NFL WEEK 4 ....

I have four bets for today, unfortunately, as it has already passed the time that I promised to post these previews (!), so they will have to be brief.

BUFFALO BILLS - NEW YORK JETS

Bills are ranked last in both offense and defense, have lost their quarterback for today and six players for the entire season, dreadful luck. That is about as bad as it can get . Jets picked up last week with the return of QB and team leader, Chad Pennington and young coach Eric Mangini, who is set to be an all time great, looks sure to be able to come up with a game plan to defeat the beat up Bills, who are averaging just 8 points per game.

5 points Jets to win ... money line 1.78 Pinnacle/ Vegas

MINNESOTA VIKINGS - GREEN BAY PACKERS

Packers QB Brett Favre, needs just one touchdown pass, to become the all time leader in the NFL. He seems certain to get it against a Vikings team that cannot defend against the pass, which is what Green bay will be doing and always have.

Vikings passing game is dire and they have real problems at QB.

5 points Green Bay to win .... money line 1.89 Pinnacle/ Vegas

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS - DENVER BRONCOS

Colts have an amazing record in September winning 17 from 19, including the last 11 and they have won 21 of the last 22 at home. Frightening prospect for the Broncos. However, Colts are happy to outscore the opposition and are conceding an average of 18 points per game. Denver have plenty of options on offence, it is just that we have not seem them yet in 2007. As they are fond of saying, the only team that can stop the Broncos scoring, is Denver, in other words, they shoot themselves in the foot. Think that we will see the real Denver tonight, at least when they have the ball and I am taking the team to go "over".

Denver to score "over" 17 points 1.83 Pinnacle/ Vegas.

DALLAS COWBOYS - ST LOUIS RAMS

Dallas remain my Super Bowl selection and should win this easily enough, but will they cover an almost two touchdown handicap ? I think so. St Louis have averaged only 11 points per start and are without star running back, Steven Jackson today and two starting offensive linemen for the season. The Cowboys have so many options on offence it is unbelievable and their huge offensive line should totally dominate the Rams and allow them to run and pass the ball, almost at will, especially late in the game, when those big guys beating up on you, really begins to hurt.

5 points Dallas -13 points 1.96 Pinnacle/ Vegas line

Good Luck.

SPAIN ... LA LIGA

ALMERIA - RACING SANTANDER

I like the hosts here, after the fixture list gave them a very tough start to La liga life, they have begun as well as they could possibly have hoped and have a very good chance of survival, or maybe mid table safety. If they are to get the latter, they need to win matches like this. Racing have problems they have lost the last two, conceding 6 without reply and have only scored two, all season, to make matters worse they have defensive problems today. If any of you are in the Uk and have a Tote shop near you, they have a MASSIVE 2.50 for the home win on their european coupon.

5 points Almeira -1/4 ball 1.91 asian line.

ATLETICO MADRID - OSASUNA

You all know that I like this Atletico team, which is finally starting to fire, the strike partnership of Diego Forlan and Sergio Aguero has gelled and they look set to terrorise Primera defences in the coming months. They have scored 10 without reply in theur last 3 starts and meet a Osasuna side that has beaten only league whipping boys, Levante, this season. Even in that sole win , they conceded a lot of chances and possession to the toothless basement club. The visitors are without several players and are lacking options, especially in midfield. Time for Atletico to really make the Vicente Calderon into a fortress and they need maximum points ahead of a trip to Barcelona next week.

5 points Atletico -1/2 ball 1.76 asian line.

Good Luck.

NETHERLANDS .......

DE GRAAFSCHAP - TWENTE ENSCHEDE

I gave Twente a big write up last week and think that we have to back them, whenever they are a price against any team outside the big 4, they might easily be capable of another top 4 finish theirselves, especially with AZ looking fragile at present.

All credit to the hosts, who have shown fantastic spirit to go unbeaten in 4, with 3 wins, after losing their opener 8-1 at home to Ajax. However, this is the classiest outfit that they have met since that day and only PSV have stopped Twente from scoring at least 2 in every start, impressing all watchers.

5 points Twente -1/4 ball 1.83 asian line.

Good Luck.

SUNDAY MORNING ...........

I have written previews of seven matches today, across 5 european leagues and will be posting a couple on the blog today, along with a look at today's action in the NFL.

Will have the first selection online in an hour or so, please check back.

If any of you have not previously requested a trial and would like a free copy of today's newletter, just send me an email on this link, no need to write anything and I will send it by return.

Back shortly.

MILESTONE POST !

This is my 2000th post on the blog, I would like to have put a winner in it, but as the three selections today obliged, we will have to settle for that !

That must be way over 500,000 words, probably a lot more, if you are not doing anything this evening, maybe you could count them ! I wonder if anybody, apart from me, has read them all.

Eleven of this week's 14 selections have won on the blog, making some nice returns, the email service has done very much better.

Of course I am biased, but some of the previews this week, sent to subscribers have been excellent, win or lose and most have won, all have been pretty much on the button.

I am going to continue to blog, but 80-90% of my output is going to be solely for subscribers, which is out of line from what I originally intended, but my hand has been forced .

At the current special offer rates, for which there are only 5-6 places left, you can have the newsletter delivered directly to your computer every morning, for as little 85p per day ($1.71). If there is better value available anywhere, I would be totally amazed. You do not need to be a big punter to afford those rates amd many pay a similar price for a daily newspaper. Please email me for further details using this link.

I will definitely make a couple of posts on the blog tomorrow, including something on the NFL, which has been going well ..... knock on wood !

Good Night !

SCOTLAND ....

DIVISION 3
EAST STIRLING - ARBROATH

Last but not least, we have to back Arbroath, who are playing well and are unbeaten in 5. They meet an East stirling team that started the season promisingly, but have just collapsed, conceding 13 goals in two and a half games and will be missing 5 players today . The away would have been 1.40 last season and the hosts seem to be returning to that level of performance.

5 points Arbroath -1/2 ball 1.93 asian line.

Good Luck.

DIVISION 2 ........... THE GUV'NOR'S BOYS ...AGAIN

MORECAMBE - MK DONS

Not going to desert MK Dons now that they have hit form, this is a classy outfit, who score for fun and the key fact today is that they will have a huge edge in fitness. Morecambe lost 5-0 in the cup at Sheffield United in midweek and they were left chasing shadows and doing a lot of work in the second half, looking exhausted leaving the pitch. That makes 9 goals they have conceded in 3 starts and only scored once in 5.

5 points Mk Dons -1/4 ball 1.92 asian line.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY....

ENGLAND
PREMIERSHIP
WIGAN - LIVERPOOL

I feel that we will see the real Liverpool today, on a ground and against an opponent, where they have a wonderful record. Winning all 6 meetings, including a 4-0 win last season, all goals coming before the break. Wigan are, of course, still without Heskey and last week at Reading, conceded a host of chances , it is no exaggeration to say that they could have been 4 down fairly early on. There is pressure on Benitez to start Torres today, not sure that he will, but think it is academic. His side are unbeaten and have not conceded a goal in over 7 hours, nor a goal from open play all season ! I have been told that the change in referee here is very significant, but do not wish to say any more on that !

6.5 points Liverpool -3/4 ball 1.71 asian line.

Torres starts !

Good Luck.

FRANCE LIGUE 2 ...........

This selection has picked itself I am afraid, the other two Ligue 2 picks have been very heavily backed, so once again subscribers have got the value, win or lose and the fourth pick, already has a two goal lead ! So that leaves us with ......

CHAMOIS NIORTAIS FC - BASTIA SC

I will give Niort a chance to make up for two recent home losses, one of which was very unlucky, that is as many losses as they have suffered on home soil in the previous two seasons. They go to Le Havre next and will not want to slip any further down the table ahead of that match, which could easily lead to another relegation struggle. Bastia are without a few key players.

5 points Niort -1/4 2.02 asian line.

Good Luck.

FRIDAY OUTLOOK ......

Plus a quick look back at yesterday, where Monaco did it the hard way, coming back from 2-0 down, it was about time one of those went our way ! Infact, two of them did, as the same thing happened on one of the email exclusives, where 3 of the 4 selections won, ensuring another small extra profit for subscribers. I am not posting those previews this time, as there was some information in one, that we can use in the future.

Friday, as normal is a very busy day and I am previewing a handful of games from today and one, maybe two early bets from the weekend in the newsletter. Will definitely be posting one or two on the blog and let's hope that we can continue the good run.

With regard to the email service you can read further details on this link , or email me here, for details of the special offer, for which there are just a few places left.

Back later.

FRENCH LIGUE CUP .....

NANTES - MONACO

This match is being played in Angers, at a neutral venue. Monaco are without 4 squad members, but only Koller and Menez would probably have started and they have plenty of options. They have named a fairly attacking line up and only have one league game in the next 23 days, none at the weekend, so no need to give this anything less than 100% of their attention.

Nantes, on the other hand, are top of Ligue 2 and have a very important and difficult trip to Grenoble on Monday and played a tense away game just 3 days ago, they are bound to be a little weary and I am siding with the visitors, who will be looking for a morale boosting win after losing 3 league starts.

5 points Monaco level ball 1.95 asian line.

Good Luck

THURSDAY PLANS ....

Wow ! I have just realised that the blog is closing in on 2000 posts ! I will have to make the milestone one a winner !

One what, at first glance, looks a quiet Thursday, I have put four previews on the email service and will definitely include at least one on the blog, later today, so please check back.

A GOOD DAY AT THE OFFICE ........

Both blog selections won today, in addition, email subscribers also received another 4 reviews, which produced a further 3 winners and one half stake loser, an additional 11 points + profit, a total plus on the day of circa 21 points. There is still time to join the service, infact, there are still 8 places left at the special offer rates, which mean that you can receive the email each morning, for as little as $1.71 (85p) per day, simply email me on this link for details.



Here are the email exclusives for today, along with basic reasoning .....

SPAIN... LA LIGA.... MALLORCA - VALLADOLID

See no reason to desert Mallorca, who are strengthened by the return of Navarro and Gutierrez. Visitors had a tough battle with Real Madrid and will be feeling it. They are without 4 players.

5.5 points Mallorca -1/4 ball 1.88 asian line. WON 4-2

SWEDEN ... SUPERETTAN ... GIF SUNDSVALL - NORRKOPING

Rumours are that the visitors, who have the title all but wrapped up,will not be too motivated. That will not be the case for GIF , who can go back into the final automatic promotion spot with a point and earn a very desireable two point cushion, with a win.

4.5 points GIF -1/2 ball 1.95 general. WON 3-0

ENGLAND ... CARLING CUP
TOTTENHAM - MIDDLESBORO

Big game for Spurs, who need another convincing home performance, although it looks too late to save Martin Jol now. Boro are without Mido, Tuncay and Aladiere upfront, plus a couple of key defenders. Hungry home strikers to cover an at first glance, big looking handicap.

5 points Spurs -3/4 ball 1.80 asian line. WON 2-0

FULHAM - BOLTON

Tough run for Bolton, who are playing their 3rd match in 6 days, including a lot of travelling. They are resting all recognised strikers, ahead of an already, at this early stage, vital game with Derby, at the weekend. Fulham have a proper derby (Chelsea) coming up, but are in far better shape, with more options and will be fielding a strong side. They won the league meeting here just a few weeks ago and 6 of the last 7, with one draw. Londoners have also had no travelling and 24 hours extra prep time.

5.5 points Fulham -1/4 ball 1.81 asian line. DRAW 1-1 half stake loser



Good Night !

ITALY SERIE A ....

PARMA - TORINO

Something has got to give soon, with these two draw specialists (7/8 between them), or maybe not ! Torino have the derby game with Juve at the weekend and will surely have one eye on that. Parma played well in the 1-1 draw with Milan and will be keen to get the 3 points here, ahead of a tricky trip to Udinese on Sunday. Both teams are missing several players and the Torino coach will be watching fron the stands, following a ban. The extra day's rest is not to be sniffed at, neither is a little "saver" on the draw.

5 points Parma -1/4 ball 2.05 ..... now trading at 1.99
1.5 points draw 3.0 general quote

Good Luck.

I know that we are only 4 rounds into Serie A, but of the 40 matches played, an incredible 50% have been draws and they have been spread around. Every team has at least one stalemate to their name, infact, only seven sides have one, all the rest, two or more. This is way ahead of stats for recent years, just 13 draws, 32.5% at the same stage last season. So what, I hear you cry !

Well, I would be very wary of backing anyone at short prices for the time being and there could be money to be made trading in running. Big favourites with a lead, like Milan against Parma last weekend, always trade very short ,too short, they are cheap lays , pay handsomely and you do not have to be right very often to make a profit. One winners (loser) pays for a lot of losers (winners) ! Keep this in mind.

GERMANY BUNDESLIGA .... BAYERN MUNICH - COTTBUS

Huge handicap to overcome, but I am still taking Bayern. They score for fun and Klose and Toni, are already battling for the Golden Boot. Bayern have scored 14 goals, in the 4 games that the two have started.

Cottbus have conceded 11 in 5 and 2+ in each of their last 5 visits here. Strongly feel that they might decide to conserve their energy for a far more winnable home game with Frankfurt at the weekend. It is Oktoberfest in Munich and favourite son (one of them) and chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge's birthday, they will want to put on a show.

5.5 points Bayern -2.25 goals 2.12 asian line.

Bayern Munich: Kahn - Lell, Van Buyten, Demichelis, Jansen - Altintop, Zé Roberto, Van Bommel, Ribery - Toni, Klose

Energie Cottbus: Piplica - Angelov, da Silva, Mitreski, Cvitanovic - Rost, Kukielka - Shao, Skela, Rangelov - Sörensen

Back later.

ENGLAND .... CARLING CUP

All the value on the "over" bet has now long gone, since sending it out this morning, but the odds on Cardiff, still look big....

WEST BROMWICH ALBION - CARDIFF CITY

This will be brief, Cardiff are a team I am going to be following over the next few weeks, they have been playing well, without any reward, despite being hampered by the loss of both starting central defenders. One of them returns today and they meet a WBA side, likely to rest a few, with this low priority and missing 3 defenders in any case. Have to take the "over" , given the defensive problems at both teams and their potent attacks, in addition to a small bet on the away team.

5 points "over" 2.5 goals 2.04 asian line..... now 1.85
1.5 points Cardiff 4.80 exchanges..... now 4.60

Back later.

BUNDESLIGA .....

WOLFSBURG - WERDER BREMEN

I am taking the "over" here, Wolfsburg have scored and conceded in every league start this season, with 87% producing 3+. Werder have been "over" in 5 from 6 and have also scored 2 or more, during the same sequence.

The visitors had a nice 4-1 win over Stuttgart at the weekend, with Diego, happy now with an extended contract, pulling the strings. They produced 21 attempts on goal against a normally solid defence and even had 19 in the Champions League defeat at Real Madrid last weekend.

If forced to select a winner , I would go for them, but prefer the "over" option. Wolfsburg are conceding 20 attempts per game, which is suicidal, even giving up that many and 61% possession, at home to newly promoted Karlsruhe recently and are still without central defender Costa this evening.

5.5 points "over" 2.5 goals 1.71 exchanges OR 2.75 goals 1.89 asian line.

Good Luck.

NFL ....

Titans put up a big performance, not just covering the handicap, but winning the game 31-14.

I have written previews of 5 matches on the email service today, all football and will try to put some of them on the blog later this afternoon.

Good Luck.

MONDAY ROUND UP .....

Two of the three football selections on the blog won today, which ensured a decent profit. However, once again, subscribers did even better, they had two additional selections, only one won, but at very nice odds ......

BELGIUM ... STANDARD LIEGE - WESTERLO

At first glance this looks straightforward enough, Standard are carrying all before them domestically and a win will give them a healthy lead at the top of the table. However, they will be without top striker Milan Jovanovic and might still be suffering from a tough recent schedule as outlined in Thursday's email. Westerlo are not scoring many, none in the last 4, but are tough to break down, conceding just 4 times all season.H2h favours the hosts, who have won the last 6 meetings here, 4 of them by 2+. My idea is that this could be one of the other third and see the best option as the home team winning by exactly one goal.

4 points Standard-Westerlo draw -1 ball handicap 4.1 Expekt// 3.60 + general. Result 2-1

I was very pleased with this well reasoned bet and the 12.4 points profit it made. There are still a very few, special offer places left on the subscription service, email me for details, using this link.


Good night.

NFL WEEK 3 ... NEW ORLEANS SAINTS - TENNESSEE TITANS

I am taking the Titans plus the points. There are in good shape , have won 7 from 9 and only lost narrowly 22-20 to the Super Bowl champions last week. Any team that can keep Peyton Manning and the Colts to just 22 points, will not be worried about a team that has managed just two touchdowns this season.

Saints had the number one ranked offense last year, but seem a long way off that level and they were riding a tidal wave of emotion then, think that they may be suffering a mental letdown and this year could be very tough. They are not a bad team by any means, but have given up a lot of points to the Bucs and Colts ( twice as many as the Titans) .

Titans have won the last 4 meetings , including the last three in the Superdome.

5 points Tennessee +4.5 points 2.01 Pinnacle.

Good Luck.

MONDAY'S FOOTBALL .....

IRISH FA CUP
ST PATRICK'S ATHLETIC - BOHEMIANS

Sell out crowd and a large travelling support will witness this quarter final, where the winner will be strong favourites to take the trophy and the european spot it brings with it.

I favour the visitors, who have 5 players returning to the squad and have not lost in 90 minutes here in 8 visits, winning 5.

5 points Bohemians +1/2 ball 1.77 asian line

SUPERETTAN
HACKENS- DEGERFORS

Hugely important game for both, for very different reasons. The visitors are bottom of the table and really need every point, but have just one away win to their name and have scored once in 360 minutes+ of football. Hackens are in really good shape and sit just 3 points outside an automatic promotion spot, with the two teams directly above them, facing very tough fixtures. Infact, they meet one of them, Ljungskile at the weekend, so will not want to lose any ground this evening, with their fate pretty much in their own hands. They have won 8/10 scoring 23 times , including 13 whilst winning the last 4.

5 points Hackens 1.45 + general quote.... NOW 1.40


FRANCE .. LIGUE 2
LIBOURNE - NANTES

Hosts have not kept a clean sheet all season and are averaging 4.0 goals per game. Nantes are probably the best team in 2 and will be looking for maximum points. I am going to take a little on the "over", with the goal line set at 2, there appears to be minimal downside.

5 points "over" 2 goals 1.70 asian line.... NOW 1.65

Good Luck.

Monday ... what's happening and what happened !

Good Morning !

We have a number of football matches scattered across Europe today and I am probably going to cover two of them on the blog . As always that is a little dependent on how the market moves through the day. Will put the first of these online mid/late afternoon.

I would like to talk a little about yesterday's selections, email subscribers had access to previews of 15 matches, across two sports and ten countries. Of which, just five lost and with even a minimal amout of luck, 13/14 could/should have won ! Anybody viewing the Roma, Cagliari, Livorno and Chigaco games, will know what I mean.

However, it is not just the actual selections, but the information contained within, that I feel is so valuable. Take a few minutes and look through the previews, which are posted below, all of this is available for the cost of a daily newspaper and delivered directly to your computer every morning. The cost can be reduced even further, if you take advantage of one of the special offers currently running, just email me here for details.


GERMAN BUNDESLIGA
KARLSRUHE - BAYERN MUNICH

Klose and Toni are both fit to play today, in the three matches they have started, Bayern have collected maximum points, with a 10-0 goal difference. Promoted hosts have started Bundesliga life well and could even pass their illustrious visitors with a win, that is not going to happen. They are without two starting defenders and there is a huge gulf in class, away win.

6 points Bayern to win 1.50 general OR -1 ball asian line 1.82. WON 4-1 with both Klose and Toni scoring inside the opening 20 minutes



TWENTE ENSCHEDE- NIJMEGEN NEC

Hosts finished 4th last year and invested in the squad in the summer, they are unbeaten this season with two away victories and two home stalemates, including with the champions PSV. Time to get one for the supporters and they have the right opponent. Twente have won 7 of the last 8 meetings, including the last 4, which came all by 2 or more goals, scoring at least 3 in each. They are the only side capable of challenging the top 4 and the PSV coach was very impressed with them. NEC are in poor form, losing their last 3 without troubling the "scorer".

6.5 points Twente -1 ball 1.78 asian line. WON 3-0

ITALY SERIE A
ROMA - JUVENTUS

Hosts look the best side in Italy at the moment, I feel the signing of Ludovic Giuly was a masterstroke, he was never given enough game time in Barcelona. Totti is playing at the top of his game and Arsene Wenger has singled them out as potential Champions League winners this season.They have won all 4 starts without conceding.

Juve came down to earth with a 1-0 home loss to Udinese, but had enough chances to win that, however, they look a little slow in key positions and conceded a lot of chances in the previous lucky 3-2 win at Cagliari. Both Camoranesi and Zebina are missing today.

4.5 points Roma -1/2 ball 1.98 asian line. drew 2-2, Roma dominated the game

CAGLIARI- PALERMO

Island derby. Cagliari have had very much the upper hand in these meetings, but I have no doubt that Palermo are the stronger team. Both are missing key players and this is a game that neither can afford to lose. We can expect a cautious approach from both and a draw looks far and away the most likely outcome. Last season Cagliari lost their league opener, as this and then went on to draw 5 of the next 7, not an easy place to get a win and they rarely lose two in a row, a draw !

4 points draw 3.0 general quote. result 0-1, with Cagliari missing many chances


LIVORNO - INTER MILAN

Nightmare display from Inter in midweek, from which they will want to bounce back as quickly as possible. If they had to choose an away fixture, this would probably be it, Livorno have conceded 10 in 3 starts, look in turmoil and are missing vital midfielder Jose Vidigal. More options for Inter, who can call on the services of 4 players who return from suspension and they will have a far better balance, especially in defence.

6 points Inter -3/4 ball 1.75 asian line. 2-2 ,Inter finished with 10 men , yet enjoyed 65% possession

ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP
BOLTON - TOTTENHAM

Both coaches Lee and Jol are under intense pressure and will be forced to seek the 3 points. Spurs are easily the better team, but until King returns to marshall the defence, they will remain vunerable at the back, this is a side that has kept just 3 clean sheets in 25 starts. At the other end of the pitch they have an array of attacking options, maybe too many and against this defence, Bolton will also fancy their chances. Feel that the visitors will probably win, but think the "over" is a standout bet.

5.5 points "over" 2.25 goals 1.70 asian line. half stake loser, 1-1 after 39 minutes

DENMARK ... ESBJERG - MIDTYLLAND FC

Going for an upset here, visitors are top of the table, but that has been largely down to their home form, where they have a 100% record, they are far less potent on the road. My reports suggest that they have been riding their luck in any case and just scraping wins, do not see them as potential champions and we can expect a dip in results soon. Esbjerg are a strange side and are very leaky at the back, however, they have no problems scoring ( 22 in 9) and are also probably in a false position in the table. They have an amazing record in this fixture (9-1-0 ) with 8 of those wins coming by 2 or more goals. I have to take a chance on them at the big odds on offer.

4.5 points Esbjerg 3.0 general OR +1/4 ball asian line 1.83. won 2-0

SPAIN LA LIGA
ATLETICO MADRID - RACING SANTANDER

I know, I know, Atletico at home are a very risky proposition, but I feel they will kick start their league campaign today. Jose Mourinho is being tipped for this job, which is sure to motivate the home coach this evening. Hugely ambitious club who have to start living up to the potential and hype, after spending 80m euros in the summer. They should have won at Murcia last week, but choose to sit back on their lead, surely they will be more ruthless today, against a well organised Racing side, but one missing several defenders.

4.5 points Atletico -1/2 ball 1.75 asain line. won 4-0

ALMERIA - MALLORCA

Regular readers will know that I like this Mallorca team, who I feel will challenge for a UEFA Cup spot this season, unlucky not to be unbeaten, they had a good goal disallowed at home to Villarreal last week. They are excellent on the break and can be expected to pick up a lot of away points this season. Hosts are set to struggle this season and are missing the suspended Crusat.

4.5 points Mallorca +1/4 ball 1.89 asian line. half stake winner 1-1 visitors created 20 chances !

SWEDEN ALLSVENSKAN
TRELLEBORG- KALMAR FF

Hosts are fighting for their life at the foot of Allsvenskan and goals, just 2 in 6 starts have been a huge problem, they have just one win in 10 and that came against fellow strugglers Brommapojkarna. Kalmar are an enigma, but seem to have recovered from their mid season dip, where they lost consecutive games 5-0, following the sale of key players ! Recording recent wins over Halmstad (5th) and Djurgardens (1st), a win today will take them level at the top, in a very tight division and that is a fantastic incentive.

5 points Kalmar -1/4 ball 2.12 asian line. won 3-1

USA ... MLS
CHICAGO FIRE - WASHINGTON DC UNITED

Big news here, with DC, who have already clinched a playoff spot, missing 3 starting and very key midfielders in Fred, Olsen and Gomez. Hosts are fighting for one of the remaining post season places and every point is absolutely vital. They can take comfort from the h2h stats where they are 4-2-1 and I do not see the more motivated side losing.

5 points Chicago Fire level ball 1.98 asian line. no bet 1-1 Chigago led for 66 minutes

FRANCE LIGUE 1
PSG - BORDEAUX

Finally, PSG are still looking for their first home win and have been well supported to get it today, but I do not think it will be quite so straightforward. To my mind these are two of the better Ligue 1 teams and although Bordeaux played in Europe on Thursday, most of the key players started on the bench and were just given a nominal run out, so that should not have any affect at all. Feel that it could be another frustrating day in the capital and these two very tight teams might cancel each other out, a draw.

4 points draw 3.05 general quote. loser result 0-2, but enough to put you off the very well backed home team


KANSAS CITY - MINNESOTA VIKINGS
5.5 points Kansas -3 points 2.04 Pinnacle KC WON 13-10 PUSH



Vikings very likely to be without their QB. Kansas are boosted by the return of a key defensive starter and the knowledge that star running back Larry Johnson will be able to carry the ball more tonight, after holding out pre season. Their QB is 6-0 as a starter and Chiefs are an amazing 20-4 verses NFC teams. 92 degrees in KC will help the hosts.



CHICAGO BEARS - DALLAS COWBOYS
5 points Dallas +3 points 2.0 Pinnacle Dallas won 34-10


Just feel that Cowboys, who are my early Superbowl selection, hold too many offensive options against a team with a solid enough defence, but which struggles to score.


WASHINGTON REDSKINS - NEW YORK GIANTS
5 points New York +3.5 points 1.935 Pinnacle Giants won 24-17


Giants have been terrible so far, especially on defence, giving up 80 points, however , many of those came late in the game and I feel they will be helped in that aspect, by having an extra 24 hours prep time, than their opponents. They took both games against the Redskins last year and this is their season on the line, certainly the head coaching job !

Back later.

SUNDAY'S LATE GAMES ...

SPAIN LA LIGA
ATLETICO MADRID - RACING SANTANDER

I know, I know, Atletico at home are a very risky proposition, but I feel they will kick start their league campaign today. Jose Mourinho is being tipped for this job, which is sure to motivate the home coach this evening. Hugely ambitious club who have to start living up to the potential and hype, after spending 80m euros in the summer. They should have won at Murcia last week, but choose to sit back on their lead, surely they will be more ruthless today, against a well organised Racing side, but one missing several defenders.

4.5 points Atletico -1/2 ball 1.76 asain line.

USA ... MLS
CHICAGO FIRE - WASHINGTON DC UNITED

Big news here, with DC, who have already clinched a playoff spot, missing 3 starting and very key midfielders in Fred, Olsen and Gomez. Hosts are fighting for one of the remaining post season places and every point is absolutely vital. They can take comfort from the h2h stats where they are 4-2-1 and I do not see the more motivated side losing.

5 points Chicago Fire level ball 1.98 asian line.

Good Luck.

NFL WEEK 3....

KANSAS CITY - MINNESOTA VIKINGS

5.5 points Kansas -3 points 2.04 Pinnacle

Vikings very likely to be without their QB. Kansas are boosted by the return of a key defensive starter and the knowledge that star running back Larry Johnson will be able to carry the ball more tonight, after holding out pre season. Their QB is 6-0 as a starter and Chiefs are an amazing 20-4 verses NFC teams. 92 degrees in KC will help the hosts.

CHICAGO BEARS - DALLAS COWBOYS

5 points Dallas +3 points 2.0 Pinnacle

Just feel that Cowboys, who are my early Superbowl selection, hold too many offensive options against a team with a solid enough defence, but which struggles to score.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS - NEW YORK GIANTS

5 points New York +3.5 points 1.935 Pinnacle

Giants have been terrible so far, especially on defence, giving up 80 points, however , many of those came late in the game and I feel they will be helped in that aspect, by having an extra 24 hours prep time, than their opponents. They took both games against the Redskins last year and this is their season on the line, certainly the head coaching job !

Back later.

ITALY .... SERIE A

ROMA - JUVENTUS

Hosts look the best side in Italy at the moment, I feel the signing of Ludovic Giuly was a masterstroke, he was never given enough game time in Barcelona. Totti is playing at the top of his game and Arsene Wenger has singled them out as potential Champions League winners this season.They have won all 4 starts without conceding.

Juve came down to earth with a 1-0 home loss to Udinese, but had enough chances to win that, however, they look a little slow in key positions and conceded a lot of chances in the previous lucky 3-2 win at Cagliari. Both Camoranesi and Zebina are missing today.

4.5 points Roma -1/2 ball 1.98 asian line.

CAGLIARI- PALERMO

Island derby. Cagliari have had very much the upper hand in these meetings, but I have no doubt that Palermo are the stronger team. Both are missing key players and this is a game that neither can afford to lose. We can expect a cautious approach from both and a draw looks far and away the most likely outcome. Last season Cagliari lost their league opener, as this and then went on to draw 5 of the next 7, not an easy place to get a win and they rarely lose two in a row, a draw !

4 points draw 3.0 general quote.


LIVORNO - INTER MILAN

Nightmare display from Inter in midweek, from which they will want to bounce back as quickly as possible. If they had to choose an away fixture, this would probably be it, Livorno have conceded 10 in 3 starts, look in turmoil and are missing vital midfielder Jose Vidigal. More options for Inter, who can call on the services of 4 players who return from suspension and they will have a far better balance, especially in defence.

6 points Inter -3/4 ball 1.75 asian line.

Good Luck.

SUNDAY PLANS ......

I am going to cover football ( of course) and the NFL on the blog today.

Covered a lot of matches on the email service and will put post several on here throughout the day. Because of time restraints and the exceptional number of games I have reviewed, if anyone wants to email me here , I will send a free copy of today's newsletter, within the hour.

Back later.

NETHERLANDS ....

TWENTE ENSCHEDE- NIJMEGEN NEC

Hosts finished 4th last year and invested in the squad in the summer, they are unbeaten this season with two away victories and two home stalemates, including with the champions PSV. Time to get one for the supporters and they have the right opponent. Twente have won 7 of the last 8 meetings, including the last 4, which came all by 2 or more goals, scoring at least 3 in each. They are the only side capable of challenging the top 4 and the PSV coach was very impressed with them. NEC are in poor form, losing their last 3 without troubling the "scorer".

6.5 points Twente -1 ball 1.75 asian line.

Good Luck.

FRANCE ... LIGUE 1

NICE - ST ETIENNE

I like the visitors who have been putting up some incredible statistics and are finally converting those into results.
In the 3-0 win over Caen they posted 22 attempts, in a 2-0 defeat at leaders Nancy 61% possession and 11 attempts. At champions Lyon an eyecatching 14 attempts and the lions share of the ball and against Strasbourg 64% and 24 attempts !

They will be further boosted by the return of 3 key players including two important defenders from suspension.

Nice are likely to have their 3rd choice keeper, between the sticks and a further handful unavailable for selection, after failing out of favour with the coach..

6 points St Etienne +1/4 ball 1.82 asian line.

Good Luck.

AFTERNOON REVIEW ....

In a word, frustrating, with both Sheffield United and Hearts, unable to hold on to leads. Email subscribers fared better, with both exclusives winning by 3 goals.....

DIVISION 1
NOTTINGHAM FOREST - GILLINGHAM

Talked a lot about Forest last week, when they obliged for us. They have far more attacking options available now and this is a massive game for them, a win in front of their long suffering fans, is absolutely vital. Gills are unpredictable, but have had a couple of heavy beatings from some of the division's better sides and they are definitely meeting another today. Still without a manager, this is a team with a lot of on and off the pitch problems .

6 points Forest -3/4 ball 1.82 asian line WON 3-0

SWINDON - BOURNEMOUTH

We have covered Swindon a lot in recent weeks, especially the huge number of chances they are creating. They were very unlucky not to collect all 3 points at Hartlepool last week and not many teams will do that. Bournemouth are set to be without 4-7 players today, two teams heading in different directions.

5.5 points Swindon -1/2 ball 1.88 asian line. WON 4-1

Good luck.

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THAT COMPLETES THE AFTERNOON'S ENTERTAINMENT ...

This is my final afternoon selection on the blog, there were two others on the email service, both of which have come in for significant support. I will try to put one of the evening selections on later.

DIVISION 2
MK DONS - DARLINGTON

Huge top of the table clash, Dons seem to raise their game for the better teams ( not Brentford, who they played off the park last week) and are scoring at the rate of 2.5 goals per game. They have tightened things up at the back and they are still my idea of the division winners. Big crowd and I expect Paul Ince's team to put on a show.

5 points MK Dons -1/4 ball 1.81 asian line

Back later.

SCOTLAND .... SPL

INVERNESS - HEARTS

ICT are still 100%, that's six losses and have not scored in 3, they are without 3-5 starters today. Hearts have picked up after a very slow start and showed their potential with a 4-2 win over Rangers last week . They do not want to undo all that hard work and will be very motivated to get a 4th consecutive win. Hearts played a very aggressive, high tempo game against the R's, which will be perfect today, playing a side low on confidence. Decent run of fixtures ahead for the visitors which will get them back into contention for 3rd place.

5 points Hearts -1/2 ball 1.94 asian line.

Good Luck.

ENGLAND .... CHAMPIONSHIP

CRYSTAL PALACE - SHEFFIELD UNITED

Home team cannot score, just one goal in 4, visitors cannot stop, 2+ in their last 4, but are also unable to keep a clean sheet. In my season preview, I talked about Palace's lack of goal scoring options, of course, they then scored 4 away from home in the first game of the season ! However, the extent of their problems are now clear for all to see. United have not had the rub of the green and are playing well, really expect them to win at a ground where they have not lost in 6 visits. Huge squad compared to the hosts, who are severely hampered by the continued abscence of Ifill and Kennedy.

5 points Sheffield United level ball GIVEN AT 2.05 ... NOW 1.94

Back shortly.

FRANCE LIGUE 2

STADE DE REIMS - AJACCIO

I like the hosts here, Reims are traditionally strong at home and are unlucky not to be unbeaten here, Dijon claiming a fortunate win.They have a massive boost with the return from suspension of three very important players this evening.

Ajaccio are very short of options in midfield, which is where games are often decided in this league and are also without a vital defender in Collin. They have only one goal and point in 3 away starts. Last year ended 4-1, which will do nicely.

5 points Reims -1/4 ball 1.96 asian line.... now 1.86

ANGERS - MONTPELLIER

Angers are finally coming to terms with life in Ligue 2, winning 3 of their last 4 and in Marcelinho, they have a prolific striker who has rediscovered his goalscoring form. Feel he will be on the scoresheet again this evening against an inconsistent Montpellier, who are still missing their starting goalkeeper .

5 points Angers level ball 1.89 asian line.

Good Luck.

GERMAN BUNDESLIGA .....

BOCHUM - EINTRACHT FRANKFURT

This is Bochum's first home start since 24th August, so they and their fervent fans will be fired up for this match. They will be without the suspended Pfertzel, which is a handicap, but will be confident against an opponent that they did the double over last season, scoring 7 goals and have won the last 4 home meetings. In this fixture last year, Frankfurt raced into a 2 goal lead inside the opening 5 minutes and still could not win ! Definite mental edge to the hosts, who's coach has been working on secret tactics to surprise the visitors, should be worth watching !

5 points Bochum level ball 1.70 asian line.... now 1.66

Good Luck.

THURSDAY ROUND UP ...

Very disappointing display by Oxford, it will be a long time before they are selected by me again, time for a managerial change at the Kassam Stadium !

Excellent ideas in the UEFA Cup though, in addition to the two winners posted earlier on the blog, two further email selections also obliged, for a clean sweep in europe's lesser competition .....

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR - ANORTHOSIS FAMAGUSTA

This is a massive game for Spurs and especially Martin Jol. Last season they used the UEFA Cup as a launching pad to reignite their season and following 4 league defeats already, are looking for the same this time round. It is not that they are playing poorly, they are not, in the 3-3 draw with Fulham, they had enough chances to win 4 matches and were desperately unlucky to lose at Manchester United and could have scored 10( no exaggeration ) against Derby. They are making the odd mistake and getting punished for it.
Expect them to be very motivated tonight, put out a strong team and show no mercy ! Visitors are not helped by being without their starting goal keeper.

6 points Tottenham -2 goals 1.75 asian line. won 6-1

ABERDEEN - DNIPRO

I have no doubt that the visitors are the better side and certainly have more european experience, with the Dons making their first appearance in five seasons. Aberdeen have won just once in the SPL and have a massive game at Rangers at the weekend. They have openly said that the most important thing this evening is to keep a clean sheet.

Dnipro also have a huge game coming up, with a trip to league leaders Donetsk, who they currently trail by 3 points. They will surely have one eye on that fixture. Very tight defensively, keeping 4 clean sheets in 5 starts, they will also be very happy to keep things low key and scoreless. All things considered I see the draw as easily the best value in the game, with a small stake saver on the visitors.

4 points draw 3.25 general quote. result 0-0
2.5 Dnipro 2.60 general quote.

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NON LEAGUE FOOTBALL ....

BLUE SQUARE PREMIERSHIP ... HISTON - OXFORD UNITED

Histon are part timers and this is their 3rd start in 5 days, they hosted Torquay on Tuesday in a nine goal thriller. They were 3-0 down at the break and fought back well, but at the end of the day, had nothing to show for it.We discussed earlier this week, how tough it is to play so much and hold down an outside job, there will be some very heavy legs on the pitch, they will be without a suspended key defender and do not have huge squad options available to them.

Oxford are 9 points off the top already and cannot afford to drop any more points, they have not played since saturday and have promised to field an adventurous line up, with an attacking midfielder sitting directly behind the front two. They are probably happier on the road, where the level of expectation on them is greatly reduced. This is a team with Championship potential and to be stuck in the BSP is a crying shame, patience in the boardroom must be wearing thin and manager Jim Smith needs the win this evening.

They lost at home to Aldershot at the weekend , conceding 3 very sloppy goals, otherwise dominating the game and generally playing well.

I have seen that only 12% of Histon's goals have come in the first half and given that they were 3 down at the break just two days ago, there might be some value in the visitors leading at ht/ft.

5.5 points Oxford -1/4 ball 1.80 asian line
1.5 points Oxford-Oxford double result 3.70 Expekt/ Betfair ... 3.60 general.


Good Luck.

UEFA CUP ...

ZENIT ST PETERSBURG - STANDARD LIEGE

Zenit are joint leaders in the Russian league and are looking for their 6th successive win, they have had 18 days to prepare for this match and are sure to be hungry for some action.
Standard are top in Belgium, but dropped their first points of the season at the weekend, several of the players have been involved in a gruelling recent schedule, including a daunting trip to Kazakhstan, with the national team and are looking jaded. They are a youngish team, lacking in european experience and missing their top striker.

5 points Zenit -3/4 ball 2.0 asian line..... now 1.92


SARAJEVO FK - BASLE

Huge gap in class here and I expect the visitors to win. Hosts are languishing in 13th spot in the Bosnian league, with just one win in 5, they have been creating very few chances, even against some of the leagues weakest teams ,have a couple of key doubts and are looking tired and lacklustre. Basle are very keen to progress, have travelled with a full squad and will field their strongest eleven.

5 points Basle -1/4 ball 1.83 asian line.... now -1/2 ball 1.77 !

ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP ....

CARDIFF - WATFORD

Visitors are looking for at least a point, which will take them back to the top of the table. Coach Aidy Boothroyd has a wealth of attacking options at his disposal, with Henderson, Ellington and King , all in contention for a starting place. All three will be chomping at the bit to play against a team with severe problems in central defence and that has not scored a home goal.

5.5 points Watford level ball asian line 2.0...... now 1.92

SOUTHAMPTON - COLCHESTER

Saints create chance after chance and showed their potential yet again in a unlucky loss to Watford at the weekend. Sometime soon they are going to really hammer someone. The visitors are without the suspended Matthew Connolly and are likely to have to finally rest Teddy Sherringham. They have conceded at least two goals in 4 of their last 5 starts and will surprise me if they keep the hosts to fewer this evening.

5 points Southampton -1/2 ball 1.80 asian line..... now 1.72

Good Luck.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ...

FENERBACHE - INTER MILAN

Huge defensive problems for Inter and they could easily start with the entire back 4 playing out of position, they have 4 suspended and several others, including Materazzi and Viera injured. However, they will be no less of an attacking threat and are facing a home defence that also looks fragile.

Coming into this season Fenerbache's last 8 european home ties have been "over" with 5 of those producing 4 or more goals.

6.5 points "over" 2.25 goals 1.81 asian line.

PSV- CSKA MOSKOW

This is hardly likely to be a goal fest, PSV look overall, a little weaker than last year, but have yet to concede a goal domestically. Eindhoven is not the easiest place to go and get a result, especially missing your two key players, as CSKA are, the Russians are FAR happier at home and I think this will be a narrow home win and am taking a couple of small correct scores.

2 points 1-0 7.0 general.
1 points 2-0 8.0 general.

Good Luck.

UEFA CUP ....

RACING LENS - FC COPENHAGEN

Since taking charge at Lens, JP Papin has won both home games, including a 5-1 win over Young Boys in the previous round. This is far more talented side than their league position would suggest and they should be able to beat the Danish champions, who look to have gone backwards and offer little attacking threat. Lens will look upon a decent run in this competition as a welcome distraction in what, league wise, is likely to be a season of transition domestically.

5 points Lens -1/2 ball 1.78 asian line..... NOW 1.72.

Good Luck.

TUESDAY ROUND UP .......

Really misread the Sheffield Wednesday game, they are off the list until finding some confidence. Still, the other two blog selections won easily enough, as did the two email exclusives , which made it 4 from 5 for subscibers today. Those two make it 10 from 12 for selections given exclusively on the email service since saturday alone, in addition to the winners also posted on the blog.....

BLUE SQUARE PREMIERSHIP ... KIDDERMINSTER - DROYLESDEN

The home side's strong run came to an end with a 5-4 defeat at Ebbsfleet. I will not read too much into that as they were stuck in traffic and had to take the field, as soon as they arrived at the stadium, which was after the scheduled kick off. Within 12 mins they were two down and went in at the break trailing by 3.

Despite those exceptional circumstances, their coach still read them the riot act and has promised a fired up team this evening.

The visitors are part timers and playing sat-tues and holding down another job is not easy. They have real problems with suspended and injured players, but do not have the depth to make changes, on a dire run, they have conceded 11 in their last 3 away and already look on their way back out of the BSP.

6.5 points Kidderminster -1 ball 1.86 WON 3-1

ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS - HULL CITY

I like the visitors, they have shown their ambition with the signings of Caleb Folan and Jay-Jay Okocha, who is capable of dominating at this level. Wolves are not playing well and creating few real chances, 22 fewer than this evening's opponents, they are a young side and may need a little longer to gel.

5 points Hull City +3/4 ball 1.88 asian line. WON 1-0

Good Luck.

ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP ....

Just a few lines about my final selection on the blog for today, long time readers will know that I hold the Wednesday coach,Brian Laws, in very high regard and he is too good, not to put things right very soon.

SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY - BURNLEY

One more chance for Wednesday, who are certainly not a bottom of the table side and who are due a change of luck in front of goal. They have a couple of players back tonight and are meeting in Burnley, a team that is not creating much, but making the most of any chances that do come their way.

5 points Sheffield Wednesday -1/4 ball 2.175 asian line.

Good Luck.

GOOD AFTERNOON !

I have five ideas for today, two of which are for the Champions league, which you can read in the post below, the others are for the english domestic football. Where there is one bet in particular that I am very keen on, not certain that it will be possible to post that one on the blog, but I will definitely cover at least one more game, so please check back for that.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE .... GROUP STAGE

SHAKHTAR DONETSK - CELTIC

OK their record on the road has improved a little, but Celtic at home and Celtic away in Europe, are two very different teams. Now they make the long trip to the Ukraine to face a Donetsk side that spent a fortune in the summer, including 40m euros on Iisinho, Lucarelli and Castillo. Strong at home and unbeaten domestically, with a 8-1-0 record this season, Celtic will have some idea of what to expect having lost 3-0 here in 2004. The home side are much better now,

6.5 points Shakhtar -1/4 ball 1.75 asian line

PORTO - LIVERPOOL

Porto are very strong at home and have lost just 3 times in some 40 starts, they also boast an excellent record against English sides . This is likely to be very tight and Liverpool would no doubt, settle for a point right here and now. They will be without Sissoko and Riise and given the international break and the Portsmouth game, have had very little preparation time for this game. Porto are 100% this season and should be capable of taking a point.

5 points Porto +1/2 ball 1.70 asian line

Back later.

AT THE RISK OF SOUNDING LIKE A BROKEN RECORD ......

..... the only other two selections on the email service both won this evening .....

FRANCE LIGUE 2

NANTES- SEDAN

Hosts can go back to the top of the table with a win and are certainly in better form than their opponents, the two met recently in the cup with Nantes winning 1-0.

The home team have a potent attacking duo in Dussevi and Bagayokota, who could have a very pleasant evening against a Sedan team missing 3 starters, including two key defensive players. Following this, Nantes have two consecutive away games, actually, 3 of their next 4 are on the road, so will be dismayed with anything less than maximum points today.

5 points Nantes -1/2 ball 1.82 asian line.

SWEDEN SUPERETTAN

JONKOPINGS SODRA - BK HACKEN

Hosts are really struggling at home, where they have won just 2 of 11 starts, conceding 17 goals. Hacken have a UEFA Cup tie in Moscow on Thursday, but will surely give priority to this fixture, where they desperately need a win to keep in touch with the promotion hunting pack. They have won 7 from 10 scoring 21, including the last 3, with a very healthy 10 goals.
They won the reverse match 2-0, but that could easily have been 5, away win.

5 points Hacken -1/4 ball 1.85 asian line.

MONDAY PLANS AND WEEKEND REVIEW .....

There was a small profit on the football bets over the weekend, despite giving most of the saturday profits back yesterday. It was a similar story on the other sports, both golf bets won, which paid for the small losses on the NFL.

Email subscribers fared much better, with the 8 additional selections producing six winners.....

6 points Blackburn +1.25 goals 1.77 asian line WON

5 points Arbroath -1/4 ball 1.83 asian line WON

5 points Bayern Munich -3/4 ball 1.76 asian line. LOST

5 points Doncaster -1/2 ball 1.95 asian line WON

Watford - Southampton 5 points "over" 2.5 goals 1.90 general quote WON

5 points PSG +1/4 ball 1.98 asian line. WON

6 points Santander -1/4 ball 1.73 asian line WON

6.5 points Atletico Madrid -1/4 ball 1.93 asian line 1/2 STAKE LOSER

That's very nearly an additional 20 points profit. Infact, it could easily have been a clean sweep, as Bayern missed many opportunities to score a second and Atletico led for 67 minutes.

Should any of you be interested in joining the subscription service, you can do so via this link or,by emailing me here where I can give you details of a special offer.

On to today, I wrote reviews of 4 matches this evening and all have been gambled upon, going to put two on the blog in the next hour or so, please check back. They will appear below this post, which will remain at the top of the page, for the rest of the day only.

Good Luck.

ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP .... LIVE ON SKY ...

DERBY COUNTY- NEWCASTLE UNITED

A win for Newcastle will take them above Chelsea and Manchester United and into 4th spot in the Premiership, a huge incentive. They have had an easy run of fixtures to start the season, but are unbeaten and have scored 5 in two away starts at Boro and Bolton.

County desperately need a win to kick start their season, they have taken a couple of frightful hammerings recently, conceding 12 in 3, including a 6-0 loss at Liverpool and a 4-0 defeat to Spurs, a scoreline which REALLY flattered County, it is no exaggeration to say, that it could have been double. Infact, in those two games they conceded over 46 chances, that is an attempt on their goal every 4 minutes !

They are likely to have Kenny Miller, their signing from Celtic available this evening, which will give them another option up front. To be honest, they look a little short of quality, but can be expected to really go for it this evening ( Arsenal away next) , all things considered, I think we will have two teams both looking for 3 points and I like the "over".

6 points "over" 2.25 goals 1.77 asian line.

Good Luck.

NORWAY .... ELITESERIEN ...

AALESUND - STROMSGODSET

Aalesund are the archetypal yo-yo team, bouncing between the top two divisions, almost on a yearly basis. They are determined to put that right this year and have given themselves a realistic chance of staying up, by defeating a trio of relegation rivals in recent weeks, winning 3 straight home games, scoring 9 goals. Actually, they have won 4 in a row at the Color Line Stadion, they seem to have the visitor's number and have won 5 of their last 6 meetings, scoring at least 3 in each.

Stromsgodset were promoted along with their hosts last year, but their season seems to be heading in the opposite direction, they have had , admittedly, a tough run of fixtures, but collected just 2 points from a possible 15. Which has made this a real 6 pointer.

5 points Aalesund -1/4 ball 1.83 asian line.

Good Luck.

NFL WEEK 2 ..............

5 points DENVER BRONCOS -10 2.05

6 points CLEVELAND BROWNS +7 1.98

6 points NEW ORLEANS -4 1.91

I only have time to write a few lines about this evening's NFL action.

Broncos host the Raiders, who are in a mess both on and off the field, they are 0-7 against the spread and Denver coach, Mike Shanahan loves to beat up on Oakland and is 19-5 lifetime against them.

Bengals are on a short week and the Browns running game matches up well against their defence.

Saints have had 10 days to prepare for this one and are looking to bounce back from the hammering they took from the Colts. Tampa have travelled 3000 miles after a late sunday game and have a poor record after a heavy loss. New Orleans won this by an easy 17 points last year.

Good Luck.

ITALY SERIE A ...

PARMA- CAGLIARI

I like the hosts given the quote. Cagliari have put in two impressive performances so far, but have conceded a lot of chances and look a little error prone at the back, where they are missing two key defenders today. They can only travel in expectation rather than hope, as just two points in 12 visits to Parma, makes dismal reading.

5.5 points Parma -1/4 ball 1.98 asian line

NAPOLI- SAMPDORIA

These two always draw and to be honest, that is a result I feel both could live with today. Samp are tough to beat and are protecting an unbeaten record, they had a steady, if unspectacular start, last season also, drawing 4 of their first 6. Napoli had an amazing 5-0 win at Udinese last week, but having lost their home opener, will not want to lose again in front of their passionate fans.

3.5 points draw 3.0 general

PALERMO - TORINO

I think this will be an open encounter. the hosts have conceded two in each so far and the visitors really look to have goals in them , with Rosina and Recoba up front. They have started with two 2-2 draws and a third would not surprise me, you can try the standard "over" bet, I am being a little more adventurous and we have done well in Italy with these type of bets in the past. The very brave could try a 2-2 scoreline!!

3.5 points "over" 3.5 goals 3.20 exchanges.

Good Luck.

YOU GOTTA BE BRAVE IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA ....

USPGA TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP .... EAST LAKE G.C. , ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Well, once again Mr T has run away from the field and he simply does not lose with a lead, going into Sunday, so we will have to look elsewhere for our golfing fix.

I like the look of Furyk and Singh to win their match ups with Pinnacle. They are both very solid in round 4 scoring, as you might expect, have excellent course form and neither is the type to "step off the gas", because the outright victory is beyond them.

Over the last 4 years, they are ranked 17-4-12-2 and 32-41-8-6 respectively, for final round scoring.

Cannot believe that Justin Rose has been made favourite to beat slim Jim, not much body fat on show with these two, the British player has had a fantastic year, but by his standards, he has played a lot recently and may be feeling the effects. Both are struggling a little with the putter, but Furyk is one of the fiercest competitors on tour and should never be odds against in this match.

VJ meets Padraig Harrington, who is really struggling with his driving accuracy and sometimes lacks motivation, when out of contention. Our selection is ranked number one for greens in regulation this week, which is a key stat here, he beat the Irishman by two strokes yesterday and, I see no reason why he should not be a good favourite to do so again this evening.

5 points Furyk to beat Rose 2.02 Pinnacle Sports.... NOW 1.952

5 points Singh to beat Harrington 2.0 Pinnacle Sports.

Good Luck.

AZ PLAYING "CATCH UP " .....

NETHERLANDS EREDIVISIE .... SPARTA ROTTERDAM - AZ ALKMAAR

AZ have to win to keep within touching distance of the "big 2 (3)". Sparta have conceded 7 in 3 starts and have been forced to make defensive changes this afternoon. H2h wise, the visitors have won the last 7 meetings, 6 by 2 or more goals and 5 by 3 +. 0-3, 0-4 possibly.

5.5 points AZ -1 ball 1.78 asian line.

Back shortly.

SUNDAY MORNING ...........

Just a quick run through of what to expect today, where I will be covering three sports.

Email subscibers were sent reviews of eight football matches and several of these are likely to be carried on the blog, along with US golf and a look at week 2 in the NFL. I will start shortly with one football review and follow that with the golf, where good old Tiger is heading for yet another win, his bank manager will be pleased !

Back shortly.

SATURDAY ROUND UP ....

I am sorry that the selections for this afternoon's matches, were posted quite late, but am sure that you will appreciate, that I have to ensure that the email service subscribers, have first chance to "get on". So time is always going to be a problem, at the weekends.

I did give the "heads up"this morning, that it would probably be worthwhile checking back and hope that plenty of you did.

Should any of you wish to join the email service, full details can be found at http://www.bestbets4free.blogspot.com/ . It still costs less per day than a sunday newspaper, at least one that is worthwhile reading !

There are no evening selections on the blog, but I will be back tomorrow morning.

Good Luck.

CHAMPIONSHIP ....

COLCHESTER UNITED - CHARLTON

Very different resources for these two clubs, money bags Charlton and breadline U's. That does not always win football matches, but they is also a huge discrepancy in the number of chances each has been creating. The visitors lead that count 64-28 and have been denied a handful of times by the woodwork, they are going to hammer someone one day soon.

5.5 points Charlton level ball 1.70 asian line

WEST BROMWICH ALBION - IPSWICH TOWN

The visitors have started the season well, but are short of players today, with two key suspensions and two very big doubts. WBA are starting to come good, have a bunch of new signings all desperate to get into the team and a lot of competition for places. They have won their last two without conceding and kept 4 clean sheets in 5.

5 points WBA -1/2 ball 1.83 general quote

Good Luck.

LEAGUE 1 ...

HARTLEPOOL - SWINDON

Going to give the visitors another chance, they have been extremely wasteful in front of goal, but that has to correct itself soon. They have created a league high 72 attempts, hitting the woodwork 3 times. Their manager Paul Sturrock is wanted for almost every lower league job that becomes available and Swindon have shown their ambition by repeatedly turning down approaches for him.

5 points Swindon +1/2 ball 2.04 asian line


PORT VALE - NOTTM FOREST

Time for Forest to come good, Tyson, Cohen, Agogo and Holt all return today and with more luck in front of goal, they have hit the woodwork in almost every start, they should comfortably take the spoils, against a Vale team weaker in every department. The hosts signed several players that were unable to command regular starting spots in League 2 sides and obviously have budget restraints.

6.5 points Nottm Forest level ball 1.78 asian line

Good Luck.

LEAGUE DIVISION 2

BRENTFORD - MK DONS

Oh dear, I have to oppose the Bees today, something that we have done with 100% success this season. They are without Moore today, who is suspended, they were very unlucky to lose at Wycombe last week, but created very little and had no chances to actually win that game. That is the story of their season really, they have played ok, but have an extremely young, inexperienced team and create far less, almost 4 chances per game than their opponents.They are a little lightweight if you like.

Dons are far more experienced and in Leon Knight , who ALWAYS scores at Griffin Park and Kevin Gallen, who as a former QPR player, will be fired up today, they have two very lively strikers, who could run a couple of slowish defenders ragged.

5 points MK Dons to win 2.75 general quote.

BRADFORD - PETERBOROUGH

These two create more chances, 65 and 75 respectively, than anyother League 2 teams and have also hit the woodwork 6 times between them. Both will attack and we must see goals.

5 points "over" 2.5 goals 1.85 general quote

Good Luck.