It looks severely overpriced on the exchanges.

3 points Necaxa-Sao Paulo draw 3.20 Betfair. RESULT 2-1 -3 points

Good Luck.

CHESTERFIELD - DONCASTER ROVERS

Doncaster put in a horror show at Oldham recently, unfortunately, we backed them. Their defending was absolutely dire, with a series of schoolboy errors.

They sit 5 points adrift of a play-off place and have now reached, a do or die situation.

Chesterfield are in trouble. They can claim just one win in 11 and have lost 5 in a row, sacking Roy McFarland has not helped stop the rot, at least ,so far. Sitting in the relegation zone, they are 2 points away from safety.

These two are running out of options and surely both will see this as win-able and go for the points, I feel we can expect goals.

Both sides are low on confidence and liable to let their heads drop, if things go wrong. Which also helps our "cause". I really believe that this is wrongly priced and we must bet accordingly.

5.5 points Chesterfield-Doncaster over 2.25 goals 2.06 Pinnacle Sports. RESULT 1-1 -2.75 points

Good Luck.

SONY ERICSSON OPEN TENNIS ......... ATP

Juan Monaco won a tournament in Buenos Aires, earlier this year, on his beloved clay.

However, his form on the faster surfaces, leaves a lot to be desired. He is 6-20 on hard courts in the past two years and lost in the first round of his last 3 tournaments.

Today he faces Dutchman, Robin Haase, who is not yet 20 yo. The very tall youngster has shown some potential on faster courts and pre-qualified here, beating Sanguinetti and Sela, in straight sets.

Not sure that Monaco should be favourite, so I am happy to side with Haase, at a big looking price.

3.5 points Haase 2.33 to beat Monaco,Pinnacle Sports. RESULT 4-6 4-6 -3.5 points

Good luck.

WEDNESDAY PLANS .........

Good start to the week, 6 bets, 4 winners, one no bet and one, half stake loser.

Today we have a little football across Europe and the Copa Libertadores, from South America. In addition, the Sony Ericsson Open Tennis, begins in earnest, in Miami and we will definitely be discussing that later today.

In response to some requests, I will mark eack individual selection as a winner or loser and log detailed statistics, each Monday. For blog purposes, a week runs from Monday to Sunday.

Here are some overall figures, I have been posting for 50 weeks ( this is w51), 37 weeks have been in profit, 13 have shown a loss.

From over 850 bets, we have made 256 points profit, with 54% winners.

Best ever week produced a little over 48 points profit, the worst a 58 point loss ( ouch !).

Most pleasing week (ending 12/11/06), which produced 74.07% winners, 20 from 27 ........ glory days !

As always, the aim is long term consistent profits and I feel that GAMBLING AND OTHER WHOLESOME INTERESTS has delivered and will continue to do so.

LAST WEEK ..... 35 bets, 18 winners, + 12.9 points , 9.7% profit to stakes (133).

I will be back later with my first selection of the day.

Good Luck.

DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE - STEVENAGE BOROUGH

I have changed my mind ( fatal) about one of the other Conference games and am taking the home win here.

After carrying all before them this season, The Daggers have conceded late goals in each of their last two home games to drop points. Think they will get back on track tonight, even though this is tougher, at least on paper, than either of those fixtures.

Boro played extra time at the weekend, in a very tough encounter with Grays, one in which Stevenage were outplayed for long periods. They were no doubt celebrating after the victory, which takes them to the FA Trophy final, which has now been "confirmed" for Wembley. Looking at their website, you would not know there was a match tonight, all the talk is of the final and it may be hard for them to concentrate on the bread and butter games, at least for a day or two.

I was toying with the "under", there are fairly high winds forecast for the area and that has created problems in recent matches at the Victoria Road ground. However, after some reflection, I have concluded that this should favour the home side, who have more experience of the conditions and overall, they look the better prepared.

3.5 points Dagenham and Redbridge -1/2 ball 2.03 asian line. RESULT WON 2-0 + 3.605 POINTS

Good Luck.

TAMWORTH - KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS

Tamworth have been kind to us recently, we opposed them last midweek and backed them at the weekend, with both results going our way. Looking for the hat-trick tonight and I am going to remain with the hosts.

Since Gary Mills returned to take charge of The Lambs, they have not looked back, battling their way off the bottom of the table with 6 wins from 11, including 4 of the last 5. They now sit outside of the relegation zone and must now look to build on that, their next 3 games are all against teams in the top 9, battling for promotion, including runaway leaders Dagenham and Redbridge, so any slip up, could be costly .

Kidderminster still have an outside chance of a playoff spot, but their form has dipped since a mid season purple patch. They qualified for the season ending,FA Trophy final, on Saturday and can be excused if they celebrated a little, about a match which could well be played at the just re-opened Wembley Stadium.

Think that Tamworth are a better side than their league position would suggest and they are certainly proving that now that they are free of cup fixtures, they look an attractive option with the level ball quote.

4 points Tamworth level ball 1.962 Pinnacle Sports. RESULT 0-0 BET VOID

Good Luck.

MORECAMBE - ALDERSHOT ........ CONFERENCE

Morecambe are traditionally a very strong home side, this season their away form has been excellent, with 10 wins on the road. So, it goes without saying, that results at their Christie Park home have disappointed, it is called Murhy's Law.

Tonight, they host an Aldershot side that are very unpredictable. The visitors are 7-1-9 on the road and will be forced to go for the 3 points, as anything less, will leave their slim promotion hopes in tatters. They will be without the competitive Ricky Newman and will miss his contribution.

I listened to an interview with their coach Terry Brown this morning, he stated that a "draw is no good to anybody" and that his team, especially the defence, had not really gelled this season. In a reflective conversation, it sounded as though his time at the club was coming to an end. just get the impression that this is a team treading water at present and one that we can readily oppose.

Think that Sammy McIIroy, will have his Morecambe side up for this one, they sit in 6th place in the table, 2 points and one place outside the play-off places. Just behind Burton, who they visit at the weekend. They really need this win and should be better suited by the conditions at the cold, wet and windy seaside resort.

4 points Morecambe -1/2 ball 1.98 asian line. RESULT WON 2-1 + 3.92 POINTS

Good Luck.

TUESDAY UPDATE ...........

I am looking at three football selections for tonight, just need to confirm some team news, the first will be online around 15.30 cet, with the others to follow.

Please check back.

FA CUP .........

The weather has turned very grim across the UK, in the south east we have had rain, hail, sunshine and snow, this afternoon and therefore, I am keeping bets to a minimum.

I think Chelsea might progress through the all London tie, Tottenham may rue not finishing the match off at Stamford Bridge.

Feel that Shevchenko is due a few goals and may gain confidence from his weekend performance, Drogba, surprisingly, has a poor scoring record against Spurs, so my only bet for the game, is for the Ukrainian to score at anytime, but just, as I said, for minimal stakes.

1.5 points Shevchenko to score 3.60 + Betfair.

RESULT WINNER + 3.783 POINTS

Good Luck.

ESTRELA da AMADORA- BENFICA LISBON

Sorry guys, I am running very late this afternoon.

Benfica are my strong selection, they can close to within one point of leaders Porto with the win and that is too good an opportunity to miss.

They have won on their last 4 visits here, scoring 2 or more each time at an average of 2.5 per game. Home and away their record is even better, they have won the last 9, scoring 2+ on every occasion.

5.5 points Benfica -3/4 ball asian line 1.81. RESULT WON 1-0 +2.2275 POINTS

Good Luck.

HANSA ROSTOCK - 1. FC KOLN

I strongly feel we will see an open encounter at the Ostseestadion, in front of a sell out crowd.

The Koln coach has not yet given up on promotion, however, to retain any chance, they will have to win tonight.

Victory will leave the hosts in a very strong position, 7 points clear of the 4th placed team and with their next 3 matches against bottom 8 sides.

Therefore, both should be going for maximum points.

This fixture normally produces plenty of excitement, 8 of the last 9 meetings have been "over", with an average of 4.44 goals per start.

5.5 points "over" 2.25 goals Rostock-Koln 1.76 asian line. RESULT 1-1 -2.75 POINTS

Back later.