SATURDAY ...........

SCUNTHORPE UNITED- SWANSEA CITY

After eight games unbeaten, I think it is safe to say that Swansea are finally back on track, it was always going to be hard after Roberto Martinez left, he was Mr Swansea and took his top striker with him, but Paulo Sousa is from the same mould and is now making his mark in South Wales. The Swans are only five points off the playoff spots and f they they can start turning draws into wins a promotion push is not completely out of the question. They have been playing well, not just getting results and most of those games have come against good, ball playing, inform teams, including Doncaster, QPR (where Swansea had 60% possession and won the shots on goal count 15-7), Blackpool and WBA (57% 18-6). They have had a full week to prepare for this game, whereas Scunny were busy getting thumped by Manchester City in midweek, no real shame in that, but it was hardly a confidence booster.

There is more than a little bad feeling left over from an earlier Carling Cup game this season, when the Scunthorpe tactics left Sousa upset and reading between the lines, this is a match which he and his players really want to win....... revenge time. Off level ball I really like the visitors.

6.5 points Swansea level ball 1.98 asian line.

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER

EBBSFLEET UNITED- WREXHAM

Wrexham are my best bet of the day, they are a pretty big club at this level, but continue to underachieve. They have resources that few other teams have available and lower midtable, even with a couple of games in hand, is simply not good enough. Recent results have signalled an upturn and two cleansheets in as many starts, offer a platform to build on and they really should win with some ease today.

Fleet are heading nowhere fast and would be bottom of the BSP were it not for Chester's massive points deduction. The club is in a mess both on and off the pitch and boss Liam Daish spoke frankly this week saying "The club's rock bottom, we've got nowhere to train and I'm trying to turn this back to where we were. I'm not here to lay blame away from myself. I feel I've done the best I can with what has been given to me."

The club have no training facility and no funds available, to say they are goal shy is a huge understatement and they have failed to score in 67% of all competitive starts this season and just once in the last 650 minutes of football. Last week was a new low and they were comprehensively beaten 3-0 in the FA Cup by a lower league Bromley side.

The Wrexham board have again dug deep and allowed the team to travel south yesterday and stay overnight in a hotel, a rare luxury at this level and I expect the players to respond with three points and a very comfortable win.

7 points Wrexham -1/2 ball 1.94 asian line.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY ..........

I have not sent subscribers very many selections recently, but what I have despatched has been tip top information and I remain in fantastic form, including a clean sweep last saturday, with winners at odds of 2.875, 1.92, 1.67 and 1.97 . The last of those was clearly named as my best bet of the weekend and won easily by three goals.

It might be too much to ask for a repeat, but I do have another four bets today and am planning to post two of them on here. Remember, you do not receive all the selections, but what you do get is free and still excellent information, with 5 of the last 6 previews winning and the sixth losing to a 93rd minute goal !

Back later.

THURSDAY UPDATE .....

Just a quickie, Benfica won very easilythis evening, which was pleasing. I am just in the process of sending subscribers six selections for the next three days, but will not be posting any of them on the blog. So, rather than wasting your time checking in over the weekend, please note I will not post anything further on here until next week.

Good Luck with your bets this weekend !

THURSDAY ......

EUROPA LEAGUE

BENFICA-EVERTON

I am still not 100% convinced how interested Benfica are in this tournament, as a title challenge and Champions League place is absolutely essential after a poor 08/09 and spending so much in the summer, but they are saying the right things and could hardly be in better shape at present. They have won their last six, scoring an incredible 24 goals and do not have a league game until Monday night, they are fully refreshed after a lengthy break and are confident of three points tonight. The hosts expect Everton to come at them and not sit back, which should really suit Benfica, who are happy to try and outscore their opponents.

Everton have a massive injury list and a couple more not eligible to play, with six group points already in the bag and two home games up next, they do need the points tonight and certainly do not need to collect any more injuries. They have a big game at Bolton at the weekend, big that is if they are hoping to contest a top six place this season and a cup tie at Tottenham on tuesday, I do not expect them to be at their best this evening and feel the home side could run away with this one.

6 points Benfica -3/4 ball 2.17 asian line.

Good Luck.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

AZ ALKMAAR-ARSENAL

These are words that are likely to come back and bite me on the butt, but I really see little downside with the Gunners giving up one ball and make them my strongest bet of midweek.

They come here in very good shape, with seven straight wins and averaging three goals per game in every outing this season. Robin Van Persie and Thomas Vermaelen could hardly be in better form and will be ultra keen to impress returning to their homeland. RVP has scored in his last four games and has a lot ofcontacts at AZ, I suspect he will be very motivated to make it five from five tonight.

AZ have clearly regressed from last season and have already lost five times and the goals have dried up with just four in six starts, with only one point in the group games and facing a trip to the EmiratesStadium next, they will be forced to push forward here at some stage and that will play into the Gunners stength. Away win.

7.5 points Arsenal -1 ball 1.88 asian line.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY UPDATE ...........

Histon and Bournemouth both won, so that's four from four this week.

I am currently working on tomorrow's email for subscribers and will be previewing three matches for them, including, what seems likely to be a "maximum bet", my first in some considerable time. Obviously, I cannot post that on here and the other two bets do not offer much room for manoeuvre, so feel it is just easier to say that there will not be another blog post until next week.

Good Luck with your bets tomorrow !

SATURDAY ...........

DIVISION 2

ACCRINGTON STANLEY- AFC BOURNEMOUTH

Hosts are in a desperate financial position, players have apparently not received all their salaries and have had to play a number of friendly games, two already this week alone, in an attempt to raise funds. The first team started the match with Blackburn on Tuesday and some were again involved in some part last night (Thursday) when a low level US team came a calling. This is far from ideal preparation and I expect to see a somewhat jaded performance today.

Vistors are top of the table, but have a small squad and under a transfer embargo, they have no choice but to manage with what they have got. Their injury hit squad received a boost with the return to training of striker Jeff Goulding and they are looking to bounce back from a home defeat to Chesterfield last week. A free week and a little rest will have done them the power of good and if they can continue creating chances at the same level, 20 against Chesterfield, they will be fine. After a lack lustre opening 45 minutes in that game, they steeped up a gear in the second half and were unlucky not to turn things around. Twenty changes against a solid team like the Spirites is good going and they will surely get plenty today, against an opponent who play a very open style at home.

6.5 points Bournemouth level ball 1.87 asian line.

BLUE SQUARE PREMIER

HISTON - FOREST GREEN ROVERS

I listened to the Histon-Cambridge game live on the radio recently and was impressed with the home side, who created an awful lot of changes and showed tremendous heart to snatch a late late equaliser, which was well deserved. They built on that with a very nice win at Tamworth, coming from behind to record a comfortable win and now face a very limited Forest Green side, who have only beaten fellow strugglers Chester and Grays in 15 starts. The visitors remain without a couple of defenders today and arrive hot on the heels of conceding five at home to Wimbledon last week. Hosts are boosted by the return from suspension of Adam Tann and have not yet given up on a playoff place, now that they have refound their form, to fulfill those dreams they need all three points today, especially with 3 of their next 4 games on the road, the next two at Rushden and Mansfield, two very resilient home teams. Home win.

6.5 points Histon -3/4 ball 1.92 asian line.

Good Luck.

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

Fantastic start to the week with two really nice winners, IFK were backed off the boards yesterday and eased home, Brighton did their part tonight with a 2-0 victory.

I have already sent subscribers two strong bets for tomorrow (wednesday) but will not be posting either on the blog, so no need to check back before Thursday.

Good Luck.

TIME FOR SLADE TO GET BRIGHTON ROCKING................

ENGLAND DIVISION 1

BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION- GILLINGHAM

Hosts are very disappointed by their start to a season which promised so much. They have been unlucky with injury, which gives them an excuse of sorts, that situation is clearing up, boss Russell Slade has virtually a full squad to choose from now and results look set to improve. Last three games have shown promise, with a 1-1 draw at highflying Bristol Rovers where they led, followed by a 1-0 home loss to MK Dons, who are a very good team, in that game Brighton had the greater possession and goalscoring chances, before a dismissal turned the match on it's head. At the weekend they raced into a two goal lead at Yeovil, before losing a key player and allowing two points to slip.

That player was striker Liam Dickinson who had just scored, he is someone we have discussed in the past and he is very useful at this level, he has recovered to play tonight and I really like his pairing with the ancient, but still prolific Nicky Forster up front. Man for man, Slade has a better than average squad at this level and there can be no more excuses for him, or his playing staff. I fancy them to get a win tonight against a Gills team that really toil on their travels. You can look at results this year and argue that most of their away games, where they only have just one point from five starts, have come against strong teams, which is true, but they also shipped four at woeful Tranmere and few other teams will accomplish that feat this season.

Looking at the last two and a bit seasons, they are 11-10-30 on the road, which is borderline poor, especially considering they were promoted last campaign, but even worse when we consider that seven of those wins came in a golden 12 game spell late last season, take those away and we are looking at just 4 wins in 39 starts. They have slipped back into their old ways and this is clearly a team unhappy away from the garden county of Kent. They did manage a win by the odd goal in five at the weekend, but that was their first in five starts and came against a managerless and weak Wycombe outfit. I expect the home side to come good this evening and start a march up the table of sorts, otherwise Mr Slade had better get his c.v prepared ready for action.

5.5 points Brighton -1/2 ball 2.25 general quote.

Good Luck.

MONDAY ..............

SWEDEN SUPERETTAN

LANDSKRONA BOIS - IFK NORRKOPING

Long time readers will know that this is a "good " league for me and whilst I have not got overly involved this season, when we have bet, it has normally worked out well. I am confident that IFK will not lose tonight.

Following relegation after one season in Allsvenskan, few expected them to struggle back in Superettan, a division they won with ease in 2008, but struggle they have. IFK current sit in the drop zone with just three matches remaining, a point would take them out of the bottom two, infact, it could take them above three teams and even out of the relegation playoff group, which is a fantastic incentive. They will be without the suspended Roth, but otherwise have named a strong enough squad (see below) and to be honest, at this stage of the season, motivation over rides team news. The visitors are in reasonable shape, at least from a "not losing" point of view, with four draws in five starts and have a solid record here winning on two of their last three visits.

Hosts are ideal opponents, they have let their season fizzle out into mid tabe mediocrity in each of the last two seasons and are going for the hat-trick. They are safe from relegation and have not won in four starts, conceding six in the last two games alone. They have struggled on home soil in recent seasons , winning just 9 from 28 (32%) in the last two years. For a committed team desperate to survive, this is about as good a place to visit as any at this stage of the campaign.

IFK NORRKÖPINGS TRUPP (16 MAN):

Nuredin Bakiu och Anton Fagerström (mv).

Kristoffer Arvhage, Daniel Bamberg, Eirik Dybendal, Gunnar Thor Gunnarsson, Andreas Hadenius, Andreas Haglund, Armando Ibrakovic, Imad Khalili, Russell Mwafulirwa, Petru Racu, Viktor Rönneklev. Christopher Telo, Stefan Thordarson och Anders Whass.

IFK +1/4 ball 1.75 asian line.

Good Luck.

EMAIL AS PROMISED ...........

FRIDAY OCTOBER 10TH

We are in a very exciting position with the Sergio Garcia bet, where after just one round the 9.0 chance is now trading at circa 2.50 ! Profit is/was there (depending upon when you are reading this) to be taken, if that is the way you wish to go.

Two bets today, which I will discuss briefly and the next email will be with you tomorrow morning.

ENGLAND DIVISION 1

HARTLEPOOL UNITED- BRENTFORD

Brentford are going through a very "funny" spell at the moment, the central defence is really struggling, where Bennett who led by example last season is having a nightmare. Think Jamie Carragher at Liverpool, a team leader who the others look up to, who can do little right. Also, they are starting games very slowly and only waking up after the break, usually when they are a goal or two down. I have reproduced last saturday's match report from a Bees fan (GPG forum) below, it pretty much sums things up and I have highlighted a few points.

Bees will get things right soon, but have a very long trip North to face a team who at least offensively, I like and have discussed recently. Hard to see my beloved team keeping a clean sheet, but remember, they are likely to come on strong after the break, so the "over" looks the right way to go in a fixture that traditionally produces goals.

5.5 points "over" 2.5 goals 2.05 asian line.

IRELAND PREMIER LEAGUE

DERRY CITY- SHAMROCK ROVERS

Shamrock beat Bohemians last week and now have a two point lead at the top of the table, with just a handful of games remaining. However, they can hardly afford to ease off, as Bohs have a superior goal difference and an "easy" home game tonight, so Rovers have to go to Derry and look for all three points. They have not conceded in two visits here (one win) and will be buoyed by the home side's injury list with Clive Delaney--Back. Stephen Gray--Ankle. Peter Hutton--Groin. Ger O'Brien--Ankle. Sammy Morrow--Ankle. Tommy Stewart--Knee. Mark Farren--Illness, all missing out, at least six of those seven can be termed regulars.

Huge game for the away side and given the team news, we can only lean one way.

7 points Shamrock Rovers -1/4 ball 1.86 asian line.

Good Luck.

We've got to defend much, much better and stop gifting teams one, two and three goal headstarts. Three home games in a row now that we've fallen behind and we have got to put an end to it.

The first half was Bristol Rovers all over again. Opposition who did nothing special but broke forward into our box with pace, and took their chances. They make it look so simple but we don't pick them up. Neither Bennett or Phillips got close for the first and I think Bull could have reacted better. There were questions raised at the start of the season about our defence lacking pace, yet again players are running in behind our defence and this was typified by the second goal.

Swindon were another side who knew that if they were well organised and didn't make mistakes then we wouldn't really threaten, and they were right. Too often Charlie was asked to win headers against a centre back twice his size, perhaps Bull should not aim his kicks in his direction.

The wind was making a difference but again we were devoid of ideas, the balls through the middle were either over hit or misplaced whilst Amankwaah had the better of Wood all game.

Again second half we improved and Saunders upped his game and was able to run inside while Cort was able to hold it up or at least flick it on to Charlie. Turning point was Charlie's miss. Saunders curled a beauty that came off the post and fell to Charlie with an open goal but he hit it on the bounce and it flew over. It was head in hands stuff. Wood had a header at the back post that came off keeper and post and the improvement was there to see.

Then the goal, Cort showed good quality and touch and a finish into the bottom corner and we all thought game on. But three minutes later its poor again and we commited far too many forward. Phillips looked dead on his feet at the end and was beaten far too easily although a great finish. Not sure what happened for the third, did Charlie head it/ was it deflected? Seemed a little strange but again why do we have to wait til we've conceded to produce the goods. Last ten we huffed and puffed but it looked unlikely, one thing I noticed was fitness levels. I thought they looked tired and I wonder whether our fitness levels need to improve now that we've gone up a league. A lot of the players were blowing at the end, not a criticism just an observation and perhaps more fitness work is required.

It is the same old mistakes, poor defending and weaknesses to pace and movement. Bennett can hack it against League two strikers who are immobile and like a battle, but strikers with a bit of pace have really had the better of him. We've got to cut out the errors, we will get nowhere until we sort this out and I think Scott needs to brave and drop Bennett and put Wilson in the middle and Foster right back.

There were some positives though, Bean was again excellent and I thought him and Saunders drove the team forward in the second half. Cort had probabaly his best game, got a goal and linked with Mac well. Until Strevens is back this should be the partnership because Weston isn't a striker and I don't think Kabba is the answer.

Today showed that we aren't a bad side and we can play some decent stuff but until we cut out the errors and defend better we are going to be mid table. I'm sure the stats will show we had more possession and shots but Swindon took their chances and that is what counts and something has to change.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 7TH

EUROPEAN GOLF

MADRID MASTERS OUTRIGHT

Here is a bet I am hoping will still be giving us a warm glow through the long dark winter months.

Sergio Garcia has had a stinker of a year, little has gone right for him on or off the golf course and he openly admits he was not in a good frame of mind after splitting with his girlfriend early in 2009.

We have seen recent signs that he might be about to hit top form and in four events since missing the cut in the USPGA , he has shot 15 from 16 rounds under par and recorded top 6 finishes in two tournaments. Since when he has had almost a three week break to recharge his batteries and will play this week refreshed and I believe, very hungry.

This is Sergio's time of year and last October he won the Castellon Masters in Spain and two weeks later the HSBC event in Shanghai. Actually the last named was officially a 2009 tournament ,so in five standard european events, in a year about as bad as it can get, he is has finished 1-8-7-11-13 ! He is clearly very comfortable this side of the Atlantic and especially in his homeland, where he is a multi winner.

The course at the Centro Nacional de Golf should suit Garcia and the spaniards tend to dominate events in their homeland filling 60% of the top ten places in recent tournaments. Forget King Carlos, Sergio rules Spanish golf and I favour him to put his subjects in their place this week.

5 points each way Sergio Garcia 9.0 Ladbrokes/Corals/Sportingbet outright 1/4 odds 12345 ...... 8.0 + is good IMO.

Good Luck.

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

I am still alive ! I have not fallen off the edge of the world or anything, it is just that most of my limited output this week has been kept for subscribers.

I do have some information to pass on and will actually post today's email in full a little later, so please check back.

Good Luck.

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

Fantastic day of sport ahead, with a very attractive programme of action in the EPL. Just a few basic notes about three of today's games.....

PREMIER LEAGUE

WEST HAM UNITED- FULHAM

I get the feeling that we will see the real West Ham today, apparently training has gone very well this week and they are fully focused on getting all three points from a fixture they traditionally do well in.

They have had a clear six days to prepare for this and the break has enabled Matthew Upson and Valon Behrami to return to the squad. Upson has been sorely missed and will help eliminate some of the basic defensive errors which have cost them dear recently. The Hammers have played well in bursts recently and it is only a matter of time before it all comes together. The visitors played on Thursday and have a gruelling recent schedule, this should be very entertaining and I take a narrow home win.

5.5 points West Ham United -1/4 ball 1.94 asian line.

DIVISION 2

BURTON- ROCHDALE

I am very keen on Rochdale here, they have been one of the very best sides in Division 2 over the past two seasons and deserve promotion this time round. After a shaky start, they are unbeaten in six, scoring at least two goals in each , including winning their last four. I rate them no worse than third in the league and expect Dale to battle out the promotion places with Rotherham and County, confidence is sky high at the club and all believe that this is their year. They are battling for every point and have no plans to enter the playoff lottery a third time. A win today will take them second and given their proficiency upfront, they will fancy a trip to Burton, who's home starts have been very open affairs with an average of 3.4 goals per game.

7 points Rochdale -1/4 ball 1.97 asian line.

GERMANY BUNDESLIGA

VFB STUTTGART- WERDER BREMEN

I have received very good reports about Bremen and they have been dominating recent starts after a slow start to this season. The visitors are unbeaten in eleven games in all competitions and have really tightened up defensively, with four clean sheets in five. It is not just that they are playing well, but allowing the opposition so little of the ball, with Bremen enjoying over 60% possession in their last five Bundesliga games, which included an away start at leader Leverkusen. A win today will take them in fourth spot in the table and that looks on the cards. Hosts are struggling to come to terms with the rigors of Champions League football and their players are struggling with the schedule, couple of key players are out today, including Alexander Hleb and at present, they look a shadow of the side which finished last season so strongly. Having discussed how tight Bremen are defensively, this is a fixture that normally produces goals, four or more in the last six, at an average of 5.50 per start. Therefore, i am going to cover with a small bet on this following suit and with a little luck, Bremen will edge a five goal thriller.......... you have to hope !

6.5 points Werder Bremen level ball 1.98 asian line.

2 points "over" 4.5 goals 4.70 exchanges.

Good Luck.

EUROPA LEAGUE .............

FULHAM - BASLE

Fulham rested pretty much an entire starting eleven for the first group game in Sofia and were still comfortable in earning a 1-1 draw. Boss Roy Hodgson has made it clear that was a one off and that he will name his strongest available team, with only minimal changes, for the remaining five games. With Roma home and away up next, if the Cottagers want to progress, they surely have to look for all three points this evening. The visit of the Italian giants to the south west London club will be a massive game in Fulham's history and very high profile, there will be far less media interest/pressure tonight and easier points to win.

Hodgson has vast knowledge of european football and probably knows as much as anybody in England about Swiss football having spent 6-7 years there coaching at domestic and national level and retaining his contacts. He rates Basle at a similar level to CSKA and whilst he doesn't underestimate them, he feels they will offer few surprises. The visitors opened with an eyecatching win over Roma, but I remain unconvinced about The Wolves motivation for this tournament and Basle home and away are two very different animals. Domestically they have conceded 39 goals in 24 road starts, that's an average of 1.625 per game and a big number is a league where usually, they are top three at worst and facing weaker opposition.

Fulham lost at home to Arsenal at the weekend, but earned almost universal plaudits for their performance, at times they out pased and out played the Gunners and few teams do that. Hodgson appears good to his word and has named the following squad : Schwarzer, Zuberuhler ,Pantsil, Baird, Kelly, Smalling, Hughes,Riise, Greening, Dempsey, Murphy, Gera,Nevland, Zamora, Kamara, and Johnson.

He might rotatae the front men and we could see Kamara and Nevland upfront, but these two are hungry and IMO the squad looks plenty strong enough with Gera and Dempsey also looking to get forward at every opportunity, to put two or more past Basle and I expect this bet to win with relative ease.

Fulham -1/2 ball 1.86 asian line......... 1.80 + is good IMO.

Good Luck.

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

A quick look back at the weekend, for the second time in just four days a game involving Peterborough failed to produce a third goal to clinch the "overs" bet, after two came inside the opening 15 minutes in both, very frustrating ! It was still a good week overall for subscribers, but those two made a very big difference to the bottom line.

Much better news on the NFL where we are a perfect five from five after three weeks of the new season and the team we bet outright at 25-1 remains also unbeaten and are now trading at significantly shorter odds.

I have some brief notes to share about a couple of today's games, where we have a very busy programme both in Europe and domestically .........

DIVISION 2

BARNET - DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE

LINCOLN CITY - NOTTS COUNTY

I am approaching these two games from very similar angles. The two visiting sides have been creating chances for fun and whilst the ball has not always fallen for them at the vital time, especially in the case of County on the road, I expect both to get far more chances than their less prolific opponents.

Since we discussed Barnet's paucity of goalscoring attempts before the Macclesfield game, they have collected just two points from three starts and had to come from behind to earn a fortunate point in two of those. Daggers, despite selling a host of players in the summer, have only lost once all season and remain a real offensive threat, they are creating an average of almost six chances on goal more per game than their London rival and that should be enough to see them home tonight. They are set to be unchanged and with this fixture normally producing goals, they are far better equipped to win a shoot out.

County and Lincoln only have one draw between them in 18 league starts this year and it seems likely that we will see another positive result for one of them tonight. County have not won on the road since their first away day, when they put four past Macclesfield way back in mid August. However, it is not as though they have sat back, or not created chance after chance away from Meadow Lane, they have dominated possession and created more in every start, which, given the quality of player at their disposal, is as it should be. The Sol Campbell saga is now at an end and I think that is better for all parties concerened. It is time for County to start winning on the road, they average 7.67 attempts more per game than City, who have lost their last three starts by two or more goals, a similar outcome would not surprise me tonight.

Lincoln have made an eyecatching managerial appointment with Chris Sutton set to take charge after this evening, he will be in the stands and the home players will be out to impress him, but it will take time and more than simply his appearance at the stadium to turn things around. However, it might push the odds on County up a little, which is perfect for us.

6.5 points Dagenham level ball 1.95 asian line.

7 points Notts County -1/2 ball 2.05 asian line.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY ...........

Four very basic previews today, content was written at 08.00 this morning, some odds are no longer available, others have increased.

ENGLAND

PREMIER LEAGUE
WIGAN ATHLETIC- CHELSEA

I discussed in some depth recently the point that Chelsea get stronger the longer their games wear on and the fact that very few of their goals have come in the opening 40 minutes or so. That sequence has continued and they travel North to meet a well rested Wigan side, who offer a physical challenge ahead of a Champions League tie in midweek.The hosts have already held Everton and Manchester United to the break this season, even though they conceded five in the second half against United. The half time draw is very competitively priced and will be my selection, if the bet is landed, you might then want to consider backing the Blues "in running" to win the second period, which is very likely.

4 points Half Time draw 2.75 Bet 365 ........ 2.625 general quote.

CHAMPIONSHIP
BLACKPOOL- PETERBOROUGH

Peterborough were discussed twice this week, you know my thoughts about the Posh open style of play and in their last home start, Blackpool also adopted a very offensive minded approach, really taking the game to Newcastle. That worked well and with Pool playing very confidently at the moment, I am sure that this match will follow suit and will produce plenty of end to end action. That will be "right up the visitors street" and they would be my idea of the winners here, but I believe the "over" offers far better value.

6 points "over" 2.5 goals 2.08 asian line.

SCOTLAND ...SPL
HEARTS - HAMILTON

I feel that Hearts are the third best team in the SPL, they started the season slowly but are definitely coming to hand and were very unlucky not to have beaten both Rangers and Celtic recently, after taking the lead in both matches and dominating large periods of play. Late goals have been a problem, they also threw two points away at St Johnstone deep in injury time, but on their day, they are more than a match for anyone in the SPL and they face a very weak Hamilton side today, who lost all their key players in the summer.

The visitors are lost away from home and have already received a 3-0 beating at Kilmarnock and a 4-1 defeat at Ibrox, where Rangers could have scored any number and to be honest, those two teams have hardly been prolific goalscorers this season, Killie only have two goals in their other four starts and the Gers have been held goalless by Motherwell and Killie and struggled to beat Legue 1 side Queen of the South since then. The omens are not good and I cannot see beyond the home win and once the first goal comes, the floodgates could open.

6.5 points Hearts -1 ball 2.0 asian line.

IRELAND..... PREMIER LEAGUE
SLIGO ROVERS- SHAMROCK ROVERS

Really like the visitors here, they have already beaten Sligo three times this season, including a 3-0 win here where the margin of victory could have been much higher and have a fantastic incentive to win as they would go top at least until Tuesday, when Bohemians play again.

They have been eating away at Bohs lead for weeks now and I do not see them blowing this opportunity. They have not lost a league start since Methuselah was a young man and meet a home side who might be feeling the strain of a tough September, where they have had three titanic battles with the league leaders and with other targets ahead, they are heavily involved in two cup competitions, they might not be as focused as the visitors.

7 points Shamrock Rovers -1/2 ball 1.90 general quote.

Good Luck.

THURSDAY ..........

I am in two minds what to do with the blog and will have to give it some serious thought in the next week or so.

The problem is that I have become far more selective with my email selections, as a result of which, there are fewer previews to choose from and post on here. I still cover quite a few games at the weekend when it is less of a problem, but midweek is very difficult. My additional concern is that here you receive so little of my output, that you might easily miss all the winners and only get losers.

For example, on Sunday I sent six selections, five won and one was "stakes returned", there was nothing on Monday, Tuesday I had one winner and the loser you received here, more about that later and yesterday another two games, which both won. So ten games in total, one loser , one stakes returned and eight winners, blog readers got just one winner !

Don't get me wrong, the information is still very good, but will be far more in the hands of the gambling gods and I am not sure how I feel about that.

The Peterborough bet was incredibly unlucky btw, we had two goals after 31 minutes and before the break, Boro had also hit the woodwork twice and the visitors had two "good" penalty appeals turned down. In total, the home side had 21 attempts on target in the game, that is the biggest number I have seen in a very long time between two teams from the same division. This game should have produced six goals let alone two ! The "gods" owe us one !

Good Luck.

ENGLAND....CARLING CUP

PETERBOROUGH UNITED- NEWCASTLE UNITED

I will be absolutely amazed if this match doesn't produce goals. Hosts are buoyed after earning their first league win of the season, coming back from two goals down to defeat Reading at the weekend. They will want to build on that and boss Darren Ferguson believes that his team can challenge for a playoff spot despite their slow start. Posh are clearly building up a head of steam and will get a test of their abilities tonight, with no league points on the line, which is fine for both and I believe we will see two relaxed teams on the pitch.

Home defence is fragile and Boro have scored and conceded in 8 of their last 10 starts, they are far more talented at the other end of the pitch and will spend much of this season, simply trying to outscore the opposition, this is not a team that can try to hold on to a lead.

Visitors have not looked so defensively sound in recent weeks, they conceded three in the last round against League 1 Huddersfield and were given the run around by Blackpool last midweek, when the home side pretty much dominated play ,they will miss Khizanishvili at the back tonight. "Overs".

"over" 2.5 goals 1.95 asian line.

Good luck.

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

ENGLAND PREMIER LEAGUE

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS - FULHAM

I expect Wolves to go all out for the three points here. If they are to have any chance of survival in the EPL these are the type of fixtures they will have to look to win. They have far more striking options available today and face a visiting team who have not kept a clean sheet in six starts and who have travelled to both Russia and Bulgaria in the last three weeks and must be feeling a little drained. Roy Hodgson did rest several of his players for today, so he is obviously targeting a positive result too. Time for Roy and Big Mick to throw off the shackles,"Over" for me and very juicy looking odds.

6 points "over" 2.25 goals 2.07 asian line.

ITALY SERIE A

CAGLIARI -INTER

Visitors were given the run around by Barce in midweek and I feel that they were left feeling a little humiliated by that and will want to get a confidence boosting win today. Whilst they might be a little off the pace that the best of Europe has to offer, only Juve look likely to challenge them domestically and they created an enormous number of chances in beating Parma and Milan recently, 44 in total, big numbers for Serie A.

The two clubs met here late last season and the hosts edged an open game 2-1, the title was already in the bag at that stage and Inter had nothing to play for. Hosts seem to have regressed since then and are sorely missing Acquafresca, they have some injury problems today and I expect them to lose.

6.5 points Inter -1 2.12 asian line.

Good Luck.

SATURDAY .............

PREMIER LEAGUE

BURNLEY -SUNDERLAND

I have seven games to race through, so as briefly as possible..... Hosts look short of EPL quality, they have beaten Everton and Manchester United at Turf Moor and that will not be an easy place to come to this season, but they really rode their luck in those two games, including both visitors missing penalties. They could quite easily be bottom of the table with zero points and then we would probably have been looking at even money quotes for Sunderland today. The visitors were pretty big spenders in the summer and the money has been invested wisely, they now look genuine top level quality, have shown that they can scrap out wins if necessary, as denoted by defeats of Hull, Bolton and Blackburn, who all pose a similar threat to which they will face today. Their front men pose a physical and speedy threat that Burnley will struggle to cope with and Michael Turner will not only tighten up the visiting defence, but also cause anyone problems from set pieces. Away win.

5.5 points Sunderland -1/4 ball 2.20 asian line.

DIVISION 2

CHESTERFIELD - MACCLESFIELD TOWN

I will not waste too much time on this one, I covered Town in great detail last week and they just failed to hold on to a lead over Barnet. Things are still not falling for them, but they are continuing to play well and I have to take a chance on them visiting a talented but inconsistent Chesterfield team who are struggling to keep a clean sheet. Last week's preview is reproduced below.

6 points Macclesfield +3/4 ball 2.04 asian line.

SCOTLAND ..... SPL

HIBERNIAN - ST JOHNSTONE

I really like the "over" here, hosts are desperate to bounce back from a horror show defeat at hamilton last week and John Hughes likes his team to play an attacking style. The visitors have similar ideals and their SPL starts this season have averaged 4.25 goals per game, they are unlikely to sit back and this one seems ceratin to produce plenty of thrills and spills.

7 points "over" 2.5 goals 1.95 asian line.

Good Luck.

MACCLESFIELD - BARNET

I am constantly looking for a team to follow, one that is playing much better than bare results might suggest and is underestimated by the oddsmakers. If I manage to hit them right, it is possible to back the side for several weeks before the bookmakers adjust their rating. Macclesfield look to fit the bill perfectly and they have been playing well for some time, without getting their just award. The added bonus today, is that they could be facing a team who have been over achieving.

It was a typical recent day at the office for the Silkmen last week, they completely dominated their match at Crewe, where they enjoyed 61% possession, a big number against a ball playing team and created 22 attempts on goal, yet contrived to find a way to lose by the odd goal in three ! The players and coching staff have remained upbeat , have been talking positively and are confident that they are a top half side.

Barnet have won five in a row, but have not been creating a lot of chances, just 46 all season, only Hereford have managed fewer and their total of just 17 on target, is a division low number. Hosts are averaging six attempts per game more and they have hit the woodwork on four more occasions, so it is clear which team is enjoying the greater good fortune in front of goal. Of course, you can also argue that Barnet are making the best of what they do create, but they cannot continue in such great form, posting these low numbers.

I really like Macclesfield off level ball and even if they do not produce the goods today, they look a side to keep on the right side of in coming weeks.

EUROPA LEAGUE .............

EVERTON -AEK ATHENS

I am going to give Everton another chance, despite their failure to hold onto a lead for us at Craven Cottage on Sunday. They will obviously have to give their league matches priority, but if they have any european ambitions at all and I am fairly certain that David Moyes does, then in a tough looking group and with difficult looking road trips ahead in this group, they need the three points tonight. As much as anything else, it would give a much need boost to their confidence, which has been brittle in the EPL.

They scored four here in the Europa league game with Olumouc, when they were able to forget their league woes and have also won their only home start since, with a come from behind win over Wigan. Hosts have big injury problems, but could name a line up of Howard; Gosling, Yobo, Distin, Baines; Osman, Rodwell, Fellaini, Pienaar; Cahill; Saha.

That still contains an awful lot of quality and should be too strong for an AEK team who always struggle on the road in europe. The visitors will be without the suspended Daniel Majstorovic and striker Rafik Djebbour, who has fallen out with the coach, they will come with their usual defensive mindset and this should allow the Toffees to get plenty of the ball and build up some rhythm. Strong home selection for me.

7.5 points Everton -1 ball 2.0 asian line.

BENFICA - BATE BORISOV

Hosts are on fire at the moment and scoring for fun, with twelve goals (!) in their last two league starts. However, they might be happy with a win of any sort tonight, the minimal margin might do and if BATE can rediscover the form they showed in last season's Champions League, where they performed heroically in the "group of death" containing Juventus, St Petersburgh and Real Madrid,even that might be beyond them .

That visiting squad has broken up a little as you might expect, but seven of them are current Belarus internationals, a nation who have impressed in recent starts, including the entire back line, who can expect to be busy tonight. They are unlikely to be distracted by the league, where they hold a ten point lead already and are a class ahead of the pack, two thirds into their season they should be at their physical peak and are capable of causing a surprise and certainly of keeping this close.

Benfica HAVE to challenge for their domestic title this season, it is five years since they even finished in the top two and for this massive club, that is simply not good enough. They were big spenders in the summer again and every focus is on a championship push, I am not sure exactly how motivated they will be for a big run in the Europa League, keeper Quim and Pablo Aimar are out tonight. The visitors get a big handicap start and they would have to lose by three for us to lose full stakes, providing they do not concede ultra early, that seems unlikely.

7 points BATE +1.75 goals 1.98 asian line.

Good Luck.

CHAMPIONSHIP ...........

PLYMOUTH ARGYLE- WATFORD

Argyle remain without a league win, but they were very impressive at the Hawthorns on saturday, especially in the first half, when they took the lead and were very close to adding a second, which at 2-0, would probably have killed the game off. They also hit the bar at 2-1 down, the fifth time they have been denied by the woodwork this season. The Pilgrims have stuck with boss Paul Sturrock and he appears to still have the support of the players, the new signings he brought in have started to gel and that elusive first win is imminent.

Watford have over performed in my eyes, they have sold the crown jewels in allowing Smith, McAnuff, Priskin and Williamson to leave. the supply to the front men is drying up and the Hornets are depending on the goals of Graham to keep them in games. This can only continue for so long and I see these two teams heading in the opposite direction over the next few weeks.

Plymouth -1/4 ball 2.11 asian line.

Good Luck.

A few stats from the attempts on goal tables which are worth looking at :

In the Champioship, 13th placed QPR have created more goal scoring chances (90) than anyone else and have also hit the woodwork seven times.

Only Division 1 favourites Leeds United have created more than mid table Carlisle United, who definitely have goals in them. Walsall have only managed a Football League low total of 18 on target this campaign.

In the basement, as discussed in the earlier Macclesfied preview, high flying Barnet are making the most of what little they are creating at present and in a mirror image of the real table, are fourth from bottom in chances created.

TUESDAY .........

I remain in good form at present and sent subscribers two strong selections yesterday, which both won at odds of 2.01 and 2.19, there was one other mini bet (1.5 points at odds of 8.0) which was within one second (!) of collecting, so, plenty of strawberries, but no cream !

Very exciting finish to the US Open, which saw a new Grand Slam winner in the Men's event, the return of Kim Clijsters to the big time, Serena's blow up and a British success for Heather Watson in the Girls Singles, what more could you ask for ! Incidently, Watson is sponsored by a bookmaker, with local company Sportingbet agreeing to help fund her career for three years.

I previewed four matches on the email service today and am hoping to post two of them on the blog a little later , so please check back. Finally, several of you have asked about the NFL this season, I will definitely try to cover the sport on a regular basis here and subscribers were sent two winners from two selections this weekend, so I have not lost the touch !

Back later.

MUM'S THE WORD !

Kim Clijsters has become the first mother to appear in a Grand Slam final in almost three decades, which is terrific for the game, after putting Serena Williams out of the US Open in sensational circumstances. With Williams losing the match on a penalty point !

Just as importantly for us, our "over" bet was landed on the match, which, along with the Southend victory on Friday and the 14 point profit on the Chelsea bet means that we have had a very profitable weekend so far. Stakes were returned on Macclesfield which prevented a clean sweep, they took the lead only to concede an own goal, but off level ball, no damage was done.

Back later.

DIVISION 1 ...........

MACCLESFIELD - BARNET

I am constantly looking for a team to follow over the coming weeks, one that is playing much better than bare results might suggest and is underestimated by the oddsmakers. If I manage to hit them right, it is possible to back the side solidly for several weeks before the bookmakers adjust their rating. Macclesfield look to fit the bill perfectly and they have been playing well for some time, without getting their just award. The added bonus today, is that they could be facing a team who have been over achieving.

It was a typical recent day at the office for the Silkmen last week, they completely dominated their match at Crewe, where they enjoyed 61% possession, a big number against a ball playing team and created 22 attempts on goal, yet contrived to find a way to lose by the odd goal in three ! The players and coching staff have remained upbeat , have been talking very positively and are confident that they are a top half side.

Barnet have won five in a row, but have not been creating a lot of chances, just 46 all season, only Hereford have managed fewer and their total of just 17 on target, is a division low number. Hosts are averaging six attempts per game more and they have hit the woodwork on four more occasions, so it is clear which team is enjoying the greater good fortune in front of goal. Of course, you can also argue that Barnet are making the best of what they do create, but they cannot continue in such great form, posting these low numbers.

I really like Macclesfield off level ball and even if they do not produce the goods today, they look a side to keep on the right side for a week or two.

Macclesfield level ball 2.20 asian line.

Good Luck.

Update: BTW you might read elsewhere that Macclesfield have an injury crisis, once again, this is a case of sloppy reporting, Wilson, Hessey and Backer-Rowley are all unavailable, but they are long term injuries and the trio have been missing for weeks. Brown and Wright are probably both available for selection, giving coach Alexander more options, not fewer.

SATURDAY ...........

Southend took a share of the spoils yesterday and landed our bet, the US Open tennis was a washout weather wise and the Serena-Clijsters match has been rescheduled for today.

I have previewed six matches on the email service today, here is one to be going on with .....

PREMIER LEAGUE

STOKE CITY- CHELSEA

Credit where credit is due and City have made their Potteries home a real fortress in the last couple of seasons, noise levels are through the roof (not that there is one) and the Stoke players do not give you a moment's peace, it is a very tough place to go.

The two sides met at a very similar stage last season (round 6), at which time, City were still coming to terms with life in the top flight and Chelsea eased to a 2-0 win, but the first goal took 39 minutes to come and afterwards even home boss Tony Pulis admitted that the visitors were on another level. Since that day Stoke are 11-5-2 on home soil in the EPL and have conceded just eight goals, none so far this campaign. In fact, in five domestic starts, they have only allowed goals at Anfield.

Chelsea are playing well and creating chances, but an early strike is proving elusive, with so many of their players having been away with their national team this past ten days or so, it might again take them a while to get going. In their five starts in 09/10 they have yet to score a goal before the 37th minute and tended to step up a gear after the break.

I will take City to hold out for 45 minutes this time and Blues to once again come on strong in the second period, at circa 7/2 that looks far and away the best value available here .

4 points draw half time/ Chelsea full time 4.50 general quote.

Good Luck.

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.

TUESDAY .......

ENGLAND BLUE SQUARE PREMIER

BARROW-YORK CITY

STEVENAGE BOROUGH -EASTBOURNE

I gave York something of a glowing report on Saturday (reproduced below) and two early goals saw them ease to victory and also put in another impressive all round display, they really are a team at the top of their game at present.

At the same time, Barrow were suffering a frightful 6-1 hammering at home to Rushden. The home side were big drifters in Asia through the course of the day and given that there was no "real" reason, that is a little alarming, especially given the manner of the defeat. That is my only reservation, I do not normally like to oppose teams after a big defeat, especially on home soil, but I cannot let City go unbacked, so have just reduced stakes a little. Hosts will probably struggle this year, maybe just doing enough to stay in the BSP. These midweek games do their players few favours either, as Barrow is so remote, that training is usually held 100+ miles away and even two home games in three days, with possibly a training session in between, will involve an awful lot of road miles. Away win.

Stevenage are another side running into form and they will not be far off the top of the table, come the end of the season. They have only lost once this season, at league leaders Oxford and were quite impressive that day and maybe deserved a point. However, it is on home soil, at their Broadhall way home, where they will pick up most of their points. Borough have not lost there since November 2008, during which time they have a 15-5-0 record, winning 75%. Last season they started very slowly and it was not until approaching Christmas that they hit their stride, since when they have lost just 3 of all 32 league starts. They travel to high flying Mansfield next, so are eager to get the three points tonight and also a little revenge, as Eastbourne did the double over them last season.

The visitors improved their squad in the summer and look booked for a mid table finish, free from too many relegation concerns, but they should not be winning games like this, as I rate the home side clearly superior. Odds are not fantastic, but acceptable, if you are following the game on the internet, late goals might well be on the cards and this is something you could profit from if your bookmaker is offering "live" odds. Eastbourne have conceded nine goals this season, seven have come in the second half and three in the last five minutes, hosts have themselves scored twice after the 86th minute in two of their last four starts. So take a look at Stevenage, or the "over" at around the 80 minute mark.

6 points York -1/2 ball 2.0 + a little 2.10 around.

6 points Stevenage -3/4 ball 1.80 asian line ...... although take a look at the "in running" market late in the game.

Good Luck.

YORK CITY - CRAWLEY TOWN

I have heard fantastic reports about York City this season, they have lost twice, but those defeats came against division bigwigs Wrexham and Oxford and even opposing fans admitted that the Minstermen deserved something from both games. Team spirit is said to be sky high after consecutive wins and the mood in training is positive in the extreme. The City board have shown great ambition in allowing boss Martin Foyle to sign three strikers, including £55k on Michael Gash, who was being watched by a number of league clubs, this is big money for a BSP side and the quality is begining to shine through.

The report of the win over Histon made excellent reading: "In truth, City deserved much more than a 3-1 score line, they bossed the game from start to finish and, most impressively, won by playing stylish passing football against one of the league’s most direct and combative sides." York have had a full weeks rest since then, which included two days off to recharge their batteries.

No such luxury for Crawley who were never at the races in a 3-0 loss at Luton on Tuesday. They created little and could easily have lost by a far greater margin, there are nursing several knocks and are set to struggle against a well rested home side, almost at full strength and in very confident mood. I make City a strong bet.

DEUTSCHE BANK CHAMPIONSHIP OUTRIGHT

PADRAIG HARRINGTON

Packed leaderboard with twelve players within three strokes of the lead, however, I have doubts about many of them, including blog/email favourite Steve Stricker who is one of the three joint leaders at -13, he is not the best front runner in the world and I prefer him coming from off the pace.

Padraig Harrington has been knocking on the door in recent weeks and is a winner waiting to happen. He is 2-10-2 in his last three outings and blew his chance with a poor final round in the first two of those, infact, we were firmly against him in the second of those. He stepped up last week in the Barclays, held things together well and his Sunday score of 67 was very nearly enough.

He has shot an identical score of 67 each day this week and his putting has improved each round, I expect his all round game to fall into place this afternoon and he will have enormous support from the massive Labour day crowd. Boston has a huge Irish population and many of them will find their way out to the course today. This is Padraig's time of year, all his big wins have come after mid summer and he will go close today.

6 points Harrington 4.50 general quote ..... little bigger on the exchanges.

Good luck.

BEES SET TO STORM THE VALLEY .........

DIVISION 1 CHARLTON ATHLETIC - BRENTFORD

OK, win or lose there is a little value in the Bees here at some very big odds. Hosts are 100% so far with five wins from five starts and have been able to name an unchanged line up in each match, they might have to reshuffle slightly today, but Phil Parkinson has a talented mix of young and old players at his disposal and they will not be far away come the end of the season. However, I see no reason why they should be circa 1.55 to beat the unbeaten visitors, who have lost just twice in 23 league starts.

Brentford have pace in abundance and they will certainly be targeting the 35yo Christian Dailly in the centre of the home defence as someone they can get at and behind. I have discussed the Bees recently (see earlier post) and they are a club on the rise, they are looking forward to the match today and the opportunity to play before a big crowd and a large television audience.

I am not getting overly involved, at these odds there is no need to, but would just like to finish with a word, or two, about the team news on the BBC site, which I have discussed before. Please do not treat their previews as gospel, there are plenty of errors and it is often written in a misleading way.

For example, today they write that Brentford will be without strikers Ben Strevens and Charlie MacDonald, this is true, but neither has played this season and MacDonald has not started a match since March ! Also, it is widely reported elsewhere that James Wilson is not available today, having been in the Wales U21 squad for last night's game agianst Italy. This would have left the Bees with an inexperienced pairing in central defence today, but Wilson was not named on the bench for his country and the club had him driven back to London last night and he will play today.

2.5 points Brentford to win 5.50 + .......... up to 6.65 is available.

Back later.

SATURDAY .............

Southend and Hartlepool both ran out easy winners last night, which set us up very nicely for the weekend.

I have looked at three English games on the email service today, which included a small bet at a huge price and one very strong selection. In addition, three World Cup games were also previewed, again with one very strong bet. So, plenty to choose from and I be posting something on the blog later today, so please check back.

Good Luck.

SUBSCRIPTION FULL ...........

I am not accepting any further subscribers to the email service at present, as we have reached our maximum numbers. This might well change in the future, possibly from October, when a few more spots could be released. If that is the case, I will keep you informed.

So for now, you can read the blog safe in the knowledge that there will be no sales pitch.

Good Luck.

TILSON LOOKING FOR MORE HELP FROM MATCH OFFICIALS........

DIVISION 1

SOUTHEND UNITED - LEYTON ORIENT

United have not won a League 1 game yet this season, but I rate them quite highly and with three of their next four starts coming at Roots Hall, they have a great opportunity to begin their march up the table. United opened with four draws, before losing at Swindon last week, boss Steve Tilson was fuming afterwards, believing that his team was robbed and he received something unusual in midweek, an apology from the match referee. Mick Russell admitted that he should not have sent off a Southend player, or allowed Swindon's second goal and missed a clear penalty shout for United, bit of a nightmare for him, but all credit for accepting responsibility.

United have eyes firmly on a promotion push this season, despite their current position and showed great ambition this week, when refusing a big money offer for Alan McCormack, before the transfer window closed.

Orient claimed to be tired last weekend in the 2-2 home draw with Carlisle, they were coming off an extra time game in midweek and will have benefitted from a six day break without a game, but the squad is very small and this is going to hold them back this season. The O's have dominated this "local" derby series in recent years, until United broke their duck last season taking four points from the two league games, including a 3-0 win in Essex. They will be keen to maintain those local bragging rights after taking "stick" for so long and I expect a home win, from a side eager to right last week's wrongs .

6.5 points Southend United -1/4 ball 1.95 + asian line.

Good Luck.

FRIDAY FOOTBALL .....

DIVISION 1

OLDHAM ATHLETIC- HARTLEPOOL UNITED

Goals have been very hard for these two to come by this season, with just seven between them in ten league starts. Pool can claim only two of those, but have been miserly defensively on the road, where they have claimed four points from extremely tough visits to MK Dons and Gillingham, in addition to a fine 1-0 win at Championship side Coventry in the League Cup. They took EPL side Burnley to extra time in the next round of that competition, before putting in their only really poor performance of the season in a timid home loss to Norwich last weekend, when tiredness might well have played a part.

There will be the odd poor display, with 11 new signings at the club over the summer, it might take time for the side to fully gel, but hopefully that was a blip and they are very eager to get it out of their system and might have the ideal opportunity at Oldham on friday night. It is not like they have not been creating chances in the league, with a tidy 49 attempts on goal, four of which hit the woodwork, something that only Leeds have done more times, so a little more luck would have gone a long way.

The hosts have an extensive injury list, with 15 players (!) unavailable for their visit to Brentford last weekend. They did hold the Bees to a draw, but created little and allowed the out of sorts home side 18 attempts on goal. Oldham are really struggling on home soil, where they have not won in ten starts and they can hardly be looking forward to facing Pools latest signing, Icelandic international striker Armann Bjornsson. The massive "man mountain"former Brann frontman will get stuck in and pose a real threat to the Oldham backline who struggled with high balls into the box against the Bees, something that will not have gone unnoticed by tonight's visitors. Away win.

6 points Hartlepool +1/2 ball 1.85 + asian line.

Good Luck.

TUESDAY ........... previews originally written at 09.00

ENGLAND

JOHNSTONE'S PAINT TROPHY

BURTON ALBION - CHESTERFIELD

Newly promoted Burton have come to terms with life at this level and surprised a lot of people recently, with their attacking intent under new boss Paul Pescisolido, scoring 10 goals in their last four starts. He will be keen to keep the momentum up and is set to name an unchanged squad for tonight's game and will be looking to progress.

Visiting boss John Sheridan will rotate his squad as much as the rules of the competition allow and having firmly targeted a big promotion push this season, would be delighted to see the back of this competition, although he publicly has to say differently.

Sheridan has no history of taking this competition seriously and in the one game where he named a strong starting eleven, when in charge at Oldham last year, almost lost his top striker and best player to a serious injury. I doubt he will go down that route again, especially with the Spirites very dependent on one or two key players.

6 points Burton level ball 2.0 asian line.

NORWICH CITY- BRENTFORD

I have to oppose my beloved Bees here. It is several years since they took the JP Trophy seriously and at present the club can ill afford to pick up any further injuries. Brentford have now become quite an ambitious club, their immediate future is secure for the next five years and they received a not unexpected windfall this week, getting a 15% cut of the Michael Turner transfer to Sunderland, which regardless of what figure you believe, is big money at this level. They will be looking at consolidating their upper mid table position in the league and pushing on in the second half of the season and a run at the playoffs is not out of the question. I know that all involved at the club are pleasantly surprised at how well, the injury hit Bees, who have a number of top players out, match up with the teams they have faced so far and they do not really need the distraction of the "minor" cup's, a policy which served them well last year.

As discussed recently, the two clubs met recently at Griffin Park and whilst the Bees won (of course), Norwich deserved at least a share of the spoils and with the momentum built up under new boss Paul Lambert and infront of their own fans, they will be looking for a little revenge. Lambert was watching that day, although he had not officially taken charge and being quite astute tactically, I am sure he will have seen plenty to work on, sometimes it is easier from the stands to get an overview of the match. Both teams are sure to rotate, but Lambert has far more options at his disposal and I expect his side to win what could be an entertaining encounter.

Oh, btw, Bees have a big televised game with London rivals Charlton on Saturday , this will of course take priority and none of the players will want to miss out. Little inexperience in the centre of the visiting defence tonight and the Canaries will be out to exploit it.

6.5 Norwich -1/2 ball 1.86 ..... a little higher in places.

Good Luck.