Hopefully, this is the start of better times ahead, we just need to stay in the Football league now ............
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/b/brentford/7132539.stm
http://www.brentfordfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/LatestNews/0,,10421~1185238,00.html
Back later.
Friday, December 07, 2007
FRIDAY MORNING ...
Hi, we were a little unlucky with the Cambridge match yesterday, sometimes a loss really annoys and this one bothers me. United lost thanks to a defensive error and could not get back into the game, despite enjoying 62% possession and winning the attempts on goal count 19-8 !
In the words of Martin Allen, onwards and upwards !
I have previewed 4 matches on the email service and will put what I can from those on the blog this afternoon. Looking at the weekend, I have some very confident selections and will be posting my email (6-7 previews), later today, which should enable me to post qute a few, market permitting, on here tomorrow.
Please check back.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
BLUE SQUARE PREMIERSHIP ......
KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS - CAMBRIDGE UNITED
No doubt which of these two is in the better form. Hosts have won just once in 5 and only one of six on home soil, they are also handicapped by the loss of two very key players, including top scorer James Constable, who has 10 goals in 18 league starts. Cambridge are very tight defensively, only Grays have conceded fewer and they have lost just once in 25 matches, including winning six in a row ! They stick with their 3-5-2 formation, which works well and the whole squad is happy with, Kidderminster have been tinkering a lot and recently playing just one man up front, even in home games, which is clearly restricting their opportunities.
One, infact, two words of caution, Harriers have never lost in 10 meetings to United, but this is the strongest Cambridge have been for many seasons.
Next, the referee, Mike Mullarkey , is very strict, this need not be a problem, as my selection are probably the more disciplined of the two teams, but we have had a lot of teams reduced to ten men recently, including Rochdale last night, so it bears mentioning.This is live on television and if any of you play the card or penalty markets, Mr Mullarkey's record makes interesting reading. In his last 11 matches in charge, he has awarded 5 penalties, awarded 2 reds and an average of 4.3 yellow cards. In just 3 BSP games this season when he has had the whistle, he has really stuck to the letter of the law, with 2 pens, 2 red and 14 yellow cards ! So, no Mullarkey when Mike is around.
5 points Cambridge -1/4 ball 2.05 asian line.
No doubt which of these two is in the better form. Hosts have won just once in 5 and only one of six on home soil, they are also handicapped by the loss of two very key players, including top scorer James Constable, who has 10 goals in 18 league starts. Cambridge are very tight defensively, only Grays have conceded fewer and they have lost just once in 25 matches, including winning six in a row ! They stick with their 3-5-2 formation, which works well and the whole squad is happy with, Kidderminster have been tinkering a lot and recently playing just one man up front, even in home games, which is clearly restricting their opportunities.
One, infact, two words of caution, Harriers have never lost in 10 meetings to United, but this is the strongest Cambridge have been for many seasons.
Next, the referee, Mike Mullarkey , is very strict, this need not be a problem, as my selection are probably the more disciplined of the two teams, but we have had a lot of teams reduced to ten men recently, including Rochdale last night, so it bears mentioning.This is live on television and if any of you play the card or penalty markets, Mr Mullarkey's record makes interesting reading. In his last 11 matches in charge, he has awarded 5 penalties, awarded 2 reds and an average of 4.3 yellow cards. In just 3 BSP games this season when he has had the whistle, he has really stuck to the letter of the law, with 2 pens, 2 red and 14 yellow cards ! So, no Mullarkey when Mike is around.
5 points Cambridge -1/4 ball 2.05 asian line.
Good Luck.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
SERIE A .................
INTER MILAN - LAZIO
Lazio have a couple of huge fixtures ahead of them in the next 7 days and will have to pick and choose their battles. Surely an away game against the best team in Italy, with a depleted squad, is not the one to choose. With Roma just 3 points behind and hosting a goal shy Cagliari this evening, Inter can ill afford to step off the gas and should win this easily enough .
Lazio have a couple of huge fixtures ahead of them in the next 7 days and will have to pick and choose their battles. Surely an away game against the best team in Italy, with a depleted squad, is not the one to choose. With Roma just 3 points behind and hosting a goal shy Cagliari this evening, Inter can ill afford to step off the gas and should win this easily enough .
6 points Inter -1.25 goals 1.96 asian line.
Good Luck.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
LET THE AWAY FANS STAND OUT IN THE RAIN ...........
CARLISLE UNITED - SWINDON TOWN
No injuries at the home club, with a fully fit first and youth team squad, do not remember the last time I saw that anywhere in professional football, at this stage of the season. They need this win to get back on track and continue their promotion push, they are meeting a Swindon side, without a manager and with a great many off pitch problems. On the field they are strugling and were really lucky to finally beat non league Forest Green at home on Saturday. In training yesterday, they had more players in the treatment room, than on the pitch and are set to start with a very inexperienced line up this evening, at least in some key positions. A long midweek trip to Carlisle is the last thing they need under the circumstances.
6 points Carlisle -3/4 ball 2.00 asian line.... now 1.94
Good Luck.
No injuries at the home club, with a fully fit first and youth team squad, do not remember the last time I saw that anywhere in professional football, at this stage of the season. They need this win to get back on track and continue their promotion push, they are meeting a Swindon side, without a manager and with a great many off pitch problems. On the field they are strugling and were really lucky to finally beat non league Forest Green at home on Saturday. In training yesterday, they had more players in the treatment room, than on the pitch and are set to start with a very inexperienced line up this evening, at least in some key positions. A long midweek trip to Carlisle is the last thing they need under the circumstances.
6 points Carlisle -3/4 ball 2.00 asian line.... now 1.94
Good Luck.
LEAGUE 2 ....
NOTTS CO - PETERBOROUGH UNITED
The visitors could hardly be in better shape and the goals are really flowing (12-0 last two starts), they are big spenders and the quality is starting to show through. County's last 3 performances have been dire. They started by losing at home to Macclesfield, where they had just 42% of the ball, then lost to basement club Lincoln City and on saturday, came the worst performance of the lot. Not only did they lose at home to Havant and Waterlooville, a club way below them in the league structure, in what was the cup upset of the day, but the manner of the loss, left County fans pulling their hair out. The visitors won, but also had the lion's share of possession and chances, that is simply not good enough. At the moment,with their playing level and confidence so low, they have to be opposed.
6 points Peterborough -1/4 ball 1.84 asian line...NOW 1.78
Good Luck.
The visitors could hardly be in better shape and the goals are really flowing (12-0 last two starts), they are big spenders and the quality is starting to show through. County's last 3 performances have been dire. They started by losing at home to Macclesfield, where they had just 42% of the ball, then lost to basement club Lincoln City and on saturday, came the worst performance of the lot. Not only did they lose at home to Havant and Waterlooville, a club way below them in the league structure, in what was the cup upset of the day, but the manner of the loss, left County fans pulling their hair out. The visitors won, but also had the lion's share of possession and chances, that is simply not good enough. At the moment,with their playing level and confidence so low, they have to be opposed.
6 points Peterborough -1/4 ball 1.84 asian line...NOW 1.78
Good Luck.
Monday, December 03, 2007
CHAMPIONSHIP ...........
SCUNTHORPE - BLACKPOOL
I expect a very cautious opening peroid here. Blackpool have gone in level at half time in 14 from 18 matches and had a very tough battle with QPR on an energy sapping surface just 48 hours ago. Scunthorpe have a similar record, are all square at the break in 11 from 19 and 6 from 9 at home, they also played on saturday, when they were unlucky to lose by a 3-0 scoreline at Plymouth, but then faced/endured the VERY long trip home and another game immediately. Both sides will be leg weary and are carrying knocks, another half time stalemate looks on the cards and it is very reasonably priced, you may even get bigger on the exchanges nearer kick off.
5 points half time draw 2.10 general quote.
I expect a very cautious opening peroid here. Blackpool have gone in level at half time in 14 from 18 matches and had a very tough battle with QPR on an energy sapping surface just 48 hours ago. Scunthorpe have a similar record, are all square at the break in 11 from 19 and 6 from 9 at home, they also played on saturday, when they were unlucky to lose by a 3-0 scoreline at Plymouth, but then faced/endured the VERY long trip home and another game immediately. Both sides will be leg weary and are carrying knocks, another half time stalemate looks on the cards and it is very reasonably priced, you may even get bigger on the exchanges nearer kick off.
5 points half time draw 2.10 general quote.
Good Luck.
A LITTLE SOMETHING BEFORE YOUR TEA, BOVRIL , PUKKA PIE OR PRAWN SANDWICH ........
MANCHESTER UNITED - FULHAM
When I started to look at today's fixtures, this match up looked the most unappealing to me, at least from a gambling perspective. United look too strong and of course, you are asked to give up a massive handicap, yet I get the feeling that Fulham have a little more to offer, than we have so far seen. Therefore, a game to leave well alone, sit back and let Rooney, Ronaldo and co entertain us. However, upon delving a little deeper, I found some very interesting statistics.
If you made a league table for the Premiership after 45 minutes play, Fulham would be top of the table, don't you think that is incredible ? They are 7-6-1 at the break, only going in behind, at home to Tottenham. On the road, they are an even more amazing 4-2-0, look at the actual fixtures and this becomes yet more eyecatching. At half time, away from home, they have led at Arsenal, Aston Villa, Wigan and Sunderland and gone in all square at Liverpool and Chelsea . This means that they have played at three of the big 4, they meet the other this evening and are yet to trail after 45 minutes. Of course, they struggle to take this form into the second period and are still without an away win after 90 minutes !
Let's take a very quick look at United, in the league they are 6-1-0 at Old Trafford, yet just 3-4-0 at the break, so level in 57% of games. If we also include all other matches at OT this season .... Sporting (0-1), Kiev (2-0), Roma (0-0), Coventry (0-1) and Inter (friendly 1-3), United have played 12 home fixtures and led at half time in just 4, or 33% of them. Like all very good teams Sir Alex's team do not panic, they know that the goals will come eventually, whether that is in the first or 70th minute matters little and of course, teams are more likely to crack, the longer the pressure is put on, so these statistics all make perfect sense.
So, where does this leave us this evening ? I cannot see Fulham winning, with wins for the other three contenders at the weekend, United desperately need maximum points and really should get them. Of course, United could have one of those nights, come out all guns blazing, get a little luck and be 4-0 up in 30 minutes, that is almost exactly what happened in this fixture last year, but Fulham were dire that day and lacked fire in their bellies, that will not happen to a Lawrie (first choice for a remake of The Krays) Sanchez led side, at least the fight will be there.
The average time that they have conceded their first goal in all away games this season, is the 81st minute !
I am backing the half time draw and taking a saver on the double result, if we get past the 30th minute with the match all square, I may consider trading out, or at least covering my stakes.
5.5 points half time draw 3.40 exchanges.
1.5 points double result Fulham- Manchester United 34.0 general quote.
When I started to look at today's fixtures, this match up looked the most unappealing to me, at least from a gambling perspective. United look too strong and of course, you are asked to give up a massive handicap, yet I get the feeling that Fulham have a little more to offer, than we have so far seen. Therefore, a game to leave well alone, sit back and let Rooney, Ronaldo and co entertain us. However, upon delving a little deeper, I found some very interesting statistics.
If you made a league table for the Premiership after 45 minutes play, Fulham would be top of the table, don't you think that is incredible ? They are 7-6-1 at the break, only going in behind, at home to Tottenham. On the road, they are an even more amazing 4-2-0, look at the actual fixtures and this becomes yet more eyecatching. At half time, away from home, they have led at Arsenal, Aston Villa, Wigan and Sunderland and gone in all square at Liverpool and Chelsea . This means that they have played at three of the big 4, they meet the other this evening and are yet to trail after 45 minutes. Of course, they struggle to take this form into the second period and are still without an away win after 90 minutes !
Let's take a very quick look at United, in the league they are 6-1-0 at Old Trafford, yet just 3-4-0 at the break, so level in 57% of games. If we also include all other matches at OT this season .... Sporting (0-1), Kiev (2-0), Roma (0-0), Coventry (0-1) and Inter (friendly 1-3), United have played 12 home fixtures and led at half time in just 4, or 33% of them. Like all very good teams Sir Alex's team do not panic, they know that the goals will come eventually, whether that is in the first or 70th minute matters little and of course, teams are more likely to crack, the longer the pressure is put on, so these statistics all make perfect sense.
So, where does this leave us this evening ? I cannot see Fulham winning, with wins for the other three contenders at the weekend, United desperately need maximum points and really should get them. Of course, United could have one of those nights, come out all guns blazing, get a little luck and be 4-0 up in 30 minutes, that is almost exactly what happened in this fixture last year, but Fulham were dire that day and lacked fire in their bellies, that will not happen to a Lawrie (first choice for a remake of The Krays) Sanchez led side, at least the fight will be there.
The average time that they have conceded their first goal in all away games this season, is the 81st minute !
I am backing the half time draw and taking a saver on the double result, if we get past the 30th minute with the match all square, I may consider trading out, or at least covering my stakes.
5.5 points half time draw 3.40 exchanges.
1.5 points double result Fulham- Manchester United 34.0 general quote.
Good Luck.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
NFL ....... WEEK 13
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS - TAMBA BAY BUCCANEERS
Saints must win this game to keep the dream of a Superbowl return alive. It will be pretty much season over, should they lose.
They will take great heart from the 31-6 thumping they gave Carolina last week and perhaps, even greater encouragement from the 23 first downs and 412 yards of offense that Washington posted against TB. Amazingly, Tampa's defense found a way to win them that game, by forcing the Redskins into six turnovers.
Buc's quarterback Jeff Garcia left that game very early and his participation this evening, will be the subject of a gametime decision. They really struggled without him and totalled just 9 first downs, less than 200 yards of offense and completed just 1 of 12, 3rd down attempts.
The Vegas line moved a half point, which around the 3 point line is significant, suggesting that he might not play. Even if he does, it seems fair to assume that he will be less than 100% fit.
I am siding with New Orleans and will post my bet at the current Vegas line of 3.5 points, however, if you can back them at lower odds, just giving up the bare 3 points , that is a far better option. This is still possible with a number of european based bookmakers.
5 points New Orleans -3.5 points 2.01 Pinnacle/ Vegas.
Good Luck.
GERMANY BUNDESLIGA ............
ARMENIA BIELEFELD - BAYERN MUNICH
Bayern seem to have been going through the motions a bit recently and that has got to stop. They now know that Bremen are going to fight them for the Championship, a title that looked theirs for the taking a few weeks ago. Three points are required to take them back to the head of the Bundesliga and at a venue where they have struggled a little in recent years, I think that we will see the real Bayern today. They will only be without Lucio and Jansen and some key, experienced players, will return today. Their very potent strike force will be looking to "fill their boots" against a home team which has conceded 25 goals in just 10 starts, losing 6 of them and has failed to score in 6 of their last 9. I fully expect a big away win this afternoon.
6 points Bayern -1 ball 1.72 asian line.
Bayern seem to have been going through the motions a bit recently and that has got to stop. They now know that Bremen are going to fight them for the Championship, a title that looked theirs for the taking a few weeks ago. Three points are required to take them back to the head of the Bundesliga and at a venue where they have struggled a little in recent years, I think that we will see the real Bayern today. They will only be without Lucio and Jansen and some key, experienced players, will return today. Their very potent strike force will be looking to "fill their boots" against a home team which has conceded 25 goals in just 10 starts, losing 6 of them and has failed to score in 6 of their last 9. I fully expect a big away win this afternoon.
6 points Bayern -1 ball 1.72 asian line.
Good Luck.
THE MAGIC OF THE CUP .............
HARROGATE RAILWAY- MANSFIELD
I am not putting up a selection here, as there are many ways you can approach the match, but I definitely think that you should be getting involved. This is live on television , so there will be plenty of "in running" opportunities. I do feel that the league side might be too strong eventually, but it could take some time. This is why..... the pitch is in a terrible condition, along with a very noticeable slope from side to side and the weather conditions in the UK are dire, with rain and high winds and the forecast for Harrogate at kick off , is very poor. This will be a great leveller, I am considering taking the hosts +3/4 ball @ circa 2.0 and trading out in running , or a lay of the visitors on the exchanges and doing likewise. The half time draw and / or unders , are also alternatives, like I say, there are any number of ways to approach the match.
I am not putting up a selection here, as there are many ways you can approach the match, but I definitely think that you should be getting involved. This is live on television , so there will be plenty of "in running" opportunities. I do feel that the league side might be too strong eventually, but it could take some time. This is why..... the pitch is in a terrible condition, along with a very noticeable slope from side to side and the weather conditions in the UK are dire, with rain and high winds and the forecast for Harrogate at kick off , is very poor. This will be a great leveller, I am considering taking the hosts +3/4 ball @ circa 2.0 and trading out in running , or a lay of the visitors on the exchanges and doing likewise. The half time draw and / or unders , are also alternatives, like I say, there are any number of ways to approach the match.
Good Luck.
SUNDAY PLANS ......
I have quite a bit to pass on today and will be covering football and the NFL on the blog.
Just saw the Euro 2008 draw ..... Holland, Italy, France and Romania all in the same group, now that is what you call "the group of death"..... a chance for Romania to prove how good they are.
Back later.
Just saw the Euro 2008 draw ..... Holland, Italy, France and Romania all in the same group, now that is what you call "the group of death"..... a chance for Romania to prove how good they are.
Back later.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
LEAGUE 2 ...............
ROCHDALE - WREXHAM
Visitors have improved a little under their new coach and I do expect them to be too good to go down, but they can climb off the foot of the table, a little later in the season. Rochdale are a team that regular readers will know that I like, if they win their two games in hand, they will be just a point or so outside the playoff places and that is about where I rank them, definitely top ten.
They have a fully fit squad and the benefits of that were clear to see last week, when the 1-0 scoreline win over Mansfield didn't really tell the full story. They dominated play and created 17 attempts on goal, 9 on target. It has been a similar tale for several matches, Dale play good football and keep the ball for long periods and are averaging 9 attempts on target, which is a big number, over the last 6 starts, including in a trip to Division 1 highflyers Southend. I think that they will have too much class for Wrexham.
6 points Rochdale -1/2 ball 1.90 asian line.
Visitors have improved a little under their new coach and I do expect them to be too good to go down, but they can climb off the foot of the table, a little later in the season. Rochdale are a team that regular readers will know that I like, if they win their two games in hand, they will be just a point or so outside the playoff places and that is about where I rank them, definitely top ten.
They have a fully fit squad and the benefits of that were clear to see last week, when the 1-0 scoreline win over Mansfield didn't really tell the full story. They dominated play and created 17 attempts on goal, 9 on target. It has been a similar tale for several matches, Dale play good football and keep the ball for long periods and are averaging 9 attempts on target, which is a big number, over the last 6 starts, including in a trip to Division 1 highflyers Southend. I think that they will have too much class for Wrexham.
6 points Rochdale -1/2 ball 1.90 asian line.
Good Luck.
CHAMPIONSHIP ....
COVENTRY CITY - SHEFFIELD UNITED
City are at a low ebb. They are almost £40m in debt, a proposed takeover looks set to collapse, they face a 10 points deduction and boss Iain Dowie is threatening to walk out.
If that is not enough, they are in poor form, the goals have dried up, just 8 in 10 games, 4 of them coming from Mifsud, who is suspended today and another from Jay Tabb, who is very doubtful today. They will miss the two pocket dynamos and it is hard to see where the next goal is coming from.
United have trouble stringing two wins together, a good performance is normally followed by an inept one, but the big win at Charlton shows what they are capable of and their squad should be competing at the top of the Championship.
5 points Sheff Utd -1/4 ball 2.25 asian line.
City are at a low ebb. They are almost £40m in debt, a proposed takeover looks set to collapse, they face a 10 points deduction and boss Iain Dowie is threatening to walk out.
If that is not enough, they are in poor form, the goals have dried up, just 8 in 10 games, 4 of them coming from Mifsud, who is suspended today and another from Jay Tabb, who is very doubtful today. They will miss the two pocket dynamos and it is hard to see where the next goal is coming from.
United have trouble stringing two wins together, a good performance is normally followed by an inept one, but the big win at Charlton shows what they are capable of and their squad should be competing at the top of the Championship.
5 points Sheff Utd -1/4 ball 2.25 asian line.
The photograph is of Jay Tabb when he played for a club that is only £10m in debt.... happy days !
Back Later.
PREMIERSHIP .............
WIGAN - MANCHESTER CITY
Are things finally turning Wigan's way ? Steve Bruce has his feet under the table , Emile Heskey returns and they have very few injury concerns. In addition, they might just be meeting their near neighbours at the right time, as they will be without several players, including Elano, the heart of the team. Wigan have a great record against City, winning the last 4 and have not conceded in the last two. Sven's team home (100%) and away (just one win on day 1), are two very different sides and Bruce might just get a dream start.
5 points Wigan +1/4 ball 1.80 asian line.
Are things finally turning Wigan's way ? Steve Bruce has his feet under the table , Emile Heskey returns and they have very few injury concerns. In addition, they might just be meeting their near neighbours at the right time, as they will be without several players, including Elano, the heart of the team. Wigan have a great record against City, winning the last 4 and have not conceded in the last two. Sven's team home (100%) and away (just one win on day 1), are two very different sides and Bruce might just get a dream start.
5 points Wigan +1/4 ball 1.80 asian line.
Back shortly.
SATURDAY PLANS ......
I am still not sure how Swansea failed to win comfortably last night, the combination of the woodwork and an inspired display by the Horsham keeper, mean a replay, which the League 1 leaders could really do without.
On to today, I have previewed five matches on the email service and also detailed 4 others that I found interesting. Will try to post what I can on the blog, starting in an hour or so, please check back.
Good Luck.
On to today, I have previewed five matches on the email service and also detailed 4 others that I found interesting. Will try to post what I can on the blog, starting in an hour or so, please check back.
Good Luck.
Friday, November 30, 2007
FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL ....
ENGLAND ... FA CUP
HORSHAM - SWANSEA CITY
OK, this is the FA Cup and anything can happen and often does, but not tonight ! There is a MASSIVE class difference, some 100 league places between the two sides and next season , there could be at least 5 divisions gap.
Both sides have goalkeeping problems, but Horsham's is particularly bad, with a third choice keeper likely to be between the sticks in the biggest match in the club's history. Swansea's number one, has been passed fit in the last hour to take part, which is a huge relief to Roberto Martinez.
Swansea are top of League 2 and on a fantastic run, with just one defeat in 13, that coming against an inform team, on a day when nothing went right for the Welsh club. They are happy on the road and no side in England ( or Scotland) has won more more games, or scored more goals away from home. Therefore, even a trip into the unknown, which this undoubtedly is, should hold very little fear.
6.5 points Swansea -1.25 goals 1.89 asian line.... now 1.85
FRANCE ... LIGUE 2
CHATEAUROUX- BASTIA SC
I like the "over" here, Bastia are in fine form and are really going for it on the road, their away games have produced a league high 28 goals and their last 5 starts have all contained two or more. They have scored 12 in their last 5 and conceded in each of the last 4. The hosts will have to look for maximum points also, to avoid dropping into real relegation trouble, 4 of their last 5 have produced two or more goals. H2h wise the last 3 have been "over", with a 3.67 average.
6 points "over" 2 goals 1.72 asian line.... now 1.68
HORSHAM - SWANSEA CITY
OK, this is the FA Cup and anything can happen and often does, but not tonight ! There is a MASSIVE class difference, some 100 league places between the two sides and next season , there could be at least 5 divisions gap.
Both sides have goalkeeping problems, but Horsham's is particularly bad, with a third choice keeper likely to be between the sticks in the biggest match in the club's history. Swansea's number one, has been passed fit in the last hour to take part, which is a huge relief to Roberto Martinez.
Swansea are top of League 2 and on a fantastic run, with just one defeat in 13, that coming against an inform team, on a day when nothing went right for the Welsh club. They are happy on the road and no side in England ( or Scotland) has won more more games, or scored more goals away from home. Therefore, even a trip into the unknown, which this undoubtedly is, should hold very little fear.
6.5 points Swansea -1.25 goals 1.89 asian line.... now 1.85
FRANCE ... LIGUE 2
CHATEAUROUX- BASTIA SC
I like the "over" here, Bastia are in fine form and are really going for it on the road, their away games have produced a league high 28 goals and their last 5 starts have all contained two or more. They have scored 12 in their last 5 and conceded in each of the last 4. The hosts will have to look for maximum points also, to avoid dropping into real relegation trouble, 4 of their last 5 have produced two or more goals. H2h wise the last 3 have been "over", with a 3.67 average.
6 points "over" 2 goals 1.72 asian line.... now 1.68
Good Luck.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON UPDATE ....
I put just two matches on the email servicetoday and providing the odds hold up reasonably well, will post both on the blog later this afternoon.
Please check back.
Please check back.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
TONIGHT'S FOOTBALL .......
ENGLAND PREMIERSHIP
BLACKBURN ROVERS - ASTON VILLA
Rovers are an impressive outfit and Mark Hughes has done a fantastic job. Lesser sides would have wilted after losing McCarthy so early on Sunday and failing behind twice, especially with Santa Cruz already out, but they showed fantastic spirit and could easily have taken all three points in the end. Both strikers look set to be available tonight , along with David Dunn. Villa seem to struggle against the better teams and I definitely put Blackburn in that category and only the best of the best , have troubled the hosts this season.
5.5 points Blackburn -1/4 ball 1.84 asian line.
ENGLAND CHAMPIONSHIP
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS - COLCHESTER UNITED
Wolves are playing well at present, but are still finding goals hard to come by. However, they now have a run of 3 home games in 4, which could leave them pressing the top two, with a good run. They should be confident of scoring this evening, the visitors have collected just 3 points from a possible 18 and are without a clean sheet in 14 starts, infact, they have just one in 26 matches ! It is widely reported that the hosts have three key injuries, it is my understanding that at least two and quite possibly all three will be available. 1-0 home win.
5.5 points Wolves -1/2 ball 1.67 general.
BLACKBURN ROVERS - ASTON VILLA
Rovers are an impressive outfit and Mark Hughes has done a fantastic job. Lesser sides would have wilted after losing McCarthy so early on Sunday and failing behind twice, especially with Santa Cruz already out, but they showed fantastic spirit and could easily have taken all three points in the end. Both strikers look set to be available tonight , along with David Dunn. Villa seem to struggle against the better teams and I definitely put Blackburn in that category and only the best of the best , have troubled the hosts this season.
5.5 points Blackburn -1/4 ball 1.84 asian line.
ENGLAND CHAMPIONSHIP
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS - COLCHESTER UNITED
Wolves are playing well at present, but are still finding goals hard to come by. However, they now have a run of 3 home games in 4, which could leave them pressing the top two, with a good run. They should be confident of scoring this evening, the visitors have collected just 3 points from a possible 18 and are without a clean sheet in 14 starts, infact, they have just one in 26 matches ! It is widely reported that the hosts have three key injuries, it is my understanding that at least two and quite possibly all three will be available. 1-0 home win.
5.5 points Wolves -1/2 ball 1.67 general.
Good Luck.
WEDNESDAY MORNING .....
Another excellent day yesterday, in addition to the two selections posted on the blog, there were two email exclusives which both won. Which means that subscribers are already well over 20 points up on the week and we are only two days in ! Five bets, four winners and one returned stake.
I have previewed four matches today on the email service and will try to post some of those on the blog this afternoon.
Please check back.
I have previewed four matches today on the email service and will try to post some of those on the blog this afternoon.
Please check back.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
FA CUP REPLAY .....
BRENTFORD - LUTON TOWN
Here we have two teams with massive problems off the pitch, unfortunately, Brentford have carried theirs onto the field and were dire, as you might expect, in the 7-0 (!) defeat at Peterborough on Saturday. OK, they were reduced to 10 men and a goal down, inside the first minute, but it was the lack of effort and fight, that left Bees supporters so angry. They were forced to play a very young goalkeeper at the weekend and that would have done his confidence no good at all. Two of the other culprits are unavailable this evening ( maybe they are in hiding)and an already small, young and stretched squad, is going to be severley tested by a Luton side which is at least a division better than even a fit , confident Bees team, which the current squad is plainly not.
Here we have two teams with massive problems off the pitch, unfortunately, Brentford have carried theirs onto the field and were dire, as you might expect, in the 7-0 (!) defeat at Peterborough on Saturday. OK, they were reduced to 10 men and a goal down, inside the first minute, but it was the lack of effort and fight, that left Bees supporters so angry. They were forced to play a very young goalkeeper at the weekend and that would have done his confidence no good at all. Two of the other culprits are unavailable this evening ( maybe they are in hiding)and an already small, young and stretched squad, is going to be severley tested by a Luton side which is at least a division better than even a fit , confident Bees team, which the current squad is plainly not.
There are very likely to be demonstrations against the board and manager tonight and if/when they go a goal down, things could get very ugly at Griffin Park. The stadium where I spent most of my youth, has turned into the Theatre of Nightmares, Brentford fans do not expect much, but lack of effort is unacceptable and we have seen two seasons of that !
6 points Luton level ball 1.70 asian line..... now -1/4 ball 1.89.
6 points Luton level ball 1.70 asian line..... now -1/4 ball 1.89.
Good Luck.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ... Matchday 5
LYON - BARCELONA
Defeat for Lyon will leave them on the verge of elimination from the competition, this is a match they simply cannot afford to lose. A point will at least leave matters in their own hands, when they travel to Rangers on Matchday 6, a win would be fantastic,especially if the Scottish giants fail to win in Stuttgart. They will be boosted by the return of Fabio Santos and Cleber Anderson, but Milan Baros remains on the sidelines.
Barclelona do not need a result tonight, they can take care of business in their final home group match and have the derby with Espanol at the weekend, a match with added spice this year, as their "little" neighbours are currently just one place and two points behind them in La Liga. The Catalan side travel without Henry and Oleguer, but Thuram and an out of sorts Ronaldinho return, Puyol is not 100% fit, yet may start. I feel that Lyon will not lose this game and are back to something approaching their best, Barce seem some way off their wonderful top form.
Barcelona squad:
Valdés, Jorquera, Márquez, Puyol, Sylvinho, Milito, Abidal, Thuram, Zambrotta, Touré, Gudjohnsen, Iniesta, Xavi, Marc Crosas, Ezquerro, Bojan, Ronaldinho and Messi.
The OL squad: Vercoutre, Roux - Clerc, C. Anderson, Réveillère, Paillot, Squillaci, Grosso, Belhadj, Bodmer - Toulalan, Källström, Fabio Santos, Juninho, Govou, Ben Arfa, Keita - Benzema, Rémy, Fred.
5 points Lyon level ball 1.84 asian line.... ( given on email @1.93)
Good Luck.
Defeat for Lyon will leave them on the verge of elimination from the competition, this is a match they simply cannot afford to lose. A point will at least leave matters in their own hands, when they travel to Rangers on Matchday 6, a win would be fantastic,especially if the Scottish giants fail to win in Stuttgart. They will be boosted by the return of Fabio Santos and Cleber Anderson, but Milan Baros remains on the sidelines.
Barclelona do not need a result tonight, they can take care of business in their final home group match and have the derby with Espanol at the weekend, a match with added spice this year, as their "little" neighbours are currently just one place and two points behind them in La Liga. The Catalan side travel without Henry and Oleguer, but Thuram and an out of sorts Ronaldinho return, Puyol is not 100% fit, yet may start. I feel that Lyon will not lose this game and are back to something approaching their best, Barce seem some way off their wonderful top form.
Barcelona squad:
Valdés, Jorquera, Márquez, Puyol, Sylvinho, Milito, Abidal, Thuram, Zambrotta, Touré, Gudjohnsen, Iniesta, Xavi, Marc Crosas, Ezquerro, Bojan, Ronaldinho and Messi.
The OL squad: Vercoutre, Roux - Clerc, C. Anderson, Réveillère, Paillot, Squillaci, Grosso, Belhadj, Bodmer - Toulalan, Källström, Fabio Santos, Juninho, Govou, Ben Arfa, Keita - Benzema, Rémy, Fred.
5 points Lyon level ball 1.84 asian line.... ( given on email @1.93)
Good Luck.
Monday, November 26, 2007
MONDAY UPDATE .....
Following on from the Empoli draw yesterday, I had just one selection for email subscribers today ..........
ENGLAND ....CHAMPIONSHIP
LEICESTER CITY - CARDIFF CITY
Both of these two got excellent results at the weekend and will want to build on them, especially the hosts, who will be playing their first home game under new coach Ian Holloway. The match is a virtual sell out, the supporters are turning out in force to welcome their third manager of the season !
I can see plenty of value in the draw, which is a result both clubs could probably live with.
Leicester already have 8 draws in 16 starts to their name and have a striker crisis at the club this evening, with almost every marksman on the books, either unavailable, or carrying an injury. They are tight defensively though and have conceded only 6 home goals, easily the lowest total in the bottom half of the table.
The visitors have drawn 3 of their 7 away and two of their last three visits here. They will also have benefitted from a little extra rest, having played in a lunchtime kick off on Saturday, that might not normally mean so much, but with this game coming so quickly afterwards, it could prove key. All things considered, if pressed, I would side with Cardiff plus the handicap, but feel the straight draw, offers a little more value.
4 points draw 3.45 exchanges. RESULT 0-0
The email service continues to offer fantastic value for money. I will be previewing 5 or 6 matches tomorrow and will cover one or two on the blog.
Good Luck.
ENGLAND ....CHAMPIONSHIP
LEICESTER CITY - CARDIFF CITY
Both of these two got excellent results at the weekend and will want to build on them, especially the hosts, who will be playing their first home game under new coach Ian Holloway. The match is a virtual sell out, the supporters are turning out in force to welcome their third manager of the season !
I can see plenty of value in the draw, which is a result both clubs could probably live with.
Leicester already have 8 draws in 16 starts to their name and have a striker crisis at the club this evening, with almost every marksman on the books, either unavailable, or carrying an injury. They are tight defensively though and have conceded only 6 home goals, easily the lowest total in the bottom half of the table.
The visitors have drawn 3 of their 7 away and two of their last three visits here. They will also have benefitted from a little extra rest, having played in a lunchtime kick off on Saturday, that might not normally mean so much, but with this game coming so quickly afterwards, it could prove key. All things considered, if pressed, I would side with Cardiff plus the handicap, but feel the straight draw, offers a little more value.
4 points draw 3.45 exchanges. RESULT 0-0
The email service continues to offer fantastic value for money. I will be previewing 5 or 6 matches tomorrow and will cover one or two on the blog.
Good Luck.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
ITALY .... SERIE A
CAGLIARI - MILAN
Despite their fantastic away form, with 15 goals in 5 matches, Milan have looked decidedly average at times this year and some of their players may be feeling the effects of the international break and all the travelling that involves. Kaka for example, was playing for Brazil very late on Wednesday night. Cagliari have their first game for new, returning coach Sonetti and are never easy to beat on home soil. He has a full squad to choose from, there will be no away fans in the stadium and Milan will have one eye on their midweek trip to Benfica in the Champions League.
6 points Cagliari +1 goal 1.80 asian line.
EMPOLI - TORINO
Torino are the draw specialists in Serie A, with 4 from 6 on the road and 7 from 12 overall, ending all square. Empoli's have drawn 40% of their home starts and with 3 starters out, may be prepared to take the single point, which could take them out of the bottom 3. Incredibly, they are bottom, but, along with the 4 clubs immediately above them, have 9 points, so one more could take them a long way ! H2h favours the selection with 3 from 4 here and 5 from 9 home and away, ending level.
4 points draw 2.90 general quote.
Despite their fantastic away form, with 15 goals in 5 matches, Milan have looked decidedly average at times this year and some of their players may be feeling the effects of the international break and all the travelling that involves. Kaka for example, was playing for Brazil very late on Wednesday night. Cagliari have their first game for new, returning coach Sonetti and are never easy to beat on home soil. He has a full squad to choose from, there will be no away fans in the stadium and Milan will have one eye on their midweek trip to Benfica in the Champions League.
6 points Cagliari +1 goal 1.80 asian line.
EMPOLI - TORINO
Torino are the draw specialists in Serie A, with 4 from 6 on the road and 7 from 12 overall, ending all square. Empoli's have drawn 40% of their home starts and with 3 starters out, may be prepared to take the single point, which could take them out of the bottom 3. Incredibly, they are bottom, but, along with the 4 clubs immediately above them, have 9 points, so one more could take them a long way ! H2h favours the selection with 3 from 4 here and 5 from 9 home and away, ending level.
4 points draw 2.90 general quote.
Good Luck.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
TODAY'S EMAIL SELECTIONS .....
..... with some basic reasons
CHAMPIONSHIP
CARDIFF CITY -IPSWICH TOWN
City have played well this season, but not really got the results that their play has deserved. For the first time they have an almost fully fit squad to choose from and just need a little more luck in front of goal. Only WBA and Charlton have created more chances and they meet a Town side that is unbeatable at home, but still looking for an away win on the road, where they have been very leaky, only one team has conceded more and 2.25 goals per game on average, is a lot to overcome.
6 points Cardiff level ball 1.77
SHEFFIELD UNITED- PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
United seem to have turned the corner and are unbeaten in six games, a win will take them onto the edge of the playoff zone and most likely above the visitors who currently sit in 7th spot.Argyle have been left totally devastated by the loss of manager Ian Holloway, it is hard to over estimate the influence he had at the club and they are in something like mourning. They will also be without key central defender Timar, who is suspended and following the recent departure of their star player to QPR, this looks a team to solidly oppose in the coming weeks.
6 points Sheff Utd -1/2 ball 1.80 general.
LEAGUE 1
BRIGHTON - CARLISLE UNITED
You know that I like Brighton at the moment, only Leeds have beaten them in 13 starts and they are playing really well. For United, the goals have suddenly dried up, just one in 4, three of those games coming against lower league opposition. This is pretty much their longest journey of the year and they are missing midfielder Paul Thirwell.Hosts have goals in them and they can take this.
6 points Brighton -1/4 ball 2.00 asian line.
LEAGUE 2
MACCLESFIELD TOWN - DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE
We have gone into D&R's shortcomings recently, they are in poor form , not creating much at all and an already thin squad, is short of players. Town are picking up and have two straight wins, both with clean sheets, which is something that the visitors, having conceded 14 in 6 , can only dream of. Hosts are going to run in a few soon, they have hit the woodwork 11 times this season and sooner or later, that luck will change.
6 points Macclesfield -1/2 ball 1.89 asian line.
LINCOLN CITY - NOTTS COUNTY
This is something of a local derby and a must win game for the hosts, who sit bottom of the football league. It is hard to know what is wrong exactly, they have the sanme core squad of players who made the playoffs last year. However, since new coach Peter jackson joined, they have showed signs of improvement, especially in the 1-1 draw with Division 1 big wigs Nottingham Forest. A win today could easily take them off the foot of the table and against, what is likely to be a main relegation rival, Jackson will have his troops well and truely fired up. They have also not had the rub of the green and hit the woodwork 11 times, it is a fine line between victory and defeat sometimes. This is not a terrible team and if they can get a little confidence, can move on up the division. They are boosted by the return of several players today.
5 points Lincoln level ball 1.75 asian line.
ROCHDALE - MANSFIELD TOWN
Rochdale are an upper mid table team in waiting and have a decent squad of players, which has been added to with the signing of two very promising youngsters this week. Their injury situation, which has been dire, has almost completely cleared and with two games in hand over most of the division, have not yet given up dreams of a playoff spot. They will fancy their chances today, against a Town side with just 3 points (no wins ) from a possible 24 on the road and that has a dismal 0-1-5 record at Rochdale.
6 points Rochdale -1/2 ball 2.00 asian line.
Good Luck.
CARDIFF CITY -IPSWICH TOWN
City have played well this season, but not really got the results that their play has deserved. For the first time they have an almost fully fit squad to choose from and just need a little more luck in front of goal. Only WBA and Charlton have created more chances and they meet a Town side that is unbeatable at home, but still looking for an away win on the road, where they have been very leaky, only one team has conceded more and 2.25 goals per game on average, is a lot to overcome.
6 points Cardiff level ball 1.77
SHEFFIELD UNITED- PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
United seem to have turned the corner and are unbeaten in six games, a win will take them onto the edge of the playoff zone and most likely above the visitors who currently sit in 7th spot.Argyle have been left totally devastated by the loss of manager Ian Holloway, it is hard to over estimate the influence he had at the club and they are in something like mourning. They will also be without key central defender Timar, who is suspended and following the recent departure of their star player to QPR, this looks a team to solidly oppose in the coming weeks.
6 points Sheff Utd -1/2 ball 1.80 general.
LEAGUE 1
BRIGHTON - CARLISLE UNITED
You know that I like Brighton at the moment, only Leeds have beaten them in 13 starts and they are playing really well. For United, the goals have suddenly dried up, just one in 4, three of those games coming against lower league opposition. This is pretty much their longest journey of the year and they are missing midfielder Paul Thirwell.Hosts have goals in them and they can take this.
6 points Brighton -1/4 ball 2.00 asian line.
LEAGUE 2
MACCLESFIELD TOWN - DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE
We have gone into D&R's shortcomings recently, they are in poor form , not creating much at all and an already thin squad, is short of players. Town are picking up and have two straight wins, both with clean sheets, which is something that the visitors, having conceded 14 in 6 , can only dream of. Hosts are going to run in a few soon, they have hit the woodwork 11 times this season and sooner or later, that luck will change.
6 points Macclesfield -1/2 ball 1.89 asian line.
LINCOLN CITY - NOTTS COUNTY
This is something of a local derby and a must win game for the hosts, who sit bottom of the football league. It is hard to know what is wrong exactly, they have the sanme core squad of players who made the playoffs last year. However, since new coach Peter jackson joined, they have showed signs of improvement, especially in the 1-1 draw with Division 1 big wigs Nottingham Forest. A win today could easily take them off the foot of the table and against, what is likely to be a main relegation rival, Jackson will have his troops well and truely fired up. They have also not had the rub of the green and hit the woodwork 11 times, it is a fine line between victory and defeat sometimes. This is not a terrible team and if they can get a little confidence, can move on up the division. They are boosted by the return of several players today.
5 points Lincoln level ball 1.75 asian line.
ROCHDALE - MANSFIELD TOWN
Rochdale are an upper mid table team in waiting and have a decent squad of players, which has been added to with the signing of two very promising youngsters this week. Their injury situation, which has been dire, has almost completely cleared and with two games in hand over most of the division, have not yet given up dreams of a playoff spot. They will fancy their chances today, against a Town side with just 3 points (no wins ) from a possible 24 on the road and that has a dismal 0-1-5 record at Rochdale.
6 points Rochdale -1/2 ball 2.00 asian line.
Good Luck.
SATURDAY....
You will have seen that there was some excellent additional information in the email service yesterday, it is not always about the basic selections. The only actual selection was also a winner and the two early teams for the weekend, are now trading at lower odds.
I previewed six matches today and am considering putting all selections on the blog, along with basic reasons, in an hour or so. Even if I decide against that, there will be something online then.
Please check back.
I previewed six matches today and am considering putting all selections on the blog, along with basic reasons, in an hour or so. Even if I decide against that, there will be something online then.
Please check back.
Friday, November 23, 2007
WEEKEND PLANS ....
I put selections for three weekend matches on the email service , one today and two "early birds" for tomorrow, where I did not expect the odds to last. Cannot put any of those on the blog just now, but I did write some notes on other action this evening so will pass that on ....
Just a few notes about two other games this evening WATERFORD and FINN HARPS play their second leg, with the visitors holding a 3-0 lead, in the race for a Premiership place. I have no doubt that the visitors, who have forgotten how to lose, are the better side and they will be a division higher next season. Waterford are without Flynn and Bermingham, two key players and will throw caution to the wind, they have no other option, against such a well organised team as FH, that could be suicide. Think the visitors might win again , but can't bring myself to make them a selection as they would be happy to lose by a single goal, or even two I guess.
In Portugal, UNIAO LEIRIA host BRAGA and it is impossible to see many goals, Uniao have scored just 2 in 5 home starts and the visitors just 4 in 5 away. But it is the h2h stats that come screaming off the page, in 7 meetings there have not been more than a single goal, with a grand total of five, or an average of .714 goals per game ! Bet 365 have 2.75 less than two goals and the asian line of 1.80 for under 2.25 goals looks safe, but I do not like unders ! I will leave it up to you.
Busy day tomorrow and I expect to have lots to post.
Good Luck.
Just a few notes about two other games this evening WATERFORD and FINN HARPS play their second leg, with the visitors holding a 3-0 lead, in the race for a Premiership place. I have no doubt that the visitors, who have forgotten how to lose, are the better side and they will be a division higher next season. Waterford are without Flynn and Bermingham, two key players and will throw caution to the wind, they have no other option, against such a well organised team as FH, that could be suicide. Think the visitors might win again , but can't bring myself to make them a selection as they would be happy to lose by a single goal, or even two I guess.
In Portugal, UNIAO LEIRIA host BRAGA and it is impossible to see many goals, Uniao have scored just 2 in 5 home starts and the visitors just 4 in 5 away. But it is the h2h stats that come screaming off the page, in 7 meetings there have not been more than a single goal, with a grand total of five, or an average of .714 goals per game ! Bet 365 have 2.75 less than two goals and the asian line of 1.80 for under 2.25 goals looks safe, but I do not like unders ! I will leave it up to you.
Busy day tomorrow and I expect to have lots to post.
Good Luck.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
THANKSGIVING ....
NFL ... DETROIT LIONS- GREEN BAY PACKERS
I like the hosts, who always host a Thanksgiving fixture, plus the points.The Pack gave up almost 400 yards of offense to a Carolina team without shining star Steve Smith and with 44 year old Vinny Testaverde at the helm. The Lions posted very close to that number against the Giants and with both Green Bay cornerbacks carrying injuries, they should have little trouble moving the ball.
The Packers have an impressive looking 9-1 record, but this is very flattering and they must be one of the worst teams to ever start so well. They have only met one team with a winning record, of course, you can do no more than beat what is put in front of you, but the concerns remain.
The Lions traditionally over perform on this day and with this game far more important to them, they look good to win, or at least keep it close.
5 points Detroit +3.5 points 1.90 general.
Good Luck.
I like the hosts, who always host a Thanksgiving fixture, plus the points.The Pack gave up almost 400 yards of offense to a Carolina team without shining star Steve Smith and with 44 year old Vinny Testaverde at the helm. The Lions posted very close to that number against the Giants and with both Green Bay cornerbacks carrying injuries, they should have little trouble moving the ball.
The Packers have an impressive looking 9-1 record, but this is very flattering and they must be one of the worst teams to ever start so well. They have only met one team with a winning record, of course, you can do no more than beat what is put in front of you, but the concerns remain.
The Lions traditionally over perform on this day and with this game far more important to them, they look good to win, or at least keep it close.
5 points Detroit +3.5 points 1.90 general.
Good Luck.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
EURO 2008 QUALIFICATION ....
SERBIA - POLAND
Serbia can still qualify, they need to win their last two matches and hope that Finland beat an injury hit Portugal side. A slim, but not impossible chance and they have to, at least, accomplish their part. Poland have travelled without many starters and have been seen out celebrating long and hard, after clinching qualification at the weekend. They have a poor record in these games, under similar circumstances, the hosts should be very much fresher after a free weekend and that could/ should be vital on a very heavy pitch.
5.5 points Serbia -3/4 ball 1.80 asian line.
Serbia can still qualify, they need to win their last two matches and hope that Finland beat an injury hit Portugal side. A slim, but not impossible chance and they have to, at least, accomplish their part. Poland have travelled without many starters and have been seen out celebrating long and hard, after clinching qualification at the weekend. They have a poor record in these games, under similar circumstances, the hosts should be very much fresher after a free weekend and that could/ should be vital on a very heavy pitch.
5.5 points Serbia -3/4 ball 1.80 asian line.
Good Luck.
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY ....
AUSTRIA - TUNISIA
Austria are poor, but they are in desperate need of a confidence boosting win and to stop the national unrest, a little like England ! We are about to have the 2008 group draw, where they will be one of the top seeds ! This is only because of there role as co hosts, they would not even be competing otherwise.
They have only one recent win to their name, which also came against African opponents, a lucky 3-2 win over the Ivory Coast, where the officials heavily favoured the home side. Something similar could be on the cards this evening and they could have picked an opponent ,coming solely for a pay day. The temperature is set to be around zero at kick off, which will, obviously, favour the hosts and they simply cannot afford another loss.
5.5 points Austria level ball 1.73 asian line.
Good Luck.
Austria are poor, but they are in desperate need of a confidence boosting win and to stop the national unrest, a little like England ! We are about to have the 2008 group draw, where they will be one of the top seeds ! This is only because of there role as co hosts, they would not even be competing otherwise.
They have only one recent win to their name, which also came against African opponents, a lucky 3-2 win over the Ivory Coast, where the officials heavily favoured the home side. Something similar could be on the cards this evening and they could have picked an opponent ,coming solely for a pay day. The temperature is set to be around zero at kick off, which will, obviously, favour the hosts and they simply cannot afford another loss.
5.5 points Austria level ball 1.73 asian line.
Good Luck.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
EMAIL SELECTIONS .....
IRISH LEAGUE PLAYOFF
FINN HARPS - WATERFORD UNITED
This, unlike the first playoff match, is being played over two legs and I see a big advantage for the home side. Both of these two have terrible records when it comes to this stage of the season, but on home soil, Finn Harps are very impressive. They are unbeaten in 7 home playoff games and have only conceded in one of those. We discussed them in greater detail on Friday, when they did us a big favour, no injuries were picked up and they come here in fantastic form. Waterford ended the season on an unbeaten run of six games, but continue to find goals hard to come by and did not score in their last two starts. They are without 3 players tonight and have not played in 11 days, which, I believe to be a disadvantage at this stage of the season.
5.5 points Finn Harps -1/2 ball 2.03 asian line..... NOW 1.84
ENGLAND FA CUP REPLAYS
GRIMSBY- CARLISLE
Grimsby are in trouble, they sit one point outside the drop zone, having played two more games than Wrexham, the team immediately below them. They face tough games against Barnet and Darlington up next and will have to get their priorities right. With six players out this evening and a JPT area semi final to look forward too, they have bigger battles to fight.
Carlisle are over 40 places above them in the league, created 15 attempts in the first game, despite being decidedly lack lustre and will be hungry to put things right. They have had a free weekend after their match was cancelled due to international call ups and have few injury concerns.
5.5 points Carlisle -1/4 ball 1.72 asian line..... NOW -1/2 1.95
BRIGHTON- CHELTENHAM
Meeting number 3 between these two and we discussed in detail last Wednesday's match, which the home side won 4-1. That was a little flattering to Brighton to be honest, but like in the first game, they created a lot of chances and with a proven goalscorer like Nicky Forster, who lives and breathes goals, they are always going to get on the scoresheet. They have lost just once in 12 starts, to Leeds United, in a game that Brighton dominated. The visitors have a huge home game with Leeds United on Sunday and with 5 senior places missing this evening, look set to struggle yet again.
5.5 points Brighton -1 ball 2.02 asian line..... NOW 1.82
BRISTOL ROVERS - LEYTON ORIENT
I have been waiting for Rovers, who have some classy players, especially Lambert, to finally win at home, which they did at the weekend. On the road they have been fine and for 20-30 minutes in the first game, were strolling around the Orient team and looked the better side, which I think they might well be, despite their respective league positions. The cup brings out the best in Rovers, as do night games at the Memorial Stadium. I really like them with the level ball option.
6 points Bristol Rovers level ball 1.81 asian line.... NOW 1.74
Good Luck.
Win or lose, the more astute amongst you, will realise what an incredible advantage subscribers are getting over the general betting public.
FINN HARPS - WATERFORD UNITED
This, unlike the first playoff match, is being played over two legs and I see a big advantage for the home side. Both of these two have terrible records when it comes to this stage of the season, but on home soil, Finn Harps are very impressive. They are unbeaten in 7 home playoff games and have only conceded in one of those. We discussed them in greater detail on Friday, when they did us a big favour, no injuries were picked up and they come here in fantastic form. Waterford ended the season on an unbeaten run of six games, but continue to find goals hard to come by and did not score in their last two starts. They are without 3 players tonight and have not played in 11 days, which, I believe to be a disadvantage at this stage of the season.
5.5 points Finn Harps -1/2 ball 2.03 asian line..... NOW 1.84
ENGLAND FA CUP REPLAYS
GRIMSBY- CARLISLE
Grimsby are in trouble, they sit one point outside the drop zone, having played two more games than Wrexham, the team immediately below them. They face tough games against Barnet and Darlington up next and will have to get their priorities right. With six players out this evening and a JPT area semi final to look forward too, they have bigger battles to fight.
Carlisle are over 40 places above them in the league, created 15 attempts in the first game, despite being decidedly lack lustre and will be hungry to put things right. They have had a free weekend after their match was cancelled due to international call ups and have few injury concerns.
5.5 points Carlisle -1/4 ball 1.72 asian line..... NOW -1/2 1.95
BRIGHTON- CHELTENHAM
Meeting number 3 between these two and we discussed in detail last Wednesday's match, which the home side won 4-1. That was a little flattering to Brighton to be honest, but like in the first game, they created a lot of chances and with a proven goalscorer like Nicky Forster, who lives and breathes goals, they are always going to get on the scoresheet. They have lost just once in 12 starts, to Leeds United, in a game that Brighton dominated. The visitors have a huge home game with Leeds United on Sunday and with 5 senior places missing this evening, look set to struggle yet again.
5.5 points Brighton -1 ball 2.02 asian line..... NOW 1.82
BRISTOL ROVERS - LEYTON ORIENT
I have been waiting for Rovers, who have some classy players, especially Lambert, to finally win at home, which they did at the weekend. On the road they have been fine and for 20-30 minutes in the first game, were strolling around the Orient team and looked the better side, which I think they might well be, despite their respective league positions. The cup brings out the best in Rovers, as do night games at the Memorial Stadium. I really like them with the level ball option.
6 points Bristol Rovers level ball 1.81 asian line.... NOW 1.74
Good Luck.
Win or lose, the more astute amongst you, will realise what an incredible advantage subscribers are getting over the general betting public.
TUESDAY UPDATE ...
I am at a loss as to what to put on the blog, all four email selections have been backed, as normal, but three of them heavily. Which means, of course, that almost all of the value has gone. However, as I didn't post anything yesterday, I feel compelled to put something online today, so will reproduce the email selections as they appeared, along with limited previews. They will be posted in 10-15 minutes, but possibly the last match aside, I could not count the rest as blog selections.
Back shortly.
Back shortly.
TUESDAY PLANS ....
I have previewed 4 matches on the email service today and will post what I can on the blog this afternoon.
It is an interesting day, so please check back.
Good Luck.
It is an interesting day, so please check back.
Good Luck.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
ENGLAND .... DIVISION 1
HARTLEPOOL UNITED - BOURNEMOUTH
No surprises here, I am firmly in the home camp. United are a decent side and winning their two matches in hand, will take them into the playoff zone, which is about where I rank them, top 6-8 in the division. The visitors have suffered terribly with injuries and travel without nine players today, through a combination of injury/suspension and international call ups. Most of these are senior players, who would have started, in addition, they are forced to name two players, who, are not fully fit and in an ideal situation, would not even be on the bench.
The players that are available are feeling the effects of a terrible playing schedule that has seen them play in the far North West (Barrow) last weekend, at home, which is as far South as you can get, on Tuesday and then back up to the far North East today. With money very tight, they would not have seen much more than the motorway from the seat of a bus this week and little of their families and the training pitch. They would have completed the best part of 3000km in the last 8 days and anyone that has driven in the UK, will know what an ordeal that can be. They face a cup replay in midweek too !
Hartlepool are playing some nice football and will be well rested for this vital fixture, just cannot see anything other than a home win.
6.5 points Hartlepool -1/2 ball ... 1.60 + general.
The players that are available are feeling the effects of a terrible playing schedule that has seen them play in the far North West (Barrow) last weekend, at home, which is as far South as you can get, on Tuesday and then back up to the far North East today. With money very tight, they would not have seen much more than the motorway from the seat of a bus this week and little of their families and the training pitch. They would have completed the best part of 3000km in the last 8 days and anyone that has driven in the UK, will know what an ordeal that can be. They face a cup replay in midweek too !
Hartlepool are playing some nice football and will be well rested for this vital fixture, just cannot see anything other than a home win.
6.5 points Hartlepool -1/2 ball ... 1.60 + general.
Good Luck.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION .....
ARGENTINA - BOLIVIA
Argentina have a difficult looking trip to Colombia on Tuesday and there is a very good case for them not pushing too hard this evening, once the points are in the bag. They have already issued a warning along these lines to their supporters. No doubt that the visitors will be trying to shut up shop and keep the scoreline respectable, especially in light of their 5-0 thumping at Uruguay on Day 1. However, Argentina tend to win by one or two and rarely put teams to the sword, in the light of all this, I was debating a small bet on Bolivia. Then 15 minutes ago (written overnight) I got some news that the pitch at Estadio Monumental, which has seen a lot of action recently, is in really terrible condition, which will be a great leveller and will certainly be easier for defenders, so we have to go strongly with the visitors.
6 points Bolivia +2.75 goals 1.80 asian line.
Good Luck.
Argentina have a difficult looking trip to Colombia on Tuesday and there is a very good case for them not pushing too hard this evening, once the points are in the bag. They have already issued a warning along these lines to their supporters. No doubt that the visitors will be trying to shut up shop and keep the scoreline respectable, especially in light of their 5-0 thumping at Uruguay on Day 1. However, Argentina tend to win by one or two and rarely put teams to the sword, in the light of all this, I was debating a small bet on Bolivia. Then 15 minutes ago (written overnight) I got some news that the pitch at Estadio Monumental, which has seen a lot of action recently, is in really terrible condition, which will be a great leveller and will certainly be easier for defenders, so we have to go strongly with the visitors.
6 points Bolivia +2.75 goals 1.80 asian line.
Good Luck.
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