This weekend punters will be trying to cash in on a home treble of Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal as they all face arguably weaker opposition.
Chelsea face in form Middlesbrough, although Gareth Southgate's side have lost seven out of 13 on the road this season while Chelsea are unbeaten at home.
Manchester United should see off bottom but one side Charlton Athletic, especially after such a convincing display in their 4-0 win at Spurs last weekend.
The treble culminates on Sunday when Arsenal, also unbeaten at home, play a Wigan side who have just ended a run of eight straight league defeats.
Reading look a good bet to continue their unbeaten run in 2007 against an Aston Villa team which have lost their last four away matches. Leroy Lita, with nine goals in his last nine games, will relish the chance to continue his remarkable goal scoring run.
Liverpool, after last weekend's goalless draw with local rivals Everton, could return to winning ways at St.James' Park against Newcastle United who are susceptible in defence.
Sheffield United suffered a last minute defeat at Blackburn last weekend but could claim a point against visitors Tottenham Hotspur. Martin Jol's side may not fancy the Blades' physical style of play but they have ground out five draws on their travels this season.
With Wigan expected to lose this weekend, West Ham have a great opportunity to make up ground on them with a win against Watford. The Hornets shocked Alan Curbishley's side earlier in the season with an FA Cup win but they are without an away victory in the league all season.
Both Portsmouth and Manchester City are out of form and could both pick up a welcome point with a draw at Fratton Park. Expect a low scoring match as shot-shy City have failed to score in their last three league matches.
On Sunday, Bolton welcome draw specialists Fulham to the Reebok Stadium. Chris Coleman's side have drawn seven out of 13 away this season but Bolton have won the same number of matches at home. Still chasing Arsenal for the coveted fourth place, Bolton's need for three points is greater than that of their opponents.
Reading vs Aston Villa - Reading
Chelsea vs Middlesbrough - Chelsea
Everton vs Blackburn - Blackburn
Manchester United vs Charlton - Manchester United
Newcastle vs Liverpool - Liverpool
Sheffield United vs Tottenham Hotspur - Draw
West Ham vs Watford - West Ham
Portsmouth vs Manchester City - Draw
Bolton vs Fulham - Bolton
Arsenal vs Wigan - Arsenal
David Walker is the resident tipster on a popular free bets website. For further betting advice on this weekend's fixtures please visit Walker's Word.
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Showing posts with label odds. Show all posts
Showing posts with label odds. Show all posts
Friday, February 9, 2007
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Premier League Betting Odds
Saturday lunch times are becoming synonymous with Liverpool on the television and this time they tackle local rivals Everton. Despite some hiccups in the cup competitions, Liverpool have been red hot in the Premiership, winning their last five in the league. Expect them to avenge the 3-0 defeat they suffered at Everton last September.
Aston Villa are looking nervously at the relegation places after winning just once in their last 14 matches. Their win came against struggling Watford and they face another troubled side in West Ham United this weekend. Villa are usually tough to beat at home and should get all three points.
Home wins seems to be the order of the day, with Blackburn looking to overturn a run of three losses in their last four league matches against Sheffield United, while Chelsea should make it an away day jolly when they face Charlton Athletic at the Valley.
Fulham are draw specialists this season and prior to their defeat at Sheffield United, their previous six matches ended all square. They face Newcastle United who have been hit and miss this season, but with both sides strong in attack but hopeless in defence, a high scoring draw is not beyond the realm of possibility.
Reading are pressing for a place in Europe next season and should get at least a point from their trip to Manchester City. Stuart Pearce's side have been inconsistent this season while Reading are unbeaten so far in 2007.
Watford are seven points from safety and host Bolton who have not won in five games. Wanderers could get their season back on track with a win at Vicarage Road as they are still within touching distance of the coveted fourth Champions League spot.
Portsmouth could inflict a ninth consecutive defeat on Wigan, who are plummeting towards the relegation zone as each week passes. With a record like that, Pompey have to be backed, even if they are without a win in five themselves.
Middlesbrough are showing a bit of form, winning three of their last four, but they face an Arsenal side in hot form. Bar a 2-1 defeat last season, the Gunners have won at the Riverside for five seasons prior and they could make it six out of seven on Saturday evening.
Sunday's only match sees Tottenham Hotspur up against Manchester United. Spurs have undertaken a hectic fixture schedule and played eight matches in January due to their involvement in two cup competitions. United could capitalise on this plus they have won on their last five trips to White Hart Lane.
Liverpool vs Everton - Liverpool
Aston Villa vs West Ham United - Aston Villa
Blackburn Rovers vs Sheffield United - Blackburn Rovers
Charlton Athletic vs Chelsea - Chelsea
Fulham vs Newcastle United - Draw
Manchester City vs Reading - Draw
Watford vs Bolton - Bolton
Wigan vs Portsmouth - Portsmouth
Middlesbrough vs Arsenal - Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur vs Man United - Man United
David Walker is the resident tipster on a popular free bets website. For further betting advice on this weekend's fixtures please visit Walker's Word.
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Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Premier League Bets
After two defeats at Anfield in a week against Arsenal, including the 6-3 Carling Cup exit on Tuesday night, Liverpool will be grateful for the trip to Watford so they can try and get back into the winning habit.
With seven goals in his last 10 matches, Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka has his sights firmly set on punishing his former employers this season. He scored twice against Manchester City in December and will look for more of the same against a side which has lost seven out of 11 on the road this season.
Charlton already looked dead and buried despite the arrival of a new manager and four months of the season to play. They have good players on the books but they don't appear able to perform, as two Cup exits against lower league opposition this season testifies. The odds on Middlesbrough to win this one are tempting.
Chelsea were fortunate to beat Wigan in December after the Latics came from two behind only to lose in the last minute. After two draws at Stamford Bridge in their last two league games, Jose Mourinho is under pressure and I expect the Blues to win convincingly this weekend.
Manchester United needed a last minute howler from Gabor Kiraly to knock Aston Villa out of the FA Cup last weekend but should win again back in league duty. United have won the last three Premiership encounters against Martin O'Neill's side at Old Trafford.
Sheffield United are five points clear of the relegation zone and an FA Cup exit at the hands of Swansea City will allow them to concentrate on survival. A point against visiting Portsmouth would do nicely.
West Ham United will unleash former Fulham captain Luis Boa Morte against his former employers this weekend as they strive to make up the four points they currently lie from safety. Fulham have improved on their travels, but still struggle to win away from the haven of Craven Cottage.
Blackburn could be good for a draw at Ewood Park against Arsenal after coming back strongly following a 6-2 thrashing at the Emirates Stadium. Arsene Wenger's side have lost five out of 11 on the road which indicates they are susceptible against teams that are in form.
On Sunday, Everton's top half of the table clash against Reading could end all square while Tottenham's home form (eight wins in 11 league matches) should see them beat Newcastle who are still looking over their shoulders at the bottom three.
Verdict:
Liverpool vs Watford - Liverpool
Bolton vs Manchester City - Bolton
Charlton vs Middlesbrough - Middlesbrough
Chelsea vs Wigan - Chelsea
Manchester United vs Aston Villa - Manchester United
Sheffield United vs Portsmouth - Draw
West Ham vs Fulham - West Ham
Blackburn vs Arsenal - Blackburn
Reading vs Everton - Draw
Tottenham Hotspur vs Newcastle - Tottenham Hotspur
David Walker is the resident tipster on a popular free bets website. For further betting advice on this weekend's fixtures please visit Walker's Word.
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With seven goals in his last 10 matches, Bolton striker Nicolas Anelka has his sights firmly set on punishing his former employers this season. He scored twice against Manchester City in December and will look for more of the same against a side which has lost seven out of 11 on the road this season.
Charlton already looked dead and buried despite the arrival of a new manager and four months of the season to play. They have good players on the books but they don't appear able to perform, as two Cup exits against lower league opposition this season testifies. The odds on Middlesbrough to win this one are tempting.
Chelsea were fortunate to beat Wigan in December after the Latics came from two behind only to lose in the last minute. After two draws at Stamford Bridge in their last two league games, Jose Mourinho is under pressure and I expect the Blues to win convincingly this weekend.
Manchester United needed a last minute howler from Gabor Kiraly to knock Aston Villa out of the FA Cup last weekend but should win again back in league duty. United have won the last three Premiership encounters against Martin O'Neill's side at Old Trafford.
Sheffield United are five points clear of the relegation zone and an FA Cup exit at the hands of Swansea City will allow them to concentrate on survival. A point against visiting Portsmouth would do nicely.
West Ham United will unleash former Fulham captain Luis Boa Morte against his former employers this weekend as they strive to make up the four points they currently lie from safety. Fulham have improved on their travels, but still struggle to win away from the haven of Craven Cottage.
Blackburn could be good for a draw at Ewood Park against Arsenal after coming back strongly following a 6-2 thrashing at the Emirates Stadium. Arsene Wenger's side have lost five out of 11 on the road which indicates they are susceptible against teams that are in form.
On Sunday, Everton's top half of the table clash against Reading could end all square while Tottenham's home form (eight wins in 11 league matches) should see them beat Newcastle who are still looking over their shoulders at the bottom three.
Verdict:
Liverpool vs Watford - Liverpool
Bolton vs Manchester City - Bolton
Charlton vs Middlesbrough - Middlesbrough
Chelsea vs Wigan - Chelsea
Manchester United vs Aston Villa - Manchester United
Sheffield United vs Portsmouth - Draw
West Ham vs Fulham - West Ham
Blackburn vs Arsenal - Blackburn
Reading vs Everton - Draw
Tottenham Hotspur vs Newcastle - Tottenham Hotspur
David Walker is the resident tipster on a popular free bets website. For further betting advice on this weekend's fixtures please visit Walker's Word.
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Wednesday, December 6, 2006
Gone in 64 seconds
I’m feeling a little bit inadequate. Apparently, a normal male averages 20 minutes when expressing his love physically; I’m assuming that includes the taxi journey and the queue for the cashpoint.
My haste is a blessing in disguise for the wife, as she’s on the phone to her mother every 15 minutes. Her old dear doesn’t want to hear my shrieking voice; again.
On the subject of hidden blessings, Arsenal may well benefit from the absence of Thierry Henry. The Gunners have looked a more cohesive unit without their talismanic captain this season, the 4/1 about an Arsenal win at the Bridge should be jumped on; but not for too long.
Robin Van Persie can open the scoring at 17/2. The little Dutchman’s left foot is so cultured; it can often be found sipping Pimms with Graeme Le Saux at the theatre.
Sir Alex believes that his United team are on the verge of greatness, Wayne Rooney may have toppled over the edge. The circular forward can inspire United to derby day domination at 4/11.
It’s rumoured that Cristiano Ronaldo has been offered the lead role in a remake of the Michael Douglas classic, ‘Falling Down’. The collapsible winger should be backed to score at any time at 9/4.
Biscuit magnate Eggert Magnusson has told the press that Alan Pardew’s throat will be cut if West Ham fail to perform; he’s one touch cookie. West Ham can snatch a point at the Reebok at 9/4. Nice.
Newcastle United and Robbie Savage have a lot in common, they’re both awful travellers. Somewhat surprisingly, the Toon Army have only tasted defeat at Ewood Park on one of their last eight visits; a Savage led Blackburn can buck that trend at 6/5.
Paul Jewell did a ‘Baldrick’ in the summer when he bought Emile Heskey, I now expect him to do ‘a Blackadder’ and take advantage of a rotten Boro. Wigan can leave the Riverside with three points at 13/5.
Pompey and Everton shared 1-0 wins in last season’s meet-ups, but ‘no goalscorer’ paid out in both matches. Only the betting naïve (like Harry ‘what’s a computer’ Redknapp) back a 0-0 scoreline. The ‘No goalscorer’ hat-trick is in play at 8/1.
Tottenham’s treatment of Jermain Defoe has left me as bemused as Monty Panesar. What could Defoe have done to deserve such shoddy treatment? Perhaps he spiked his spinach or sent Olive Oyl suggestive text messages. Spurs can beat up Charlton at 4/7, with or without the miniscule goal machine.
The wife is a big fan of Reading; she’s supported them ever since her English teacher wrote ‘reading difficulties’ on her school report. She’s backing the Royals at 13/8 to see off Watford; if I write out the betting slip.
It was odd to hear Neil Warnock begin a sentence with ‘I’m a bit like Arsene Wenger,’ as he questioned the Premier League’s schedule. That’s like the wife claiming to be ‘a bit like Madonna’ because she sings after lovemaking. I’m mad on a Villa win at Bramall Lane at 8/5.
Sheikh Mohammed may sound like a BNP policy, but he’s potentially the new owner of Liverpool FC. The billionaire is normally associated with the glamorous world of horse racing, where he can often be found discussing opera with Robin Van Persie’s left peg. The Reds have an easy looking match at home to Fulham, dive into the Pool at 4/11.
Man Utd, Blackburn, Liverpool, Tottenham and a Pompey draw are the virtually guaranteed selections for an 18/1 accer. Admittedly, it’s never over ‘til the fat lady sings; in my house, that’s normally after 64 seconds.
Weekend Betting:
Man Utd v Man City Saturday 9th December 12:45 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 4/11
Draw 10/3
Man City 9/1
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to be booked for diving 9/1
Blackburn v Newcastle Saturday 9th December 15:00
Blackburn 6/5
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 11/4
Get on: Blackburn
Match Special:
Blackburn to score three or more goals 4/1
Liverpool v Fulham Saturday 9th December 15:00
Liverpool 4/11
Draw 7/2
Fulham 17/2
Get on: Liverpool
Match Special:
Bellamy to score two or more goals 5/1
Middlesbrough v Wigan Saturday 9th December 15:00
Middlesbrough 6/5
Draw 9/4
Wigan 13/5
Get on: Wigan
Match Special:
Camara to score the only goal of the game 50/1
Portsmouth v Everton Saturday 9th December 15:00
Portsmouth 6/5
Draw 9/4
Everton 9/4
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
No goalscorer in the match 8/1
Tottenham v Charlton Saturday 9th December 15:00
Tottenham 4/7
Draw 3/1
Charlton 11/2
Get on: Tottenham
Match Special:
Berbatov to score from outside the area 9/2
Watford v Reading Saturday 9th December 15:00
Watford 13/8
Draw 9/4
Reading 13/8
Get on: Reading
Match Special:
Doyle to score the first goal 11/2
Bolton v West Ham Saturday 9th December 17:15 Live on Premiership Plus
Bolton 10/11
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/2
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Tevez to score in a 1-1 draw 20/1
Chelsea v Arsenal Sunday 10th December 16:00 Live on Sky
Chelsea 8/11
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/1
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Van Persie to score direct from a free-kick 10/1
Sheff Utd v Aston Villa Monday 11th December 20:00 Live on Sky
Sheff Utd 2/1
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 8/5
Get on: Aston Villa
Match Special:
Villa to score a penalty 6/1
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
English Premiership Betting
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting
My haste is a blessing in disguise for the wife, as she’s on the phone to her mother every 15 minutes. Her old dear doesn’t want to hear my shrieking voice; again.
On the subject of hidden blessings, Arsenal may well benefit from the absence of Thierry Henry. The Gunners have looked a more cohesive unit without their talismanic captain this season, the 4/1 about an Arsenal win at the Bridge should be jumped on; but not for too long.
Robin Van Persie can open the scoring at 17/2. The little Dutchman’s left foot is so cultured; it can often be found sipping Pimms with Graeme Le Saux at the theatre.
Sir Alex believes that his United team are on the verge of greatness, Wayne Rooney may have toppled over the edge. The circular forward can inspire United to derby day domination at 4/11.
It’s rumoured that Cristiano Ronaldo has been offered the lead role in a remake of the Michael Douglas classic, ‘Falling Down’. The collapsible winger should be backed to score at any time at 9/4.
Biscuit magnate Eggert Magnusson has told the press that Alan Pardew’s throat will be cut if West Ham fail to perform; he’s one touch cookie. West Ham can snatch a point at the Reebok at 9/4. Nice.
Newcastle United and Robbie Savage have a lot in common, they’re both awful travellers. Somewhat surprisingly, the Toon Army have only tasted defeat at Ewood Park on one of their last eight visits; a Savage led Blackburn can buck that trend at 6/5.
Paul Jewell did a ‘Baldrick’ in the summer when he bought Emile Heskey, I now expect him to do ‘a Blackadder’ and take advantage of a rotten Boro. Wigan can leave the Riverside with three points at 13/5.
Pompey and Everton shared 1-0 wins in last season’s meet-ups, but ‘no goalscorer’ paid out in both matches. Only the betting naïve (like Harry ‘what’s a computer’ Redknapp) back a 0-0 scoreline. The ‘No goalscorer’ hat-trick is in play at 8/1.
Tottenham’s treatment of Jermain Defoe has left me as bemused as Monty Panesar. What could Defoe have done to deserve such shoddy treatment? Perhaps he spiked his spinach or sent Olive Oyl suggestive text messages. Spurs can beat up Charlton at 4/7, with or without the miniscule goal machine.
The wife is a big fan of Reading; she’s supported them ever since her English teacher wrote ‘reading difficulties’ on her school report. She’s backing the Royals at 13/8 to see off Watford; if I write out the betting slip.
It was odd to hear Neil Warnock begin a sentence with ‘I’m a bit like Arsene Wenger,’ as he questioned the Premier League’s schedule. That’s like the wife claiming to be ‘a bit like Madonna’ because she sings after lovemaking. I’m mad on a Villa win at Bramall Lane at 8/5.
Sheikh Mohammed may sound like a BNP policy, but he’s potentially the new owner of Liverpool FC. The billionaire is normally associated with the glamorous world of horse racing, where he can often be found discussing opera with Robin Van Persie’s left peg. The Reds have an easy looking match at home to Fulham, dive into the Pool at 4/11.
Man Utd, Blackburn, Liverpool, Tottenham and a Pompey draw are the virtually guaranteed selections for an 18/1 accer. Admittedly, it’s never over ‘til the fat lady sings; in my house, that’s normally after 64 seconds.
Weekend Betting:
Man Utd v Man City Saturday 9th December 12:45 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 4/11
Draw 10/3
Man City 9/1
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to be booked for diving 9/1
Blackburn v Newcastle Saturday 9th December 15:00
Blackburn 6/5
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 11/4
Get on: Blackburn
Match Special:
Blackburn to score three or more goals 4/1
Liverpool v Fulham Saturday 9th December 15:00
Liverpool 4/11
Draw 7/2
Fulham 17/2
Get on: Liverpool
Match Special:
Bellamy to score two or more goals 5/1
Middlesbrough v Wigan Saturday 9th December 15:00
Middlesbrough 6/5
Draw 9/4
Wigan 13/5
Get on: Wigan
Match Special:
Camara to score the only goal of the game 50/1
Portsmouth v Everton Saturday 9th December 15:00
Portsmouth 6/5
Draw 9/4
Everton 9/4
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
No goalscorer in the match 8/1
Tottenham v Charlton Saturday 9th December 15:00
Tottenham 4/7
Draw 3/1
Charlton 11/2
Get on: Tottenham
Match Special:
Berbatov to score from outside the area 9/2
Watford v Reading Saturday 9th December 15:00
Watford 13/8
Draw 9/4
Reading 13/8
Get on: Reading
Match Special:
Doyle to score the first goal 11/2
Bolton v West Ham Saturday 9th December 17:15 Live on Premiership Plus
Bolton 10/11
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/2
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Tevez to score in a 1-1 draw 20/1
Chelsea v Arsenal Sunday 10th December 16:00 Live on Sky
Chelsea 8/11
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/1
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Van Persie to score direct from a free-kick 10/1
Sheff Utd v Aston Villa Monday 11th December 20:00 Live on Sky
Sheff Utd 2/1
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 8/5
Get on: Aston Villa
Match Special:
Villa to score a penalty 6/1
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
English Premiership Betting
Tags
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Friday, November 24, 2006
Premier League Odds
A short version of Walker’s Word this week covering only the televised fixtures. Charlton Athletic could be even more cut off from the pack by Saturday lunch time while Newcastle could pull away from the drop zone on Sunday afternoon writes David Walker.
Saturday 25 November
Charlton Athletic vs Everton
Even the introduction of new manager Les Reed could not inspire Charlton to victory last weekend as they slumped 2-0 at Reading. They face tough opposition in Everton who themselves have won just two in their last eight league games since beating Liverpool 3-0 back in September. However, Everton keep things tight and have been involved in four 1-0 results in their last four games and will frustrate the rock bottom Premiership club. The Toffees have not won at The Valley since 2001 with the Addicks recording two wins and two draws since but this record could change on Saturday.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Everton @ 7/5 (Paddy Power)
AH: Everton level ball @ 19/20 (Bet356)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (VCBet)
Bolton Wanderers vs Arsenal
Bolton have been the scourge of Arsenal in recent seasons, beating them twice last season in both the league and FA Cup and also the season before. They have secured 1-1 and 2-2 draws in the campaigns before that with Arsenal not winning at the Reebok Stadium in the Premiership since 2002. There is some bad blood between the two sides and Arsenal could be in danger of losing further ground on Chelsea and Manchester United this weekend. Despite a fantastic recent home record against the Gunners, the bookmakers are offering fantastic odds on a win for Sam Allardyce’s side.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Bolton @ 5/2 (Ladbrokes)
AH: Bolton + ½ @ 17/20 (Bet356)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Sunday 26 November
Newcastle United vs Portsmouth
The league table could be turned on its head for this contest as Newcastle could pull away from the relegation zone with a win. Portsmouth are flying high in third place at the moment but have already been beaten 3-0 at St James’ Park this season in the Carling Cup. The Magpies have won two out of three league meetings in the North East, with a draw in between a couple of years ago. Glenn Roeder’s side have had a dreadful run of late, but will be buoyed by two battling away draws, especially at Arsenal last weekend.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 13/10 (Paddy Power)
AH: Newcastle – ¼ @ 21/20 (Bet356)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (VCBet)
Manchester United vs Chelsea
The top of the table clash sees Chelsea three points behind Manchester United who have won their last seven league matches since their 1-1 draw with Reading back in September. Chelsea also come into this match strongly, having won five of their last six league matches, the blip being a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham three weeks ago. Both sides lost in the Champions League this week, perhaps with one eye on this weekend’s game. United won this fixture 1-0 last season, but have only beaten Chelsea four times in 14 Premiership fixtures at Old Trafford. A draw won’t particularly help either side’s title ambitions but it won’t be the end of the world either.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 21/10 (UK Betting)
AH: Chelsea level ball @ 9/8 (Bet356)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
English Premiership Betting
David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.
Tags
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Saturday 25 November
Charlton Athletic vs Everton
Even the introduction of new manager Les Reed could not inspire Charlton to victory last weekend as they slumped 2-0 at Reading. They face tough opposition in Everton who themselves have won just two in their last eight league games since beating Liverpool 3-0 back in September. However, Everton keep things tight and have been involved in four 1-0 results in their last four games and will frustrate the rock bottom Premiership club. The Toffees have not won at The Valley since 2001 with the Addicks recording two wins and two draws since but this record could change on Saturday.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Everton @ 7/5 (Paddy Power)
AH: Everton level ball @ 19/20 (Bet356)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (VCBet)
Bolton Wanderers vs Arsenal
Bolton have been the scourge of Arsenal in recent seasons, beating them twice last season in both the league and FA Cup and also the season before. They have secured 1-1 and 2-2 draws in the campaigns before that with Arsenal not winning at the Reebok Stadium in the Premiership since 2002. There is some bad blood between the two sides and Arsenal could be in danger of losing further ground on Chelsea and Manchester United this weekend. Despite a fantastic recent home record against the Gunners, the bookmakers are offering fantastic odds on a win for Sam Allardyce’s side.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Bolton @ 5/2 (Ladbrokes)
AH: Bolton + ½ @ 17/20 (Bet356)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Sunday 26 November
Newcastle United vs Portsmouth
The league table could be turned on its head for this contest as Newcastle could pull away from the relegation zone with a win. Portsmouth are flying high in third place at the moment but have already been beaten 3-0 at St James’ Park this season in the Carling Cup. The Magpies have won two out of three league meetings in the North East, with a draw in between a couple of years ago. Glenn Roeder’s side have had a dreadful run of late, but will be buoyed by two battling away draws, especially at Arsenal last weekend.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 13/10 (Paddy Power)
AH: Newcastle – ¼ @ 21/20 (Bet356)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (VCBet)
Manchester United vs Chelsea
The top of the table clash sees Chelsea three points behind Manchester United who have won their last seven league matches since their 1-1 draw with Reading back in September. Chelsea also come into this match strongly, having won five of their last six league matches, the blip being a 2-1 defeat at Tottenham three weeks ago. Both sides lost in the Champions League this week, perhaps with one eye on this weekend’s game. United won this fixture 1-0 last season, but have only beaten Chelsea four times in 14 Premiership fixtures at Old Trafford. A draw won’t particularly help either side’s title ambitions but it won’t be the end of the world either.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 21/10 (UK Betting)
AH: Chelsea level ball @ 9/8 (Bet356)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
English Premiership Betting
David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting football betting bookmakers
Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Arsene! Coffee!
Luck is an alien concept. At a recent fancy dress party to celebrate my father in law’s exit from the closet, the wife turned all ‘Paul Gascoigne’ on me. One minute, I was politely chatting to Britney Spears, the next thing I knew, the wife was repeatedly pommeling me with an oversized clown’s shoe. There’s nothing amusing about domestic violence.
Physical altercations have no place in the home and equally no place on the touchline. Only an Arsenal victory over Liverpool can save Rafa Benitez from an Arsene attack; the Gunners are a superb bet at 11/10 to knock out the Reds.
Peter Crouch is an optimist, he believes that Liverpool can still win the title. He probably also believes in the tooth fairy, or to use her Latin name, ‘Jermainus Defoe’. It’s over five years since the Scousers last won away at Arsenal, sink your teeth into a 2-0 win for the Gunners at 9/1.
Thierry Henry has asked the Arsenal fans not to leave before the final whistle. I’m not sure how it works in France, but most Englishmen struggle to last 90 minutes. Henry has scored five goals in his last two home appearances against the Pool, he can keep the fans satisfied by banging in the opener at 9/2.
If West Ham beat Middlesbrough, Alan Pardew has promised a more subdued celebration; possibly two jigs and a conga. The Hammers looks a fair investment at 5/2 to waltz away from the Riverside with three points.
Newcastle are in crisis and the Toon army are revolting. Nobody wants to kick a man when he’s down (although I can’t speak for Arsene Wenger) but the appointment of Roeder was flawed from the very beginning. Man City can stick the boot in at 11/10.
It was always going to be an uphill task for Watford to avoid defeat at Stamford Bridge, but without Marlon King, it’s like climbing Mount Everest with Frank Lampard in your rucksack. Chelsea will win, but there’s no value to be found at a top priced 1/6.
Ashley ‘I ain’t working for no £55,000 a week’ Cole believes that referees are ‘robbing’ Chelsea. His autobiography retails at £18.99; he definitely knows his subject matter. You can nick a few quid off the bookies by covering a 2-0/3-0/4-0 win for the champions at a much friendlier 6/4.
Aston Villa have only taken one point out of a possible fifteen at Goodison Park in recent seasons, but that was under David O’Leary, when they rolled over more than Andy Johnson. It’s a different ball game under Martin O’Neill; the draw looks a great shout at 9/4.
I’m certainly not an economist, but I believe that the divide between the north and the south has dramatically diminished. A West Ham fan could only spare 2p to throw at Robin Van Persie last week, yet an Everton supporter was more than happy to clobber Claus Jensen with an inflation busting 50p piece. Backing ‘no goalscorer’ at Goodison Park can increase the wealth at 8/1.
Kanu believes that praying to a higher power has been a contributory factor towards Portsmouth’s superb start to the season. Unfortunately, my own attempt at prayer proved much less successful; she came home. Fulham have never won at Fratton Park in the Premiership; back Pompey at a tambourine shaking 5/6.
Sheffield United v Bolton looks a tough match to call. The Blades destroyed Newcastle at St James’ last week, but Bolton are a far tougher cookie. I’m edging towards Bolton at 6/4, but only because Diouf is in excellent striking form.
Henri Camara must have a bad back, he’s been carrying Emile Heskey for three months. Camara netted a hat-trick as Wigan destroyed Charlton 3-0 at the JJB last season, he’ll lead a vastly improved Wigan to another three points at 10/11.
Tottenham completed a double over Reading the last time they were in the same league, although the more cynical amongst you may question the relevance of form from the 1930’s. Spurs can land a royal knockout at 13/10.
A defeat at the hands of Southend was not the anniversary present Sir Alex was hoping for; he had his fingers crossed for nose make-up. United will get back on track at Blackburn; they’re a confident call at 8/13.
Rio Ferdinand was sent off in this fixture last season, or as he would put it, he got ‘murked’. Like Rio, I know all the cool slang. Saha’s ‘the blaze’, Scholes is ‘sick’ and Rooney is ‘well phat’. I’m backing Ronaldo at 15/2 to net the opener, it’s totally emu.
This week’s accer is so solid; Paul Gascoigne, Arsene Wenger and El Hadji Diouf have all embraced pacifism as a direct result. Arsenal, Wigan, Portsmouth and an Everton draw are the four beefcakes; the payout is a burly 21/1.
Weekend Betting:
Man City v Newcastle Saturday 11th November 12:45 Live on Sky
Man City 11/10
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 11/4
Get on: Man City
Match Special:
Samaras to score the first goal 7/1
Chelsea v Watford Saturday 11th November 15:00
Chelsea 1/6
Draw 6/1
Watford 22/1
Get on: Chelsea
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Everton v Aston Villa Saturday 11th November 15:00
Everton 11/10
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 11/4
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Phil Neville to be booked 5/2
Middlesbrough v West Ham Saturday 11th November 15:00
Middlesbrough 6/5
Draw 9/4
West Ham 5/2
Get on: West Ham
Match Special:
Harewood to score the only goal of the game 50/1
Portsmouth v Fulham Saturday 11th November 15:00
Portsmouth 5/6
Draw 23/10
Fulham 7/2
Get on: Portsmouth
Match Special:
Portsmouth to win and keep a clean sheet 19/10
Sheff Utd v Bolton Saturday 11th November 15:00
Sheff Utd 19/10
Draw 9/4
Bolton 6/4
Get on: Bolton
Match Special:
Bolton to win 1-0 7/1
Wigan v Charlton Saturday 11th November 15:00
Wigan 10/11
Draw 9/4
Charlton 3/1
Get on: Wigan
Match Special:
Camara to score two or more goals 13/2
Blackburn v Man Utd Saturday 11th November 17:15 Live on Premiership Plus
Blackburn 11/2
Draw 11/4
Man Utd 8/13
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to score direct from a free kick 7/1
Reading v Tottenham Sunday 12th November 13:30 Live on Sky
Reading 11/5
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 13/10
Get on: Tottenham
Match Special:
Tottenham to score three or more goals 9/2
Arsenal v Liverpool Sunday 12th November 16:00 Live on Sky
Arsenal 11/10
Draw 9/4
Liverpool 11/4
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 9/2
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
English Premiership Betting
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting
Physical altercations have no place in the home and equally no place on the touchline. Only an Arsenal victory over Liverpool can save Rafa Benitez from an Arsene attack; the Gunners are a superb bet at 11/10 to knock out the Reds.
Peter Crouch is an optimist, he believes that Liverpool can still win the title. He probably also believes in the tooth fairy, or to use her Latin name, ‘Jermainus Defoe’. It’s over five years since the Scousers last won away at Arsenal, sink your teeth into a 2-0 win for the Gunners at 9/1.
Thierry Henry has asked the Arsenal fans not to leave before the final whistle. I’m not sure how it works in France, but most Englishmen struggle to last 90 minutes. Henry has scored five goals in his last two home appearances against the Pool, he can keep the fans satisfied by banging in the opener at 9/2.
If West Ham beat Middlesbrough, Alan Pardew has promised a more subdued celebration; possibly two jigs and a conga. The Hammers looks a fair investment at 5/2 to waltz away from the Riverside with three points.
Newcastle are in crisis and the Toon army are revolting. Nobody wants to kick a man when he’s down (although I can’t speak for Arsene Wenger) but the appointment of Roeder was flawed from the very beginning. Man City can stick the boot in at 11/10.
It was always going to be an uphill task for Watford to avoid defeat at Stamford Bridge, but without Marlon King, it’s like climbing Mount Everest with Frank Lampard in your rucksack. Chelsea will win, but there’s no value to be found at a top priced 1/6.
Ashley ‘I ain’t working for no £55,000 a week’ Cole believes that referees are ‘robbing’ Chelsea. His autobiography retails at £18.99; he definitely knows his subject matter. You can nick a few quid off the bookies by covering a 2-0/3-0/4-0 win for the champions at a much friendlier 6/4.
Aston Villa have only taken one point out of a possible fifteen at Goodison Park in recent seasons, but that was under David O’Leary, when they rolled over more than Andy Johnson. It’s a different ball game under Martin O’Neill; the draw looks a great shout at 9/4.
I’m certainly not an economist, but I believe that the divide between the north and the south has dramatically diminished. A West Ham fan could only spare 2p to throw at Robin Van Persie last week, yet an Everton supporter was more than happy to clobber Claus Jensen with an inflation busting 50p piece. Backing ‘no goalscorer’ at Goodison Park can increase the wealth at 8/1.
Kanu believes that praying to a higher power has been a contributory factor towards Portsmouth’s superb start to the season. Unfortunately, my own attempt at prayer proved much less successful; she came home. Fulham have never won at Fratton Park in the Premiership; back Pompey at a tambourine shaking 5/6.
Sheffield United v Bolton looks a tough match to call. The Blades destroyed Newcastle at St James’ last week, but Bolton are a far tougher cookie. I’m edging towards Bolton at 6/4, but only because Diouf is in excellent striking form.
Henri Camara must have a bad back, he’s been carrying Emile Heskey for three months. Camara netted a hat-trick as Wigan destroyed Charlton 3-0 at the JJB last season, he’ll lead a vastly improved Wigan to another three points at 10/11.
Tottenham completed a double over Reading the last time they were in the same league, although the more cynical amongst you may question the relevance of form from the 1930’s. Spurs can land a royal knockout at 13/10.
A defeat at the hands of Southend was not the anniversary present Sir Alex was hoping for; he had his fingers crossed for nose make-up. United will get back on track at Blackburn; they’re a confident call at 8/13.
Rio Ferdinand was sent off in this fixture last season, or as he would put it, he got ‘murked’. Like Rio, I know all the cool slang. Saha’s ‘the blaze’, Scholes is ‘sick’ and Rooney is ‘well phat’. I’m backing Ronaldo at 15/2 to net the opener, it’s totally emu.
This week’s accer is so solid; Paul Gascoigne, Arsene Wenger and El Hadji Diouf have all embraced pacifism as a direct result. Arsenal, Wigan, Portsmouth and an Everton draw are the four beefcakes; the payout is a burly 21/1.
Weekend Betting:
Man City v Newcastle Saturday 11th November 12:45 Live on Sky
Man City 11/10
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 11/4
Get on: Man City
Match Special:
Samaras to score the first goal 7/1
Chelsea v Watford Saturday 11th November 15:00
Chelsea 1/6
Draw 6/1
Watford 22/1
Get on: Chelsea
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Everton v Aston Villa Saturday 11th November 15:00
Everton 11/10
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 11/4
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Phil Neville to be booked 5/2
Middlesbrough v West Ham Saturday 11th November 15:00
Middlesbrough 6/5
Draw 9/4
West Ham 5/2
Get on: West Ham
Match Special:
Harewood to score the only goal of the game 50/1
Portsmouth v Fulham Saturday 11th November 15:00
Portsmouth 5/6
Draw 23/10
Fulham 7/2
Get on: Portsmouth
Match Special:
Portsmouth to win and keep a clean sheet 19/10
Sheff Utd v Bolton Saturday 11th November 15:00
Sheff Utd 19/10
Draw 9/4
Bolton 6/4
Get on: Bolton
Match Special:
Bolton to win 1-0 7/1
Wigan v Charlton Saturday 11th November 15:00
Wigan 10/11
Draw 9/4
Charlton 3/1
Get on: Wigan
Match Special:
Camara to score two or more goals 13/2
Blackburn v Man Utd Saturday 11th November 17:15 Live on Premiership Plus
Blackburn 11/2
Draw 11/4
Man Utd 8/13
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to score direct from a free kick 7/1
Reading v Tottenham Sunday 12th November 13:30 Live on Sky
Reading 11/5
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 13/10
Get on: Tottenham
Match Special:
Tottenham to score three or more goals 9/2
Arsenal v Liverpool Sunday 12th November 16:00 Live on Sky
Arsenal 11/10
Draw 9/4
Liverpool 11/4
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 9/2
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
English Premiership Betting
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting
Thursday, November 2, 2006
English Premiership Soccer Betting
Charlton Athletic could find themselves in further relegation worry this weekend while Bonfire Night should see away wins for both Arsenal and Chelsea writes David Walker.
Fulham vs Everton
Two sides enjoying an extended spell in the top 10 but it could be Fulham who edge closer to a place in Europe this Saturday. Chris Coleman’s side boast a 100% record against Everton at Craven Cottage since they joined the Premiership in 2001/02. Fulham have scored nine goals in these encounters with Everton finding the net just once. Fulham have won this match 2-0 on three occasions so correct scores fans could opt for that, or play it safe and bank on under 2.5 goals.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Fulham @ 8/5 (UK Betting)
AH: Fulham level ball @ evens (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Bolton Wanderers vs Wigan Athletic
If Bolton are to realistically challenge Manchester United and Chelsea at the top of the Premiership they need to win home games like this one. Prior to beating Fulham at Craven Cottage last week, Wigan lost three out of four on the road and that is the kind of form Wanderers need to remind them about.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Bolton @ 5/6 (UK Betting)
AH: Bolton – ½ @ 19/20 (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Charlton Athletic vs Manchester City
Poor old Charlton, already three points adrift of safety and they face a bogey side in Manchester City this weekend. The Addicks have not beaten City in their last four attempts, losing twice and drawing 2-2 twice. They have not won since 2000/01 when they hammered the Blues 4-0 but have since suffered a 3-0 reverse and last season, a 5-2 humiliation on their own turf. Stuart Pearce’s side won their first match in four attempts against Middlesbrough on Monday and will fancy their chances at The Valley.
Walker’s Word
1x2: City @ 15/8 (VCBet)
AH: City + ¼ @ 33/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (Bet365)
Liverpool vs Reading
Liverpool are clicking into gear at last after beating Bordeaux 3-0 in midweek and destroying unbeaten Aston Villa 3-1 at the weekend. They face Reading at Anfield for the second time in as many weeks, after beating them 4-3 in the Carling Cup and another home win is likely.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Liverpool @ 1/3 (Betfred)
AH: Liverpool – 1 ¼ @ 33/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/6 (VCBet)
Manchester United vs Portsmouth
While United have dropped points at Fratton Park on two of their last three visits, at Old Trafford they are much more solid, winning all three encounters since Pompey’s promotion in the 2003/04 campaign. United were humbled in Denmark against FC Copenhagen in the week and will want to get back to winning ways immediately. Portmsouth may boast the meanest defence in the league but United in full flow is a frightening prospect.
Walker’s Word
1x2: United @ 2/7 (Ladbrokes)
AH: United – 1 ½ @ 21/20 (Bet365)
OU: Over 3.5 goals @ 2/1 (Betfred)
Watford vs Middlesbrough
Two teams in the lower reaches of the division but Watford could be made to wait further to record their first league win of the season. The Hornets have proven to be tough to beat, grinding out six draws in 10 matches but Middlesbrough could extend their stay in the bottom three with a win at Vicarage Road.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Middlesbrough @ 15/8 (UK Betting)
AH: Middlesbrough level ball @ 43/40 (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Newcastle United vs Sheffield United
Newcastle need to win this match if they are to avoid slipping into the bottom three but the club’s minor injury crisis could hold the key to this game. The Blades have reported a feud between Claude Davis and Ade Akinbiyi has been resolved which should boost morale but it is Newcastle that could pick up a season-boosting three points.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 8/11 (UK Betting)
AH: Newcastle – ¾ @ 39/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 6/5 (VCBet)
Sunday 5 November
West Ham United vs Arsenal
Arsenal have a poor record at Upton Park, winning just one of their last five Premiership visits and showed they couldn’t hit a barn door against Spartak Moscow in the week, squandering 20 clear chances. However, the Hammers have been dreadful this season and will find the Gunners a much sterner test than Blackburn, who they beat last Sunday.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Arsenal @ 8/13 (Coral)
AH: Arsenal – ¾ @ ¾ (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 10/11 (VCBet)
Aston Villa vs Blackburn Rovers
Villa’s unbeaten record was taken away from them last weekend by a rampant Liverpool but Martin O’Neill will see this match as a means of returning to winning ways. Mid table Blackburn have lost their last two in the league while the Villains have won this encounter by a 1-0 scoreline in the last two meetings at Villa Park.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Aston Villa @ 11/10 (Betfred)
AH: Villa – ½ @ evens (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea
Chelsea have won the last three meetings at White Hart Lane by two 2-0 and one 1-0 scorelines. Another victory for Jose Mourinho’s side and another bet on the Under 2.5 goals market is the call.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Chelsea @ 8/11 (Ladbrokes)
AH: Chelsea – ¾ @ evens (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 4/6 (VCBet)
English Premiership Betting
David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting football betting bookmakers
Fulham vs Everton
Two sides enjoying an extended spell in the top 10 but it could be Fulham who edge closer to a place in Europe this Saturday. Chris Coleman’s side boast a 100% record against Everton at Craven Cottage since they joined the Premiership in 2001/02. Fulham have scored nine goals in these encounters with Everton finding the net just once. Fulham have won this match 2-0 on three occasions so correct scores fans could opt for that, or play it safe and bank on under 2.5 goals.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Fulham @ 8/5 (UK Betting)
AH: Fulham level ball @ evens (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Bolton Wanderers vs Wigan Athletic
If Bolton are to realistically challenge Manchester United and Chelsea at the top of the Premiership they need to win home games like this one. Prior to beating Fulham at Craven Cottage last week, Wigan lost three out of four on the road and that is the kind of form Wanderers need to remind them about.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Bolton @ 5/6 (UK Betting)
AH: Bolton – ½ @ 19/20 (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Charlton Athletic vs Manchester City
Poor old Charlton, already three points adrift of safety and they face a bogey side in Manchester City this weekend. The Addicks have not beaten City in their last four attempts, losing twice and drawing 2-2 twice. They have not won since 2000/01 when they hammered the Blues 4-0 but have since suffered a 3-0 reverse and last season, a 5-2 humiliation on their own turf. Stuart Pearce’s side won their first match in four attempts against Middlesbrough on Monday and will fancy their chances at The Valley.
Walker’s Word
1x2: City @ 15/8 (VCBet)
AH: City + ¼ @ 33/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/4 (Bet365)
Liverpool vs Reading
Liverpool are clicking into gear at last after beating Bordeaux 3-0 in midweek and destroying unbeaten Aston Villa 3-1 at the weekend. They face Reading at Anfield for the second time in as many weeks, after beating them 4-3 in the Carling Cup and another home win is likely.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Liverpool @ 1/3 (Betfred)
AH: Liverpool – 1 ¼ @ 33/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 5/6 (VCBet)
Manchester United vs Portsmouth
While United have dropped points at Fratton Park on two of their last three visits, at Old Trafford they are much more solid, winning all three encounters since Pompey’s promotion in the 2003/04 campaign. United were humbled in Denmark against FC Copenhagen in the week and will want to get back to winning ways immediately. Portmsouth may boast the meanest defence in the league but United in full flow is a frightening prospect.
Walker’s Word
1x2: United @ 2/7 (Ladbrokes)
AH: United – 1 ½ @ 21/20 (Bet365)
OU: Over 3.5 goals @ 2/1 (Betfred)
Watford vs Middlesbrough
Two teams in the lower reaches of the division but Watford could be made to wait further to record their first league win of the season. The Hornets have proven to be tough to beat, grinding out six draws in 10 matches but Middlesbrough could extend their stay in the bottom three with a win at Vicarage Road.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Middlesbrough @ 15/8 (UK Betting)
AH: Middlesbrough level ball @ 43/40 (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Newcastle United vs Sheffield United
Newcastle need to win this match if they are to avoid slipping into the bottom three but the club’s minor injury crisis could hold the key to this game. The Blades have reported a feud between Claude Davis and Ade Akinbiyi has been resolved which should boost morale but it is Newcastle that could pick up a season-boosting three points.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 8/11 (UK Betting)
AH: Newcastle – ¾ @ 39/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 6/5 (VCBet)
Sunday 5 November
West Ham United vs Arsenal
Arsenal have a poor record at Upton Park, winning just one of their last five Premiership visits and showed they couldn’t hit a barn door against Spartak Moscow in the week, squandering 20 clear chances. However, the Hammers have been dreadful this season and will find the Gunners a much sterner test than Blackburn, who they beat last Sunday.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Arsenal @ 8/13 (Coral)
AH: Arsenal – ¾ @ ¾ (Bet365)
OU: Over 2.5 goals @ 10/11 (VCBet)
Aston Villa vs Blackburn Rovers
Villa’s unbeaten record was taken away from them last weekend by a rampant Liverpool but Martin O’Neill will see this match as a means of returning to winning ways. Mid table Blackburn have lost their last two in the league while the Villains have won this encounter by a 1-0 scoreline in the last two meetings at Villa Park.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Aston Villa @ 11/10 (Betfred)
AH: Villa – ½ @ evens (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 8/13 (VCBet)
Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea
Chelsea have won the last three meetings at White Hart Lane by two 2-0 and one 1-0 scorelines. Another victory for Jose Mourinho’s side and another bet on the Under 2.5 goals market is the call.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Chelsea @ 8/11 (Ladbrokes)
AH: Chelsea – ¾ @ evens (Bet365)
OU: Under 2.5 goals @ 4/6 (VCBet)
English Premiership Betting
David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting football betting bookmakers
Thursday, October 19, 2006
English Premier League Betting
Old rivalries and derby matches galore will be played out across two days this weekend. Expect bottom clubs Charlton and Watford to do each other no favours at The Valley on Saturday, while Sunday could produce upsets at Old Trafford and the Riverside Stadium at large odds writes David Walker.
Saturday 21 October
Wigan Athletic vs Manchester City
Last season these teams were involved in a ding-dong Boxing Day encounter which finished 4-3 in Wigan’s favour. At the moment, Manchester City are fairing better than Paul Jewell’s side in the league, in 12th position on nine points compared to 17th and five points but with two inconsistent teams, home advantage could prevail
Walker’s Word
1x2: Wigan @ 13/10 (UK Betting)
AH: Wigan – ¼ @ 41/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over @ 5/4 (VCBet)
Charlton Athletic vs Watford
It’s the battle at the bottom of the Premiership as last placed Charlton tackle London rivals Watford, themselves just one place and one point better off. This will be a match that neither side want to lose and as a result could end in a draw which won’t benefit either of them.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 12/5 (VCBet)
AH: Watford + ½ @ 9/10 (Ladbrokes)
OU: Over @ 11/10 (Bet365)
Chelsea vs Portsmouth
One for the big hitters who will plough into Chelsea at odds on. Despite Portsmouth’s lofty position in the league in which they are just three points behind Jose Mourinho’s side there will only be one winner. For those of you who don’t want to bet on Chelsea at short odds, taking Portsmouth on the handicap or backing under 2.5 goals could be profitable at a better price.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Chelsea @ 1/4 (Betfred)
AH: Portsmouth + 1 ½ @ 4/5 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 4/5 (VCBet)
Everton vs Sheffield United
After a run of four matches without victory, Everton will see this match against the struggling Blades as a must win. Neil Warnock’s side are just outside the relegation zone in 16th, but are unbeaten in their last two matches. The bookmakers fancy an Everton cakewalk but it won’t be as easy as the odds suggest.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Everton @ 4/7 (VCBet)
AH: Everton – 1 @ 28/25 (Ladbrokes)
OU: Under @ 4/6 (Bet365)
Aston Villa vs Fulham
Both Aston Villa and Fulham are enjoying life in the top half of the table after several seasons in the doldrums but the smart money will be on the home side this weekend. Martin O’Neill’s side are not only unbeaten this season but they have won four of the last five encounters against Fulham at Villa Park, apart from last season which finished goalless.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Aston Villa @ 8/11 (Paddy Power)
AH: Villa – ¾ @ 43/40 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 8/11 (VCBet)
Sunday 22 October
Manchester United vs Liverpool
The jewel in the Premiership fixture list this weekend is undoubtedly United vs Liverpool. Top of the table United tackle stuttering Liverpool who have dropped points against Bolton and Blackburn in their last two matches. However, there could be an upset on the cards. Liverpool have won three of their last six visits to Old Trafford by a single goal and United have already lost at home to Arsenal this season.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Liverpool @ 7/2 (VCBet)
AH: Liverpool + ½ @ 43/50 (Ladbrokes)
OU: Over @ 7/5 (Bet365)
Blackburn Rovers vs Bolton Wanderers
This derby fixture is often very tight with few goals to cheer. It finished goalless twice last season and produced two 1-0 away wins the season before. In fact, this encounter has produced home and away draws in three of the last five Premiership seasons and that is not a trend I would want to back against.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 11/5 (Coral)
AH: Bolton + ¼ @ 4/5 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 4/7 (VCBet)
Middlesbrough vs Newcastle
In the North East derby Middlesbrough will have their work cut out against Newcastle. Middlesbrough have not beaten Newcastle for three seasons at the Riverside Stadium, with recent results finishing in two wins for the Magpies and a 2-2 draw sandwiched in between. Neither side has any form of note, which makes the odds on Glenn Roeder’s side all the more tempting.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 19/10 (VCBet)
AH: Newcastle level ball @ 9/8 (Bet365)
OU: Over @ 11/10 (VCBet)
Tottenham Hotspur vs West Ham United
The second London derby of the weekend sees struggling Spurs against relegation threatened West Ham. The bookmakers fancy a home win but it’s worth pointing out that this encounter has produced only five Premiership wins for Spurs in 11 matches played so the odds on about them does not look too appealing, despite how poorly the Hammers have faired in recent weeks. A tight match is expected, with six of the last eight league meetings finishing with two goals or fewer.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 12/5 (VCBet)
AH: West Ham + ½ @ 43/40 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 4/6 (Bet365)
Reading vs Arsenal
After a sluggish start to the season, Arsenal are finding their rhythm and will no doubt be paired together with Chelsea in numerous double bets this weekend. Considering Reading took points of Manchester United and kept Chelsea to within one goal at the Madejski Stadium this season the odds on Arsenal are not tempting. However, an interesting statistic is Reading have lost to Arsenal in all five competitive games ever played between the pair and unsurprisingly an away win is the expected result.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Arsenal @ 8/15 (Betfred)
AH: Arsenal – 1 @ 47/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over @ Evens (VCBet)
English Premiership Betting
David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.
Tags
Premiership soccer football betting soccer betting betting football betting bookmakers
Saturday 21 October
Wigan Athletic vs Manchester City
Last season these teams were involved in a ding-dong Boxing Day encounter which finished 4-3 in Wigan’s favour. At the moment, Manchester City are fairing better than Paul Jewell’s side in the league, in 12th position on nine points compared to 17th and five points but with two inconsistent teams, home advantage could prevail
Walker’s Word
1x2: Wigan @ 13/10 (UK Betting)
AH: Wigan – ¼ @ 41/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over @ 5/4 (VCBet)
Charlton Athletic vs Watford
It’s the battle at the bottom of the Premiership as last placed Charlton tackle London rivals Watford, themselves just one place and one point better off. This will be a match that neither side want to lose and as a result could end in a draw which won’t benefit either of them.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 12/5 (VCBet)
AH: Watford + ½ @ 9/10 (Ladbrokes)
OU: Over @ 11/10 (Bet365)
Chelsea vs Portsmouth
One for the big hitters who will plough into Chelsea at odds on. Despite Portsmouth’s lofty position in the league in which they are just three points behind Jose Mourinho’s side there will only be one winner. For those of you who don’t want to bet on Chelsea at short odds, taking Portsmouth on the handicap or backing under 2.5 goals could be profitable at a better price.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Chelsea @ 1/4 (Betfred)
AH: Portsmouth + 1 ½ @ 4/5 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 4/5 (VCBet)
Everton vs Sheffield United
After a run of four matches without victory, Everton will see this match against the struggling Blades as a must win. Neil Warnock’s side are just outside the relegation zone in 16th, but are unbeaten in their last two matches. The bookmakers fancy an Everton cakewalk but it won’t be as easy as the odds suggest.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Everton @ 4/7 (VCBet)
AH: Everton – 1 @ 28/25 (Ladbrokes)
OU: Under @ 4/6 (Bet365)
Aston Villa vs Fulham
Both Aston Villa and Fulham are enjoying life in the top half of the table after several seasons in the doldrums but the smart money will be on the home side this weekend. Martin O’Neill’s side are not only unbeaten this season but they have won four of the last five encounters against Fulham at Villa Park, apart from last season which finished goalless.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Aston Villa @ 8/11 (Paddy Power)
AH: Villa – ¾ @ 43/40 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 8/11 (VCBet)
Sunday 22 October
Manchester United vs Liverpool
The jewel in the Premiership fixture list this weekend is undoubtedly United vs Liverpool. Top of the table United tackle stuttering Liverpool who have dropped points against Bolton and Blackburn in their last two matches. However, there could be an upset on the cards. Liverpool have won three of their last six visits to Old Trafford by a single goal and United have already lost at home to Arsenal this season.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Liverpool @ 7/2 (VCBet)
AH: Liverpool + ½ @ 43/50 (Ladbrokes)
OU: Over @ 7/5 (Bet365)
Blackburn Rovers vs Bolton Wanderers
This derby fixture is often very tight with few goals to cheer. It finished goalless twice last season and produced two 1-0 away wins the season before. In fact, this encounter has produced home and away draws in three of the last five Premiership seasons and that is not a trend I would want to back against.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 11/5 (Coral)
AH: Bolton + ¼ @ 4/5 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 4/7 (VCBet)
Middlesbrough vs Newcastle
In the North East derby Middlesbrough will have their work cut out against Newcastle. Middlesbrough have not beaten Newcastle for three seasons at the Riverside Stadium, with recent results finishing in two wins for the Magpies and a 2-2 draw sandwiched in between. Neither side has any form of note, which makes the odds on Glenn Roeder’s side all the more tempting.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Newcastle @ 19/10 (VCBet)
AH: Newcastle level ball @ 9/8 (Bet365)
OU: Over @ 11/10 (VCBet)
Tottenham Hotspur vs West Ham United
The second London derby of the weekend sees struggling Spurs against relegation threatened West Ham. The bookmakers fancy a home win but it’s worth pointing out that this encounter has produced only five Premiership wins for Spurs in 11 matches played so the odds on about them does not look too appealing, despite how poorly the Hammers have faired in recent weeks. A tight match is expected, with six of the last eight league meetings finishing with two goals or fewer.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Draw @ 12/5 (VCBet)
AH: West Ham + ½ @ 43/40 (Bet365)
OU: Under @ 4/6 (Bet365)
Reading vs Arsenal
After a sluggish start to the season, Arsenal are finding their rhythm and will no doubt be paired together with Chelsea in numerous double bets this weekend. Considering Reading took points of Manchester United and kept Chelsea to within one goal at the Madejski Stadium this season the odds on Arsenal are not tempting. However, an interesting statistic is Reading have lost to Arsenal in all five competitive games ever played between the pair and unsurprisingly an away win is the expected result.
Walker’s Word
1x2: Arsenal @ 8/15 (Betfred)
AH: Arsenal – 1 @ 47/40 (Bet365)
OU: Over @ Evens (VCBet)
English Premiership Betting
David Walker is the resident tipster at a popular free bets website. Feature Walker's Word on your own website, blog or forum for free each week.
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Wednesday, October 11, 2006
The ‘No Bell’ Peace Prize
I’m not one to blow my own horn; in fact, I only ever whip my horn out on special occasions, such as a birthday, a Christmas party or a comical episode of Soccer AM. However, it’s with a genuine sense of pride that I speak of my recent charity work; I’ve been heavily involved in raising awareness of lesbian issues via the medium of DVD.
A lot of my good work was undone when Paul Scholes allegedly made a homophobic remark to a referee. A spokesman for OutRage! may have quipped, “The cheek of it; if anyone should respect minority groups, it’s a ginger.”
I have a theory that Wayne Rooney’s poor recent form is a result of an infatuation with the carrot-topped midfielder. Let’s look at the evidence; Rooney’s slump began when Scholes returned to first team action; Wayne grew a camp ginger beard in some sort of bizarre homage to his hero, and if conclusive proof was still needed, Scholes is a well respected old pro; Rooney knows all about that. Should Sir Alex sell Scholes in order to get the best out of Rooney? I’ll let the purple-nosed one decide. Should Man U be backed at 4/7 to see off a struggling Wigan? Definitely.
Rooney is understandably frustrated by his below par performances; I’ve got a DVD that could help him out. It was a cheap shot for Rooney to blame the FA for his atrocious run, the staff at ‘Fatties Anonymous’ are said to be devastated by this unfounded allegation. Rooney’s an even money shot with the majority of the big boys to find the net this weekend, only the clinically insane will be on.
Glenn Hoddle labelled Didier Zokora ‘a blatant cheat’ after he dived to seal a victory against Pompey, and if anyone knows about karma it’s the eccentric tambourine-banging former England manager. Spurs travel to Villa Park to play a team with a 100% home record; get on the Villa at 11/8.
Juan Pablo Angel should be backed at 13/2 to net the opener. I can exclusively reveal that the Colombian hitman has a surprise tactic up his sleeve; he plans to roll the ball gently towards goal.
Thierry Henry is not only a great footballer, he’s a gentleman. I’m not sure how he persuaded his French team-mates to lie down against Scotland, but this charitable gesture proves the undoubted class of the man. The enigmatic genius looks back to his sublime best, he’s even added heading to his already impressive repertoire. Henry has been priced up at 12/1 to score a hat-trick against Watford at the Emirates, that’s bordering on appealing.
Van Persie’s also in fine nick, his volley against Charlton was the most talked about strike since mad Maggie tucked up the miners. Henry and Van Persie could potentially be the greatest double act since Skinner and Baddiel first watched Seinfeld and Costanza. You can’t get rich backing Arsenal at 1/5 to see off the outgunned Watford, but who wants to be Paul McCartney?
Joey Barton was fined £2,000 this week for showing Everton fans his backside. The Scousers were quite rightly seething about Joey’s full moon; if they wanted to see a hairy bum they would have logged on to robbiesavage.com. Everton are worth a punt at 9/5 to leave the Riverside with the win, a 1-0 scoreline is in play at 15/2 and ‘under 2.5’ goals in the game is a gimme at 4/6. (This match has had two goals or less on the last nine occasions.)
Fulham are the weekend nap at 11/10 at home to a moribund Charlton. The Addicks haven’t won at the Cottage for 20 years and have lost all of their matches on the road this season. Poor old Ian Dowie, it doesn’t look pretty.
It’s been a horrific season for Pompey’s Pedro Mendes. First, ‘Gentle Ben’ Thatcher introduced him to his forearm; then he was an unwilling co-star in a Didier Zokora production. As West Ham are the latest visitors to Fratton Park, a change of luck is almost guaranteed for Pedro; a home win appeals at even money.
Frank Lampard had the barefaced cheek to suggest that England need two holding midfielders to accommodate him; presumably one to hold the burgers and the other to hold the fries. Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has stated that he’ll continue to select misfiring striker Andriy Shevchenko until he scores; Reading definitely won’t be on the end of a thumping. Backing Chelsea to win by either a 1-0 or a 2-0 scoreline looks a solid route to profit at 5/2.
Rafa Benitez changes his team more often than I have hot dinners. Actually, that’s probably an unfair comparison; Heather Mills wins the triple jump more often than the wife ventures into the kitchen. The constant tinkering hasn’t had a detrimental effect on performances though, Liverpool will see off Blackburn at 1/2.
Rovers haven’t had a man sent off for eight games now; that’s approaching a club record. It’s no coincidence that their disciplinary problems have eased since offloading Craig Bellamy to Liverpool; they should be awarded the ‘No Bell’ peace prize. Apologies. Bellamy may be a complete nause, but he’s a decent footballer; he’s almost nailed on at 9/2 to open the scoring against his former team-mates.
The acc of the week:
The accer this week is so conclusive, if Saddam Hussein introduced it as evidence in his trial, he’d be immediately acquitted. Man Utd, Arsenal, Everton, Portsmouth and Fulham are the picks; the payout is a gargantuan 20/1.
The quote of the week:
“We urge Paul Scholes to apologise and to express his opposition to homophobia. It might help him understand and appreciate gay issues if he visited Manchester's Gay Centre and Lesbian & Gay Foundation.”
Would it not be easier to just read Ashley Cole’s autobiography? (He mentions how tough it was dealing with false accusations.)
The lay man:
Scientists believe that anything is possible; they obviously haven’t taken into consideration Charlton’s form away from home. Lay the Addicks at 3/1.
Weekend Betting:
Wigan v Man Utd Saturday 14th October 12:45 Live on Sky
Wigan 6/1
Draw 14/5
Man Utd 4/7
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to score at any time 15/8
Arsenal v Watford Saturday 14th October 15:00
Arsenal 1/5
Draw 11/2
Watford 16/1
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Henry and Van Persie both to score 3/1
Aston Villa v Tottenham Saturday 14th October 15:00
Aston Villa 11/8
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 5/2
Get on: Aston Villa
Match Special:
Angel to score with a header 9/2
Liverpool v Blackburn Saturday 14th October 15:00
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 3/1
Blackburn 7/1
Get on: Liverpool
Match Special:
Bellamy to score two or more goals 4/1
Man City v Sheff Utd Saturday 14th October 15:00
Man City 8/11
Draw 13/5
Sheff Utd 4/1
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
No goalscorer in the match 10/1
Middlesbrough v Everton Saturday 14th October 15:00
Middlesbrough 13/8
Draw 9/4
Everton 9/5
Get on: Everton
Match Special:
Andy Johnson to score the only goal of the game 28/1
Portsmouth v West Ham Saturday 14th October 15:00
Portsmouth Evs
Draw 9/4
West Ham 10/3
Get on: Portsmouth
Match Special:
Pedro Mendes to score from outside the area 12/1
Reading v Chelsea Saturday 14th October 17:15 Live on Premiership Plus
Reading 13/2
Draw 10/3
Chelsea 1/2
Get on: Chelsea
Match Special:
Drogba to score the first goal 9/2
Newcastle v Bolton Sunday 15th October 16:00 Live on Sky
Newcastle 11/8
Draw 11/5
Bolton 21/10
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Fulham v Charlton Monday 16th October 20:00 Live on Sky
Fulham 11/10
Draw 9/4
Charlton 13/5
Get on: Fulham
Match Special:
Fulham to score three or more goals 7/2
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
A lot of my good work was undone when Paul Scholes allegedly made a homophobic remark to a referee. A spokesman for OutRage! may have quipped, “The cheek of it; if anyone should respect minority groups, it’s a ginger.”
I have a theory that Wayne Rooney’s poor recent form is a result of an infatuation with the carrot-topped midfielder. Let’s look at the evidence; Rooney’s slump began when Scholes returned to first team action; Wayne grew a camp ginger beard in some sort of bizarre homage to his hero, and if conclusive proof was still needed, Scholes is a well respected old pro; Rooney knows all about that. Should Sir Alex sell Scholes in order to get the best out of Rooney? I’ll let the purple-nosed one decide. Should Man U be backed at 4/7 to see off a struggling Wigan? Definitely.
Rooney is understandably frustrated by his below par performances; I’ve got a DVD that could help him out. It was a cheap shot for Rooney to blame the FA for his atrocious run, the staff at ‘Fatties Anonymous’ are said to be devastated by this unfounded allegation. Rooney’s an even money shot with the majority of the big boys to find the net this weekend, only the clinically insane will be on.
Glenn Hoddle labelled Didier Zokora ‘a blatant cheat’ after he dived to seal a victory against Pompey, and if anyone knows about karma it’s the eccentric tambourine-banging former England manager. Spurs travel to Villa Park to play a team with a 100% home record; get on the Villa at 11/8.
Juan Pablo Angel should be backed at 13/2 to net the opener. I can exclusively reveal that the Colombian hitman has a surprise tactic up his sleeve; he plans to roll the ball gently towards goal.
Thierry Henry is not only a great footballer, he’s a gentleman. I’m not sure how he persuaded his French team-mates to lie down against Scotland, but this charitable gesture proves the undoubted class of the man. The enigmatic genius looks back to his sublime best, he’s even added heading to his already impressive repertoire. Henry has been priced up at 12/1 to score a hat-trick against Watford at the Emirates, that’s bordering on appealing.
Van Persie’s also in fine nick, his volley against Charlton was the most talked about strike since mad Maggie tucked up the miners. Henry and Van Persie could potentially be the greatest double act since Skinner and Baddiel first watched Seinfeld and Costanza. You can’t get rich backing Arsenal at 1/5 to see off the outgunned Watford, but who wants to be Paul McCartney?
Joey Barton was fined £2,000 this week for showing Everton fans his backside. The Scousers were quite rightly seething about Joey’s full moon; if they wanted to see a hairy bum they would have logged on to robbiesavage.com. Everton are worth a punt at 9/5 to leave the Riverside with the win, a 1-0 scoreline is in play at 15/2 and ‘under 2.5’ goals in the game is a gimme at 4/6. (This match has had two goals or less on the last nine occasions.)
Fulham are the weekend nap at 11/10 at home to a moribund Charlton. The Addicks haven’t won at the Cottage for 20 years and have lost all of their matches on the road this season. Poor old Ian Dowie, it doesn’t look pretty.
It’s been a horrific season for Pompey’s Pedro Mendes. First, ‘Gentle Ben’ Thatcher introduced him to his forearm; then he was an unwilling co-star in a Didier Zokora production. As West Ham are the latest visitors to Fratton Park, a change of luck is almost guaranteed for Pedro; a home win appeals at even money.
Frank Lampard had the barefaced cheek to suggest that England need two holding midfielders to accommodate him; presumably one to hold the burgers and the other to hold the fries. Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has stated that he’ll continue to select misfiring striker Andriy Shevchenko until he scores; Reading definitely won’t be on the end of a thumping. Backing Chelsea to win by either a 1-0 or a 2-0 scoreline looks a solid route to profit at 5/2.
Rafa Benitez changes his team more often than I have hot dinners. Actually, that’s probably an unfair comparison; Heather Mills wins the triple jump more often than the wife ventures into the kitchen. The constant tinkering hasn’t had a detrimental effect on performances though, Liverpool will see off Blackburn at 1/2.
Rovers haven’t had a man sent off for eight games now; that’s approaching a club record. It’s no coincidence that their disciplinary problems have eased since offloading Craig Bellamy to Liverpool; they should be awarded the ‘No Bell’ peace prize. Apologies. Bellamy may be a complete nause, but he’s a decent footballer; he’s almost nailed on at 9/2 to open the scoring against his former team-mates.
The acc of the week:
The accer this week is so conclusive, if Saddam Hussein introduced it as evidence in his trial, he’d be immediately acquitted. Man Utd, Arsenal, Everton, Portsmouth and Fulham are the picks; the payout is a gargantuan 20/1.
The quote of the week:
“We urge Paul Scholes to apologise and to express his opposition to homophobia. It might help him understand and appreciate gay issues if he visited Manchester's Gay Centre and Lesbian & Gay Foundation.”
Would it not be easier to just read Ashley Cole’s autobiography? (He mentions how tough it was dealing with false accusations.)
The lay man:
Scientists believe that anything is possible; they obviously haven’t taken into consideration Charlton’s form away from home. Lay the Addicks at 3/1.
Weekend Betting:
Wigan v Man Utd Saturday 14th October 12:45 Live on Sky
Wigan 6/1
Draw 14/5
Man Utd 4/7
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to score at any time 15/8
Arsenal v Watford Saturday 14th October 15:00
Arsenal 1/5
Draw 11/2
Watford 16/1
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Henry and Van Persie both to score 3/1
Aston Villa v Tottenham Saturday 14th October 15:00
Aston Villa 11/8
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 5/2
Get on: Aston Villa
Match Special:
Angel to score with a header 9/2
Liverpool v Blackburn Saturday 14th October 15:00
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 3/1
Blackburn 7/1
Get on: Liverpool
Match Special:
Bellamy to score two or more goals 4/1
Man City v Sheff Utd Saturday 14th October 15:00
Man City 8/11
Draw 13/5
Sheff Utd 4/1
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
No goalscorer in the match 10/1
Middlesbrough v Everton Saturday 14th October 15:00
Middlesbrough 13/8
Draw 9/4
Everton 9/5
Get on: Everton
Match Special:
Andy Johnson to score the only goal of the game 28/1
Portsmouth v West Ham Saturday 14th October 15:00
Portsmouth Evs
Draw 9/4
West Ham 10/3
Get on: Portsmouth
Match Special:
Pedro Mendes to score from outside the area 12/1
Reading v Chelsea Saturday 14th October 17:15 Live on Premiership Plus
Reading 13/2
Draw 10/3
Chelsea 1/2
Get on: Chelsea
Match Special:
Drogba to score the first goal 9/2
Newcastle v Bolton Sunday 15th October 16:00 Live on Sky
Newcastle 11/8
Draw 11/5
Bolton 21/10
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Fulham v Charlton Monday 16th October 20:00 Live on Sky
Fulham 11/10
Draw 9/4
Charlton 13/5
Get on: Fulham
Match Special:
Fulham to score three or more goals 7/2
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
Thursday, August 24, 2006
A Ferd in the hand is worth two on the box
There’s only one thing in life that’s more enjoyable than an evening with the wife and kids, and that’s an evening without the wife and kids. Whenever I’m lucky enough to be rid of the evil one and her two clones, I like to relax in front of the box with a couple of lagers watching quality television programming.
As the free-view doesn’t kick off until 11:00pm, my programme of choice is ideally football related and entertaining, thus immediately ruling Soccer AM out of the equation. With the exception of the imperious Jeff Stelling show on a Saturday afternoon, other programmes struggle to match my demanding criteria, so you can imagine my unconfined joy when news broke that Rio Ferdinand was set to enter the world of light entertainment.
His wind-up show was a disappointment, the sketch where he ‘murked’ the drug testers by forgetting to turn up was left out, as was the one where he ‘murked’ the Man U board by refusing to sign a contract until their wage offer rose from £100,000 to £110,000 a week. I imagine the sketch where he was going to ‘murk’ Martin Jol by pretending to bid £18m for Michael Carrick was pulled for being too unrealistic.
Rio has been offered another bite at the TV cherry, the premise being that Ferd and his crew will ‘pimp’ up the pads of….fellow millionaire professional footballers. I literally can wait.
Talking of pimping, Wayne Rooney misses United’s match against Watford due to the FA upholding a ridiculous ban for a red card in a friendly. Rooney’s agent hit back by threatening to withhold Wayne’s image rights; I can only guess that Rooney suggested ‘upping the ante’ and Stretford misunderstood. United have won their last six against Watford, the Mancs are the weekend nap at 2/5.
With Rooney banned, best pal Cristiano ‘more dives than Glasgow’ Ronaldo should be backed to net the opener. Ronnie’s been priced up at 15/2, a price so big I almost fell over.
Watford were absolutely robbed by the ref at Goodison Park, they’re now playing Man U, they’ll be lucky if they’re awarded a throw in. Watford won’t score, take 21/20 about a United win coupled with a clean sheet.
Arsenal have treated Man City in recent years like Ben Thatcher treats Pedro Mendes, they’ve pounded on them unmercifully. (Mendes is not the first person to be unable to work thanks to Thatcher.) Arsenal have left Manchester with all three points on their last eight visits, you’ve got to fancy the Gunners at 8/11 to reach number nine. Someone’s going to take a pommeling at the hands of the Wenger boys soon, there’s a decent chance it’ll be Thatcher’s mob.
Blackburn players do enjoy a challenge. The wild Rovers had two players sent off on the opening day, that’s virtually a friendly for Savage & co. Chelsea were turned over at Ewood Park last season, a repeat is out of the question. A wounded Chelsea are a great bet at 4/7 to make amends for their Boro bashing.
I had my fingers burnt by Liverpool last week, but the Reds can make amends at home to West Ham. Liverpool’s attacking options were limited when Stevie G snatched the FA Cup from the Hammers’ grasp in May, but now they have three quality marksmen and Peter Crouch competing for a start. The Pool should be backed at a healthy 1/2.
Fulham look a promising investment at home to Sheff U at 10/11. Chris Coleman’s battlers won the same amount of home matches as Manchester United last season, only a disastrous campaign on the road ensured a 12th place finish. I’m a little worried about the Malbranque situation, Chris Coleman appears to be cutting off his nose to spite his face; that’s only a good idea if you’re Iain Dowie. If the Cottagers come anywhere near replicating last season’s home form, we’re venturing towards decent stake territory.
David O’Leary’s lackadaisical attitude ensured the Villa team rolled over and died away at Arsenal in a 5-0 defeat just four months ago, yet under Martin O’Neill, the same group of players were able to fight like the wife ‘when the decorators visit’ to nick a commendable draw. The Villa are worth a bet at 7/5 at home to Newcastle, simply because of the O’Neill factor.
I’m a great believer in positive thinking. There’s an old saying that I hold dear, ‘If at first you don’t succeed, then Paul Jewell will probably buy you’. You shouldn’t kick a dead dog, but I can’t help but feel that the signing of Heskey will prove disastrous for Wigan. Reading have started the season well, they’re worth a second look at 3/1 to leave the JJB with three points.
The acc of the week:
The accer this week is so certain, that even under extreme torture it would refuse to budge. Liverpool, Fulham, Tottenham, Arsenal and Aston Villa are the good things, you’re looking at a payout of 17/1.
The weekend specials:
“A little Camp?” - Ivan Campo to score with a header 20/1
“A professional Fowl” - Robbie Fowler to score a penalty 6/1
“Bull's high” - Jimmy Bullard to score with a header 14/1
“A very dirty Vid” - Mark Viduka to be sent off 20/1
The quote of the week:
“He’s not intelligent.”
Jose ‘all tact’ Mourinho, when asked about Michael Essien.
The lay man:
Sheff Utd are begging to be laid at 10/3 for their trip to the Cottage, this is possibly how the expression ‘easy money’ originated. Help yourself at Betfair, Backandlay or Betdaq.
Weekend Betting:
Liverpool v West Ham Saturday 26th August 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 10/3
West Ham 15/2
Get on: Liverpool
Match Special:
Bellamy to score two or more goals 5/1
Charlton v Bolton Saturday 26th August 15.00
Charlton 6/4
Draw 9/4
Bolton 9/5
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Fulham v Sheff Utd Saturday 26th August 15.00
Fulham 10/11
Draw 9/4
Sheff Utd 3/1
Get on: Fulham
Match Special:
Papa Bouba Diop to score with a header 10/1
Tottenham v Everton Saturday 26th August 15.00
Tottenham 4/5
Draw 12/5
Everton 4/1
Get on: Tottenham
Match Special:
Berbatov and Keane both to score 13/2
Watford v Man Utd Saturday 26th August 15.00
Watford 15/2
Draw 10/3
Man Utd 2/5
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to score direct from a free-kick 8/1
Wigan v Reading Saturday 26th August 15.00
Wigan Evs
Draw 9/4
Reading 3/1
Get on: Reading
Match Special:
Lita to score the only goal of the game 50/1
Man City v Arsenal Saturday 26th August 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Man City 9/2
Draw 13/5
Arsenal 8/11
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Henry to score a hat-trick 25/1
Aston Villa v Newcastle Sunday 27th August 14.00 Live on Sky
Aston Villa 7/5
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 2/1
Get on: Aston Villa
Match Special:
Angel to score with a header 6/1
Blackburn v Chelsea Sunday 27th August 16.00 Live on Sky
Blackburn 6/1
Draw 11/4
Chelsea 4/7
Get on: Chelsea
Match Special:
John Terry to score at any time 5/1
Middlesbrough v Portsmouth Monday 28th August 20.00 Live on Sky
Middlesbrough 5/4
Draw 5/2
Portsmouth 11/4
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Boateng to be booked 6/4
As the free-view doesn’t kick off until 11:00pm, my programme of choice is ideally football related and entertaining, thus immediately ruling Soccer AM out of the equation. With the exception of the imperious Jeff Stelling show on a Saturday afternoon, other programmes struggle to match my demanding criteria, so you can imagine my unconfined joy when news broke that Rio Ferdinand was set to enter the world of light entertainment.
His wind-up show was a disappointment, the sketch where he ‘murked’ the drug testers by forgetting to turn up was left out, as was the one where he ‘murked’ the Man U board by refusing to sign a contract until their wage offer rose from £100,000 to £110,000 a week. I imagine the sketch where he was going to ‘murk’ Martin Jol by pretending to bid £18m for Michael Carrick was pulled for being too unrealistic.
Rio has been offered another bite at the TV cherry, the premise being that Ferd and his crew will ‘pimp’ up the pads of….fellow millionaire professional footballers. I literally can wait.
Talking of pimping, Wayne Rooney misses United’s match against Watford due to the FA upholding a ridiculous ban for a red card in a friendly. Rooney’s agent hit back by threatening to withhold Wayne’s image rights; I can only guess that Rooney suggested ‘upping the ante’ and Stretford misunderstood. United have won their last six against Watford, the Mancs are the weekend nap at 2/5.
With Rooney banned, best pal Cristiano ‘more dives than Glasgow’ Ronaldo should be backed to net the opener. Ronnie’s been priced up at 15/2, a price so big I almost fell over.
Watford were absolutely robbed by the ref at Goodison Park, they’re now playing Man U, they’ll be lucky if they’re awarded a throw in. Watford won’t score, take 21/20 about a United win coupled with a clean sheet.
Arsenal have treated Man City in recent years like Ben Thatcher treats Pedro Mendes, they’ve pounded on them unmercifully. (Mendes is not the first person to be unable to work thanks to Thatcher.) Arsenal have left Manchester with all three points on their last eight visits, you’ve got to fancy the Gunners at 8/11 to reach number nine. Someone’s going to take a pommeling at the hands of the Wenger boys soon, there’s a decent chance it’ll be Thatcher’s mob.
Blackburn players do enjoy a challenge. The wild Rovers had two players sent off on the opening day, that’s virtually a friendly for Savage & co. Chelsea were turned over at Ewood Park last season, a repeat is out of the question. A wounded Chelsea are a great bet at 4/7 to make amends for their Boro bashing.
I had my fingers burnt by Liverpool last week, but the Reds can make amends at home to West Ham. Liverpool’s attacking options were limited when Stevie G snatched the FA Cup from the Hammers’ grasp in May, but now they have three quality marksmen and Peter Crouch competing for a start. The Pool should be backed at a healthy 1/2.
Fulham look a promising investment at home to Sheff U at 10/11. Chris Coleman’s battlers won the same amount of home matches as Manchester United last season, only a disastrous campaign on the road ensured a 12th place finish. I’m a little worried about the Malbranque situation, Chris Coleman appears to be cutting off his nose to spite his face; that’s only a good idea if you’re Iain Dowie. If the Cottagers come anywhere near replicating last season’s home form, we’re venturing towards decent stake territory.
David O’Leary’s lackadaisical attitude ensured the Villa team rolled over and died away at Arsenal in a 5-0 defeat just four months ago, yet under Martin O’Neill, the same group of players were able to fight like the wife ‘when the decorators visit’ to nick a commendable draw. The Villa are worth a bet at 7/5 at home to Newcastle, simply because of the O’Neill factor.
I’m a great believer in positive thinking. There’s an old saying that I hold dear, ‘If at first you don’t succeed, then Paul Jewell will probably buy you’. You shouldn’t kick a dead dog, but I can’t help but feel that the signing of Heskey will prove disastrous for Wigan. Reading have started the season well, they’re worth a second look at 3/1 to leave the JJB with three points.
The acc of the week:
The accer this week is so certain, that even under extreme torture it would refuse to budge. Liverpool, Fulham, Tottenham, Arsenal and Aston Villa are the good things, you’re looking at a payout of 17/1.
The weekend specials:
“A little Camp?” - Ivan Campo to score with a header 20/1
“A professional Fowl” - Robbie Fowler to score a penalty 6/1
“Bull's high” - Jimmy Bullard to score with a header 14/1
“A very dirty Vid” - Mark Viduka to be sent off 20/1
The quote of the week:
“He’s not intelligent.”
Jose ‘all tact’ Mourinho, when asked about Michael Essien.
The lay man:
Sheff Utd are begging to be laid at 10/3 for their trip to the Cottage, this is possibly how the expression ‘easy money’ originated. Help yourself at Betfair, Backandlay or Betdaq.
Weekend Betting:
Liverpool v West Ham Saturday 26th August 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 10/3
West Ham 15/2
Get on: Liverpool
Match Special:
Bellamy to score two or more goals 5/1
Charlton v Bolton Saturday 26th August 15.00
Charlton 6/4
Draw 9/4
Bolton 9/5
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Fulham v Sheff Utd Saturday 26th August 15.00
Fulham 10/11
Draw 9/4
Sheff Utd 3/1
Get on: Fulham
Match Special:
Papa Bouba Diop to score with a header 10/1
Tottenham v Everton Saturday 26th August 15.00
Tottenham 4/5
Draw 12/5
Everton 4/1
Get on: Tottenham
Match Special:
Berbatov and Keane both to score 13/2
Watford v Man Utd Saturday 26th August 15.00
Watford 15/2
Draw 10/3
Man Utd 2/5
Get on: Man Utd
Match Special:
Ronaldo to score direct from a free-kick 8/1
Wigan v Reading Saturday 26th August 15.00
Wigan Evs
Draw 9/4
Reading 3/1
Get on: Reading
Match Special:
Lita to score the only goal of the game 50/1
Man City v Arsenal Saturday 26th August 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Man City 9/2
Draw 13/5
Arsenal 8/11
Get on: Arsenal
Match Special:
Henry to score a hat-trick 25/1
Aston Villa v Newcastle Sunday 27th August 14.00 Live on Sky
Aston Villa 7/5
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 2/1
Get on: Aston Villa
Match Special:
Angel to score with a header 6/1
Blackburn v Chelsea Sunday 27th August 16.00 Live on Sky
Blackburn 6/1
Draw 11/4
Chelsea 4/7
Get on: Chelsea
Match Special:
John Terry to score at any time 5/1
Middlesbrough v Portsmouth Monday 28th August 20.00 Live on Sky
Middlesbrough 5/4
Draw 5/2
Portsmouth 11/4
Get on: Draw
Match Special:
Boateng to be booked 6/4
Thursday, August 17, 2006
A Drog with two ricks
Occasionally, a person can become so synonymous with a certain action that the English language will evolve as a result. For example, if the sight of anything Portuguese sends you into a psychotic rage, you’re ‘doing a Rooney’, if your alcoholic wife beats you up due to unresolved rage issues, she’s ‘knocked out a Gerry’, and if you pay six times over the correct market value for a mediocre footballer, you’ve ‘pulled a Fergie’.
We’ve all been had in the net on the odd occasion, but Fergie has bought more turkeys than Sainsbury’s in recent years. Michael Carrick is the latest addition to a list that includes Kleberson, Forlan, Veron and my personal favourite, the Djemba brothers. After blowing an incredible £18.6m on the talented but ultimately limited midfielder, Sir Alex has once again been tucked up like a sleeping baby.
Fulham can continue the theme of stitching up the purple-nosed one. Rooney’s a fitness doubt for the Old Trafford opener; after reading his autobiography, it comes as no surprise that he’s struggling with a groin injury. Fulham scored twice against Man U in both of their meetings last season, 12/1 about a shock is just too big.
If Martin Jol has finished laughing, he’ll take his Tottenham team to a tricky match at the Reebok. Jol has bought and sold exceptionally well in the summer, with Berbatov and Zokora being standout additions to the squad. Zokora believes he can be the ‘Vieira of the Lane’; expect him to be completely outplayed by Fabregas when they meet Arsenal. Tottenham are a decent team, but they always struggle against Bolton (they’ve lost six of their last seven league matches); I can’t see past the draw at 9/4.
The Liverpool players will be pleased to hear that Neil Warnock is banned from the touchline when they visit Bramall Lane, although this may not stop Warnock from launching threatening paper aeroplanes from the stand. Liverpool’s reserves saw off a full strength Chelsea last week, their first team receive the nap of the week award at a healthy 4/7.
Wigan manager Paul Jewell is a jovial character, but something tells me he won’t be smiling after his team take a mullering at St James’ Park. Wigan faced Newcastle on three occasions last season, the team playing at home won every match. Dull, but true. Wigan have Heskey, Newcastle have the points in the bag at 8/11.
Everton must be backed at 8/13 at home to new boys Watford. The partnership of Beattie and Johnson looks promising; Beattie can win the flick-ons to allow AJ to go down to ‘earn’ the penalty. Watford have visited Goodison Park on nine previous occasions, they’ve lost every time.
Gareth Southgate has been busy in the transfer market, the signing of Julio Arca for less than £2m looks an inspired piece of business. Reading are nicknamed the Royals, and like their German counterparts in Buckingham Palace, they’ll remain pointless on Saturday night. I do like the Boro at 9/5.
The Villa fans are a lot like me, happiness can be gained from just one little Yank. The Villa have lost at Highbury for the last eight years, it’s a good job this one is being played at the Emirates, they’re unbeaten there. There’s a momentum behind the Villa thanks to the takeover (I was a Randy Lerner once) and the arrival of Martin ‘The Saviour’ O’Neill; it would be folly to invest in the Gunners at 3/10. A red card in the match is on offer at 7/2; Graeme Poll is ‘officiating’, so you’re 50% less likely to collect.
Michael Ballack was substituted after 25 minutes in the Community Shield, I know what it’s like to finish prematurely, it’s no picnic. Four of the previous six matches between Chelsea and Man City have finished 1-0, with Drogba almost certain to squander a couple of chances; a repeat of the 1-0 scoreline at 6/1 looks a decent wager. If Ballack and Shevchenko both start, I’d rather be on a 2-0 stroll for the Champions at a healthy 11/2.
Last week’s accer hit both posts and the bar before being cleared off the line, this week’s will fly straight in the top corner. Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Chelsea are the chosen ones, the accer will pay out at 14/1 when successful.
The weekend specials:
“Tim'll fix it” - Cahill to score with a header 11/2
“Young a tart” - Luke Young to be booked for diving 16/1
“A bitter Lehmann” - Aston Villa to score a goal Evs
“Duff’ll bag” - Damien Duff to score two or more goals 9/1
The quote of the week:
“What I’m looking for is flexibility.”
Steve McClaren knows the score.
The probably misheard quote of the week:
“I’m internally grateful to Steve McClaren.”
Dean Ashton desperately wanted that cap.
The lay man:
You’ve got to love the betting exchanges. People are lining up to back Arsenal at 1/3; if you ‘lay’ that bet, you’re effectively backing either the draw or a Villa win at 3/1. Happy, happy days.
Weekend Betting:
Sheff Utd v Liverpool Saturday 19th August 12.45 Live on Sky
Sheff Utd 6/1
Draw 14/5
Liverpool 4/7
Arsenal v Aston Villa Saturday 19th August 15.00
Arsenal 3/10
Draw 7/2
Aston Villa 12/1
Everton v Watford Saturday 19th August 15.00
Everton 8/13
Draw 5/2
Watford 5/1
Newcastle v Wigan Saturday 19th August 15.00
Newcastle 8/11
Draw 5/2
Wigan 4/1
Portsmouth v Blackburn Saturday 19th August 15.00
Portsmouth 6/4
Draw 9/4
Blackburn 21/10
Reading v Middlesbrough Saturday 19th August 15.00
Reading 6/4
Draw 9/4
Middlesbrough 9/5
West Ham v Charlton Saturday 19th August 15.00
West Ham 11/10
Draw 9/4
Charlton 3/1
Bolton v Tottenham Saturday 19th August 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Bolton 17/10
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 17/10
Man Utd v Fulham Sunday 20th August 13.30 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 3/10
Draw 9/2
Fulham 12/1
Chelsea v Man City Sunday 20th August 16.00 Live on Sky
Chelsea 1/4
Draw 9/2
Man City 12/1
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
We’ve all been had in the net on the odd occasion, but Fergie has bought more turkeys than Sainsbury’s in recent years. Michael Carrick is the latest addition to a list that includes Kleberson, Forlan, Veron and my personal favourite, the Djemba brothers. After blowing an incredible £18.6m on the talented but ultimately limited midfielder, Sir Alex has once again been tucked up like a sleeping baby.
Fulham can continue the theme of stitching up the purple-nosed one. Rooney’s a fitness doubt for the Old Trafford opener; after reading his autobiography, it comes as no surprise that he’s struggling with a groin injury. Fulham scored twice against Man U in both of their meetings last season, 12/1 about a shock is just too big.
If Martin Jol has finished laughing, he’ll take his Tottenham team to a tricky match at the Reebok. Jol has bought and sold exceptionally well in the summer, with Berbatov and Zokora being standout additions to the squad. Zokora believes he can be the ‘Vieira of the Lane’; expect him to be completely outplayed by Fabregas when they meet Arsenal. Tottenham are a decent team, but they always struggle against Bolton (they’ve lost six of their last seven league matches); I can’t see past the draw at 9/4.
The Liverpool players will be pleased to hear that Neil Warnock is banned from the touchline when they visit Bramall Lane, although this may not stop Warnock from launching threatening paper aeroplanes from the stand. Liverpool’s reserves saw off a full strength Chelsea last week, their first team receive the nap of the week award at a healthy 4/7.
Wigan manager Paul Jewell is a jovial character, but something tells me he won’t be smiling after his team take a mullering at St James’ Park. Wigan faced Newcastle on three occasions last season, the team playing at home won every match. Dull, but true. Wigan have Heskey, Newcastle have the points in the bag at 8/11.
Everton must be backed at 8/13 at home to new boys Watford. The partnership of Beattie and Johnson looks promising; Beattie can win the flick-ons to allow AJ to go down to ‘earn’ the penalty. Watford have visited Goodison Park on nine previous occasions, they’ve lost every time.
Gareth Southgate has been busy in the transfer market, the signing of Julio Arca for less than £2m looks an inspired piece of business. Reading are nicknamed the Royals, and like their German counterparts in Buckingham Palace, they’ll remain pointless on Saturday night. I do like the Boro at 9/5.
The Villa fans are a lot like me, happiness can be gained from just one little Yank. The Villa have lost at Highbury for the last eight years, it’s a good job this one is being played at the Emirates, they’re unbeaten there. There’s a momentum behind the Villa thanks to the takeover (I was a Randy Lerner once) and the arrival of Martin ‘The Saviour’ O’Neill; it would be folly to invest in the Gunners at 3/10. A red card in the match is on offer at 7/2; Graeme Poll is ‘officiating’, so you’re 50% less likely to collect.
Michael Ballack was substituted after 25 minutes in the Community Shield, I know what it’s like to finish prematurely, it’s no picnic. Four of the previous six matches between Chelsea and Man City have finished 1-0, with Drogba almost certain to squander a couple of chances; a repeat of the 1-0 scoreline at 6/1 looks a decent wager. If Ballack and Shevchenko both start, I’d rather be on a 2-0 stroll for the Champions at a healthy 11/2.
Last week’s accer hit both posts and the bar before being cleared off the line, this week’s will fly straight in the top corner. Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Chelsea are the chosen ones, the accer will pay out at 14/1 when successful.
The weekend specials:
“Tim'll fix it” - Cahill to score with a header 11/2
“Young a tart” - Luke Young to be booked for diving 16/1
“A bitter Lehmann” - Aston Villa to score a goal Evs
“Duff’ll bag” - Damien Duff to score two or more goals 9/1
The quote of the week:
“What I’m looking for is flexibility.”
Steve McClaren knows the score.
The probably misheard quote of the week:
“I’m internally grateful to Steve McClaren.”
Dean Ashton desperately wanted that cap.
The lay man:
You’ve got to love the betting exchanges. People are lining up to back Arsenal at 1/3; if you ‘lay’ that bet, you’re effectively backing either the draw or a Villa win at 3/1. Happy, happy days.
Weekend Betting:
Sheff Utd v Liverpool Saturday 19th August 12.45 Live on Sky
Sheff Utd 6/1
Draw 14/5
Liverpool 4/7
Arsenal v Aston Villa Saturday 19th August 15.00
Arsenal 3/10
Draw 7/2
Aston Villa 12/1
Everton v Watford Saturday 19th August 15.00
Everton 8/13
Draw 5/2
Watford 5/1
Newcastle v Wigan Saturday 19th August 15.00
Newcastle 8/11
Draw 5/2
Wigan 4/1
Portsmouth v Blackburn Saturday 19th August 15.00
Portsmouth 6/4
Draw 9/4
Blackburn 21/10
Reading v Middlesbrough Saturday 19th August 15.00
Reading 6/4
Draw 9/4
Middlesbrough 9/5
West Ham v Charlton Saturday 19th August 15.00
West Ham 11/10
Draw 9/4
Charlton 3/1
Bolton v Tottenham Saturday 19th August 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Bolton 17/10
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 17/10
Man Utd v Fulham Sunday 20th August 13.30 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 3/10
Draw 9/2
Fulham 12/1
Chelsea v Man City Sunday 20th August 16.00 Live on Sky
Chelsea 1/4
Draw 9/2
Man City 12/1
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
Thursday, August 10, 2006
A tie, with a Lam starter
Sometimes in life you have to be willing to compromise. This morning for example, it was too chilly for a t-shirt, yet perplexingly, a little too warm for a jacket. After considering my options at length, i embraced the middle ground by selecting a long sleeved top. An almost identical situation is currently in play in the Middle East; they could do worse than ‘be like the G’ and consider a compromise, as could all bettors looking to take an interest in the Community Shield.
There’s a stigma involved with backing a draw in a football match, you’re basically telling the bookmaker that you’re not smart enough to solve the conundrum, but with so many question marks surrounding the preparation of both Chelsea and Liverpool, backing the draw at 11/5 will prove a profitable concession.
Jose’s getting his excuses in early by claiming his players are under prepared, the reality is that Rafa has him by the short and baldies. Mourinho has come out on top in only two of his last seven face-offs with Benitez, Jose’s incessant whining is an exercise in pre-emptive damage limitation. Chelsea can’t be backed at 11/10, a 1-1 scoreline must be at 11/2.
Frank Lampard’s autobiography made fascinating reading. He claimed that his legs were heavy during the World Cup; talk about stating the obvious. He was told that he was the fittest England player; you can get 8/11 about a typo. Frankie’s performances in Germany were truly, truly awful, but there are few that can argue with the fact that ‘Lamb lard’ always performs for his club. The Lamp is an 8/1 shot to open the scoring.
Jose has gone to the extreme of shaving his head in a symbolic gesture that he is ready to go to war. Jose’s no mug, when entering the field of battle, it’s almost compulsory to have a German in the vicinity, hence the signing of Ballack. A sending off has been priced up at 11/4, if Craig Bellamy was on the pitch on his own that would tempt.
Bellamy and Pennant should both be in the starting 11 for the Pool, and let’s be honest; it’s probably not the last time they’ll appear in a line-up. Bellamy remains controversial, but the boyo can play. The Bell has been chalked up at 15/2 to score the last goal.
There’s another full Championship programme to get our teeth into, and Southampton are the weekend nap at home to West Brom. I fancy the Saints to be there or thereabouts at the end of the season, 11/8 is too big against a mediocre Albion side. Paradoxically, I can’t see the Saints performing well in the Cup competitions, with Pele in their team; they won’t get past a semi.
Ex-Baggie Rob Earnshaw found the net in midweek, and goals to Earnie are like bottles of buckfast to the wife, one begets another. Norwich look a great investment at 10/11 to beat Luton and the pacy, goofy, dwarf-like striker should be backed at 4/1 to bang in the opener.
Crystal Palace host Leeds in a potential cracker and the Eagles are the selection at 5/4 to maintain their 100% record. Leeds were denied a win in midweek when Shahbaz scored a 90th minute equaliser for QPR; if a little camp Scotsman can breach your defence, Macken and Morrison could literally run riot.
Leicester and Ipswich are both as pointless as voting on a big brother eviction, so an ‘O’ must go when they meet at the Walkers. Ipswich can take comfort from their performances in narrow defeats to Palace and Wolves while embarrassing defeats to Luton and Burnley will do little for the goalless Foxes. You can’t touch the crisp nibblers at odds on; you must accept the tractor factor; back Ipswich at a humongous 11/4.
Top marks to Billy Sharp for his superb goal celebration in midweek, Scunthorpe’s sharpshooter delighted all with a superb impression of our very own Monty. (That’s England’s latest spin sensation, not the large-breasted golfing choker.) On a related note, Saturday sees the last episode of Cricket AM, I enjoyed it immensely; it was like Soccer AM, only funny. Scunthorpe should be backed at 6/4 to see off a Crewe side in terminal decline.
Norwich, Southampton, Crystal Palace and Gretna form the accer of the week, it pays out at a whopping 17/1. Get on now, or forever hold your piece.
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
There’s a stigma involved with backing a draw in a football match, you’re basically telling the bookmaker that you’re not smart enough to solve the conundrum, but with so many question marks surrounding the preparation of both Chelsea and Liverpool, backing the draw at 11/5 will prove a profitable concession.
Jose’s getting his excuses in early by claiming his players are under prepared, the reality is that Rafa has him by the short and baldies. Mourinho has come out on top in only two of his last seven face-offs with Benitez, Jose’s incessant whining is an exercise in pre-emptive damage limitation. Chelsea can’t be backed at 11/10, a 1-1 scoreline must be at 11/2.
Frank Lampard’s autobiography made fascinating reading. He claimed that his legs were heavy during the World Cup; talk about stating the obvious. He was told that he was the fittest England player; you can get 8/11 about a typo. Frankie’s performances in Germany were truly, truly awful, but there are few that can argue with the fact that ‘Lamb lard’ always performs for his club. The Lamp is an 8/1 shot to open the scoring.
Jose has gone to the extreme of shaving his head in a symbolic gesture that he is ready to go to war. Jose’s no mug, when entering the field of battle, it’s almost compulsory to have a German in the vicinity, hence the signing of Ballack. A sending off has been priced up at 11/4, if Craig Bellamy was on the pitch on his own that would tempt.
Bellamy and Pennant should both be in the starting 11 for the Pool, and let’s be honest; it’s probably not the last time they’ll appear in a line-up. Bellamy remains controversial, but the boyo can play. The Bell has been chalked up at 15/2 to score the last goal.
There’s another full Championship programme to get our teeth into, and Southampton are the weekend nap at home to West Brom. I fancy the Saints to be there or thereabouts at the end of the season, 11/8 is too big against a mediocre Albion side. Paradoxically, I can’t see the Saints performing well in the Cup competitions, with Pele in their team; they won’t get past a semi.
Ex-Baggie Rob Earnshaw found the net in midweek, and goals to Earnie are like bottles of buckfast to the wife, one begets another. Norwich look a great investment at 10/11 to beat Luton and the pacy, goofy, dwarf-like striker should be backed at 4/1 to bang in the opener.
Crystal Palace host Leeds in a potential cracker and the Eagles are the selection at 5/4 to maintain their 100% record. Leeds were denied a win in midweek when Shahbaz scored a 90th minute equaliser for QPR; if a little camp Scotsman can breach your defence, Macken and Morrison could literally run riot.
Leicester and Ipswich are both as pointless as voting on a big brother eviction, so an ‘O’ must go when they meet at the Walkers. Ipswich can take comfort from their performances in narrow defeats to Palace and Wolves while embarrassing defeats to Luton and Burnley will do little for the goalless Foxes. You can’t touch the crisp nibblers at odds on; you must accept the tractor factor; back Ipswich at a humongous 11/4.
Top marks to Billy Sharp for his superb goal celebration in midweek, Scunthorpe’s sharpshooter delighted all with a superb impression of our very own Monty. (That’s England’s latest spin sensation, not the large-breasted golfing choker.) On a related note, Saturday sees the last episode of Cricket AM, I enjoyed it immensely; it was like Soccer AM, only funny. Scunthorpe should be backed at 6/4 to see off a Crewe side in terminal decline.
Norwich, Southampton, Crystal Palace and Gretna form the accer of the week, it pays out at a whopping 17/1. Get on now, or forever hold your piece.
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
Thursday, July 6, 2006
There’s a bad moo on the rise
To be a successful bettor, you have to understand probability. If you toss a coin in the air there’s a 50% chance that it will come down on heads, throw a dice in the air and there’s a 16.6% chance that it will land on a 6, throw a cat in the air and there’s a 100% chance that it will be a right good laugh.
But occasionally, even if you’re an expert in the field of probability theory, with an encyclopedic knowledge of football and the greatest staking plan since ‘The Bride of Dracula’, you can still do your proverbials if poor value teams like Italy keep on winning.
Amazingly, the Italians are a short as 4/6 to lift the World Cup, and that’s the most ridiculous investment since the wife had the cheek to pay for beauty products. The French have the necessary tools to lift the trophy; at odds of 11/10, stat nerds, value hunters and football anoraks will all be eating cheese, snails and various frog appendages, in a show of solidarity for our French brothers.
To say that the Italians have had the luck of the draw throughout the competition is like saying that John Motson is annoying; it’s so obvious that clarification is not just fluous, it’s superfluous. The French are good things to wrap the game up in 90 minutes at 23/10. Correct score bettors need look no further than a 2-0 scoreline at 14/1, but perming 1-0 and 2-0 together at 7/2 is a little bit safer/camper.
You can sum up the difference between the teams in two words, ‘Thierry Henry’. The Gallic genius is the most complete player in the tournament, although the Spanish would probably call him a complete tart. Henry missed the final in ’98 even though he was their top scorer at the time; if patience is a virtue, then Henry is on the path to righteousness. It’s time for King Henry to ascend to the throne; it’s 6/1 that he bags the opener.
The Golden Shoe may sound like an item that one of the WAG’s would buy, but it’s actually the award for the competition’s top scorer. (Personally, I don’t allow the wife to go shopping for anything other than cleaning materials, but i’m far more flexible with the girlfriend.) Thierry Henry needs two more goals to potentially grab a share of the coveted award (the wife will also be receiving a shoe on Sunday); Henry is a 13/2 shot to net two or more goals.
If all the rumours are true, Juventus players just have to turn up to win matches in Italy, which might explain Paddy Vieira’s indifferent season. It’s great to see Vieira look back to his thundering best, another commanding performance from the resurgent Vieira will see the French ease to victory. Man of the match betting is available, I’ve seen worse 10/1 shots that the mighty Patrick Vieira.
The Italians have constantly surprised me throughout the competition. Their transformation from an over-hyped collection of show-ponies to an over-hyped, lucky collection of show-ponies has bordered on the extraordinary. The same accusation has often been thrown at Zinedine Zidane, but the reality is that Zizou remains the definition of greatness. A bet on the sublime Zidane for the ‘man of the tournament’ award (The Golden Ball) at 1/2 is money for old rope.
Luca Toni had a massive reputation for his Serie A goal scoring exploits, but looks to be suffering from a serious case of Lamparditis, he couldn’t hit a cow’s arse with a banjo. On a related note, I once tried to hit a cow’s arse with a banjo, at least that’s what I told the police officer, although the lack of the banjo aroused some suspicion. Toni will not score, the French have a clean sheet in Le Bag, help yourself to 6/4.
Franck Ribery may look like something that Dr Frankenstein knocked up after a heavy night on the ale, but it’s not physical looks that make the footballer (otherwise I’d have 150 caps under my belt), pace, skill and grace are the key attributes and Ribery has all three in abundance. The youngster has improved from game to game and the 9/2 on offer for Ribery to score at any time should attract support.
Whoever wins, I’ll be walking in to the bookies with a big smile, asking if they’ll pay me out on Argentina, as they’re the moral winners of the competition. Although, there is a valuable lesson to be learned here; sometimes in life, it’s not the winning that’s important, it’s the taking apart the betting shop if they refuse to pay.
Weekend Betting:
Italy v France Sunday 9th July 19.00
Italy 13/8
Draw 15/8
France 23/10
Get on: France
Match Specials:
“Top Totti” – Totti to score with a header 10/1
“Two Tone” – Luca Toni to score two or more goals 7/1
“Gattu blaster” – Gattuso to score from outside the area 20/1
“Caught on Camora” – Camoranesi to be sent off 33/1
“Gross misconduct” – Grosso to be booked 2/1
“Zid vicious” – Zidane to be booked 5/2
“Daylight Ribery” – Franck Ribery to score two or more goals 16/1
“De Gaulle of him” – Henry to be booked for diving 12/1
“Franck Butcher” – Ribery to be sent off 33/1
“Pat Butcher” – Vieira to be sent off 16/1
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
Euro 2008
But occasionally, even if you’re an expert in the field of probability theory, with an encyclopedic knowledge of football and the greatest staking plan since ‘The Bride of Dracula’, you can still do your proverbials if poor value teams like Italy keep on winning.
Amazingly, the Italians are a short as 4/6 to lift the World Cup, and that’s the most ridiculous investment since the wife had the cheek to pay for beauty products. The French have the necessary tools to lift the trophy; at odds of 11/10, stat nerds, value hunters and football anoraks will all be eating cheese, snails and various frog appendages, in a show of solidarity for our French brothers.
To say that the Italians have had the luck of the draw throughout the competition is like saying that John Motson is annoying; it’s so obvious that clarification is not just fluous, it’s superfluous. The French are good things to wrap the game up in 90 minutes at 23/10. Correct score bettors need look no further than a 2-0 scoreline at 14/1, but perming 1-0 and 2-0 together at 7/2 is a little bit safer/camper.
You can sum up the difference between the teams in two words, ‘Thierry Henry’. The Gallic genius is the most complete player in the tournament, although the Spanish would probably call him a complete tart. Henry missed the final in ’98 even though he was their top scorer at the time; if patience is a virtue, then Henry is on the path to righteousness. It’s time for King Henry to ascend to the throne; it’s 6/1 that he bags the opener.
The Golden Shoe may sound like an item that one of the WAG’s would buy, but it’s actually the award for the competition’s top scorer. (Personally, I don’t allow the wife to go shopping for anything other than cleaning materials, but i’m far more flexible with the girlfriend.) Thierry Henry needs two more goals to potentially grab a share of the coveted award (the wife will also be receiving a shoe on Sunday); Henry is a 13/2 shot to net two or more goals.
If all the rumours are true, Juventus players just have to turn up to win matches in Italy, which might explain Paddy Vieira’s indifferent season. It’s great to see Vieira look back to his thundering best, another commanding performance from the resurgent Vieira will see the French ease to victory. Man of the match betting is available, I’ve seen worse 10/1 shots that the mighty Patrick Vieira.
The Italians have constantly surprised me throughout the competition. Their transformation from an over-hyped collection of show-ponies to an over-hyped, lucky collection of show-ponies has bordered on the extraordinary. The same accusation has often been thrown at Zinedine Zidane, but the reality is that Zizou remains the definition of greatness. A bet on the sublime Zidane for the ‘man of the tournament’ award (The Golden Ball) at 1/2 is money for old rope.
Luca Toni had a massive reputation for his Serie A goal scoring exploits, but looks to be suffering from a serious case of Lamparditis, he couldn’t hit a cow’s arse with a banjo. On a related note, I once tried to hit a cow’s arse with a banjo, at least that’s what I told the police officer, although the lack of the banjo aroused some suspicion. Toni will not score, the French have a clean sheet in Le Bag, help yourself to 6/4.
Franck Ribery may look like something that Dr Frankenstein knocked up after a heavy night on the ale, but it’s not physical looks that make the footballer (otherwise I’d have 150 caps under my belt), pace, skill and grace are the key attributes and Ribery has all three in abundance. The youngster has improved from game to game and the 9/2 on offer for Ribery to score at any time should attract support.
Whoever wins, I’ll be walking in to the bookies with a big smile, asking if they’ll pay me out on Argentina, as they’re the moral winners of the competition. Although, there is a valuable lesson to be learned here; sometimes in life, it’s not the winning that’s important, it’s the taking apart the betting shop if they refuse to pay.
Weekend Betting:
Italy v France Sunday 9th July 19.00
Italy 13/8
Draw 15/8
France 23/10
Get on: France
Match Specials:
“Top Totti” – Totti to score with a header 10/1
“Two Tone” – Luca Toni to score two or more goals 7/1
“Gattu blaster” – Gattuso to score from outside the area 20/1
“Caught on Camora” – Camoranesi to be sent off 33/1
“Gross misconduct” – Grosso to be booked 2/1
“Zid vicious” – Zidane to be booked 5/2
“Daylight Ribery” – Franck Ribery to score two or more goals 16/1
“De Gaulle of him” – Henry to be booked for diving 12/1
“Franck Butcher” – Ribery to be sent off 33/1
“Pat Butcher” – Vieira to be sent off 16/1
Copyright (c) Gerry McDonnell & soccerphile.com
Euro 2008
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
A Very Merry Gerry
As long as man walks the earth, the battle between the old wrinkly master and the young brash pretender to the throne is as inevitable as tomato sauce on a sausage sandwich.
Stuart Pearce v Alex Ferguson fits perfectly in this category. He may be a considered a psycho, but you can’t argue with eight Premier League trophies. Pearce is the up and comer while Sir Alex has been there, done that and banned the t-shirt. Pearce’s time will come, but for now, the old guard retains the edge. United are 4/6 to master the Manchester melee; get on.
Now that Roy Keane has left the country, the Manchester derby just won’t be the same without a career threatening challenge or two. David Sommeil misses the match due to Essiening a Tottenham player, so we’ll have to rely on Alan Smith and Joey Barton to remain true to the memory of the departed Keano. A player to be sent off is a 5/2 shot.
Graeme Souness threw all his eggs in one basket when he signed Michael Owen, there’s a moral there somewhere; buy more baskets. Here’s another moral for you; back Newcastle without Owen? A fool and his money are Soun parted. Fulham receive the nod at 5/4.
What Alan Shearer lacks in pace, he makes up for in elbow piece. If we accept that Newcastle will lose the match, backing Shearer to be booked is a logical follow up. Big Al is more likely to connect with a jaw bone than a cross; he’s 4/1 to see yellow, 50/1 to see red.
The arrival of a Russian billionaire has allowed Harry Redknapp to buy himself a big Pole; Emmanuel Olisadebe. I saw Emmanuel on video a few years ago, a fantastic scoring record. Portsmouth v Everton is a relegation six pointer, back Pompey to take all six points at 11/10.
Clyde were 20/1 to beat Celtic, Leyton Orient were 8/1 to beat Fulham, both won easily. Sunderland are 11/1 rags at home to Chelsea; can they make it a treble of upsets? No. Conventional wisdom would suggest that you can’t back a Premier League team away to another at 1/5. I repeatedly slap the bald head of conventional wisdom; Chelsea have the points in the bag.
If Ian Wright was Thierry Henry, he’d have to consider leaving Arsenal. If I was Mr Henry, I wouldn’t have time to consider a move abroad; I’d be too busy getting Merry. Take 2/7 on the Gunners beating the Boro, it’s a step on the road to happiness.
The weekend specials revolve around the Manchester derby.
“Cole industry” – Andy Cole to score at any time 15/8
“Rio, the Jan Hero” – Rio Ferdinand to score at any time 7/1
“Do the Bart man” – Joey Barton to be booked 7/4
“I, Van the terrible” – Van Nistelrooy not to score 8/11
Quote of the week:
“The pitch wasn’t the best, but I’m not gonna make excuses.”
Steve Bruce after Birmingham were outplayed by Torquay.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Sunderland’s recent home record to Chelsea makes interesting reading: the last seven matches have produced a Chelsea win, a draw and five victories for the Mackems.
Acc of the week:
Man Utd, Aston Villa, Charlton, Fulham and Liverpool are the pick of the Premiership action; the accer pays 22/1.
Weekend Betting:
Man City v Man Utd Saturday 14th January 12.45 Live on Sky
Man City 7/2
Draw 12/5
Man Utd 4/6
Get on: Man Utd
It’s three league matches without scoring a goal for City, United are the Premiership’s top scorers on the road. A comfortable away win.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy to score two or more goals 4/1
Arsenal v Middlesbrough Saturday 14th January 15.00
Arsenal 2/7
Draw 7/2
Middlesbrough 8/1
Get on: Arsenal
Boro led 3-1 at Highbury last season, and still got spanked. McClaren’s men haven’t won a league match since November. Home banker.
Match Special:
Henry to score a hat-trick 12/1
Aston Villa v West Ham Saturday 14th January 15.00
Aston Villa 10/11
Draw 9/4
West Ham 5/2
Get on: Aston Villa
The Hammers last won at Villa Park in 1995. O’Leary’s men are finally finding their stride; they’ll avenge a 4-0 beating earlier in the season.
Match Special:
Mellberg to score with a header 20/1
Charlton v Birmingham Saturday 14th January 15.00
Charlton 10/11
Draw 11/5
Birmingham 13/5
Get on: Charlton
The Blues have only scored one goal away from home since November, a consolation in a 4-1 bashing at Manchester City. Darren Bent scored the only goal of the game at St Andrew’s earlier in the season, a repeat is a possibility.
Match Special:
Darren Bent to score the only goal of the game 25/1
Fulham v Newcastle Saturday 14th January 15.00
Fulham 5/4
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 7/4
Get on: Fulham
Fulham have been impressive at home in the league recently, five wins and a draw from their last six matches. The Toon Army have only scored in one of their last six matches away from home. Enough said.
Match Special:
Fulham to score three or more goals 9/2
Liverpool v Tottenham Saturday 14th January 15.00
Liverpool 8/11
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 10/3
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have won eight out of ten at home this season, only Chelsea and Man Utd left Anfield with more than a beating. Spurs have recently been beaten at the Hawthorns and the Walkers stadium. Home win.
Match Special:
A Liverpool player to score from inside their own half 200/1
Portsmouth v Everton Saturday 14th January 15.00
Portsmouth 11/10
Draw 9/4
Everton 2/1
Get on: Portsmouth
It’s seven points out of nine at Fratton Park for Portsmouth since the return of Mr Redknapp. Pompey have only scored eight goals at home this season though, a Premiership low. 1-0 to Harry’s mob.
Match Special:
Portsmouth to win 1-0 6/1
Blackburn v Bolton Saturday 14th January 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Blackburn 5/4
Draw 2/1
Bolton 2/1
Get on: Draw
A strange meet up on the Premiership, they’ve met nine times and the home team has never won. The last three meets between the two has produced a total of two goals. A goalless draw is the only conclusion.
Match Special:
No Goalscorer in the match 13/2
Wigan v West Brom Sunday 15th January 13.30 Live on Sky
Wigan 8/11
Draw 9/4
West Brom 10/3
Get on: Wigan
The Latics squad is down to the bare bones, but they still look a stronger team than the Albion. The Baggies have not won on the road all season and they haven’t scored away since November. It has to be a home win.
Match Special:
Jason Roberts to score the first goal 9/2
Sunderland v Chelsea Sunday 15th January 16.00 Live on Sky
Sunderland 11/1
Draw 4/1
Chelsea 1/5
Get on: Chelsea
The gulf in class could not be wider. Sunderland have only won once in the league this season, Chelsea have only lost once. The Mackems haven’t scored a home goal in the league for 360 minutes; only Man U have kept a visiting Chelsea team off the score-sheet. A virtually risk free away win.
Match Special:
Crespo to score a hat-trick 12/1
Stuart Pearce v Alex Ferguson fits perfectly in this category. He may be a considered a psycho, but you can’t argue with eight Premier League trophies. Pearce is the up and comer while Sir Alex has been there, done that and banned the t-shirt. Pearce’s time will come, but for now, the old guard retains the edge. United are 4/6 to master the Manchester melee; get on.
Now that Roy Keane has left the country, the Manchester derby just won’t be the same without a career threatening challenge or two. David Sommeil misses the match due to Essiening a Tottenham player, so we’ll have to rely on Alan Smith and Joey Barton to remain true to the memory of the departed Keano. A player to be sent off is a 5/2 shot.
Graeme Souness threw all his eggs in one basket when he signed Michael Owen, there’s a moral there somewhere; buy more baskets. Here’s another moral for you; back Newcastle without Owen? A fool and his money are Soun parted. Fulham receive the nod at 5/4.
What Alan Shearer lacks in pace, he makes up for in elbow piece. If we accept that Newcastle will lose the match, backing Shearer to be booked is a logical follow up. Big Al is more likely to connect with a jaw bone than a cross; he’s 4/1 to see yellow, 50/1 to see red.
The arrival of a Russian billionaire has allowed Harry Redknapp to buy himself a big Pole; Emmanuel Olisadebe. I saw Emmanuel on video a few years ago, a fantastic scoring record. Portsmouth v Everton is a relegation six pointer, back Pompey to take all six points at 11/10.
Clyde were 20/1 to beat Celtic, Leyton Orient were 8/1 to beat Fulham, both won easily. Sunderland are 11/1 rags at home to Chelsea; can they make it a treble of upsets? No. Conventional wisdom would suggest that you can’t back a Premier League team away to another at 1/5. I repeatedly slap the bald head of conventional wisdom; Chelsea have the points in the bag.
If Ian Wright was Thierry Henry, he’d have to consider leaving Arsenal. If I was Mr Henry, I wouldn’t have time to consider a move abroad; I’d be too busy getting Merry. Take 2/7 on the Gunners beating the Boro, it’s a step on the road to happiness.
The weekend specials revolve around the Manchester derby.
“Cole industry” – Andy Cole to score at any time 15/8
“Rio, the Jan Hero” – Rio Ferdinand to score at any time 7/1
“Do the Bart man” – Joey Barton to be booked 7/4
“I, Van the terrible” – Van Nistelrooy not to score 8/11
Quote of the week:
“The pitch wasn’t the best, but I’m not gonna make excuses.”
Steve Bruce after Birmingham were outplayed by Torquay.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Sunderland’s recent home record to Chelsea makes interesting reading: the last seven matches have produced a Chelsea win, a draw and five victories for the Mackems.
Acc of the week:
Man Utd, Aston Villa, Charlton, Fulham and Liverpool are the pick of the Premiership action; the accer pays 22/1.
Weekend Betting:
Man City v Man Utd Saturday 14th January 12.45 Live on Sky
Man City 7/2
Draw 12/5
Man Utd 4/6
Get on: Man Utd
It’s three league matches without scoring a goal for City, United are the Premiership’s top scorers on the road. A comfortable away win.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy to score two or more goals 4/1
Arsenal v Middlesbrough Saturday 14th January 15.00
Arsenal 2/7
Draw 7/2
Middlesbrough 8/1
Get on: Arsenal
Boro led 3-1 at Highbury last season, and still got spanked. McClaren’s men haven’t won a league match since November. Home banker.
Match Special:
Henry to score a hat-trick 12/1
Aston Villa v West Ham Saturday 14th January 15.00
Aston Villa 10/11
Draw 9/4
West Ham 5/2
Get on: Aston Villa
The Hammers last won at Villa Park in 1995. O’Leary’s men are finally finding their stride; they’ll avenge a 4-0 beating earlier in the season.
Match Special:
Mellberg to score with a header 20/1
Charlton v Birmingham Saturday 14th January 15.00
Charlton 10/11
Draw 11/5
Birmingham 13/5
Get on: Charlton
The Blues have only scored one goal away from home since November, a consolation in a 4-1 bashing at Manchester City. Darren Bent scored the only goal of the game at St Andrew’s earlier in the season, a repeat is a possibility.
Match Special:
Darren Bent to score the only goal of the game 25/1
Fulham v Newcastle Saturday 14th January 15.00
Fulham 5/4
Draw 9/4
Newcastle 7/4
Get on: Fulham
Fulham have been impressive at home in the league recently, five wins and a draw from their last six matches. The Toon Army have only scored in one of their last six matches away from home. Enough said.
Match Special:
Fulham to score three or more goals 9/2
Liverpool v Tottenham Saturday 14th January 15.00
Liverpool 8/11
Draw 9/4
Tottenham 10/3
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have won eight out of ten at home this season, only Chelsea and Man Utd left Anfield with more than a beating. Spurs have recently been beaten at the Hawthorns and the Walkers stadium. Home win.
Match Special:
A Liverpool player to score from inside their own half 200/1
Portsmouth v Everton Saturday 14th January 15.00
Portsmouth 11/10
Draw 9/4
Everton 2/1
Get on: Portsmouth
It’s seven points out of nine at Fratton Park for Portsmouth since the return of Mr Redknapp. Pompey have only scored eight goals at home this season though, a Premiership low. 1-0 to Harry’s mob.
Match Special:
Portsmouth to win 1-0 6/1
Blackburn v Bolton Saturday 14th January 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Blackburn 5/4
Draw 2/1
Bolton 2/1
Get on: Draw
A strange meet up on the Premiership, they’ve met nine times and the home team has never won. The last three meets between the two has produced a total of two goals. A goalless draw is the only conclusion.
Match Special:
No Goalscorer in the match 13/2
Wigan v West Brom Sunday 15th January 13.30 Live on Sky
Wigan 8/11
Draw 9/4
West Brom 10/3
Get on: Wigan
The Latics squad is down to the bare bones, but they still look a stronger team than the Albion. The Baggies have not won on the road all season and they haven’t scored away since November. It has to be a home win.
Match Special:
Jason Roberts to score the first goal 9/2
Sunderland v Chelsea Sunday 15th January 16.00 Live on Sky
Sunderland 11/1
Draw 4/1
Chelsea 1/5
Get on: Chelsea
The gulf in class could not be wider. Sunderland have only won once in the league this season, Chelsea have only lost once. The Mackems haven’t scored a home goal in the league for 360 minutes; only Man U have kept a visiting Chelsea team off the score-sheet. A virtually risk free away win.
Match Special:
Crespo to score a hat-trick 12/1
Thursday, January 5, 2006
Ask and Ewe Shall Receive
As tradition dictates, the first week in January is a time for New Year’s resolutions. Robbie Fowler has pledged to improve his fitness, David James has vowed to overcome his fear of crosses and Steven Gerrard has promised to stop using Bolton players as trampolines.
Sam Hammam has one wish for the New Year, a Cup upset at Highbury. The charismatic Chairman is one of the games most colourful characters, when he signed Spencer Prior for Cardiff, he inserted two clauses in the contract; Prior had to eat sheep’s testicles and engage in a physical liaison with a sheep. Prior signed the contract, but he flat out refused to eat the testicle.
Mad Sam’s new crazy gang are in for a beating at Highbury, you can back the Cup holders at 1/7.
The managerial career of Graeme Souness hangs by a thread as Michael Owen is ruled out through injury. Michael has fell to the curse of the metatarsal, Wayne Rooney, David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Gary Neville have all been laid up with a similar injury, that reads like a who’s who of English football; and Gary Neville. All that trouble, from just a little bone. Get on the Geordies to keep Graeme in work for another week; they’re 1/6 to beat Mansfield.
It’s been a tough season for West Brom, they’re odds on to be relegated, their only quality player has handed in a transfer request, their ball-boys have ginger hair and they’ve drawn the hottest team in the Country in the FA Cup. Reading are on a 27 match unbeaten run in the Championship; they’re available at 15/8 to beat the Baggies at the Hawthorns. I have three words of advice; get stuck in.
After a few choice tackles of his own, it’s somewhat ironic that Michael Essien has been ruled out due to a nasty challenge. Maybe there’s something in this karma; there is, half a poppadom. Chelsea are 1/14 to beat Huddersfield; they will win.
Peter Crouch has shown incredible improvement in recent weeks, at the start of the season he looked abysmal, now he’s scoring like Wayne Rooney on an 18-60 holiday in Amsterdam. Steven Gerrard is currently sizzling like a pan full of bacon, you can’t oppose the Reds; a 2/5 banker.
Why is it the characters in Eastenders are always depressed at Christmas? Possibly because they’re West Ham supporters. After losing three matches on the trot, the Hammers won’t fancy a trip to Carrow Road; the form book says the Canaries are a decent investment at 9/5; I refuse to argue with a book.
Kevin Nolan would like to get something off his chest; Stevie Gerrard. He believes Bolton have an excellent chance in the FA Cup this season, I agree. Bolton at 28’s, Villa at 33’s and Reading at 200’s are all worth a small each way tinkle.
With the Lions, Tigers, Owls and Rams all in action, the weekend specials have gone a bit animal.
“A Stag party” – Mansfield to score a goal Evs
“A bald Eagle” – Andy Johnson (Palace) to score with a header 4/1
“A Canary dwarf” – Dean Ashton to score with a header 7/1
“An old Deer” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 9/1
Quote of the week:
“If I’m at home, yes, I will see it, but maybe my wife would like to go somewhere. It all depends on my wife.”
Jose Mourinho (surprisingly) is mortal.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
The team with the sloppiest finishing in the Premiership is...Aston Villa. Less than 35% of Villa’s attempts trouble the goalkeeper.
Acc of the week:
Aston Villa, Everton, Bolton, Liverpool and Tottenham form the weekend accer, it pays out at 16/1.
Weekend Betting:
Hull v Aston Villa Saturday 7th January 12.30 Live on BBC
Hull 5/2
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 10/11
Get on: Aston Villa
Villa have drawn Hull in the FA Cup on four previous occasions, the Villa qualified every time. Villa are unbeaten over the Xmas period, away win.
Match Special:
Villa to score three or more goals 7/2
Arsenal v Cardiff Saturday 7th January 13.00
Arsenal 1/7
Draw 5/1
Cardiff 12/1
Get on: Arsenal
The Gunners have failed to find the net in their last two and a half matches. Cardiff conceded five against Reading in their last match, the Gunners will put that stat to bed.
Match Special:
Cardiff to have a player sent off 6/1
Wigan v Leeds Saturday 7th January 13.00
Wigan 4/6
Draw 12/5
Leeds 7/2
Get on: Leeds
Leeds have won their last four, Wigan have lost their last two. Leeds won their only previous FA Cup encounter, a shock is on the cards; if Leeds beating Wigan is a shock.
Match Special:
Leeds to score two or more goals 5/2
Chelsea v Huddersfield Saturday 7th January 15.00
Chelsea 1/14
Draw 6/1
Huddersfield 25/1
Get on: Chelsea
The last time Huddersfield travelled to the Bridge in a Cup match, Chelsea took a 1-0 mauling. It’s seven games without a win for Huddersfield, a repeat can be safely ruled out.
Match Special:
Joe Cole to score at any time 11/8
Ipswich v Portsmouth Saturday 7th January 15.00
Ipswich 7/4
Draw 9/4
Portsmouth 5/4
Get on: Ipswich
Pompey look a stronger outfit under Harry, but five defeats away from home on the bounce tells a story. Joe Royle will have his boys up for this one; home win.
Match Special:
Jason De Vos to score the only goal of the game 175/1
Millwall v Everton Saturday 7th January 15.00
Millwall 5/2
Draw 9/4
Everton 10/11
Get on: Everton
It’s two wins on the bounce for Everton, their improved form should see them past a relegation threatened Millwall.
Match Special:
Tim Cahill to score the only goal of the game 28/1
Newcastle v Mansfield Saturday 7th January 15.00
Newcastle 1/6
Draw 9/2
Mansfield 12/1
Get on: Newcastle
The Geordies have conceded two goals in each of their last three matches. Fortunately for the Toon Army, Mansfield are awful.
Match Special:
Alan Shearer to score a hat-trick 12/1
Norwich v West Ham Saturday 7th January 15.00
Norwich 9/5
Draw 9/4
West Ham 6/5
Get on: Norwich
It’s five wins out of six for Norwich, while the Hammers have lost three on the bounce. The Premiership side are up against it.
Match Special:
Dean Ashton to score two or more goals 8/1
Watford v Bolton Saturday 7th January 15.00
Watford 9/5
Draw 9/4
Bolton 6/5
Get on: Bolton
Watford have a 100% record against Bolton in the FA Cup, played one, won one. One fancies Bolton in this one.
Match Special:
Diouf to score two or more goals 13/2
West Brom v Reading Saturday 7th January 15.00
West Brom 6/5
Draw 11/5
Reading 15/8
Get on: Reading
Reading are unbeaten in the league since the opening day, the Baggies are boinging out of the FA Cup.
Match Special:
Dave Kitson to score the first goal 15/2
Luton v Liverpool Saturday 7th January 17.30 Live on BBC
Luton 13/2
Draw 11/4
Liverpool 2/5
Get on: Liverpool
The Pool are flying, Luton have earned 4 points out of the last 21 available. A banker away win.
Match Special:
Djibril Cisse to score two or more goals 9/2
Burton Albion v Man Utd Sunday 8th January 16.00 Live on Sky
Burton Albion 25/1
Draw 11/2
Man Utd 1/12
Get on: Man Utd
Cloughie and Cup success are synonymous, but this fairytale does not have a happy ending. Burton have been tight at the back recently, they haven’t conceded more than one goal in their last 14 games. It won’t be a cakewalk for United.
Match Special:
Man U to win 2-0 9/1
Leicester v Tottenham Sunday 8th January 18.30 Live on BBC
Leicester 5/1
Draw 12/5
Tottenham 8/15
Get on: Tottenham
These two have drawn each other in the FA Cup on eight previous occasions, Spurs have qualified seven times. It’s eight games without a win for Leicester; it’s a question of how many.
Match Special:
Tottenham to score four or more goals 6/1
Sam Hammam has one wish for the New Year, a Cup upset at Highbury. The charismatic Chairman is one of the games most colourful characters, when he signed Spencer Prior for Cardiff, he inserted two clauses in the contract; Prior had to eat sheep’s testicles and engage in a physical liaison with a sheep. Prior signed the contract, but he flat out refused to eat the testicle.
Mad Sam’s new crazy gang are in for a beating at Highbury, you can back the Cup holders at 1/7.
The managerial career of Graeme Souness hangs by a thread as Michael Owen is ruled out through injury. Michael has fell to the curse of the metatarsal, Wayne Rooney, David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Gary Neville have all been laid up with a similar injury, that reads like a who’s who of English football; and Gary Neville. All that trouble, from just a little bone. Get on the Geordies to keep Graeme in work for another week; they’re 1/6 to beat Mansfield.
It’s been a tough season for West Brom, they’re odds on to be relegated, their only quality player has handed in a transfer request, their ball-boys have ginger hair and they’ve drawn the hottest team in the Country in the FA Cup. Reading are on a 27 match unbeaten run in the Championship; they’re available at 15/8 to beat the Baggies at the Hawthorns. I have three words of advice; get stuck in.
After a few choice tackles of his own, it’s somewhat ironic that Michael Essien has been ruled out due to a nasty challenge. Maybe there’s something in this karma; there is, half a poppadom. Chelsea are 1/14 to beat Huddersfield; they will win.
Peter Crouch has shown incredible improvement in recent weeks, at the start of the season he looked abysmal, now he’s scoring like Wayne Rooney on an 18-60 holiday in Amsterdam. Steven Gerrard is currently sizzling like a pan full of bacon, you can’t oppose the Reds; a 2/5 banker.
Why is it the characters in Eastenders are always depressed at Christmas? Possibly because they’re West Ham supporters. After losing three matches on the trot, the Hammers won’t fancy a trip to Carrow Road; the form book says the Canaries are a decent investment at 9/5; I refuse to argue with a book.
Kevin Nolan would like to get something off his chest; Stevie Gerrard. He believes Bolton have an excellent chance in the FA Cup this season, I agree. Bolton at 28’s, Villa at 33’s and Reading at 200’s are all worth a small each way tinkle.
With the Lions, Tigers, Owls and Rams all in action, the weekend specials have gone a bit animal.
“A Stag party” – Mansfield to score a goal Evs
“A bald Eagle” – Andy Johnson (Palace) to score with a header 4/1
“A Canary dwarf” – Dean Ashton to score with a header 7/1
“An old Deer” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 9/1
Quote of the week:
“If I’m at home, yes, I will see it, but maybe my wife would like to go somewhere. It all depends on my wife.”
Jose Mourinho (surprisingly) is mortal.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
The team with the sloppiest finishing in the Premiership is...Aston Villa. Less than 35% of Villa’s attempts trouble the goalkeeper.
Acc of the week:
Aston Villa, Everton, Bolton, Liverpool and Tottenham form the weekend accer, it pays out at 16/1.
Weekend Betting:
Hull v Aston Villa Saturday 7th January 12.30 Live on BBC
Hull 5/2
Draw 9/4
Aston Villa 10/11
Get on: Aston Villa
Villa have drawn Hull in the FA Cup on four previous occasions, the Villa qualified every time. Villa are unbeaten over the Xmas period, away win.
Match Special:
Villa to score three or more goals 7/2
Arsenal v Cardiff Saturday 7th January 13.00
Arsenal 1/7
Draw 5/1
Cardiff 12/1
Get on: Arsenal
The Gunners have failed to find the net in their last two and a half matches. Cardiff conceded five against Reading in their last match, the Gunners will put that stat to bed.
Match Special:
Cardiff to have a player sent off 6/1
Wigan v Leeds Saturday 7th January 13.00
Wigan 4/6
Draw 12/5
Leeds 7/2
Get on: Leeds
Leeds have won their last four, Wigan have lost their last two. Leeds won their only previous FA Cup encounter, a shock is on the cards; if Leeds beating Wigan is a shock.
Match Special:
Leeds to score two or more goals 5/2
Chelsea v Huddersfield Saturday 7th January 15.00
Chelsea 1/14
Draw 6/1
Huddersfield 25/1
Get on: Chelsea
The last time Huddersfield travelled to the Bridge in a Cup match, Chelsea took a 1-0 mauling. It’s seven games without a win for Huddersfield, a repeat can be safely ruled out.
Match Special:
Joe Cole to score at any time 11/8
Ipswich v Portsmouth Saturday 7th January 15.00
Ipswich 7/4
Draw 9/4
Portsmouth 5/4
Get on: Ipswich
Pompey look a stronger outfit under Harry, but five defeats away from home on the bounce tells a story. Joe Royle will have his boys up for this one; home win.
Match Special:
Jason De Vos to score the only goal of the game 175/1
Millwall v Everton Saturday 7th January 15.00
Millwall 5/2
Draw 9/4
Everton 10/11
Get on: Everton
It’s two wins on the bounce for Everton, their improved form should see them past a relegation threatened Millwall.
Match Special:
Tim Cahill to score the only goal of the game 28/1
Newcastle v Mansfield Saturday 7th January 15.00
Newcastle 1/6
Draw 9/2
Mansfield 12/1
Get on: Newcastle
The Geordies have conceded two goals in each of their last three matches. Fortunately for the Toon Army, Mansfield are awful.
Match Special:
Alan Shearer to score a hat-trick 12/1
Norwich v West Ham Saturday 7th January 15.00
Norwich 9/5
Draw 9/4
West Ham 6/5
Get on: Norwich
It’s five wins out of six for Norwich, while the Hammers have lost three on the bounce. The Premiership side are up against it.
Match Special:
Dean Ashton to score two or more goals 8/1
Watford v Bolton Saturday 7th January 15.00
Watford 9/5
Draw 9/4
Bolton 6/5
Get on: Bolton
Watford have a 100% record against Bolton in the FA Cup, played one, won one. One fancies Bolton in this one.
Match Special:
Diouf to score two or more goals 13/2
West Brom v Reading Saturday 7th January 15.00
West Brom 6/5
Draw 11/5
Reading 15/8
Get on: Reading
Reading are unbeaten in the league since the opening day, the Baggies are boinging out of the FA Cup.
Match Special:
Dave Kitson to score the first goal 15/2
Luton v Liverpool Saturday 7th January 17.30 Live on BBC
Luton 13/2
Draw 11/4
Liverpool 2/5
Get on: Liverpool
The Pool are flying, Luton have earned 4 points out of the last 21 available. A banker away win.
Match Special:
Djibril Cisse to score two or more goals 9/2
Burton Albion v Man Utd Sunday 8th January 16.00 Live on Sky
Burton Albion 25/1
Draw 11/2
Man Utd 1/12
Get on: Man Utd
Cloughie and Cup success are synonymous, but this fairytale does not have a happy ending. Burton have been tight at the back recently, they haven’t conceded more than one goal in their last 14 games. It won’t be a cakewalk for United.
Match Special:
Man U to win 2-0 9/1
Leicester v Tottenham Sunday 8th January 18.30 Live on BBC
Leicester 5/1
Draw 12/5
Tottenham 8/15
Get on: Tottenham
These two have drawn each other in the FA Cup on eight previous occasions, Spurs have qualified seven times. It’s eight games without a win for Leicester; it’s a question of how many.
Match Special:
Tottenham to score four or more goals 6/1
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
The Gazza Strip
The Gazza Strip
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all parties and yachts when you’re a Premiership footballer. At this time of year, most players will face up to four matches in seven days, a schedule so tough, Wayne Rooney will be up and down the motorway living off cold turkey sandwiches. He refuses to moan though, he enjoys an old bird. Man U are unbeaten in nine matches in the league, they’re a must bet at 4/11 at home to Bolton.
Cristiano Ronaldo is worth a little bet to open the scoring. The Portuguese wonder-boy has had a disappointing season; he’s been on a bench more often than Paul Gascoigne. The undisputed King of the unnecessary step-over is back in the starting 11; a return to form is imminent. He’s 9/1 to score the first goal and 5/2 to score at any time.
After going 93 matches for Man U without scoring, Rio Ferdinand has now bagged two in five games, a record that James Beattie can only dream about. Rio’s a 10/1 shot to make that record three in six, stranger things have happened.
It’s not just turkeys that get stuffed over Christmas. David Moyes is in the middle of the most embarrassing run since Paula Radcliffe relieved herself during the London marathon. Everton face a Sunderland team who have just had their best result of the season; their midweek match was called off. Get on the Mackems at 13/8.
Peter Crouch shoved Lee Bowyer to the ground on Boxing Day, an act that would normally receive a red card and a three match ban. The lanky striker can consider himself fortunate to be available for selection against West Brom; he’s not very good at football. Stevie Gerrard is back to his sublime best for the Pool, he’s a 13/8 shot to find the back of the net against Albion. Liverpool are good things at 1/4.
Steve Bruce didn’t endear himself to the Birmingham supporters when he waved to Manchester United fans as the Blues lost heavily in the Cup. If Bruce’s familiarity with opposition supporters is in relation to how badly they get beat, he might end up crowd surfing with the Chelsea fans. Chelsea are a 1/6 certainty.
It’s been widely reported that Graeme Souness wants Alan Shearer to stay on for another season, he probably will; as manager. Souness may have settled the dressing-room squabbling, but he can’t find a cure for their away day blues. The Geordies travel to White Hart Lane; Spurs get the nod at 4/6.
Milan Baros proved to be tasty with his hands against Everton, the Villa could do with a 2nd keeper when the Arsenal come to town. The Gunners are 4/6; they’re home, and almost certainly, hosed.
The weekend specials:
“Cold Turkey” – Emre to be booked 5/2
“Stuffed” – Thierry Henry to score a hat-trick 16/1
“Take the tree down” – Peter Crouch to be booked 3/1
“Hog many” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 14/1
Quote of the week:
“I’m not sure it was a straight red, maybe a yellow would have been more sensible.”
Steven Gerrard, the day after he ran across the pitch to confront Alan Shearer and Lee Bowyer, pressurising the referee into showing Bowyer a straight red.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Only Van Nistelrooy and Rooney have scored more league goals for Man Utd than Rio Ferdinand this season.
Acc of the week:
Arsenal, West Ham, Tottenham, Man Utd and Man City make up the weekend accer, it pays out at a tasty 27/1.
Weekend Betting:
Aston Villa v Arsenal Saturday 31st December 12.45 Live on Sky
Aston Villa 7/2
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/6
Get on: Arsenal
Arsenal have won their last four matches against the Villa by two clear goals with Thierry Henry scoring in every match. Say no more.
Match Special:
Arsenal to win by two or more goals 13/8
Charlton v West Ham Saturday 31st December 13.00
Charlton 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: West Ham
Charlton have lost eight out of their last nine matches, it has to be the Hammers.
Match Special:
Marlon Harewood to score two or more goals 8/1
Chelsea v Birmingham Saturday 31st December 13.00
Chelsea 1/6
Draw 9/2
Birmingham 12/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea have a 100% record at home in the league, Birmingham are the 2nd worst team in the Premiership. Tough call.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Tottenham v Newcastle Saturday 31st December 13.00
Tottenham 4/6
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 7/2
Get on: Tottenham
Spurs haven’t tasted defeat at the Lane since August; the Toon Army have lost four of their last five matches away from home. Home win.
Match Special:
Tottenham to keep a clean sheet 6/5
Liverpool v West Brom Saturday 31st December 15.00
Liverpool 1/4
Draw 7/2
West Brom 10/1
Get on: Liverpool
The Pool have met Albion four times in the Premiership, the aggregate score? 16-0. Liverpool are aiming for their 10th straight league win, they’re gonna get it.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win 2-0 11/2
Man Utd v Bolton Saturday 31st December 15.00
Man Utd 4/11
Draw 3/1
Bolton 13/2
Get on: Man Utd
It’s seven wins and two draws from their last nine league matches for Man U, Bolton have failed to score in their last two matches away from home. Definite home win.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy and Rooney both to score 4/1
Middlesbrough v Man City Saturday 31st December 15.00
Middlesbrough 5/4
Draw 9/4
Man City 7/4
Get on: Man City
Only Sunderland have conceded more goals in front of their own fans than the Boro, only Man U and Chelsea have scored more goals away from home than Man City. Stuart Pearce gave the City players Christmas day off, proving he’s more of a pussycat than a psycho. Away win.
Match Special:
Andy Cole to score two or more goals 8/1
Portsmouth v Fulham Saturday 31st December 15.00
Portsmouth 6/5
Draw 11/5
Fulham 15/8
Get on: Draw
Pompey were absolutely murdered at Highbury in midweek. Fulham haven’t won away from home all season, it’s a draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Sunderland v Everton Saturday 31st December 15.00
Sunderland 13/8
Draw 11/5
Everton 11/8
Get on: Sunderland
Sunderland have won four of their five previous Premiership matches at home to Everton. The Moyes Boys have conceded 11 goals in three matches; the Mackems will never have a better chance.
Match Special:
Sunderland to win 1-0 7/1
Wigan v Blackburn Saturday 31st December 15.00
Wigan 6/5
Draw 11/5
Blackburn 15/8
Get on: Draw
Wigan have won their last four at home; Blackburn have won three of their last four on the road. Score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all parties and yachts when you’re a Premiership footballer. At this time of year, most players will face up to four matches in seven days, a schedule so tough, Wayne Rooney will be up and down the motorway living off cold turkey sandwiches. He refuses to moan though, he enjoys an old bird. Man U are unbeaten in nine matches in the league, they’re a must bet at 4/11 at home to Bolton.
Cristiano Ronaldo is worth a little bet to open the scoring. The Portuguese wonder-boy has had a disappointing season; he’s been on a bench more often than Paul Gascoigne. The undisputed King of the unnecessary step-over is back in the starting 11; a return to form is imminent. He’s 9/1 to score the first goal and 5/2 to score at any time.
After going 93 matches for Man U without scoring, Rio Ferdinand has now bagged two in five games, a record that James Beattie can only dream about. Rio’s a 10/1 shot to make that record three in six, stranger things have happened.
It’s not just turkeys that get stuffed over Christmas. David Moyes is in the middle of the most embarrassing run since Paula Radcliffe relieved herself during the London marathon. Everton face a Sunderland team who have just had their best result of the season; their midweek match was called off. Get on the Mackems at 13/8.
Peter Crouch shoved Lee Bowyer to the ground on Boxing Day, an act that would normally receive a red card and a three match ban. The lanky striker can consider himself fortunate to be available for selection against West Brom; he’s not very good at football. Stevie Gerrard is back to his sublime best for the Pool, he’s a 13/8 shot to find the back of the net against Albion. Liverpool are good things at 1/4.
Steve Bruce didn’t endear himself to the Birmingham supporters when he waved to Manchester United fans as the Blues lost heavily in the Cup. If Bruce’s familiarity with opposition supporters is in relation to how badly they get beat, he might end up crowd surfing with the Chelsea fans. Chelsea are a 1/6 certainty.
It’s been widely reported that Graeme Souness wants Alan Shearer to stay on for another season, he probably will; as manager. Souness may have settled the dressing-room squabbling, but he can’t find a cure for their away day blues. The Geordies travel to White Hart Lane; Spurs get the nod at 4/6.
Milan Baros proved to be tasty with his hands against Everton, the Villa could do with a 2nd keeper when the Arsenal come to town. The Gunners are 4/6; they’re home, and almost certainly, hosed.
The weekend specials:
“Cold Turkey” – Emre to be booked 5/2
“Stuffed” – Thierry Henry to score a hat-trick 16/1
“Take the tree down” – Peter Crouch to be booked 3/1
“Hog many” – Wayne Rooney to score a hat-trick 14/1
Quote of the week:
“I’m not sure it was a straight red, maybe a yellow would have been more sensible.”
Steven Gerrard, the day after he ran across the pitch to confront Alan Shearer and Lee Bowyer, pressurising the referee into showing Bowyer a straight red.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
Only Van Nistelrooy and Rooney have scored more league goals for Man Utd than Rio Ferdinand this season.
Acc of the week:
Arsenal, West Ham, Tottenham, Man Utd and Man City make up the weekend accer, it pays out at a tasty 27/1.
Weekend Betting:
Aston Villa v Arsenal Saturday 31st December 12.45 Live on Sky
Aston Villa 7/2
Draw 12/5
Arsenal 4/6
Get on: Arsenal
Arsenal have won their last four matches against the Villa by two clear goals with Thierry Henry scoring in every match. Say no more.
Match Special:
Arsenal to win by two or more goals 13/8
Charlton v West Ham Saturday 31st December 13.00
Charlton 5/4
Draw 9/4
West Ham 7/4
Get on: West Ham
Charlton have lost eight out of their last nine matches, it has to be the Hammers.
Match Special:
Marlon Harewood to score two or more goals 8/1
Chelsea v Birmingham Saturday 31st December 13.00
Chelsea 1/6
Draw 9/2
Birmingham 12/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea have a 100% record at home in the league, Birmingham are the 2nd worst team in the Premiership. Tough call.
Match Special:
Chelsea to win 3-0 13/2
Tottenham v Newcastle Saturday 31st December 13.00
Tottenham 4/6
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 7/2
Get on: Tottenham
Spurs haven’t tasted defeat at the Lane since August; the Toon Army have lost four of their last five matches away from home. Home win.
Match Special:
Tottenham to keep a clean sheet 6/5
Liverpool v West Brom Saturday 31st December 15.00
Liverpool 1/4
Draw 7/2
West Brom 10/1
Get on: Liverpool
The Pool have met Albion four times in the Premiership, the aggregate score? 16-0. Liverpool are aiming for their 10th straight league win, they’re gonna get it.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win 2-0 11/2
Man Utd v Bolton Saturday 31st December 15.00
Man Utd 4/11
Draw 3/1
Bolton 13/2
Get on: Man Utd
It’s seven wins and two draws from their last nine league matches for Man U, Bolton have failed to score in their last two matches away from home. Definite home win.
Match Special:
Van Nistelrooy and Rooney both to score 4/1
Middlesbrough v Man City Saturday 31st December 15.00
Middlesbrough 5/4
Draw 9/4
Man City 7/4
Get on: Man City
Only Sunderland have conceded more goals in front of their own fans than the Boro, only Man U and Chelsea have scored more goals away from home than Man City. Stuart Pearce gave the City players Christmas day off, proving he’s more of a pussycat than a psycho. Away win.
Match Special:
Andy Cole to score two or more goals 8/1
Portsmouth v Fulham Saturday 31st December 15.00
Portsmouth 6/5
Draw 11/5
Fulham 15/8
Get on: Draw
Pompey were absolutely murdered at Highbury in midweek. Fulham haven’t won away from home all season, it’s a draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Sunderland v Everton Saturday 31st December 15.00
Sunderland 13/8
Draw 11/5
Everton 11/8
Get on: Sunderland
Sunderland have won four of their five previous Premiership matches at home to Everton. The Moyes Boys have conceded 11 goals in three matches; the Mackems will never have a better chance.
Match Special:
Sunderland to win 1-0 7/1
Wigan v Blackburn Saturday 31st December 15.00
Wigan 6/5
Draw 11/5
Blackburn 15/8
Get on: Draw
Wigan have won their last four at home; Blackburn have won three of their last four on the road. Score draw.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
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