US PGA TOUR ...........

CROWNE PLAZA INVITATIONAL COLONIAL

This tournament is interestingly poised:

-17 Tim Clark

-15 Steve Marino

-15 Jason Day

-15 Steve Stricker

-13 Vijay Singh

-12 Justin Leonard

-12 Woody Austin

No golfer has won more money on the US Tour than Tim Clark, without winning a tournament. He has over $12m worth of earnings in the bank and has still not taken a single winner's cheque !

It will not surprise those of you that know my thinking about the mental side of golf, that until he records a victory, I would be very loathe to take him at such short odds (circa 2.50), a two stroke lead can disappear in the blink of an eye and I doubt that he slept very well last night. If he wins, he will probably go on an take another title almost immediately, which is the nature of these things, but until he does, we should look elsewhere.

Day and Marino are also without a win and I prefer Singh and Stricker. We discussed Vijay last week, to say that he is a prolific winner, would be a massive understatement and he is the player that everyone else will be looking for on the course. If he can start well and begin creeping up the leaderboard, I could see a lot of panic setting in at the top.

Stricker is a four time winner on tour, but is playing as well as at anytime in his career. He was leader after two rounds, setting a tournament record score for 36 holes, he slipped a little yesterday but I am not entirely sure that he was too bothered by that. He doesn't like to lead going into the final day, he has commented on this before and blew a big last day lead at the Bob Hope earlier this season. He is a fantastic ball striker and when he clicks, is capable of shooting very low scores. He is a proven weekend player when in contention, ranked in the top three for day 4 scoring in both 2006 and 2008 and I expect him to go close today.

5 points Stricker to win 4.50 + ...... 5.0 exchanges.

3 points Singh to win 9.50 Stan James.... 9.80 exchanges.

Good Luck.

ITALY........... SERIE A

NAPOLI -CHIEVO

I like the "over" here. Napoli really owe their fans a performance after a season which promised so much and I bought into the hype as much as anyone, has ended in utter disappointment. theyw ill want to send the supporters away for the summer with positive memories and with this being little more than a friendly, we will surely see goals. The hosts have scored and conceded in each of their last four starts. Chievo secured their future last week, in the "fixed" draw with Bologna and will doubtless welcome the chance to get back to their free scoring and open play, which saw them share four goals recently with both Genoa and Inter and six with Juve, where they really took the game to the Turin giants. I see no downside with this bet.

8 points "over" 3 goals 2.05 asian line.

BOLOGNA - CATANIA

Bologna will secure their Serie A status with a win, regardless of what happens elsewhere and will probably do so. If the news comes through that Torino are being trounced at Roma, the result here will be academic, but either way, they will be very keen to earn a goal, or two for top striker Marco Di Vaio, who is currently tied in the top scorer race with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who can be expected to notch one or two, with Inter hosting Atalanta. If you shop around Di Vaio will be a strong bet in the first goalscorer market, we discussed last week how these matches are often set up to help players in this position, but of course Bologna's survival must come first. Bet 365 offer 3.25 and payout each way on a unlimited number of places, which means we will get most of our stake back with a goal at anytime and that looks decent value.

6 points each way Di Vaio to score the first goal 3.25 1/3 odds a place Bet 365..... anything above 3.0 is acceptable.

Good Luck.

WE COULD BE IN FOR A LONG AFTERNOON AT WEMBLEY ...........

ENGLAND .....CUP FINAL

CHELSEA -EVERTON

I am not going to spend too long talking about this game, we all know the teams very well. The match will be played in very draining conditions , there is a little breeze around at present, but it is hot and sunny and in the Wembley cauldron the players will have to pace themselves. Both league meetings ended 0-0, in addition to which Everton held Manchester United 0-0 in the semi final and played a series of low scoring encounters with Liverpool earlier in the season, they are incredibly well coached and organised and a very tough team to break down. I think we might once again see this going the distance, but make the best bet, the 45 minute stalemate. Three of the last four finals have gone into extra time, the other was decided by a single goal.

6 points half time draw 2.375 general quote ... bigger in places.

1.5 points draw-draw double result (HT/FT) 5.50 general quote.

Good Luck.

NORTH OF THE BORDER ..............

SCOTTISH CUP FINAL

GLASGOW RANGERS - FALKIRK

Rangers are looking to complete their first cup and league double in six years after reclaiming the SPL title last weekend. They have stepped up a gear in recent weeks and took 25 points from a possible 27 to keep Celtic at bay. Falkirk had an emotional roller coaster of a day at Inverness last week, where victory preserved their SPL status, doubtless they celebrated at least as much as Rangers, probably more and can now enjoy their day in the limelight. They have underperformed against all the top six sides this season, collecting 82% of their meagre points tally against teams from the bottom half of the table.

I feel that the pressure is now off Rangers and that they can play without fear of Celtic breathing down their neck, they have an incredible record against Falkirk, winning all six meetings this season and all three last, by 7-2, 3-1 and 2-0 scorelines. It might be difficult for the underdogs to raise their game yet again and if the Gers take an early lead, they could easily run away with this. They will win and a two goal margin is the minimum I expect.

6.5 points Rangers -1.5 points 1.90 asian line.

Good Luck.

SPAIN .....LA LIGA ..........

DEPORTIVO LA CORUNA - BARCELONA

Barcelona travel without Messi, Alves, Milito, Iniesta, Puyol, Marques and a couple of others.

Obviously celebrations went on long into the night on Wednesday and again upon their return home. To play again just a couple of days later in a "meaningless" fixture is incredibly tough and to be honest, they need this game like another hole in their head. Hosts are very strong on home soil , where they are 10-5-3 and they have a very nice h2h record with the european champions here, winning six from ten starts. They started the season by beating last years champions Real and can end it by beating the newly crowned title holders. If any extra motivation was needed a win could also earn them a Europa League spot.

I like them very much to win this, but Barce do have a little to play for as they have an outside chance to become the all time high goalscorers in La Liga, if this has any appeal for them, this could develop into a very high scoring affair and we can take a little on a five goal plus thriller.

6.5 points Deportivo -1/2 ball 2.20 asian line.

2.5 points "over" 4.5 goals 4.70 exchanges.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY PLANS ....

I have a lot to pass on today and will be back later with previews of 3-4 matches, so please check back.

The FA Cup final looks set to be played in very draining conditions. The weather is hot and sunny in London and whilst there is a very nice breeze around at present, that is expected to die off come kick off time. Pitch temperatures will be much higher, the newly relaid surface is said to take a lot out of the players and fitness levels seem sure to be severely tested.

Back later.

NETHERLANDS PLAYOFFS..........

NAC - GRONINGEN

CAMBUUR-RODA JC

NAC beat Feyenoord twice and played well in the away leg, where they could adopt their favoured counter attacking style, which suits them so well. In the home tie, when they had to try and dictate the pace of the game, it was a very different story and they were outplayed. The presure is back on them tonight and the onus on NAC to attack, this should suit the visitors who have impressed in recent weeks, are set to be unchanged and have had the better of two earlier meetings in 2009. Winning at home in the league and sharing the spoils in a cup tie here in January. The league game win was only a couple of weeks ago, Groningen dominated and were value for far more than the 1-0 scoreline. At the outset of these playoffs they looked the best team and if they create half as many chances as Feyenoord did here, they will coast to victory.

5 points Groningen level ball 2.04 asian line.

I really think that Roda are up against it here. They are without three strikers in Matondo, Oper and van Torhout, with Cisse who would have probably led the front line on his own, now doubtful. In midfield, Vormer and De Jong are out and Delorge faces a late test. They will come to defend and hope that they can win the match in the second leg. Cambuur are a team with goals in them, will have fantastic home support and play on an artificial surface. All the advantages seem to be with the home team and we can back then getting a handicap start.

6.5 points Cambuur +1/4 ball 1.86 asian line.

Good Luck.

THURSDAY ......

Barcelona were worthy winners of the Champions League final, the whole team played well, with once again, Iniesta putting in an immense performance, what a twelve months he has had !

United had five decent chances in the first nine minutes, but after that barely a sniff and it is hard to win a football game when you can't get the ball !

Michel Platini got the result he wanted and looked very pleased with himself after the game, so much for the impartiality of UEFA !

Today is the busiest of the week so far (by a long way) and I have sent subscribers previews of five matches. I will put at least two of these on the blog later today, so please check back.

Good Luck.

TUESDAY ..........

With the Champions League final dominating the next couple of days, I have temporarily turned my attention to the French Open tennis and previewed two matches from there on today's email.

I have found two players to back at odds of circa 3.0 and 2.38, the first is facing an opponent, who has been struggling in training and was trounced by an opponent ranked outside the world top 300 in practice. This top ranked player is also about to change racquets and has been testing out new equipment, which has made it impossible for him to find any consistency in his game.

To be able to oppose him at such huge odds looks great value and shows you how profitable tennis betting can potentially be, if you do a little homework.

Returning to the Champions League final, as soon as the finalists were known, I put up a massive bet on United to win the cup, this was sent to subscribers on May 7th (reproduced below) and the odds were never going to last under the circumstances. Top quote is now 1.95.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

MANCHESTER UNITED - BARCELONA

I have to put a big bet up on United, the oddsmakers have put them at odds against for the final and that is simply wrong. The best I can see leading up to the game is "pick em", so we should get on quick.

Barcelona are a great attacking force, but are very fragile at the back and will be further weakened in this department, by the suspension to both full backs, Daniel Alves and Eric Abidal. Rooney and Ronaldo would be licking their lips at the prospect of facing this first choice backline, let alone a patched up version.

Chelsea have shown United how to handle Barce's attacking threat and it is clear to me that the Catalan giants and Spanish teams in general, do not match up well with English teams in Europe, where they do not receive the same level of protection from the officials. In La Liga a hand on the shoulder is a yellow card and the number of red's shown is becoming farcical.

Anyway, very fine odds on United and they have to be taken for big stakes.

12 points Manchester United to win the cup 2.05 + ..... up to 2.12 available....... lots of liquidity @ 2.10.

Good Luck.

SUNDAY ...........

I sent this to subscribers early on Friday morning, obviously the value has gone in the anytime goalscorer selection, but the other bets are still attractively priced.

ITALY SERIE A

CAGLIARI- INTER MILAN

In Italy, the battle for Serie A top scorer ( capocannonieri) is always keenly followed and hard fought, clubs will do what they can to get one of their own this prestigeous award and try to set up the game accordingly. Please read the email post from this time last season (below in blue), to get an idea of what I mean.

Inter have already won the Scudetto and got most of the celebrations out of the way last week, they still have a home game to come next week, so can complete the party then, for now, they can concentrate on business, which is to help Zlatan Ibrahimovic win the capocannonieri.

Surprisingly, Di Vaio of Bologna leads with 23 goals, Zlatan has one less and Milito of Genoa 20, at present, we do not have to bother too much about the rest, although that might change before next weekend, when we might return to this market.

Cagliari have been involved in some high scoring matches recently, their last four have been "over" with an average of 4.75 goals, the only home fixture in that sequence was a 2-2 draw with Roma which I watched. It was end to end stuff and the scoreline could easily have been much higher. This really seems the ideal match up to engineer a goal or two for Zlatan.

There is nothing really "funny" about this, it just means that if there is a chance to score yourself, or to square the ball to the player in question, your team mates will not be too happy if you take the unselfish option. It goes without saying that Zlatan will be taking any penalties and free kicks around the area.

In a normal game, you would fancy him to score, under these circumstances it becomes must bet material.

So, Zlatan in the anytime goalscorer market is a given and the odds are win or lose, IMO, HUGE ! I will also take a decent bet on over 3 goals, at what looks juicy odds, I could very easily see this ending up 3-3 or something similar and to be honest, if Inter could lose 3-2 with "our" man scoring twice, I think they would settle for that.

Therefore, I will finish with a group of correct scores, obviously you need luck to hit one of these, but the 3-3 obliged last year and once again is overpriced under the circumstances.

More bookmakers will start quoting the goalscorer markets throughout today.

10 points Zlatan Ibrahimovic to score anytime 2.75 Bet 365 (NOW 1.83).... anything above 2.25 is backable .

8 points "over" 3 goals 2.05 asian line.

0.75 points Inter to win 3-2 correct score 34.0 general quote.

0.75 points Cagliari to win 3-2 correct score 41.0 general quote.

1.5 points 3-3 draw correct score 67.0 general quote.

SERIE A SAMPDORIA - JUVENTUS

I have three bets for this match, but make no excuses as, win or lose, they all offer fantastic value.This has been moved to saturday and, live on television, hopes will be high for an entertaining affair and I am certain, that it will be.

Two of Juve's favourite sons David Trezequet and Del Piero, along with Boriello of Genoa, are all level on 19 goals, in the race to become top scorer in Serie A. It is normal, in such matches, when clubs have no bigger motivation, for them to do what they can to get their players this prestigeous award. In Del Piero's case, they will bust a gut !

Trezequet has already won this once before and Del Piero, who is loved by all at the club, has not. I feel that the game will be set up/ played to give him every opportunity to score a couple of goals and put the pressure on Boriello, to do the same at Atalanta on Sunday.

Del Piero has been playing things down, but reading between the lines, this is something that he really wants. Surely this will be a high scoring affair and Sampdoria will want to get involved, the over 2.5 goals has been well backed in Italy this week and the asian line is likely to tumble later today. I have no qualms about taking over three goals there, as I see almost no downside to the wager.

Bet 365 have not done their homework here and offer silly prices, other companies might follow suit later in the day, but be quick, as odds will not last long.Juve have some defensive problems and the scoreline here could go very high 3-3. 4-4, 4-3 something similar, is not out of the question.

8 points Del Piero to score anytime 2.75 Bet 365.... 2.10 + is acceptable. WON

6 points over 3 goals asian line 2.01 ......... 2.075 Bet 365 WON

0.5 point 3-3 correct score 67.0 general quote 81.0 in places. WON !

Good Luck.

WEATHER WARNING !

There is a big yellow ball in the sky above London today and we are probably set for the hottest day of the year so far, which will make conditions very draining at Wembley for the playoff finals today and especially tomorrow, when temperatures are set to rise still further.

Hard to be sure exactly who this will favour, but both games, which look close on paper,could get very stretched in the second half and really open up. Just something to keep in mind if you are betting" in running".

Back later.

SCOTTISH SPL ...... ALL TO PLAY FOR ON THE FINAL WEEKEND .........

SCOTLAND SPL

INVERNESS CT- FALKIRK

I am not a great fan of ICT boss Terry Butcher, his short comings whilst at Brentford were all too apparent and his negative approach is not fun to watch. His team will survive another season in the SPL with a point, basement club Falkirk will save themselves and send Butcher's boys down in their place, with all three.

Falkirk have saved their best performances for the Cup this season and have a final against Rangers to look forward to, but this game is far more important. They have lost just once in six starts and at least know what they have to do, only a win will save them , ICT have the problem of whether to play for a draw or seek the cushion of a lead. Knowing Butcher, he will not be overly adventurous and I have to take the visitors getting the handicap start. They will be buoyed by a fine record here, winning 9 of 17 visits in the last decade, which included a cup win in early March. They also administered a 4-0 thumping in the reverse league fixture later that same month and travel with some confidence. They have proven themselves as a cup team and that is exactly what this has become. Some 1,000 + fans are expected to make the long trip north and the club have spent some of their cup windfall in providing free coach travel.

6 points Falkirk +1/4 ball 2.04 asian line.

Good Luck.

LIGUE 2 ...........

TROYES- SEDAN

Troyes are in the relegation zone, two points from safety and simply have to win this match to have any real a chance of safety. They will also have to look for goals, as with the bottom three clubs all on 38 points, goal difference seems very likely to play a part.

Last season they were a big promotion contender until the last month or so, therefore this campaign has come as a real shock for all at the club. They have regrouped just in time to give themselves a chance, they are unbeaten in three and have tightened up at the back considerably. I have been told that the two clubs are quite close and that maybe Sedan will not be overly concerned about the game, they are hardly in the best of form in any case, eight games without a win and 14 goals conceded in their last five starts.

Hosts have done everything possible to get as many supporters cheering them on, admission prices have been slashed and a big crowd is expected. Best bet of the night for me, home win.

7 points Troyes -1 ball 1.95 asian line.

Good Luck.

EREDIVISIE EUROPA LEAGUE PLAY OFFS .........

FEYENOORD- NAC BREDA

Feyenoord dominated large parts of the first leg, but eventually lost 3-2, if they can create as many chances tonight, they should comfortably progress.They ended the season in fine goalscoring form, with their big name frontmen Roy Makaay and Jon Dahl Tomasson, scoring twelve between them in just their last six starts. They seem certain to get plenty of opportunities to add to those tallies, in what is traditionally a high scoring match up.

Breda were toiling at the end of their campaign and lost six of their last seven starts, they will be without five players including the suspended Van der Leegte and a repeat of their 3-1 defeat here in the league, or something similar, is on the cards.

6 points Feyenoord -1 ball 2.02 asian line..... NOW 1.87

GRONINGEN - UTRECHT

These two drew 3-3 in the fist leg and know each other very well,they have met twice previously in recent seasons during the post season. Groningen have traditionally got the better of these games, including last year when after a draw in the opener, they eased home by two goals in the return leg. They also did the double over Utrecht in Eredivisie this season and collect ten more points over the closing eight rounds of the campaign. The visitors have selection problems, yet even without those, I simply rate Groningen the stronger side, especially in midfield where I expect them to win this battle. Lovre, Holla, Meerdink and Lecchenk look stronger than their visiting counterparts and can load the bullets for Marcus Berg to fire them to victory. He scored a hat-trick in the first game and must be looking forward to tonight's match. Home win.

7 points Utrecht -3/4 ball 1.98 asian line..... NOW 1.88

Both written and sent to subscribers Wednesday a.m.

Good Luck.

VJ ON COMEBACK TRAIL .................

USPGA TOUR

BYRON NELSON CHAMPIONSHIP OUTRIGHT

VIJAY SINGH

We enjoyed great success last summer following Vijay after he hit form and Tiger aside, once he finds his "A" game, he holds it as well as any other player on tour. Injury has hindered his campaign in 2009 so far, but there have been clear signs that he is about to return to that level of performance. He played well in the Masters without getting into real contention and then shot a closing 67 at the Players Championship two weeks ago, a score only bettered by two players and which earned him a nice top ten finish.

Looking in more depth at that Sawgrass performance, he only dropped one stroke over the closing 30 holes, which he played in 7 under par, runaway leader Henrik Stenson was "only" 12 under for 72 holes. VJ also putted very well (ranked #4), which is always key to his golf, the rest of his game takes care of itself.

Singh is a 59 time winner worldwide, including 34 times on the US Tour, he has a very solid record record here, especially in the "odd" years ....2001 (11th), 2003 (won), 2005 (3rd) and 2007 (13th). The course was significantly changed for last year, when Vijay did not play, but this most hard working of golfers will be well prepared and comes here following a free week, which doubtless he would have spent most of working on a game plan to handle the changes. I am fairly sure that we will return to the tournament over the weekend, but a small outright win bet will suffice for now.

3 points Vijay Singh outright 29.0 general quote... bigger in places.

written and sent to subcribers wednesday a.m

Good Luck.

TUESDAY ...........

IRELAND .... EA SPORTS CUP

WATERFORD UNITED - SHAMROCK ROVERS

I am very keen on Rovers here, they are currently on offer at circa 2.25 to win the game, but once the asian markets get involved, you might be able to find a little higher.

The visitors are very motivated to do well in what is in effect the Irish league Cup, a tournament they have not won in three decades. They battled hard to reach the quarters and are now determined to make the semis at least. They will name their strongest available starting eleven, although they are set to be without two starters. I am not too concerened about this as United have other priorities and problems of their own.

Waterford are eyeing up a return to the Premier League after two years in the wilderness and are in a strong position in Division 1. However, this game comes in between two "six pointers" with possibly their biggest contenders for the title and they have to keep one eye on the match with Sporting Fingal on Friday. They also have a tiny squad of just 16 players and at least three of those are injured and their places will have to be filled by youngsters.

Rovers put in a fine second half display in terrible conditions, to record a come from behind win over Bohemians at the weekend and they will be buoyed by that. Despite having a game the next day, the Shamrock coach travelled to watch Waterford play on Friday, proof that he is taking his lower league opponents and the competition very seriously indeed. Bit of a gulf in class between these two and I expect the visitors to come away with the spoils.

7.5 points Shamrock Rovers -1/2 ball 2.25 general quote..... a little bigger in places.

Good Luck.

HOW THE MIGHTY HAVE FALLEN !

League 1 is quickly turning into the elephant's graveyard of former Premiership clubs.

Next season will see Leeds United, Norwich City, Southampton and Charlton Athletic all competing in the third tier of english football. Each of them should be playing at a higher level, all have been in the EPL in the last five years and next season, even with the likes of Yeovil and Hartlepool coming to call, they are still likely to attract average crowds of 20,000 + .

This is fantastic news of course for newly promoted clubs like my beloved Brentford and Exeter City, our supporters are already dreaming of visits to Elland and Carrow Road. The main Bees fans forum already has five pages of comments regarding who is planning to go to the Leeds game and how many tickets we will be allocated, the fixture list is not even announced for a month yet !

Goodness knows what Charlton fans think, two years ago they were playing London derby games with Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea and the Hammers, last year it was Palace, now, if Millwall win their playoff final, it will be Brentford and Orient. Which even I accept, is not going to have them racing to check the newly released fixtures on June 17th, at 10am for anyone (like me) a little more excited by the prospect of League 1 football.

EPL attendances might be falling, with three clubs this season operating on under 80% of capacity, but the "third division" looks set for another bumper year, with even the smaller clubs set to put up the "sold out" notices on a regular basis when these big clubs come calling in 2009-10.

Good luck.

PERIQUITOS TO SET UP CELEBRATIONS OF THEIR OWN ...........

SPAIN LA LIGA

ESPANOL - ATHLETIC BILBAO

Hosts have done us a couple of favours recently, although their failure to hold on to a 2-0 lead at Atletico and record a fifth straight win last week, was very expensive. I expect them to bounce back today and record the win that will all but secure their La Liga safety.

They have played really well over the last month, far too good to be relegated and they will not be. This is actually their second last ever start at the Montjuic, with a new stadium ready for next season. They are desperate to secure their future before the last game, so that they can celebrate and say farewell in style, without any relegation worries.

Bilbao have had a very draining week, not only were they given a second half runaround by Barcelona in midweek, in a match where they used up a lot of energy, but the players were forced to attend an official celebration on Friday, missing out on training and interupting preparations for this game, which has upset many of the squad. They will rotate today and without any need for a result, it is difficult to see them matching the motivation of their hosts. The handicap quote looks tough at first glance, but Espanol are scoring freely and if and when they take the lead, they could run away from a tired opponent.

6.5 points Espanol -1 ball 2.07 asian line.

Good Luck.

SPOILT FOR GOALS AT THE HAWTHORNS ..........

ENGLAND PREMIER LEAGUE

WEST BROMWICH ALBION - LIVERPOOL

Regular readers of the email will know that I am quite a fan of Albion and the way that they play the game. If they are to go down, as seems likely, they will go down fighting and a win today would actually give them a chance, putting them level on 34 points with Newcastle, ahead of a last day trip to a now safe Blackburn Rovers. They seem sure to go for it, what else can they do and at least meet a Liverpool side who cannot now win the EPL title.

This match is going to be end to end entertainment and should make for great television viewing. Visitors to the Hawthorns have seen a league high 57 goals this season and only the Gunners have scored more road goals than Liverpool. This could end up with any number of goals, but I am confident that we will see at least three and am happy to take over that number, seeing little downside.

The visitors have scored 13 on their last three trips here and three in the reverse fixture, Albion were not on the scoresheet in any of those, but I cannot see that happening today. Conditions are likely to be slick, with plenty of rain failing in the UK this morning, but because of the nature of this game, I do not see that making too much difference.

6.5 points "over" 3 goals 2.16 asian line.

Good Luck.

SUNDAY .............

Almost all of you are receiving the newsletter at the moment ( see Monday's post), so I am only posting a very limited number of previews, as it feels like I am addressing an empty room !

The email made a decent profit yesterday, with winners at 4.80 and 4.33, but we didn't have too much good fortune as the two bets posted below, were both unlucky not to win. If you watched the second half of the Bolton-Hull game, you will know exactly what I mean.

I have sent out fairly detailed previews of five events today, with a bet in each, at odds ranging between 2.07 and 4.16, no short priced selections here !

I will post a couple of these later in the day, so please check back if you have not yet received them.

Back later.

BOLTON OLD BOY HOPING FOR A FAVOUR .............

PREMIER LEAGUE

BOLTON WANDERERS-HULL CITY

Bolton are "safe" it is only the mathematicians who would argue that they can still be relegated and it is very likely that news from somewhere else during the game, will make even those sceptics accept that Wanderers will be playing in the top flight next season.

City need a result badly, a draw would not be the end of things for them, even with Manchester United to face on the final day of the season. Especially if the champions elect pick up the needed point today to clinch the title and approach next week in celebratory mood and with one eye on their up coming Champions League final.

The home side have scored just once in four starts and come here on the back of consecutive 0-0 draws, the fans are not overly happy, either with the style of football they are forced to watch, or with boss Gary Megson, whom they have never really accepted. They much prefer visiting boss Phil Brown, who was cheered by Bolton supporters throughout the reverse fixture and who is something of a favourite son of the Trotters, which is hardly surprising after 12 years there as player and then on the coaching staff.

His side are in freefall and have registered just one win in 20 starts, but all that goes out of the window at this stage of the season and we are sure to see the visiting side battling for their lives. The Reebok is only likely to be two thirds full and probably 30% of those will be from Hull, half of the rest will not be too unhappy to see Brown's team take the spoils, the remainder happy to just boo Megson ! A little on the visitors off level ball for me, hopefully they can keep this scoreless early and push on after the break.

4.5 points Hull City level ball 2.56 asian line.

MIDDLESBROUGH - ASTON VILLA

Villa have had little to play for in recent weeks and been involved in some very open encounters, the game at Fulham last week was end to end action and could easily have produced more goals than the four we finally saw. Boro have no option but to go for this, they appear to be fighting a lost cause now, but at least have to seek the three points and hope that results elsewhere go their way. If they are behind or level with 20 minutes to play, every fit attacking player at the club should be on the pitch and pressing forward.

This is traditionally a high scoring fixture, with the last seven meetings here all ending "over" and I see little different today.

6 points "over" 2.5 goals 2.02 asian line.

Good Luck.

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

CHATEAUROUX- CLERMONT

After a decent run which saw them edge a little clear of the drop zone, consecutive road defeats have left Chateauroux on 37 points with three other teams, all looking to avoid being one of the bottom three. They have the easiest looking fixtures of any other club battling for survival and probably two home wins, will see them to safety, certainly 43 points is seen as the "magic number" and that is the exact number that Clermont have at present. The visitors are not yet 100% safe themselves, but in addition to the six points have eight teams below them in the table, so their need is nowhere near as great.

Chat are unbetaen at home in five starts, have no injury concerns and if they can approach the level they hit in defeating Brest 5-1 in their last home game, should ease to victory.

6.5 points Chateauroux -1/2 ball 1.94 + general quote.

DIJON - ANGERS

This is a "friendly", both clubs are on 48 points, exactly 11 clear of both promotion and relegation, with three rounds to play, so only pride to play for. We can normally expect such games to be open affairs and produce goals, Dijon's last five have all contained two or more, with four ending "over". Angers are without a win, have not kept a cleansheet in 14 starts and have a lot of defensive problems this evening. The two met at exactly this stage last season, that match produced four goals and I feel something similar is on the cards tonight.

6.5 points "over" 2.25 goals 1.99 asian line.

Good Luck.

BIG WEDNESDAY ...........

THE FREE NEWSLETTER TRIAL IS STILL AVAILABLE (12 DAYS REMAINING), PLEASE SEE MONDAY'S POST FOR DETAILS.

I have sent subscribers previews of five matches today,including two bets on one game so six in total and another was sent out yesterday, so a very big Wednesday for us. Fingers crossed !

ENGLAND PREMIER LEAGUE

WIGAN ATHLETIC - MANCHESTER UNITED

United will make a few changes tonight, but before Wigan fans get too excited ,all that probably means is Carrick, Rooney and Scholes coming back into the starting eleven, which tells you everything you need to know,about the riches available to Sir Alex.

The visitors need four points to retain their EPL title, so a win here and a point or more against the struggling Gunners on Saturday and United can focus fully on their Champions League final. They have a 100% record against the Latics winning all seven meetings in the EPL with a 19-3 goal difference and even at the terribly short odds available, it is difficult to see beyond an emphatic away win, United look simply too strong for anyone domestically at the moment.

The visitors have won their last six and have been ahead at the break in five of them, the only failure to take a first half lead, came in the Tottenham match, when they had a horrible opening 45 minutes, conceding twice. They came out with five unanswered goals in the second period and I think that we can forgive them that blip.

Wigan probably think that they have done enough this season, recent performances suggest so and they are booked for a mid table finish regardless of what happens tonight.

I feel that they would like to put this one to bed early and "coast" through the rest of the game, which has been very much their game plan recently and my selection will be for them to win the first half.

6 points Manchester United to win the first half 1.77 asian line.

Good Luck.

FRANCE ..... LIGUE 2......CUP WIN PUTS GUINGAMP ON THE ROAD TO EUROPE ........

GUINGAMP - MONTPELLIER

Guingamp won their first ever major trophy and a European spot next season, by defeating Ligue 1 side Rennes on Saturday night, cue wild celebrations and now, 72 hours later, they have to play a league game against hugely motivated opponents . I can only guess what sort of mood they are in and I cannot believe it will be easy for them to raise their game once again, despite still having some relegation concerns. At the back of their minds they probably feel that the 42 points that they have in the bag, will be sufficient to retain their status. Worst case scenario is that they will be five points clear with three rounds to play and they can worry about that when the hangovers have cleared.

Montpellier, on the other hand, are desperate for the three points that will take them back into the top three and in position to claim one of the remaining promotion spots. I have to feel that sitting at home watching Guingamp on television will have given them even greater incentive to earn the spoils and take their own piece of glory. Visitors have got their campaign back on track with consecutive wins and have had eleven clear days to prepare for this match.

7.5 points Montpellier -1/4 ball 2.12 asian line.

Good Luck.

TUESDAY ..............

A lot of you registered on the website www.predictuwin.com yesterday and all have now been added to the subscription list. You have a temporary, but full membership and have been given, like everyone already in the system 14 days free subscription, if you sign up today, 13 days will be added, or tomorrow 12 days and so on. Daily emails will be sent out to all, but you also have the option to log into your account and read it online.

With so many of you in the system, I suspect that visits to the blog will be somewhat limited, but I will continue to post on a daily basis and will definitely put a preview or two here later in the day, so please check back.

Good Luck.

MONDAY ....

I am giving everyone registered on the website www.predictuwin.com, a free trial to the Predictuwin newsletter. This will be for a period of up to 14 days, if you have already previously registered your details, you need do nothing and will automatically be included in the next 24 hours.

It is not too late to take part, just register your basic details on this link, only name, email address and country of origin is required and choose a password, it should only take a minute. After registration, you will be added to the subscriber list until the offer expires, the sooner you sign up, the more free emails you will receive.

Good Luck.

DIVISION 2 PLAYOFF ..........

GILLINGHAM - ROCHDALE

Gills went to the first leg looking for the draw and were very unadventurous, creating almost nothing offensively. They got the 0-0 draw they came for, but will have to open more today and eventually look for a goal. This will suit Dale, who are ideally suited to playing on the counter attack, they had much the better of the league game here and are confident that they can make the most of the greater space that is likely to be available. I think Gillingham missed a chance in the first game, they were facing a side a little metally fragile, but by giving them so much of the ball, enabled Rochdale to restore much of their belief. This could be a long day for both, but i will take the visitors getting a start.

6 points Rochdale +1/4 ball 1.91 asian line.

Good Luck.

SUNDAY .........

Very busy day today, I have sent subscribers previews of seven events, with eight bets, including one at odds of 55.0 and another at 29.0 , one of those will do very nicely !

Just heard on the radio that Manchester United have problems defensively today, with Ferdinand and Evans out, although these are just rumours at present.

I will be back shortly with a couple of selections for today.

Good Luck.

AFTERNOON ACTION .....

PREMIER LEAGUE

WEST BROMWICH ALBION - WIGAN ATHLETIC

Albion are still in there fighting and have played really well the last two weeks, beating Sunderland here 3-0 and battling away, but ultimately losing 1-0 at Tottenham, which is pretty much the story of their season. They would like to keep the dream alive for another week and will be straining every sinew to collect all three points. Wigan have little to play for, currently eleventh in the table, 10th place seems beyond reach and there is little challenge from behind. They have a much bigger and certainly more high profile game with Manchester United in midweek and will be looking at that to peak. Albion lost the reverse fixture 2-1, but created enough chances to have won two or three games that day. Motivated home win.

7 points WBA -1/4 2.11 asian line.

SCOTLAND SPL

ST MIRREN - MOTHERWELL

Having missed out on a top 6 finish, there is very little for Motherwell to play for, at least by winning games. They can still get a spot in Europe as Scotland has been given a fair play spot and apparently Well are in pole position, so they will be wary of getting too stuck in today and picking up needless cards. Saints will be going for it big time as they are only three points clear of Falkirk and the sole relegation spot and that still have to visit them in a fortnight's time.The home side have only lost one of the five meetings this season and won the away fixture 2-0 just three weeks ago. Motherwell have not won in four and under the circumstances, at level ball, have to be opposed.

6 points St Mirren level ball 1.80 asian line.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY PLANS .....

MK Dons were unfortunate not to take a win from last night's game, they dominated possession and created the better chances, but a draw meant stakes returned and no damage done, so let's move on.

I have sent subscribers previews of six matches today, very even mix with three covering UK fixtures and the same number from mainland Europe. Going to put 2-3 of these on the blog today and will start with ......

GERMANY BUNDESLIGA

ENERGIE COTTBUS- BAYERN MUNICH

I just cannot believe the odds here. Cottbus are proven relegation battlers and beat Bayern here at the same stage of the season and in similar circumstances last campaign.They defeated leaders Wolfsburg 2-0 in their last home game and are desperate to avoid defeat and earn some breating space over the drop zone. Actually, a point will not be too bad for Bayern, as it will keep them in the top 3, which they have claimed is minimum expectation for the rest of the season. The Munich giants are not playing well at present, with just a narrow win over struggling BMG in four starts and the club is in turmoil. To give up 1.25 goals, on the road, against a side fighting for survival seems crazy. The 8.60 for a home win on the exchanges is huge, but the handicap bet for me.

6.5 points Cottbus +1.25 goals 2.05 asian line.

Back later.

DIVISION 1 PLAY OFF

DIVISION 1 PLAY OFF

SCUNTHORPE UNITED - MK DONS

Dons boss Roberto di Matteo has implied that he will be looking to keep things very tight tonight and this game could easily fizzle out into a draw, which has been the result in three of the home team's last four starts.

However, I will take the visitors off level ball, they have been incredible on the road in recent seasons, going 32-8-6, winning almost 70%. Since losing 2-0 at Leeds, they have won four straight road games without conceding, including a 1-0 victory here last month. The win was even more impressive as it came whilst they were without Aaron Wilbraham and Peter Leven and with Sam Baldock only fit enough to take a spot on the bench, these were the three top goalscorers for the Dons at the time and shows the quality available to di Matteo.This is a very accomplished team, with a strong spine and they are able to dictate play and keep possession of the ball, wherever they are playing. I have to take them at level ball, they have lost just six from 46 on the road and come into the game in much better form than Scunny, who are very dependant on their strikeforce of Hayes and Hooper, winning just three games this season when either of the two has not scored, stop them and you stop United.

Dons created 17 attempts on goal in the last match here, if they make a similar number tonight, with their starting offensive players available, they should win comfortably.

6 points MK Dons level ball 2.07 asian line....now 1.95

Good Luck.

FRIDAY UPDATE ...........

I really enjoyed the Hamburg-Bremen game last night and not just because of the result, two very commited teams battling it out toe to toe, provided huge entertainment. They must be getting a little sick of the sight of each and meet again in the Bundesliga on Sunday, their fourth meeting in just 18 days !

Lots of footballers looking for jobs this morning, many clubs have released players this week, my own beloved Brentford have unloaded nine players and that, from a title winning side. It is a tough business, with little room for sentiment and is the other side of the coin from supporters arguing that players show too little loyalty nowadays, it is a two way street and a very short career. Fans have to remember that for 90% of players, it is just a job, they do not love the club like we do.
I have a great deal of sympathy for Jim Gannon, who was made redundant by Stockport County yesterday, as a cost cutting exercise. He very recently turned down the Brighton job and almost certainly a lot more money and is now unemployed, wonder if he will be so loyal next time !

Just started writing my match previews for Saturday, where I have five selections and Sunday looks set to be even busier. I sent subscribers to the newsletter service my views on three matches today and posted one of these to everyone registered on the website www.predictuwin.com , along with a very special offer, which several of you have already accepted.

It is free to register on the site, it only takes a minute and ensures that you will receive any "freebies" that are available.

Back later.

UEFA CUP .........

HAMBURGER SV - WERDER BREMEN

Hamburg took a deserved 1-0 lead in the first leg. Bremen were off the level of form we have seen from them recently, but showed a very high level of commitment. They might get a little more space tonight and will take heart from a very fine recent performance here in the DFB Pokal, when they could easily have won by three goals. They rested several players at the weekend to keep them fresh for this game, whilst Hamburg had no such luxury, playing a vital and keenly fought game with Herta. They are involved in the title race and cannot afford to fully focus on this competition, unlike the visitors.

I like the level ball quote, especially with Hamburg more than happy with a draw.

6 points Werder Bremen level ball 2.08 asian line.

SHAKHTAR DONETSK - DYNAMO KIEV

I like the "over "quote here, the first meeting ended 1-1 and developed into quite an open game, after a nervous opening from both teams, hardly surprising as the game is so important not just to the clubs, but Ukranian football in general.Kiev looked very impressive at times in the second half and certainly look to have goals in them, to say that Donetsk are motivated to progress, would be the understatement of all time. So we are in for a full blooded encounter.

In the all Ukranian quarter final, after a cautious first leg, Metalist battled out a five goal thriller in the return leg with Dynamo and something similar could be on the cards tonight. Kiev have to score to progress and this will get very stretched at some stage, I expect both to score and think that this is a terrific quote.

6 points "over" 2.25 goals 2.06 asian line.

Good Luck.

WHAT A DAY !

I probably feel a little like Didier Drogba today, having "lost" some 2,000 words of copy and notes, most of which I then had to type blind.

My poor typing finger (two of them actually) is now feeling the strain ! I have sent previews of five matches and also looked at the three english domestic play offs , giving an outright selection in each. Therefore, eight bets in total, including one for ten points and another for twelve !!!!!!

I will publish a couple of the smaller ones on the blog later,so please check back, but be warned, these will contain only the briefest of comments.

Good Luck.

WILD SCENES AT THE BRIDGE !

Amazing scenes at Stamford Bridge last night, when Andres Iniesta's late late goal, sent Barcelona to the Champions League final. The Catalan Giants had not created a chance worthy of the name before then and reduced to ten men, they seemed little danger to a Chelsea- Manchester United re-match of last year's final. But Iniesta and, Blues fans will argue, also referee Tom Henning Ovrebro had other ideas, the Norwegian official refused to give at least three "good" penalty appeals to Chelsea, any one of which would have given them a two goal lead and had their accountants trying to book cheap flights to Rome !

Ovrebro was clearly not up to the task and made a number of wrong decisions, not all in Barce's favour, many Chelsea players, especially Didier Drogba and Michael Ballack lost it at the final whistle and doubtless they can expect further punishment from UEFA. However, Michel Platini got the Barce-Man U final he so craved, make of that what you will .

UEFA had to move Ovrebro out of his hotel, probably fearing a late night visit from Drogba in his flip flops !

Lionel Messi takes most of the headlines, but Iniesta has been sensational this season and was the best player on the pitch last night, it was fitting I suppose that he scored the decisive goal, but that is of scant consolation to supporters or backers of Chelsea.

Good Luck.

WEDNESDAY EMAIL ...........

WEDNESDAY MAY 6TH

Just looking at the one game today, I have been updating myself with the Scandinavian leagues over the past week or so and watching a lot of games, so will be starting my coverage of these "Summer leagues" shortly.

Tomorrow will be very busy, I am looking at five bets, which is very unusual for a Thursday and will also send you my views on the English play-offs which get under way, with an outright selection in each division. So a real bumper edition, which might have to be split over two emails.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

CHELSEA - BARCELONA

There are two ways to play Barce, the Real Madrid method, which is to attack in gung-ho fashion and let the best footballing team in the world tear you apart, or a version of the tactics Chelsea used at the Camp Nou, which allows you to dictate the pace and flow of the game, by imposing yourself on the Catalan giants.

Blues boss Guus Hiddink is a tactical genius and knows that his team are ideally suited to stifling the creative and seductive talents of the visitors, as they proved by becoming the first visiting side to stop Barce from scoring this season. Actually, the last team to do this was Manchester United last season, at the same stage of the competition and they went on to finish the job in the second leg.

Barce accused Chelsea of bullying them in the first match, comments which they have tried to distance themselves from since arriving in London, but all that has done is demonstrated that the London side has got under their skin and it is hardly going to make the home side offer any less of a physical challenge this evening. The spine of the Chelsea team is VERY powerful and physically strong, we all know about Essien, Terry and Drogba in this respect, but Lampard is very tough too, look how many games he misses per season through injury.

Defensively, the visitors are nowhere near as strong and they will sorely miss Marquez and Puyol, the Price on Chelsea has risen considerably since Barce's demolision of Real, but they are meeting a very different and much stronger team tonight and the odds on the home win offer incredibly good value.

I am also taking a little on John Terry to score at anytime, if any of you are very adventurous, you might want to try the 26.0 available for him to score first, several companies offer this and Bet 365 also payout on unlimited goals, for each way backers. Terry will be greedily eyeing up the weakened Barce backline , he will be getting forward for all the set pieces and tends to score in the big games. With key goals against Roma (twice) and the Ukraine (for England) this season and those with longer memories may recall the decisive goal when these two met in 2005.

He would love a CL final rematch with United and a chance to put the nightmare penalty shoot out behind him.

6.5 points Chelsea -1/4 ball 2.47 asian line.

2 points John Terry to score at anytime 9.0 general quote ..... 9.40 exchanges.

Good Luck.

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

VANNES- CHATEAUROUX

Vannes have not won in five starts and have also got very sloppy defensively, conceding 14 goals. They were distracted by a fantastic cup run and are now probably a little tired, after a first season in Ligue 2 that exceeded all expectations. In mid table safety, they are probably already mentally lying on a beach somewhere and are ideal opponents for a team desperate for points.

Chateauroux, sitting just one point above the drop zone, fall firmly into that category. They are scapping to retain their status and have performed at a high level (compared to what went before) for seven matches now, we have discussed them a couple of times recently. The goals have also started to flow, with nine in their last two starts, including four away to sedan, who held runaway leaders Lens last night. Chat cannot ease off, with a six pointer at basement club Nimes on Friday, so really need something from tonight and , for the time being, an away game at Vannes is about as good as it gets on the road in Ligue 2.

5.5 points Chateauroux +1/4 ball 1.80 asian line.

Good Luck.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ....

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

ARSENAL - MANCHESTER UNITED

United dominated the first leg and a 2-3 goal winning margin would have been a far fairer reflection, however, they come here with a "just" a 1-0 advantage and doubtless will be looking for the away goal, that will probably kill off this tie. It is almost impossible to see United conceding three goals in the Champions League, especially with Rio back in the defence alongside Vidic. It is going to take something very special fron the Gunners to turn this around, but on their day, they too can be unplayable and if two or three individuals peak, we could be in for a rare treat.

Robin van Persie returns to give Arsenal some more offensive threat and I am going to take them, off level ball tonight. The last three meetings at the Emirates have ended 2-1, 2-2, 2-1 all of those scorelines would see United progress, but none would cause us to lose our money ( two winners). We have to expect the home team to make the running and if United do manage to steal a goal, they will be even happier to sit back and let the Wenger boys do their best. It is very rare indeed that we can back the Gunners at home, at odds against dnb, when the opposition can lose and still progress it is the icing on the cake and an offer we should not be refusing.

7 points Arsenal level ball 2.07 asian line.

Good Luck.

FRANCE .....

LIGUE 1

NANTES-LE HAVRE

Season on the line for Nantes, after one year in Ligue 2, they bounced straight back up and the last thing this big club needs, is another campaign in the wilderness. Lyon aside, they were the last team to win the title and are desperate to survive and start building towards a return to the good times. Actually ,they visit Lyon next week, which even given the chamions recent fall from grace, is not going to be easy and they have to target three points today. They currently lie in the drop zone, level on points with the clubs immediately above them, with an inferior goal difference. They gave themselves a stepping stone, with a 2-0 win over Nice in their last home start and will fancy their chances against Le Havre, who are likely to be officially relegated if they do not win today, so will have to push forward, although their fate has long since been decided. Home win.

7 points Nantes -1 2.06 asian line.

Good Luck.

ENGLAND .............CHAMPIONSHIP

CHARLTON - NORWICH CITY

City are really up against it, to preserve their Championship status, they have to win and hope that Barnsley lose to a Plymouth Argyle side who have nothing to play for. Of course they will go for it big time and just hope that Barnsley slip up.

That will result in an open game, which will probably suit Charlton, who might like to take Norwich down with them, another "big" club in Division 1 next season, might take some of the focus off them. They have been involved in a couple of high scoring games recently winning at Southampton and sharing the spoils with high flying Birmingham and Reading, so today's visitors will hold few fears.

It is very unusual for an english side to "lay down" in these type of games, especially in front of their own fans, when money is tight and there are season tickets to be sold for next season. This is Charlton's last chance to prove to their fans that there is still life at the Valley and to advertise the product. Their season was decided before Christmas, since when the level of performance has improved and they will be keen to finish on a high.

All the pressure is on Norwich and if news comes through from Plymouth that Barnsley are leading, heads might drop. They battled hard at home to Reading on Monday, but created next to nothing by way of real chances, hosts look overpriced.

4.5 points Charlton Athletic to win 3.50 general quote.... bigger in places.

CRYSTAL PALACE- SHEFFIELD UNITED

This is a strange situation for United, they need to win and hope that Reading take a point off Birmingham, to clinch the remaining automatic promotion spot. The problem is that Birmingham need a win to clinch it themselves, or Reading could claim it with three points, if United to not win !

The danger for United is that if they go racing into a 2-3 goal lead, there will be little for Reading to play for and that might allow Birmingham to take charge. I think that we will see a cagey opening period here, with the visitors happy to keep things tight and push on after the break. Palace have not scored a first half goal in seven starts and only two in total over that sequence, United have managed only one in the opening 45 in their last five.

Conspiracy theorists will have a field day here too, with Palace boss Neil Warnock, being a lifelong United fan and former boss. anyway, regardless of any of that, the half time stalemate makes a lot of sense and is competitively priced.

5.5 points Half Time draw 2.25 + ..... up to 2.375 in places.

Good Luck.

GERMANY..... BUNDESLIGA

ARMINIA BIELEFELD- STUTTGART

We have been firmly in the Stuutgart camp for a couple of weeks and they are yet to let us down, so I see no reason to desert them today. They arrive with great confidence and are looking for a sixth straight win, the club have eyes fixed on a big title push and with leaders Wolfsburg coming to town next week, they have to keep the pressure on today.

Hosts are desperate for some points at the other end of the table, but have not won in seven home starts, or even scored in four, they are set to be without several key players, including top scorer Artur Wichniarek, who is likely to start on the bench. Actually, he has scored 12 of Bielefeld's 23 goals this season, that is over 52% and the lowest scorers in the Bundesliga can ill afford to be without him.

7.5 points Stuttgart -1/2 ball 1.86 asian line.

Good Luck.

ELSEWHERE IN WEST LONDON ...........

PREMIER LEAGUE

CHELSEA- FULHAM

A draw here, which has been the result in the last two seasons, would not surprise me. It would keep Fulham in seventh spot, regardless of what West Ham do and ensure that Chelsea stayed a minimum four points clear of Arsenal. The Blues are certain to rotate their squad ahead of the Barcelona game in midweek, a match which makes this local derby seem very unimportant.

These meetings are traditionally close and only once in seven starts at the Bridge and three times in 17 home and away fixtures, have Chelsea won by two or more goals. This is Fulham's cup final, they are having their best ever season in the EPL and look decent value getting a full goal start.

5.5 points Fulham +1 ball 1.97 asian line.

Good Luck.

CHAMPIONS RETURN HOME ...........

DIVISION 1

BRENTFORD - LUTON TOWN

I have had this bet in mind for a month or so and am pleased that my beloved Brentford come here with the Championship already won. The Bees have nothing to play for, as you might expect there were a lot of celebrations after last week's game, although that should not be a factor seven days later. However, they will come in a party mood, just to enjoy the day and I do not think that they will be overly concerened with the result. The club has also been involved in a lot of wheeling and dealing this week, trying to secure players, many of whom were on loan, to contracts or deals for next season. What I am trying to say is that, the actual result of this match, will be second to everything else that is taking place this week.

This will be Luton's last game in the Football league and they will be keen to go out with a bang, in front of a big crowd. There was talk of a big protest and quite possibly crowd trouble at this game, with visiting fans still furious at the 30 point deduction they suffered this season, which virtually condemned them to releagtion, before a ball was kicked. I am not sure that will happen and there will be a huge police presence to try and ensure that it doesn't, but there is also a history of bad feeling between the two sets of supporters. All in all, this is a game that will be played in something of a surreal atmosphere, with one set of players looking to celebrate and the other, not only looking to end on a high, but some to secure their future in the game.

Under the circumstances, I have to take a little on the visitors at a price which cannot last until the weekend (IT HAS !).

4 points Luton Town to win 4.50 .... a little 5.0 still on offer.

Good Luck.

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER PLAY OFFS .........

TORQUAY UNITED- HISTON UNITED

I favour Torquay here, they made a late and strong run at the automatic place, with just one loss in 16 starts and at times looked possibly the strongest side in the division. They did the double over champions Burton in the last month, including comprehensively outplaying them in the away leg, the 1-0 scoreline not doing them justice.

It is a very long journey down to the West Country for Histon and they will be without suspended keeper Danny Naisbutt. They were thumped 4-1 here in the league meeting, but to be fair to the visitors, they were injury hit that day, having said that, Torquay were not in such good form at the time either. I am a big fan of home boss Paul Buckle, he is very thorough in his preparation and was at Stevenage last night, to watch his potential final opponents, that was a 500 mile round trip to see a game that was televised live and is typical of the man. He admits that he made errors in the playoffs last season, when he was too negative in the home game with Exeter, that was his first season as a coach, the experience will serve his team well and Buckle is unlikely to make the same mistake again and we can expect Torquay to really go for it tonight.

6.5 points Torquay United -1/2 ball 1.95 asian line.

Good Luck.

LIGUE 2 ...........

DIJON - CLERMONT

Dijon have nothing to play for and will be looking to impress the home fans, Clermont still have some lingering relegation concerns, but in reality, have five games to get one more win, it doesn't have to come tonight. I think that we will see an open match with plenty of action and a few goals.

That is normally the case when these two meet, last five h2h here have produced 2+, with four "over" and three containing at least four, home and away the last ten meetings have averaged 3.2 goals. Dijon have had 2+ goals in 10 from 11 starts, Clermont in 15 from 17, it is hard to see the level dropping below that tonight, which would return at least half our stake, but I am confident we will be collecting the full return.

6.5 points "over" 2.25 goals 1.91 asian line.

Good Luck.

GERMANY ..... BUNDESLIGA

VfL BOCHUM- HANNOVER

A couple of recent home wins have taken the pressure off Hannover and they do have a degree of safety, some four points above Bochum and with a far easier run-in, with four of their next five starts, coming against teams currently in the bottom eight. Hosts are only three points above the drop zone and travel to Hertha and Hamburg, both in the top three, in their next two, so are targeting the victory tonight as essential.

They have a good record in these Friday night games, which have a life of their own, more like a cup tie, losing just one in ten, including collecting four points against tonight's visitors. Actually, they have won the last four h2h meetings here.

Both teams have injury concerns, but the Hannover problems look worse and VfL will have Patrick Fabian back from suspension and I understand that Stanislav Sestak, their top scorer, who has notched their last five goals and has been reported as doubtful, will be fit to start.

Hannover have a terrible record on the road this year, collecting just two points from a possible 42 ! They have been behind at the break in exactly half of those games and in addition to a straight win bet on Bochum, which I am very keen on, I will also place a small wager on them to be ahead at the break.

6 points Bochum -1/2 ball 2.05 general quote.

2 points Bochum-Bochum HT/FT double result 3.60 William Hill..... plenty of 3.50 around.

Good luck.

FREEBIES .........

I sent out 300 + free copies of the newsletter today, so many of the regular readers of the blog will have received all of the selections already. I looked at five matches and actually put up seven suggestions, so, although most were minimal length previews, the email still ran to some 1,000 + words.

If you did not get a copy, registering on the website www.predictuwin.com is free, quick and easy and will ensure that you do not miss out in the future on any freebies.

I will post a couple of selections on the blog later today in any case, so please check back.