Football Betting Previews

Wimbledon 2009 - Grand Slam Tennis - The Championships (Tuesday, June 23, 2009)

Wimbledon 2009 - Grand Slam Tennis - The Championships It's that time of the year once again where each and every Brit in the country looks in desperation for someone to pin all their hopes and expectations on and of course, this year, Andy Murray will have the honour or shall we say burden. Tim Henman persistently failed to reach the heights everyone demanded when it came to Wimbledon but for the first time in many a year, Great Britain actually has a real chance of celebrating a home-grown winner. The withdrawal of current Wimbledon champion Rafael Nadal will obviously help his cause although it prove to be a double edged sword. The pressure on Murray to do well will now increase dramatically as Nadal was in Andy Murray's side of the draw. There is of course a few potential banana skins left in his side, none more so then the Argentinian in Juan Martin Del Potro, but even he doesn't look too threatening, especially on a surface which Murray should be more then comfortable on. Enough with Andy Murray, mainly because his odds to win the whole thing are hardly jaw-dropping, but mainly so we can have a brief gander at some of the outsiders who may spring a shock in this years tournament. The women's draw does look a lot more open then the Men's although it's hard to look past the William sisters, who have dominated proceedings in recent years. Since 2000 there have been just two winners which weren't either Serena of Venus William's so it would be an understatement to say that this is their preferred surface and venue. However, from an English point of view, we will pin our hopes on the 15 year-old ? Laura Robson. We can't see here winning Wimbledon as she is still developing but she certainly has bags of potential and we expect to her to learn a lot from this years wild card entry into the competition. Matt's Tournament Tips: Men's Winner - Andy Murray Yes, i know i said his odds weren't great but we managed to get on him at 6/1 pre-Nadal retirement. He has shortened massively and you'll be fortunate to get around 3/1 for the Scot. Those odds aren't huge by anyone's standards but with the absence of Nadal, Murray really should sail through the early rounds and the final does appear to beckon. Providing he does get to the final itself, he would more then likely face Roger Federer. A player Murray has seen off in his last four meetings with the Swiss supremo so Murray has the credentials to make this tournament his own. A possible flaw in the Murray express maybe the fact that us as a nation are expecting too much. Murray has the potential to win Wimbledon but never before i have seen so many expectant tennis fans. Murray is a feisty character to say the very least so he should hold his nerve. Best Odds: 3.75 SportingBet Men's Winner - Novak Djokovic I know we've already posted Andy Murray as a possible winner of Wimbledon but at odds of around 16/1, Novak Djokovic simply cannot be missed. The Serb has had a difficult few weeks or so, none more then his early exit at the French losing in straight sets to German Philip Kohlscreiber. However, Djokovic is undoubtedly one of the better players on the tour and has reached as far as the Semi-Finals in 2007. He also made it all the way to the final in his warm up event at the Gerry Weber Open where he lost in three sets to Tommy Hass. He will have to overcome Tommy Haas if he is to even make the Semi-Finals and even then he will probably face a rejuvenated Roger Federer in the Semi but his odds to win the entire competition is mouthwatering and we've sold the kitchen sink to get some action. Novak has be far the easiest quarter in our honest opinion with only Tommy Haas shaping up as any real threat. We fully expect a Djokovic ? Federer Semi and that could make or break our Tennis pot. Best Odds: 16/1 Betfair 1st Quarter Winner - Nikolay Davydenko We did mention above that the obvious threat to Murray's bid to reach the final does appear, on paper, to be Juan Martin Del Potro. However, he is slightly unproven on Grass. With that said, so is my pick. Davydenko is one of my favourite players although he doesn't fare too well on grass. The fourth round is the furtherest he has gone in any previous Wimbledon. A plus point for this selection though is that there are very few danger players in his side of the draw apart from the big serving Andy Roddick. He will be the first big obstacle Nikolay will need to overcome if he has any ambitions of progressing further then ever before in this prestigious tournament. Best Odds: 25/1 BetFred Women's Winner - Elena Dementieva The number 4 seed does look a spot of value here despite looking to posses a tough draw. She hasn't had the best of seasons and was rather fortunate to have reached the third round at the French before eventually losing to Samantha Stosur, who evidentially went on to play in the Semi-Finals. Her warm up at the AEGON championships just before Wimbledon didn't go too plan losing in just the second round to Virginie Razzano, a player she could meet early on. The 26 year old still has talent and we are willing to put a-side her poor year thus far and back the Russian to come good at tasty looking odds. Best Odds: 33/1 SportingBet Men's Outright Odds: Roger Federer - 5/6 SportingBet Andy Murray - 11/4 SportingBet Novak Djokovic - 16/1 Betfair Andy Roddick - 20/1 Coral Juan Martin Del Potro - 20/1 PaddyPower 33-1 Bar the rest Women's Outright Odds: Serena Williams -13/5 SportingBet Venus Williams - 3/1 SkyBet Victoria Azarenka - 12/1 BlueSquare Maria Sharapova - 12/1 SportingBet Dinara Safina - 14/1 SportingBet Caroline Wozniacki - 20/1 StanJames 20/1 Bar the rest Labels: Andy Murray, Andy Roddick, Elena Dementieva, Juan Martin Del Potro, Maria Sharapova, Nikolay Davydenko, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Wimbledon 2009 Tennis betting Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 11:57 AM

FA Cup Final 2009: Chelsea V Everton betting preview (Thursday, May 28, 2009)

FA Cup Final 2008-2009 Chelsea V Everton - Saturday 15:00 ITV1 With the pressure of everyday life in the Premiership now put to bed, for this season at least, the attention of the nation will now turn towards the show piece, which is The FA Cup. Manchester United won both the Premiership title and the Carling Cup but fortunately, for the neutral at least, there won't be a 'Red Devil' in sight this Saturday although many in Manchester might be cheering on the team from Merseyside. Liverpool you say, don't be silly. David Moyes and Everton make up one half of what is an intriguing final with Guus Hiddink's Chelsea but with Chelsea's trophy cabinet brimming in recent years, we expect most of England and probably the world, to get behind the underdogs and cheer on the 'Toffees'. Last years FA Cup Final was a bit of a let down, no disrespect to the two sides involved but we all want to see two of the country's best sides in action, doing all they can to win the prestigious competition. That unfortunately wasn't the case last season as two surprise finalist in West Brom and Portsmouth did battle at Wembley in May last year. The underdogs didn't prevail that day with Portsmouth edging out a tedious final, winning 1-0. This final, however, does have the makings of another tight affair with the two league meetings between the two sides both ending 0-0. However, Guus Hiddink has already gone head-to-head with David Moyes last month with neither manager celebrating a victory, but this time we fancy the Dutchman to get the better of the Scot and pull off another tactical master-stroke as he aims to lead Chelsea to last piece of silverware left to play for. Both managers will be looking to end the season in the best possible way but only one will get their hands on the trophy at the end of the day. Unfortunately, from a neutral perspective, I can't see this being a goal crazy final at Wembley. The final features two sides who do play with a side of caution, especially Everton. The first 10-20 minutes could be a case of both sides testing the water, with goals coming at a premium. However, although we don't expect David Moyes to change his defensive ways, we do hold a glimmer of hope on Guus Hiddink altering his. In our opinion, Everton are their for the taking and it would be a surprise to us were Chelsea not to come away with the FA Cup. They have far too many quality players on show and they posses the ability to rapidly go up the gears if and when they wish. David Moyes on the other hand will look to deploy a side capable of defending in numbers, a tactic the players should be familar with by now. However, we don't expect for one minute that Everton will spend the entire game in their own half. Moyes will set his side up to defend deep when not in possession but also look to pounce on the Chelsea back four when on the counter. Steven Piennar will be Everton's biggest threat going forward as the kid posses a great deal of pace but Everton's main source of a acquiring a goal will probably come from Set-pieces. The Chelsea back line will need to be ship-tight as the likes of Joleen Lescott and Tim Cahill will get a lot of luck from crosses as Liverpool found out earlier in the tournament. Guus Hiddink doesn't have any fresh injury concerns with Joe Cole the obvious absentee. Frank Lampard did miss Chelsea's final game of the season in their 3-2 win away at Sunderland, but that was just precautionary and also a chance to give Chelsea's best player a well deserved rest after a long season. John Obi Mikel was his replacement that day but we expect the Nigerian to drop back to the bench with Essien occupying the holding role which will allow Lampard the freedom to roam the centre of the park. We do expect Hiddink to start with both Drogba and Nicolas Anelka up front though with the latter finishing the season as the leagues top goalscorer with 19 goals in the Premiership. Our only real question mark over Chelsea's probable line up is whether Hiddink gives Michael Ballack another chance after the German Captain was dropped to the bench on Sunday. The former Bayern Munich player hasn't had the best of seasons at the club and rumours are circulating that he maybe on his way out of Chelsea in a bid to build a summer transfer kitty. David Moyes has had to contend with injuries all season so he will be used to picking an under-strength side. Yakubu, Nuno Valente, Victor Anichebe, Mikel Arteta and more importantly, Everton's player of the season will also miss out on a rare final appearance with Phil Jagielka suffering a Cruciate Ligament injury. The latter two players are big losses for the Everton fans, more so for David Moyes as once again he has to pick from a depleted squad ahead of Everton's biggest game for some time. Fair play to David Moyes. He maintained a high standard right up until the final set of fixtures and put out a very strong side at Craven Cottage. It paid dividends with a 2-0 victory over Fulham and that win should stand Everton in good stead ahead of the final. Jo, Dan Gosling and Marouane Fellani were all given a small rest, playing bit parts from the bench on Sunday. What's more, Phil Neville, Louis Saha and Steven Piennar all came off midway through the second half with Moyes blatantly bearing Saturday's final in mind. We would love to predict an exciting final and full of goal mouth action but we simple can't see it happening. David Moyes will drill it into his players not to concede an early goal as that will lead to Everton chasing the game. We expect a cagey first half which might come to life in last 45 minutes. If you're on goals, you will almost certainly need an early one to open up the play. We will have a fun bet on Nicolas Anelka having the last laugh but in all honesty, even we aren't too sure how this final will pan out. Chelsea - 1.8 SkyBet Draw - 3.6 Bet365 Everton - 5.0 PaddyPower SoccerBetting Tip - Nicolas Anelka Last Goalscorer @ 6/1 WilliamHill Labels: Chelsea V Everton betting preview, FA Cup Final 2009 betting preview Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 9:36 AM

Champions League Barcelona V Manchester United (Monday, May 25, 2009)

Barcelona V Manchester United - Wednesday 19:45 ITV1 It's now the turn of the biggie itself. The Champions League is the greatest club competition in Europe, possibly even the world. It will be shown all across the globe and will attract well over 100 million viewers. For 90 minutes, the majority of Europe, especially the two country's involved, will stand still as Barcelona and Manchester United do battle for the best team in Europe tag. To add to the anticipation of the big game, the recipe for an exciting game is close to perfection. There are too many world class players on show for this to even come to close to a dull affair and we expect this to be a real thriller in Rome. With the Premiership now done and dusted, United now go in search of their fourth piece of silverware this season. With the Carling Cup, World Club Championship and more importantly the Premiership trophy all locked away in the United trophy cabinet, 'The Red Devils' will be gunning for the title of all titles as they prepare to entertain a very dangerous Barcelona side. Sir Alex Ferguson will have the tough task of nullifying the Barcelona forwards which is certainly easier said then done although it maybe wise to seek advice from former Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink. He kept Barcelona at bay for nearly 180 minutes in the Semi-Finals and he was spot on in his tactics despite the negativity of Chelsea's play. However, although United will be looking to drown out the Barcelona front line, they will still want to play their own football and we don't expect Sir Alex to set his side up to defend for one second. He has too many quality players up front to even consider that with Wayne Rooney and Christiano Ronaldo being United's biggest goal scoring threat. They were both rested in Man Utd's 1-0 victory away at Hull over the weekend and the fact that the pair will be fresher then ever is a major negative for Pepe Guardiola and Barcelona. Unlike the Champions of England, Barcelona don't go into the final with a win behind them. Not only did they lose just their fifth game of the season at the weekend but it was also in front of the home fans which doesn't bode well ahead of their biggest match since the 2006 Final with Arsenal. Yes, Pepe Guardiola may have rested a fair few of his first team regulars but it's always a morale boost to go into such a big game with a win behind you. Barca now don't have that luxury and with United having the slight edge in terms of form, the Barcelona manager will need to do his utmost to get his players focused on the task at hand. In regards to the home defeat against Osasuna on Saturday, only Samuel Eto took part and that was down to the Cameroon International attempting to win the Golden Boot award. He failed in his bid to keep Diego Forlan at bay and was predictably substituted at the beginning of the second half. He was the only first team regular to feature in that game and like United, all their players will be fresh after having the weekend off, although it does make you think that a United second string could beat a struggling Hull on their travels and yet a Barcelona side with Eto in attack couldn't beat a relegation threatened Osasuna side at The Nou Camp. There are a few positives for both sides in regards to team news. However, there is more bad news for Barcelona than good news. Pepe Guardiola was boosted by the news that Iniesta is winning his fight for fitness ahead of Wednesdays final. The midfield maestro is Barcelona's most influential player and everything goes through the Spanish international. He was also pivotal in their success against Chelsea as he scored the eventual winner late into injury time. Also, Thierry Henry has been declared fit for the final in what appeared to be a final Henry was destined to miss with a knee injury he sustained in Barcelona's 6-2 mauling of Real Madrid at The Bernabeu a few weeks ago. Now the bad news. Eric Abidal's appeal against his red card in the game with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge wasn't overturned and he will now miss the final along with full-back Dani Alves. The latter will be a big loss for Barcelona as he would have been a huge threat down the wings, bombing forward from right-back. Former United full-back Gerard Pique is now Barcelona's only real recognised defender which does leave the Catalans exposed at the back. Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't have anywhere near as many injury problems as his opposite number. United's only real concern ahead of the trip to Rome is the possible absence of England centre-back Rio Ferdinand and of course the suspension of Darren Fletcher. Ferguson stated earlier in the week that Ferdinand would need to feature against Hull if he was to have any chance of playing the final and that game unfortunately came to early for Rio. A few questions will be raised about the possible starting eleven of Manchester United, especially in defence. With Ferdinand on the brink of missing the final, it would appear that Jonny Evans could step in but after receiving a torrid time by the Porto forwards earlier in the tournament, we aren't too confident in his ability to defend against the likes of Messi, Iniesta and the sheer pace of Eto. I wouldn't hold out much hope of this finishing 0-0. Manchester United may have the best defensive record in the Premiership but their probable back four on Wednesday doesn't fill me with much confidence. John O'Shea and Jonny Evans will need to be on top of their game if they are to keep the Barcelona forwards at bay which in my honest opinion, is highly unlikely. The same can be said for Barca's back line also. They are missing their first choice full-backs and that leaves them exposed to the likes of Ronaldo down the right and Rooney down the left which doesn't bear thinking about if you're a Barcelona backer. We can see this match producing a fair amount of goals. Both sets of forwards should enjoy the vulnerability of the oppositions defence with Barcelona being the weaker of the two. It really is hard to see Rooney and Ronaldo not having much luck against what will be an inexperienced Barca back line and with that in mind, we will regrettably back Man Utd to do the business and win back-to-back Champions League titles. Barcelona - 7/4 @ BlueSquare Draw - 23/10 @ Bet365 Manchester United - 7/4 @ Coral SoccerBetting Tip - Over 2.5 Goals - 11/10 @ SportingBet Labels: champions league betting, Champions League Final Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 4:08 PM

Championship Play-Off Final: Burnley V Sheffield United (Friday, May 22, 2009)

Championship Play-Off Final Burnley V Sheffield United - Monday 15:00 LIVE on SkySports Manchester United maybe heading to Rome on Wednesday to contest the greatest club competition on the planet but it's Burnley and Sheffield United who will do battle in what is now the most expensive game to be settled on a football pitch. Yep, you've guessed it - It's the Championship final and a year of hard work and countless hours on the training ground comes down to just 90 minutes on that green field. This is the type of game where even hardened professionals can crumble under the pressure and some will bottle it but one thing is for sure, this is a game where heroes are made but who will step up to the mark on Monday and send their team into arguably the greatest league in Europe. Burnley are undoubtedly the surprise finalist this time around but they fully deserve their place in Monday's showdown. They've had their finest season for some time, which was so nearly capped off with a domestic cup final. They showed great courage and determination to get into the Semi-Final's of the Carling Cup where they eventually succumbed to a 119th minute Jermaine Defoe strike before they finally waved goodbye to that competition. Many did assume that Burnley might fall flat after that bitter defeat but that was far from the case. They went through a miserably patch over Christmas but did finish the season is decent form, winning seven of their last eleven league fixtures. Manager Owen Coyle has based his teams phenomenal season down to the hunger of the players. They have consistently put in some valiantly display and none more so then their run in the Carling Cup. However, the fact that Burnley have played more than 50 games this season will put a few potential Burnley backers off. Their fine run in the cups could have a long term affect on their fitness but we don't think that will be an issue. It won't take much effort from Owen Coyle to get his players fit and raring to go as the chance of playing in the Premiership should be a big enough incentive. Unlike Burnley, Sheffield United have past experience at Premiership level and they know full well what is required to compete in one of the toughest leagues on the continent. They were relegated from the Premiership two season ago, some still feel very hard done by, after a Carlos Tevez goal at Old Trafford sealed their fate. Many of the Sheffield United fans are still very bitter after all the controversy surrounding the Tevez affair and they will be desperate to put all that nonsense to bed and finally regain their place in the league the fans feel they belong. Sheffield United did end the season as the best of the rest, finishing in third. That means very little to manager Kevin Blackwell though as a third place finish doesn't come with automatic promotion and he will be eager to seize on their final opportunity and send the club back into the top flight. Their form before the close of the season was formidable. They've lost just two games since the start of February and were on a run of eleven games without defeat. However, we'll give you one guess who ended that fine unbeaten run. Yep, you guessed it - Burnley. United lost 1-0 at Plainmoor at the end of last month and that narrow defeat will still be fresh in the memory of the United players and they will be craving revenge on Monday. For a match with so much at stake, form does become irrelevant. It all boils down to 90 minutes on the pitch and possibly whichever side can hold their nerve at crucial times. This is probably one of the hardest play-off finals to call for some time and we can't separate the pair. Burnley did complete a league double over United this year with wins home and away over the Hillsborough side. Those victory's could play a part mentally and a tentative vote will go the way of the Claret and Blues but in all honesty, the prize is their for both sides. Should be a very entertaining game at Wembley and you'd be a fool to miss this spectacle. Previous Play-Off Results: Burnley BEAT Reading 3-0 (Aggregate) H: 1-0 A: 0-2 Sheffield United BEAT Preston North End H: 1-0 A: 1-1 Match Odds: Burnley - 15/8 BetFred Draw - 9/4 Boylesports Sheffield United - 13/8 Bet365 Soccerbetting Tip - Burnley to WIN FINAL (Includes Extra-Time and Penalties) at 11/10 @ SportingBet Labels: Burnley V Sheffield United betting preview, Championship Play-Off Final betting preview Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 7:04 PM

Premiership Preview by Matthew Chapple (24 May 2009) ()

Premiership Previews 24th May Arsenal V Stoke City - Sunday 16:00 With Arsenal now assured of a fourth place finish and Stoke certain of a spot in next years Premiership campaign. This has become slightly a nothing game for both sides but that doesn't necessarily mean this will be a dull affair at The Emirates. Both sides can now play with a degree of freedom with the pressure shackles now off and with that in mind, we can see both sides giving us an entertaining game this Sunday. Arsene Wenger is still refusing to bin his youth policy and spend big this summer. It's pretty clear that the fans are now fed up of another seasons without any silverware, this will be their fourth consecutive season without winning any trophy's and it's unsurprising that the loyal fans have started to become tiresome with Wenger's view of the transfer market. However, although Wenger is tight with cash, he did splash out in January with the purchase of Andrei Arshavin who appears to be a revelation at the club. The Russian international brings not only pace and skill to the table but also a whole new form of attack for Arsenal. He can torment any full-back on any given day and Ryan Shawcross will need to brace himself for what could be a hard day at work. Tony Pulis has come in for a lot of praise recently, unlike some of his compatriots who still have a lot of unsolved issues regarding their Premiership status. He had survival wrapped up several weeks ago and although a win would push Stoke City into the upper half of the table. A draw at The Emirates would still be a very creditable result and that certainly isn't out of the question after winning two successive fixtures. Wins over struggling Hull City and misfiring Wigan has seen Stoke rise to 11th in the table and whatever happens on Sunday, Tony Pulis will still come out of this season a winner along with the entire Stoke squad after a remarkable season. Stoke caused Arsenal lots of problems in the reverse fixture back at The Brittania Stadium last November, but you would expect Arsenal to put in a much better shift back at The Emirates and we think Arsene Wenger's kids could be too strong for a powerful Stoke side. It's been a poor season for Arsenal by their own very high standards and only a win at home on the final day of the season is acceptable in a bid to repay some of the faith the fans have shown towards their club this term. Arsenal win for us at very generous odds. Match Odds - Arsenal 2/5 SkyBet Draw 4/1 Bet365 Stoke City 9/1 Expekt SoccerBetting Tip - Arsenal to WIN at 2/5 - SkyBet Aston Villa V Newcastle United - Sunday 16:00 This fixture will undoubtedly attract a fair few neutral spectators as two sides with only winning the game in mind go head-to-head at Villa Park this Sunday afternoon. Although Aston Villa would love to secure a fifth place finish, the pressure to win will firmly rest on the shoulders of Newcastle and more importantly, on Alan Shearer. The Magpies recent defeat against Fulham has seen their bid for survival hang by a thread and this will be the biggest Premiership fixture in Newcastle's history. This is certainly a game you cannot afford to miss and it's live on SkySports this Sunday. Both Martin O'Neill and David Moyes have expressed their feelings about how much they want to finish in fifth position and only a win will do for Villa with Everton's win over the weekend pushing them above Villa into fifth. Although the arrival of a battling Newcastle side may bring about a lot of market support for the away side, we actually think Villa have a decent shout of nailing down all three points in this fixture. O'Neill's side shown us all at the weekend when they travelled to The Riverside that they could carve out opportunity's and if they more clinical in the final third, could of won at a cantor. They will certainly get several chances in this fixture and providing Agbonlahor and John Carew get their shooting boots on, Villa should enjoy themselves in front of the Newcastle goal. To say this fixture is big for Newcastle would be a massive understatement. It literally is make or break for the club on Tyneside. Defeat at Villa Park could potentially destroy a club who were once striving for Premiership success. The most daunting factor about this fixture is that the Newcastle team could produce the performance of their lives and still not survive the drop. Their home defeat at the hands of Fulham last Saturday meant Newcastle now have no control over their fate. Even if they were to smash Villa off the park, which is highly unlikely. They would still need Manchester United to do them a favour against Hull City at The KC stadium. Alan Shearer can ill-afford to let that thought slip into his players minds though and he must ensure that his squad do their part in order to leave themselves with some sort of chance of avoiding the chop. This fixture has so much riding on it that i find it hard to justify anyone's decision to go lumping on either side. Newcastle desperately want and need all three points but their performances of late would indicate that they have no chance. For Shearer's sake i will be a proud member of the 'Toon Army' but I'm not too optimistic. I would be surprised if Villa didn't breach Steve Harper's goal and while i do want Newcastle to win, i'll play kinda safe by backing each side to score. Match Odds - Aston Villa 6/4 Boylesports Draw 5/2 PaddyPower Newcastle United 9/5 PaddyPower SoccerBetting Tip - Both Teams to Score at 4/6 - Bet365 Blackburn Rovers V West Brom - Sunday 16:00 Another fixture with very little at stake as West Brom aim to sign out of the Premiership in style and beat an unconvincing Blackburn Rovers. Sam Allardyce has done very well to guide Blackburn into safety and he can now look forward to what he hopes will be a busy summer. The same can't be said for his opposite number. West Brom are the first side to be relegated after their home defeat at the weekend and Tony Mowbray's team will be hoping to leave a lasting impression on the Premiership before they wave goodbye once again. The objective for Blackburn at the start of the season was to challenge for one of the European places. Paul Ince was left with the job of guiding the side into European contention but it didn't take long before their priority's suddenly changed. A terrible start which once peaked at eleven games without a win did leave Blackburn in dire straights. Luckily for Blackburn fans, Paul Ince was given his marching orders and Sam Allardyce was his replacement. That risky decision from the board did eventually pay off with Blackburn just managing to avoid a last day fight for survival but they have still been well below par compared to previous seasons and 'Big Sam' will now have all summer to plan for next season in what Blackburn fans hope will be less nerve racking then the one they've had to endure this year. It was sad and somewhat bitter news that their defeat at home to Liverpool last Sunday did end their dreams of pulling off 'The Great Escape'. In the opinion of a Liverpool fan - I honestly thought West Brom were somewhat hard done by. They really could and probably should have gotten something from that game. They had countless amount of chances but like they have done all season, they've struggled to convert them. What hurts worse is that they were duly punished at the other end and despite the pretty football 'The Baggies' are well known for. It's all insignificant if you cannot win games. Their performance on Sunday was one of great spirit and fighting determination and with that wehighly rate the chances of West Brom making an immediate return to where some 'Baggie' fans feel they belong. Blackburn were outclassed at Stamford Bridge last Sunday and were somewhat fortunate to have escaped with a 2-0 defeat. However, their poor performances on the road aren't repeated at home and Rovers have won three on the bounce at Ewood Park and haven't lost in five home fixtures. West Brom performed valiantly last weekend but they had the advantage of having a capacity crowd cheering them on. They won't have that this weekend and it's really hard for us to oppose Blackburn this Sunday despite Blackburn shading odds-on. Match Odds - Blackburn 10/11 WilliamHill Draw 5/2 SkyBet Blackburn Rovers 15/4 BlueSquare SoccerBetting Tip - Blackburn to WIN to NIL at 5/2 - BlueSquare Fulham V Everton - Sunday 16:00 Fulham can get their first taste of what it's like to face a side capable of competing against some of the best in Europe as they welcome Everton to Craven Cottage for their last game of the season. Everton have already booked their place in the Europa League next season and with Fulham currently occupying the final Europa berth. They will be hoping to nail down seventh spot and guarantee a rare taste of European football for their fans. Funnily enough, despite Everton notching up seven more points then Fulham thus far, it is the side from London who prepare for this fixture with the better form. Roy Hodgeson's side has won five of their last eight league games and did manage to register back-to-back wins with their rather fortunate 1-0 away win at Newcastle. Not only is their overall form impressive but their performances at home have been phenomenal. Eleven wins from eighteen home fixtures has seen Fulham boast the fifth best home record in the league and that's something Everton will need to be wary of as they head into a tough final fixture. David Moyes is another manager that has come in for plenty of praise this season. Despite a distinct lack of funds and several injuries to some of their more influential players, Moyes has consistently got the best of what he has available to him and he is certainly one of many stand out managers this season. The simple fact that Everton have regained a place in Europe is an achievement in itself but to make it all the way to an FA Cup final is a feat any manager would envy. With that said, David Moyes will of course have one eye on that final on 30th May and he could be tempted to rest a few players in a bid to avoid any more injury setbacks. He has reiterated his desire to nail down a fifth place finish though so don't expect David Moyes to go easy on Fulham. We think this will be a very tight game at Craven Cottage. Only a few have escaped the Cottage with all three points and despite Everton's ambitions to finish in fifth position, we still fancy Roy Hodgeson and Fulham to come out with the goods. Fulham only realistically need a draw to secure a seventh place finish and this game could very well end in a stalemate between two of the most improved sides in the Premiership. Match Odds - Fulham 6/5 VCBet Draw 12/5 SkyBet Everton 11/4 SkyBet SoccerBetting Tip - Correct Score 2-2 at 16/1 - SportingBet Hull City V Manchester United - Sunday 16:00 This is another game which will attract plenty of watchers as it heavily reflects what is one of the tightest relegation battles for some time. For the first time in a long while, United will have plenty of supporters, especially on Tyneside. A win for 'The Red Devils' could leave Hull vulnerable to relegation while a win for Hull would see them certain of another season in the top flight. One team with everything to play for while the other is playing for fun. Should only be one winner but with Hull's recent performances, we wouldn't be too confident in Phil brown's side. In what looked a dream start could now turn into a nightmare of a finish. Hull were sat cosily in sixth position at Christmas but a dreadful 2009 has seen Hull enter free-fall mode and they now have a real fight on their hands just to survive. It is pretty simple for Phil Brown's side though. A win would be enough to guarantee another year in the Premiership and while a draw might be enough, they can only concentrate on picking up all three points as they can ill-afford to leave anything down to fate. The omens aren't good for Hull though. The 'Tigers' are without a win in nine games and have five defeats from their last six outings. They've picked up just eight points since the turn of the year and although Hull did produce one their finest performances of the season at Old Trafford when they valiantly went down 4-3 losers. They would need to match that display and probably then some if they are to beat what could be a weakened United side. With the title now wrapped up, United can now afford to rest some of their key players ahead of their Champions League final against Barcelona next week. That's awful news for the likes of Newcastle and Middlesborough but fantastic for their match day opponents Hull. However, although Sir Alex will probably rest a fair few first team players. Everyone,especially Phil Brown will know United still have some decent fringe players capable of beating most Premiership sides. Danny Welbeck, Darron Gibson and Macheda are just a few of the youngsters Sir Alex may go with and all have been tried and tested at this level this season. The players themselves will see this game as the perfect opportunity to get their names into Sir Alex's plans ahead of the Champions League final and we expect the youngsters to give hapless Hull a fair few problems. This is one match i can't see ending 0-0. Hull will be going all out for the win while United can play without the added pressure of trying to win the title and we fancy this game to produce a fair amount of goals. Hull have failed to keep a single clean sheet in their previous six league outings and United look good value to put a few more past Hull keeper Boaz Myhill. Get on United to score two or more at The KC stadium at tasty odds. Match Odds - Hull City 2/1 888sport Draw 13/5 BlueSquare Manchester United 7/5 VCBet SoccerBetting Tip - Manchester United to Score TWO OR MORE at Evens - PaddyPower Liverpool V Tottenham Hotspur - Sunday 16:00 With the dream of winning the title now dead in the water. A frustrated Liverpool go in search of a victory that would at least leave their fans celebrating their 25th win of the season but to do so they will need to see off an improving Tottenham side. Although the fans will be very disappointed that the league crown won't be heading back to Merseyside we still expect a fabulous atmosphere at Anfield as the fans prepare to cheer on their side for one last time this season. Liverpool's frustrations at not winning the league title was there for all to see on Sunday at The Hawthorns. Not only was Gerrard's goal midway through the first half celebrated in minimal effort but the bust-up between Alvaro Arbeloa and Jamie Carragher simply emphasised how bitterly disappointing and in some cases the pain of not winning the title felt to the players. However, although they didn't go all the way this season there is certainly huge signs of improvement from Liverpool and they look a very good bet to do the business next season. I mean, they didn't lose to any of the 'Big Four' and did actually complete league doubles over both Manchester United and Chelsea so they are obviously doing something right. A win this Sunday wouldn't put the loss of the title to bed but it would go some way to mending a few broken hearts on Merseyside. Just like Liverpool, I'm sure Tottenham cannot wait for the next season to come around. This season wasn't a pleasant one for everyone involved at Tottenham but also like Liverpool, there is certainly signs of improvement and a lot of potential. For Tottenham it was a case of two half's. The first half of the season was dire and at one stage, Tottenham looked a good bet for the drop. Out went Juande Ramos and in came Harry Redknapp and he has been a revelation since his arrival. Not only has he took Spurs well away from the bottom three but he has always regained some of the pride Spurs had lost in the early part of the season. Eight wins from their last twelve fixtures just highlights what an amazing job Harry has done at the club and although a win for Spurs maybe a bit adventurous, that's what they need if they do have expectations of playing in Europe next season. The main talking point with this match will be the return of Robbie Keane who endured a short spell at Liverpool earlier in the season. The fans certainly won't be holding a grudge but that may well change if the Republic of Ireland international finds himself in the goals. He scored twice in this fixture last season and although he didn't enjoy himself when he was a player at Liverpool. He will be trying his utmost to be a nuisance this Sunday. Fernando Torres was the saviour that day and with him well overdue a goal - We will stick our pounds on him opening the scoring. Match Odds - Liverpool 4/7 PaddyPower Draw 3/1 Bet365 Tottenham Hotspur 6/1 SkyBet SoccerBetting Tip - Fernando Torres First Goal Scorer at 9/2 - Coral Manchester City V Bolton Wanderers - Sunday 16:00 With European football now out of the equation for Mark Hughes and Manchester City, the objective now will be to cement a top ten finish and one last victory in front of a home crowd would be enough to ensure City of that. Bolton on the other hand can only end the season in 12th position at best but with their drastic away performances this season, we will side with the side in sky-blue to get the job done on the last day of the season. Although there is a lot of work to be done at Man City over the summer, the new owners have laid down the law and said that they will not be spending heavily in the next few months. Mark Hughes will of course have some funds at his disposal but he may well have to sell a fair few if he wants to land yet another big name during the summer. It will be nervy times for the players at the club with several expected to lose their starting berth with a new crop of players expected. However, there will be a few that have earned their right to stay at the club. Robinho, Sean Wright-Philips, Stephen Ireland and possibly even Craig Bellamy when he's fit. There is however a lot of drift wood and that has cost them this season. They have kept their impressive record at home in tact though with twelve of their fourteen victories coming at The City of Manchester stadium this term but they will need to make vast improvements on their travels if they are to compete with the very best in England next season. Whereas the future does look bright for City with their new wealthy owners. The same can't be said for Bolton who appear to have another quiet summer in the transfer market ahead. Bolton have never been a club who spends freely in the windows and the task for Gary Megson this summer will be to grab a few bargains. He needs to be a shrewd businessmen as he looks to bolster his small squad ahead of the next campaign. Fortunately for Bolton, they can look forward to next year as they avoided a last day dogfight for survival. Their Premiership status wasn't wrapped up in spectacular fashion though. Despite a dreadful run of six games without a win, their four successive draws was enough to earn them a spot in next seasons Premiership. When you consider that Manchester City have been pretty formidable at home this term and Bolton have been drastic on the road then the odds of ¾ on City to win their final game of the season on home soil does look very attractive. City have won back-to-back games at home with wins over Blackburn Rovers and West Brom while Bolton have gone eleven away games without a single win. Both sets of players may have one eye on their holidays but i will take a big piece of the value available on a City win. City have also scored seven in their last two home fixtures and we like the odds on the team in blue notching up a few more in this fixture. Match Odds - Manchester City ¾ BlueSquare Draw 13/5 Bet365 Bolton Wanderers 4/1 SkyBet SoccerBetting Tip - Manchester City to Score THREE OR MORE at 21/10 - SkyBet Sunderland V Chelsea - Sunday 16:00 Chelsea failed to make an impression on the title this season but they could potentially have a big say on the fight for relegation as they travel up North to take on Sunderland. The home side only need a draw to realistically avoid the drop but to be sure they will need to beat Guus Hiddink's side which is easier said then done. A difficult season could come to an abrupt end were Sunderland to suffer defeat at home to Chelsea and if other results go against them. It's a long shot though and we can't see Sunderland going down now despite yet another defeat away at Portsmouth on their last outing. Not only was that their 19th defeat of the season but it was also their ninth defeat in eleven games. That's shockingly bad form and were it not for those below them also struggling, they could find themselves in a more precarious position. The more worrying factor for any Sunderland fan is their lack of victory's in the league this term. Just nine of their 37 fixtures have finished in success for 'The Black Cats' and a lot of work needs to be done over the summer to get Sunderland back to winning games. In what looked to be an exciting end to season has now turned sour for Chelsea. They struggled to keep up with United in the chase for the title and their semi-final defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League will still be hurting to this very day. However, Guss and the team can look forward to an FA Cup final in ten days time. They face Everton at Wembley and Guss Hiddink will see this game as the perfect opportunity to test a few tactics and possibly players. However, just because Chelsea have a final just over the horizon don't go assuming they will field a weakened side. This is Hiddink's last league game and not only will he want to sign off in style but the players also will want to give him the farewell he deserves. I expect Hiddink to start a very strong side capable of running rings around Sunderland and they look huge to us. Chelsea at over evens, against a hapless Sunderland side? You must be mad! Like i said above; i expect Hiddink to go with a very strong side from the outset in a bid to win the game and leave the Chelsea fans with a lasting impression. The players will have ten days to rest before the final and despite Sunderland needing a result to nail down their Premiership status. We can't see past an away win at luxurious odds. Match Odds - Sunderland 3/1 Coral Draw 13/5 BlueSquare Chelsea 20/19 Expekt SoccerBetting Tip - Chelsea to WIN at 20/19 - Expekt West Ham V Middlesborough - Sunday 16:00 It's now crunch time for Gareth Southgate and Middlesborough as they head down to the capital where they face Gianfranco Zola and his West ham side at Upton Park. Not only will Borough have to better the 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture back at The Riverside earlier in the season but they will also need to win by a big margin. It really does look like Everest for Southgate and his side but they will nevertheless give it a go and it should be an entertaining game. Unlike their opponents, West Ham now have nothing on the line as they head into the final set of fixtures. Two straight defeats to the pair from Merseyside has put to bed any chance they had of securing European football for the fans. They lost in a comprehensive manner at home to Liverpool a fortnight ago losing 3-0 and Everton added to their misery by putting another three goals past them winning 3-1 at Goodison. The Hammers now find themselves too far away from seventh placed Fulham and this is their last opportunity to repay the fans for their loyal support throughout the season. Eight of their thirteen wins this term have come at home and they have another great chance of adding to that tally with the visit of Middlesborough. Not only do Middlesborough need to win but they also have to pray that other results go their way. Either way, we think they are well and truly doomed. To add to their problems they also need to register probably their most convincing win of the season as they would need to overhaul Hull's goal difference even if results did go in their favour. The signs aren't good for Southgate and his team though. Their best chance of defying the drop did appear to lye at home in their previous game but the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa now leaves them with too much to do in our brutal opinion. They have won just one of their last six games and have just two wins since the turn of the year. That's simply pathetic and I'm afraid to say it's goodbye for poor old Middlesborough. This was the hardest game for us to pick a bet in. We can't see Middlesborough winning however much we want them to. We will instead look towards Tuncay to inspire a lack lustred Middlesborough. He scored one of the goals of the season last weekend and the Beckham of Turkey can do us and his side a favour by doing something similar this weekend. He has notched up seven goals in the league this season and he is embarrassingly Middlesborough's top goalscorer. We will back him small to get in the goals once more at decent odds. Match Odds - West Ham 11/8 Stanjames Draw 5/2 Ladbrokes Middlesborough 2/1 WilliamHill SoccerBetting Tip - Tuncay Sanli to SCORE ANYTIME at 11/4 - BlueSquare Wigan Athletic V Portsmouth - Sunday 16:00 One of several games with nothing but pride at stake. To be fair, it's actually a game we won't go anywhere near. Both sides have been pretty dire in recent weeks but Portsmouth win over Sunderland on Monday might be the catalyst they need heading into their final fixture. We still wasn't impressed though and we can only come up with a dull draw for this one. Steve Bruce was said to be lost for answers to his sides recent below par performances. At Christmas they appeared to be a shoe in for a European finish but a dreadful run in has seen them pick up very few points. In fact, it's got so bad that Wigan have now lost three successive games and have picked up just one point from their last seven matches. Yes, some of their fixtures were difficult ones on paper but there were also a few which looked very winnable also and there is no excuses for Wigan. Their performance at home to Champions Manchester United did show signs of improvement but that went straight out the window with defeat away at Stoke City and it's quite simply a case of players playing with no confidence. The end of the season couldn't of come at a better time for Wigan and Steve Bruce. With other failing to do the business last weekend, Portsmouth were assured of their place in the Premiership before they even kicked a ball on Monday. However, they made sure with a comfortable 3-1 victory at home to Sunderland at Fratton park. They were assisted by some dreadful defending from their visiting opponents but nevertheless, it was a morale boosting win as Portsmouth as they were without a win in four games. That win should stand them in good stead as they look to aim to end what has been a fairly disappointing league campaign with a victory away at The JJB stadium. They will have to do so without David James as he goes for surgery and won't be seen again until next term. Both sides have been very disappointing this season although Wigan will be the happier of the two after securing their Premiership status a lot earlier then Portsmouth did. The pair will both be eager to end the season with a win but neither has too flattering of late and the draw looks the safest option in what is a nothing game. Match Odds - Wigan Athletic 5/4 Coral Draw 12/5 Bet365 Portsmouth 5/2 WilliamHill SoccerBetting Tip - Under 2.5 Goals at 5/6 - 888sport Labels: premier league betting, premier league preview, premiership betting, premiership preview Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 10:11 AM

UEFA Cup Final : Shakhtar Donetsk V Werder Bremen - Wednesday 20th May (Tuesday, May 19, 2009)

Shakhtar Donetsk V Werder Bremen - Istanbul 19:45 ITV4 With the Champions league final just over the horizon. It's now the UEFA Cup which takes centre stage as Ukraine take on Germany live on ITV4 in Turkey. Many will have fancied Werder Bremen to make it this far, especially as they claimed the scalp of AC Milan early on in the tournament who were the favourites to win the entire competition. Shakhtar on the other hand weren't rated as highly but fully deserve their spot in the final after victory's over Tottenham Hotspur and Dynamo Kiev to name but a few of their scalps in this seasons competition. As far as picking a winner for this game goes, we will have to side with the Ukrainians which may come as a surprise to some after i did nominate the German side as my actual favourites for the UEFA Cup a few months ago. A lot has happened since then though and some of Shakhtar's gutsy performances has impressed me and they get the nod to land what would be their biggest achievement for some time. The Ukrainians will be boosted by the absence of Bremen's biggest threat in Brazilian Diego who has actually found the net six times despite his side only playing the second half of the tournament after dropping down from the Champions League after Christmas. He received a yellow card in the second leg of their victory over fellow German side Hamburg and he will now unfortunately miss this fixture. That will be hard felt by Werder Bremen as he is by far their most creative player and questions are asked by myself as to whether Bremen have a suitable replacement. Mehmet Ozil certainly posses a lot of potential but he is an unknown quantity at such a big stage. Shakhtar have had to relinquish their league crown after Dynamo Kiev ran away with the Ukrainian league after Shakhtar won it the previous season but that could also be the incentive the club need heading into the final. They won both the domestic league and cup last year and although they would have been aiming to repeat that feat this season. They will undoubtedly have wanted to win this competition above anything else. They did defeat their bitter rivals Dynamo Kiev at the Semi-Final stage and actually looked the better side over the two legs in my honest opinion. They can defend extremely well but also look a huge threat going forward and Bremen will need to be on top of their game if they are to silence the Ukrainian supporters. I'm not confident that this game has many goals in it. Bremen are certainly capable of scoring a fair amount but the absence of Diego is key for me and i think that will leave Bremen a bit exposed in the centre of the park. Donetsk are also a side who prefer to defend in numbers and then look to hit sides on the break and they have made a mockery of some big teams in doing so. I can see this being a tight game and it may very well go into extra-time but Shakhtar have been over priced in my opinion. Shakhtar Donetsk Previous UEFA Cup results: BEAT Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 Aggregate BEAT CSKA Moscow 2-1 Aggregate BEAT Marseille 4-1 Aggregate BEAT Dynamo Kiev 3-2 Aggregate Werder Bremen Previous UEFA Cup results: BEAT AC Milan 3-3 (Won on Away Goals) BEAT St-Etienne 3-2 Aggregate BEAT Udinese 6-4 Aggregate BEAT Hamburg 3-3 (Won on Away Goals) Key Players: Shakhtar Donetsk - Luis Fernandinho Shakhtar aren't as prolific in front of goal as their opponents and this is emphasised in the fact that Luis Fernandinho is their top goals corer in the UEFA Cup with just four goals. However, although that tally is small. All of those goals were crucial. The vast majority of their attacking play goes through the Brazilian and all their creative work will be through him and he does look very good value to score during 90 minutes. Werder Bremen - Claudio Pizzarro With Diego unavailable through suspension. The Bremen forwards may struggle for decent opportunity's. However, Claudio Pizzarro is a proper striker and can score from anywhere as he has already shown with five goals in this competition thus far. He does have games where he appears not too bother but this is a final and his performance in the Semi-Final against Hamburg was immense. He certainly put in a shift and was rewarded with a goal and could have had more. He will need a good supply from the wings but he is also great value to make the score sheet. It should be an entertaining affair back in Istanbul. I doubt it will match the Champions League final of 2005 which seen Liverpool produce probably the greatest comeback of all time in a final but nevertheless. When the pressure is on, literally anything can happen. It's live on ITV4 and it's a game we highly recommend you watch and have a small punt on. Selection: Shakhtar Donetsk to WIN - 15/8 BetFred Side Bet: Luis Fernandinho to Score in 90 minutes - 15/4 SportingBet Labels: UEFA Cup Final : Shakhtar Donetsk V Werder Bremen - Wednesday 20th May Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 7:50 PM

Premiership Preview by Matthew Chapple (16-17 May 2009) (Thursday, May 14, 2009)

Premiership Previews 16th/17th May Manchester United V Arsenal - Saturday 12:45 With United riding their luck on countless times this season, they have now put themselves on the verge of winning an 18th league title and were they to do so, would match the record set by Liverpool. Arsenal could spoil the United celebrations with a win though, but with United getting the better of them at the Emirates a fortnight ago, you would have to fancy the home side to get the result they require to win the Premiership. After yet another comeback from 'The Red Devils' last Wednesday. Sir Alex Ferguson and Manchester United are now on the verge of winning back-to-back Premiership titles. In fact, it would be their eleventh Premiership title which would be an incredible feat. They are well on course though and it would take a minor miracle for United to lose control, with 'the reds' needing just a single point from their two remaining fixtures. Just Arsenal and Hull City remain for United and we can't see either beating 'The Red Devils'. They haven't been playing too well in all fairness but like great champions do. They get the right result time and time again. They've won their previous six league games and despite several scares, they have still yet relinquish control of top spot. Arsenal should be a tricky encounter for United but with the title just 90 minutes away. I expect Fergie to field a very strong side in a bid to rest several for the Hull game the following week. With no domestic final in sight and fourth position now a certainty. Arsene Wenger can now only look forward to next season and he will certainly be greatly for this year's campaign to come to an end after what has been arsenal's most disappointing season for some time. Their 4-1 drubbing at the hands of Chelsea last weekend just summed up a dreadful year for 'The Gunners' and you have to think that United's hunger for the title will get them through, what does look on paper, a tricky fixture. Credit where credits due. Arsenal have still been a very tough side to get the better off this term. Although their weekend defeat at The Emirates was an embarrassing scoreline but their performance didn't fairly reflect how the game panned out and it's also worth noting that the defeat against Chelsea was their first in the league in twenty-one games. That's an incredible run and Fergie will be fully aware that Arsenal can turn on the style and beat absolutely anyone on their day. Match Odds - Manchester United 7/10 Expekt Draw 11/4 BetFred Arsenal 11/2 Stanjames Prediction - Draw Bolton Wanderers V Hull City - Saturday 15:00 Bolton have already wrapped up survival but the same cannot be said for Hull City who have been in free-fall since the turn of the year. Gary Megson will now have one eye on preparations for next season but that doesn't mean he will go easy on Phil Brown's Hull City. In fact, with Hull playing some terrible football of late, we will even back Bolton to add to Hull's woes and notch up their first three points since the beginning of April. A 1-1 draw at home to Sunderland wasn't the finest way to book another season in the top flight but the end product was all that mattered and Gary Megson can now start planning for the future. For now, any ideas that he has for next year will need to be put on hold as they go in search of their first win in five games. Their last victory in the league came did come at this venue when they beat a poor Middlesborough side 4-1. That was their most comprehensive win of the season in front of the home fans and the Bolton faithful will be expecting a similar performance this Saturday as hapless Hull come to The Reebok stadium. Bolton could count themselves somewhat fortunate to have taken a point last weekend. Sunderland dominated from the outset as they desperately needed three points to ensure their own safety and despite the away side peppering Jussi Jaaskelainen's goal. Bolton held out and the draw was actually a good result for them in the end. However, that was one of the poorest team displays i have seen from Bolton this year and although Hull have been playing shockingly bad recently, they cannot afford to underestimate their travelling opponents or they could be in for another rough 90 minutes. I'm lost for words to describe Hull's season or second part of it shall i say. They were looking home and dry before Christmas and even looked to have a decent chance of finishing in the European places. To say how the mighty have fallen is an under statement as Hull will now consider themselves very lucky if they are to avoid the drop after a dreadful run of results. They've now lost five consecutive matches and with Newcastle winning at St. James Park last Monday. Hull now find themselves in the bottom three for the first time this season. Some will say this is Hull's best chance to notch up three points and possibly jump back into safety but i will actually go a step further and say this is probably their last chance to do so. Were they to suffer defeat at The Reebok, they would leave themselves a mountain to climb as they welcome Manchester United to The KC stadium on the last day of the season. A match many will fancy United to stroll through and with Hull playing awful right now, we won't disagree. It certainly is make or break for Phil Brown and Hull City. Match Odds - Bolton Wanderers 13/10 Bet365 Draw 12/5 SkyBet Hull City 23/10 PaddyPower Prediction - Bolton Wanderers Everton V West Ham - Saturday 15:00 With European football now 100% guaranteed for Everton. David Moyes will now set his side the target of nailing down a fifth place finish and two wins from their remaining two league fixtures would see them go mighty close. West Ham on the other hand want what Everton have and that's a spot in next seasons Europa league but manager Gianfranco Zola will be well aware that anything but a win at Goodison Park would see his European ambitions all but disappear. Should be a close fought encounter on Merseyside but Everton do have more quality within their squad and they get our tentative vote. David Moyes had to settle for a point last weekend as Tottenham came to Goodison Park and gave Everton a firm examination. The first half was dominated by the away side but the second half could of gone the way of Everton but in the end, a draw was a fair result. Fortunately for Moyes, Villa also slipped up and Everton are now just a single point behind Martin O'Neill's Aston Villa who occupy fifth position. David Moyes is already concerned about the amount of funds that will be made available for him during the summer. The club has never been one to spend heavily in transfer markets so every penny Moyes can get his hands on will be massive and the difference between finishing fifth and sixth is around £1 million and every little counts at Everton right now. With West Ham possibly low in confidence after their 3-0 home defeat to Liverpool last Sunday, Everton do look a good bet to push Villa for that fifth position and a win this Saturday would be a step in the right direction. West Ham themselves are after one of those elusive European entries but the defeat at Upton Park to title chasing Liverpool dealt their European dreams a massive blow. That was a big set back for Zola and his team and West Ham are now trailing seventh placed Fulham by two points. They can ill-afford another slip up and this does look another big ask for 'The Hammers' as they face yet another side from Merseyside within the space of a week. To be fair, neither side has been setting the world a lite with their recent form with both sides managing to win just one of their last five fixtures. However, you would have to say that Everton's form does outdo West Ham's with Zola's side losing three of their previous five. It doesn't help your cause when the club is cash strapped and looking to sell at any given opportunity but that makes European qualification even more important and Zola will be hoping to guide his side not only into the Europa league but also to more cash. Which at the moment, is like gold dust for West Ham. Match Odds - Everton 4/5 BetFred Draw 13/5 Bet365 West Ham 4/1 PaddyPower Prediction - Everton Middlesborough V Aston Villa - Saturday 15:00 A devastated Middlesborough go in search of a win that just might keep their slim survival hopes alive. Anything but victory would all but seal their fate and one side they certainly don't want to face is Aston Villa despite Villa's poor league form. It's now or never for Borough but we think their fate has already been decided after Monday's Tyneside derby defeat. With just two games left to play. Middlesborough find themselves three points off safety and praying other results go in their favour. Not only was that defeat away at St. James Park a big blow to their already slim hopes of survival but it will also do major damage to their already faltering team morale. It's now three defeats on the bounce for Southgate's side and despite me fancying their chances last Monday. I will now go completely against them and back Villa to add to Borough's woes. In fact, the odds on a Villa win do look very attractive when you consider that Borough are a side rocking after Monday. They've won just one of their last nine Premiership fixtures and have struggled to score in either of their two previous home matches at The Riverside. The signs aren't looking good for Southgate's side and we are dumbstruck by Villa's odds. Martin O'Neill will know his side are assured of European football for a second successive year but he will still want to wrap up a fifth place finish and end the season knowing his team are the best of the rest. However. If Villa want the rights to a fifth place finish then they will need to buck up their performances. Their 3-1 mauling at the hands of Fulham last weekend was just what they deserved after a less then impressive display at Craven Cottage. That poor effort from Villa will be a big plus for Southgate but with Everton now breathing down their necks, we fancy Villa to come good and fortify that fifth position. Villa's form heading up to Tyneside isn't great. Actually, it's pathetic and isn't a lot better than Middlesborough's. They've won just one of their last eleven games and although they haven't lost three on the trot like their opponents, they have still lost their way when it comes to actually winning games although it doesn't take a lot to beat Middlesborough these days. Villa thrashed Boro 3-0 when the pair last met at The Riverside last season and with Villa losing the reverse fixture at home 2-1, Martin O'Neill's side will be out for revenge. Match Odds - Middlesborough 13/8 Boylesports Draw 27/11 Expekt Aston Villa 7/4 BlueSquare Prediction - Aston Villa Newcastle United V Fulham - Saturday 15:00 A rejuvenated Newcastle are gunning down back-to-back wins in the Premiership this weekend as they bid to defy the odds and escape the drop. Fulham on the other hand are after their second successive win but for completely different reasons. They are on the verge of an unbelievable return to Europe and win over relegation threatened Newcastle would leave them in the driving seat with just one game left to play. It should be another stunning atmosphere at St. James Park once again as Newcastle head into their second do or die match this week. After pulling off a sensational comeback at home to Middlesborough last Monday, the Toon Army will once again be out in their droves but will it be enough to aid Newcastle to yet another valuable three points? Only time will tell in what will be a very tricky game for Alan Shearer and Newcastle. The 3-1 win in front of a capacity crowd on Monday was just what the doctor ordered and now Newcastle have a realistic chance of avoiding the drop. A win would see their destiny lye solely in their hands but a draw or worse would leave them vulnerable to relegation with just the one game remaining. That win over local rivals Middlesborough has to be a major boost to the players confidences and with everything to play for, literally anything could happen in their remaining two fixtures. This may well be any normal away fixture for Fulham but they will have more then their fair share cheering them on this Saturday. Both the Hull City and Middlesborough fans will have one eye on this game and will be praying for Roy Hodgeson's side to do some damage at St. James Park. Fulham did beat 'The Magpies' back at Craven Cottage earlier in the season and several will be hoping for a similar scoreline as Fulham bid to do some of the stragglers a big favour. Many will fancy Newcastle's chances after their performance on Monday night but Fulham really will be a tough obstacle to overcome. They pride themselves on being a very hard side to beat and even the leagues finest have struggled against them. They've lost just two of their last eight and both of those defeats were to top four opposition and although Fulham do rarely win on their travels. They could very well spoil the party by nullifying the Newcastle attacks. Match Odds - Newcastle United 20/21 888sport Draw 13/5 Boylesports Fulham 10/3 SkyBet Prediction - Draw Stoke City V Wigan Athletic - Saturday 15:00 With survival assured for Stoke and European football now dead in the water for Wigan. This has turned into a nothing affair with nothing but slightly more finishing prize money at stake. However, if i know Steve Bruce and Tony Pulis, which we think we do. They will both field their strongest possible sides and in order to achieve the best possible result this Saturday. We can't split the two and can see this ending in a stalemate. If form is anything to go by then Stoke could be a shoe in. They've won four of their last eight compared to Wigan's measly two. They also boast a formidable record at The Britania this season, losing just four of their eighteen home fixtures. It's also worth noting that nine of Stoke's eleven victories this season have come in front of their fans but their last visit to The Britania stadium didn't end in celebrations. Their 1-0 defeat against West Ham was their first home defeat for seven games and questions might be asked about complacency now the season is pretty much done and dusted for them. Not a side we would be lumping on but nevertheless, have been a very tricky side to play against all season. Steve Bruce was was quoted as saying he has tried everything he can to bring back the winning feeling for Wigan. Their shambolic away defeat at West Brom was their fourth in five outings and you have to go back six games for Wigan's last Premiership victory when they edged out a win less Hull City side at The JJB. Not only have Wigan been craving a win, they would probably settle for a result in this game. They've now lost three successive away fixtures in the league and all three were in a comprehensive fashion. The Lactic's have shipped nine goals in their previous three away matches and Stoke will take a lot of confidence out of Wigan's hapless defending recently. Match Odds - Stoke City 5/4 SkyBet Draw 23/10 VCBet Wigan Athletic 11/4 Coral Prediction - Draw Tottenham Hotspur V Manchester City - Saturday 15:00 A Europa League six pointer here as Man City head down to the capital where Harry Redknapp's Tottenham lye in waiting. Both sides find themselves trailing Fulham who currently occupy the final European berth but three points would leave one team still in contention heading into the final fixture of the season next weekend. City have been poor away from home in general and with Spurs showing some improved form, they get the nod to do the business this Saturday. A drastic start to the season has been put right with a brilliant finish for Spurs. It's baffling to think that Spurs couldn't buy a win earlier in the season and actually went eight games without a single win, with six of those being defeats. Their last eight games has painted a totally different picture though with Tottenham winning five of their previous eight matches. I know they were assured of safety half-a-dozen weeks ago but the difference in form is incredible as well as Spurs actually playing some decent football, although it was well overdue. Harry Redknapp has obviously had a calming influence since his arrival and the simple fact that Spurs are safe from relegation is a massive achievement in itself after a disastrous start but now Spurs are also on the verge of booking another year in Europe. Even if they don't make it into the Europa league. The fact that Spurs will finish in the top ten is a big credit to the work Redknapp and his back room staff have done at the club and with Tottenham winning their last five games at White Hart Lane. We will stick our pennies on them making it six from six at home this Saturday. Mark Hughes has already named a few of his summer transfer targets and the season isn't even over yet. With big name after big name being linked with the club, you can't help but think that those who are at the club maybe looking over their shoulder with the season nearly out. Everyone will feel they are vulnerable with Hughes more then likely to be given a blank cheque book as he aims to guide his City to bigger and better things next season. Despite the probability of City spending big this summer. We doubt they will match those at the very top and their performance at Old Trafford just reiterated how far behind City are to the so called 'Big Four'. They rarely troubled Van Der Saar in the United goal last Sunday and although Hughes will look to reinforce his side this summer, we feel he would need at least 5 or 6 quality players before he can even start challenging the likes of Everton and Villa let alone Liverpool and Man Utd. City's form before the 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford was good, winning three out of three but their overall away form this season has been very poor with just two away wins all season and we expect Spurs to see off a home sick City side at very generous odds. Match Odds - Tottenham Hotspur 10/11 SkyBet Draw 13/5 Boylesports Manchester City 10/3 Stanjames Prediction - Tottenham Hotspur West Brom V Liverpool - Sunday 13:30 Two sides with everything to play for go head-to-head this weekend as Liverpool take on a resurgent West Brom this Sunday in front of the Sky cameras. In a game which is expected to go the way of the away side, Tony Mowbray will need to produce another master stroke if he is to make the great escape feasible. Should be an entertaining game at The Hawthorns but one that really ought to go Liverpool's way. West Brom's second win in three games has now given them a fighting chance of defying the odds and avoiding what looked an inevitable relegation. They still have plenty of work to do though and they know they must attain some sort of result against Liverpool if they are to stand any chance of surviving. They have a poor goal difference so picking up at least a point in this fixture is a must. The omens aren't good for 'The Baggies'. Not only have they never beaten Liverpool since the Premiership was formed but they've never even registered a draw either, meaning West Brom have lost all seven of the seven previous meetings between the pair. To make matters sound a lot worse, West Brom haven't scored against Liverpool. In all honesty, I'm not sure if I've even see a worse head-to-head record. Yes, West Brom do have their own cause as to why they need the win but Liverpool are and should be way too strong for them this Sunday. Sorry 'Baggie' fans, but it's the brutal truth. As stated above, Liverpool have thoroughly enjoyed this fixture in recent seasons. They've dominated the head-to-head, winning all seven of the meetings between the two and they should make it eight this Sunday although were Man Utd to pick up the points they require to win the title, then Liverpool would have nothing but second place to play for. That could be a huge blow mentally for the Liverpool players and although they still should ease past West Brom. At the odds on offer, i wouldn't be lumping on without watching United first. After picking up the Footballer of the Year award by the Football Writers Association, Steven Gerrard will aiming to show all those who voted for him why he is the best player currently in the Premiership. It came as no surprise to us that he received the award as he has been by far Liverpool's biggest threat and influence this season. It's just unfortunate that both him and Torres have missed so many games. Both are fit for this clash though and i fancy both to score, let alone one. Liverpool have scored seventeen in their last five games and we can see them adding to that prolific goal scoring tally this weekend. Match Odds - West Brom 15/2 Bet365 Draw 4/1 BlueSquare Liverpool 4/11 SportingBet Prediction - Liverpool Chelsea V Blackburn Rovers - Sunday 16:00 Another match with little importance as 'Big Sam' takes his Blackburn side down to London for their daunting away trip at Stamford Bridge. A fixture Blackburn haven't enjoyed in recent years, failing to score in each of their previous five clashes with Chelsea. They've also been dreadful on their travels this season and this does appear to be a straightforward match for Chelsea, if there ever is one. With the title now impossible to win, Chelsea have nothing left to play for in the league and that could play into Blackburn's hands with The Blues eyeing up their FA Cup final against Everton on 30th May. It wouldn't be too surprising to see Guss Hiddink experiment a tad with his line ups in preparation for that final but one thing is for sure, Hiddink won't field a weakened side and i expect Chelsea to get the job done in convincing fashion this Sunday. It was seven league games ago when Chelsea last lost a Premiership fixture in a bitter 1-0 away defeat at local rivals Tottenham. They have since gone on to win five of their following six games and are by far and away the more in form side of the two. They got the better of a resilient Fulham side in their last visit to Stamford Bridge, winning 3-1, while their emphatic 4-1 win over London rivals Arsenal last weekend should leave the players brimming with confidence. This should be another good day at the office for Hiddink as Chelsea go in search for their fourth successive victory in the league. With another season in the Premiership assured, Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce can look forward to what he hopes will be a busy summer in the transfer window. However, he may well have to say goodbye to star forward Roque Santa Cruz after the striker revealed he wanted to move on to new pastures and Allardyce will have a tough task of finding a suitable replacement although he should receive a handsome fee for the Paraguayian. As far as form goes for Blackburn, they have very little. They may have won two of their last three games in the league but both of those came at home and Rovers and been nothing short of abysmal on the road recently. They've won just four away fixtures all season and are on a run of four successive away defeats and despite my heart wanting Chelsea to come a cropper, i simply can't see it with Blackburn's poor away record. They've conceded twelve goals in their last four away matches and that really could rise after their trip to London. Match Odds - Chelsea 6/17 Expekt Draw 9/2 SkyBet Blackburn Rovers 11/1 Boylesports Prediction - Chelsea Labels: premier league betting, premier league preview, premiership betting, premiership preview Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 9:53 AM