FRIDAY ...........

ENGLAND DIVISION 1

SOUTHEND UNITED - LEEDS UNITED

Regular readers will know that I am keen on both of these teams and certain that the visitors will get promoted this season, they are simply too good and their squad too big and strong. However, they cannot be expected to win every game, Simon Grayson's men are due a wake up call and it is just as likely to come under the Roots Hall floodlights, where Southend have some famous performances and victories in recent years, than anywhere else.

The hosts play a very nice passing style and whilst that lack the squad depth of the visitors, on a going day they can defeat anyone at this level. They demolished Leyton Orient here last week, when we discussed them in detail and apart from the unlucky loss at Swindon, are unbeaten this season. Jermaine Beckford remains a doubt for Leeds and whilst they have plenty of offensive options, he would be missed and will only start if 100% fit, the Shrimpers have their own man looking to make a big name for himself at this level, in Lee Barnard, he scored all three last week and the winner in this fixture a couple of seasons ago. Hosts are unbeaten in three h2h games here, winning two and they look great value getting a half goal start, as Grayson knows that a point tonight will one earned, not two lost.

6.5 points Southend +1/2 ball 1.95 asian line.

US OPEN TENNIS

SERENA WILLIAMS- KIM CLIJSTERS

A fantastic return to the big time for Kim Clijsters and it is great to see her back. I am looking forward to this match up, Serena has to be favoured to progress, this is her backyard and she has not even dropped a set at Flushing Meadow since 2007, but I suspect that might change today. Even if it doesn't, I at least feel that the Belgian will be able to take her to two close sets, so like the over 21.5 games.

It was very windy at FM yesterday and Williams was struggling big time with the conditions in her doubles match, especially on serve. Similar weather is forecast today and that will level things out a bit, Clijsters was practicing at the same time ,for I think the first time this tournament, as she has been resting on "off" days, so will have got an idea of what to expect and as she takes the ball so early, might be better able to handle the wind.

6.5 points "over" 21.5 games 1.89 Pinnacle Sports.

Good Luck.