LA LIGA ......

BARCELONA -SEVILLA

Real finally took the spoils last night, but left things very late. However, that does reduce Barcelona's lead at the top of the table to just three points and ahead of an unbelievably tough schedule, which sees them face Sevilla, Valencia, Chelsea, Real and Chelsea again, all in the next 14 days (!), the pressure is most definitely on them. They will want to win tonight of course, as that will give them some breathing space, but even if taking the lead, I do not see them chasing a second or third needlessly.

Sevilla were in excellent form themselves, with a 7-1-0 record from early February, before losing their last two, however, they were as much due to poor decisions from the officials and a little compacency, as Seville were secure in 3rd spot, well clear of the pack, with the top two out of sight. However, that lead is only down to five now and a visit to the Camp Nou, will further rekindle interest. They have a decent record here, have only lost by two twice in eight starts, scoring ten goals. Striker Freddie kanoute is on fire with 11goals in ten starts and looks good value at 3.75 to register another, but I will stick with the visitors getting a healthy handicap start. Many people connected with Seville consider this, their strongest squad in recent memory, although many might say the same about Barce.

5.5 points Sevilla +1.5 goals 1.88 asian line.

BETIS-VALENCIA

Valencia have refound their touch with four straight wins and look fairly secure in fourth place in La Liga, however, with games against Barce, Real and Atletico in their next four starts, now would be a bad time to step off the gas. They have a good record here, being 4-1-1 on their last four visits and it is hard not to see goals tonight, with the last seven h2h meetings ending "over". Betis are unbeaten in seven at home, but concede freely and have ridden their luck at times in that sequence, they have allowed 23 goals in 11 starts, with seven of those matches producing four or more goals. Valancia have scored and conceded in 19 of their last 21 and surely both will be on the scoresheet this evening. I favour Valencia to win, but the "over" looks a much better option.

6 points "over" 2.75 goals 2.0 asian line.

Good Luck.