| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by David Walker (Friday, April 28, 2006) |
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Manchester United could delay Chelsea's celebrations by a
further week while Portsmouth could relegate both West
Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City this weekend writes
David Walker.
Chelsea vs Manchester United
The clash of the form teams and the result which could confirm
Chelsea's retention of the Premiership should the Blues win.
Chelsea have been impeccable in front of their own fans this
season, winning 17 out of 18 Premiership matches. Indeed,
the only time they have been beaten inside 90 minutes at
home this season was against Barcelona in the Champions
League. Manchester United are the Premiership's form team,
with 10 wins in their last 11 matches and the shocking goalless
draw against Sunderland the only blot on an immaculate
copybook.
United have won just four times at Stamford Bridge in 14
Premiership meetings while Chelsea have experienced the
same success against the Reds on home soil. The match has
finished all square on five occasions so historically there is
not much to split the sides. Chelsea have won the last two
meetings at home 1-0 while United's last success came four
years ago when they won 3-0.
Chelsea go into the match as favourites, but Manchester
United could extend the title "race" to another week with
victory at tempting odds.
Walker's Word: Stubborn United to battle on @ 11/4.
Birmingham City vs Newcastle United
Birmingham are in desperate need of points if they are to
avoid relegation and have slowly turned the corner by
remaining unbeaten in their last three home games. However,
with fellow relegation candidates Portsmouth also hitting form,
Steve Bruce's side may run out of games. The last two meetings
between the pair have finished all square while Newcastle won
2-0 in 2002. Newcastle have hit a rich vein of form under
caretaker manager Glenn Roeder and have won their last five
matches. The Magpies will have a lot to say in the relegation
battle, having beaten West Brom 3-0 last weekend and are
unlikely to do a side which has not beaten them at St. Andrews
since 1977 any favours.
Walker's Word: Newcastle win @ 17/10.
Liverpool vs Aston Villa
Liverpool, fresh from dispatching Chelsea out of the FA Cup
will be confident of beating lowly Aston Villa. The Reds have
won their last two against Villa at and three in their last five
meetings at Anfield. While Liverpool have won 14 out of 18
home matches this season, David O'Leary's side have been
dreadful on the road. They have lost their last four, including
two heavy defeats: 5-0 against Arsenal 5-0 and 4-1 at Everton.
Villa are likely to survive relegation by the skin of their teeth
and a better goal difference, but points on the board won't
prevent them from playing like a side tumbling out of the
division on Saturday.
Walker's Word: One for the big hitters - home win @ 4/11.
Manchester City vs Fulham
After a promising start to the season, Manchester City have
plummeted to the lower echelons of the Premiership and will
see this match as a way of restoring some pride. The last two
meetings between the sides have ended as draws, although
City have had the better of previous encounters. The
Citizens dished out a 4-1 hammering in 2003 and enjoyed
a 4-0 win in 2000 and 3-0 victory in 1999 as both sides
progressed through Division's One and Two respectively.
Added to this, Fulham not won at City since 1984 in the
old second division and Stuart Pearce's side could take
full advantage and creep above them in the table.
Walker's Word: Manchester City @ Evens.
Middlesbrough vs Everton
Middlesbrough have experience a congested fixture list in
recent weeks due to their success in the FA and UEFA Cups.
Despite some iffy results on the road, they remain a force
at the Riverside Stadium and have won four of their last
five at home, including the 3-0 defeat of Chelsea. Everton
have not beaten Middlesbrough away since 2000, with Boro
recording two wins and two draws since then. The clash
against Everton will be Middlesbrough's tenth match in
April and with Steve McClaren's side playing a crucial
UEFA Cup semi-final on Thursday, the Toffees have a
chance of returning to Merseyside with at least a point.
Walker's Word: Low scoring draw @ 9/4.
Wigan Athletic vs Portsmouth
Wigan have not fared well recently but have done remarkably
well overall in their first season in the top flight. Just three
wins in their last 13 matches and one victory in their last eight
at home will give a resurgent Portsmouth optimism in their
battle to avoid the drop. The Latics beat Aston Villa 3-2 on
18 April, their first since beating Manchester City on Boxing
Day, but suffered five home reverses in between. Harry
Redknapp's side could relegate West Brom and indeed
Birmingham if they win and Steve Bruce's side lose and are
in pole position to do so. After a dismal campaign, Pompey
have won five of their last eight matches including away
victories at West Ham United and Fulham.
Walker's Word: Portsmouth to survive @ 7/4.
Charlton Athletic vs Blackburn Rovers
Charlton are on course to finish comfortably in mid-table and
this is largely thanks to their solid home form. The Addicks
have not lost at The Valley since Arsenal beat them on Boxing
Day and have won six out of nine home matches since that
defeat. Alan Curbishley's side have a good record against
Rovers, winning three of the last four Premiership meetings
in London. Despite Blackburn being on course for a place in
Europe, they have not fared well away from home. Mark
Hughes' side have won just won in seven matches on the
road, including a 2-1 defeat at Birmingham and 2-2 draw
at Portsmouth in their last two away games.
Walker's Word: Home form to prevail @ 13/8.
Sunday 30 April
Tottenham Hotspur vs Bolton Wanderers
Bolton have been the scourge of Spurs in recent seasons,
winning the last two meetings at White Hart Lane and also
enjoying a 1-0 win at the Reebok Stadium back in November.
Spurs realistically need to win both of their final two games to
confirm a fourth place finish ahead of North London rivals
Arsenal and their solid home form could serve them well here.
Martin Jol's side have won 11 out of 18 matches in front of their
own fans this season and will be buoyed by the 1-1 derby draw
with Arsenal last weekend. Another home win is the sensible
bet here.
Walker's Word: Tottenham Hotspur @ 8/13.
Get all the mentioned odds or even slightly higher in most cases at
Paddypower and  Betfred .
About the Author
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.
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 12:45 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Thursday, April 27, 2006) |
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Only tools and horses
Looking back on it, marriage was probably a mistake. It's not
the compulsory reduction in alcohol consumption that I object
to, or the fact that I have to endure television programmes
with the word 'vampire' in the title, it's the awful inane football
related comments that plague my very existence. "He should
be wearing gloves, it looks a bit chilly," is a classic example,
"Why is he getting so excited, it's only a game," is equally as
annoying and the often repeated "You don't have to bet to
enjoy the football," led me to invest in a shovel.
As Liverpool edged out Chelsea last week, a sense of dread
enveloped me as i saw her forehead wrinkle, indicating that
a comment was imminent; "The Chelsea players shouldn't
be so upset, they're going to win the league," was the end
result of her pondering, and incredibly, I had to concur.
Jose's collection of superstars just need a point against
Man U to become only the 2nd team in the history of the
Premiership to retain their title, but Jose will demand all
three. The 11/10 on offer about a Chelsea victory should
be hoovered up; their FA Cup heartache will soon be a
distant memory.
The formbook would suggest that Tottenham have the
beating of Bolton on Saturday, but I'm not so sure. Bolton
have had the Indian sign over Spurs in recent seasons and
go in to the match on a high after destroying Charlton last
weekend. Even Martin Jol can see that Bolton look a little
bit of value at 5/1.
If Spurs slip up, Arsenal will take full advantage at the
Stadium of Light. Sunderland have been awful on the
road, and strangely, even worse in front of their own
supporters. Arsene has taken a few liberties with team
selection in recent weeks, but he could play the under 11's
against Sunderland and still snatch a draw. Arsenal are
short at 1/4, but good things come in small packages.
Like Jay Jay Okocha, Lua Lua is so good they named him
twice. However, this isn't a hard and fast rule, as anyone
who's seen Eric Djemba Djemba play will testify. A fit again
Lua Lua holds the key to a Pompey victory at Wigan, he's
13/2 to open the scoring. Portsmouth are a confident call
at 8/5 to move a step closer to safety.
As West Ham have already qualified for the UEFA Cup,
there's a high probability that Alan Pardew may shuffle
his pack away at West Brom; let's hope it's more pleasing
to the eye than the previous Pardew shuffle, that was just
wrong. There's a 75% chance that the Baggies will already
be relegated before the Mayday kick-off; if already down,
the Albion are worth a small nibble at 6/5; if other results
go their way, take a huge bite.
Interestingly, there's never been a draw in five years of
Premiership fixtures between Charlton and Blackburn; i
use the word 'interestingly' in its loosest possible sense.
As Charlton never win a match towards the end of a season
and Blackburn are crawling to the Premiership finishing line,
the long overdue draw looks a little bit big at 12/5.
Liverpool are the nap of the week at 4/9 at home to the Villa.
The Pool are finishing the season like a train while Villa's derby
day victory is masking the worst run since Jade Goody's
marathon attempt. Peter Crouch, like me, should be ashamed
of his misses over the last few months, but there is an unwritten
law that ex Villa players always score against their former
employers, Crouchy is 11/10 to prove the rule.
The weekend specials follow a TV theme; surprisingly,
there's not one mention of Watchdog:
"Up Pompey" - Birmingham and West Brom both to lose 6/1
"Terry springer" - John Terry to score with a header 10/1
"Stalti towers" - Paul Stalteri to score with a header 40/1
"Drop the Red donkey" - Peter Crouch not to score 4/6
"Stirred ruck from the Sun" - Jihai to be sent off 25/1
Quote of the week:
"A manager picks players who he thinks are going to win
the game for him, otherwise he's an idiot."
Jimmy Hill adds to the debate surrounding Mourinho's
FA Cup team selection.
Stat, you're a liberty:
Chelsea, Man U and Liverpool have all been pulverised at
least once this season, there are only three teams who
haven't been on the end of a beating by three or more goals:
Arsenal, Man City and Tottenham.
Acc of the week:
Chelsea, Liverpool, Portsmouth, Arsenal and West Brom
form the weekend accer, this little corker pays out at 20/1.
Weekend Betting:
Chelsea v Man Utd Saturday 29th April 12.30 Live on Sky
Chelsea 11/10
Draw 9/4
Man Utd 2/1
Get on: Chelsea
Chelsea have won their last three in the league and are
unbeaten at home under Jose Mourinho. United haven't
scored at the Bridge on their last three visits and their
goalless draw with Sunderland remains fresh in the memory.
Match Special:
Chelsea to score three or more goals 4/1
Birmingham v Newcastle Saturday 29th April 15.00
Birmingham 11/8
Draw 12/5
Newcastle 6/4
Get on: Draw
Birmingham have earned seven points out of a possible nine
at home in recent weeks; Newcastle have won their last five
and are fighting for a European spot.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 6/1
Liverpool v Aston Villa Saturday 29th April 15.00
Liverpool 4/9
Draw 13/5
Aston Villa 6/1
Get on: Liverpool
It's nine consecutive wins for Liverpool; Villa's record of one
win in nine won't be giving anyone in red a sleepless night.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win and keep a clean sheet 10/11
Man City v Fulham Saturday 29th April 15.00
Man City 10/11
Draw 9/4
Fulham 5/2
Get on: Draw
Man City have only won one of their last seven; Fulham can
not win away from home. Four of the last five matches
between Man City and Fulham have ended up deadlocked.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Middlesbrough v Everton Saturday 29th April 15.00
Middlesbrough 6/5
Draw 9/4
Everton 9/5
Get on: Draw
This fixture has a history of being tight, there have been
two goals or less in the last eight matches between them.
Everton haven't scored in four, this will not be a goalfest.
Match Special:
No Goalscorer in the match 8/1
Wigan v Portsmouth Saturday 29th April 15.00
Wigan 5/4
Draw 5/2
Portsmouth 8/5
Get on: Portsmouth
Wigan have only won one of their last six; Pompey have
taken all three points in five of their last eight.
Match Special:
Lua Lua to score at any time 7/4
Charlton v Blackburn Saturday 29th April 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Charlton 6/4
Draw 12/5
Blackburn 11/8
Get on: Draw
It's just one win from their last six games for the Addicks;
Blackburn are winless in four.
Match Special:
Bellamy to score in a 1-1 draw 14/1
Tottenham v Bolton Sunday 30th April 16.00 Live on Sky
Tottenham 8/15
Draw 12/5
Bolton 5/1
Get on: Bolton
Spurs have dropped five points from their last two games;
Bolton look to be back to their best after destroying Charlton
last time out. Bolton have won their last six league meetings
against Tottenham.
Match Special:
Borgetti to score at any time 5/2
Sunderland v Arsenal Monday 1st May 17.15 Live on Sky
Sunderland 8/1
Draw 4/1
Arsenal 1/4
Get on: Arsenal
No home wins all season says it all for Sunderland; Arsenal
are simply in a different class. The Gunners have scored
three goals or more in their last four league meetings with
Sunderland.
Match Special:
Arsenal to win 3-0 13/2
West Brom v West Ham Monday 1st May 20.00 Live on Sky
West Brom 6/5
Draw 12/5
West Ham 7/4
Get on: West Brom
The FA Cup chasing Hammers have only won one of their
last six in the league; the Baggies can go out with a bang.
Match Special:
Gera to score at any time 3/1
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 11:55 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Nigel Ridgeway () |
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UNITED TO SPOIL BLUES' PARTY AT 13/5.
Chelsea v Man United
Sa Apr 29 (SS1) - LIVE BETTING AVAILABLE
Chelsea (11/10) need just one more point to seal the title,
and they're strong favourites to get it against Manchester
United (13/5) on Saturday (kick off 12.30pm), but I wouldn't
bet on it. As far as the title is concerned, it looks mission
impossible for United now with Chelsea having to lose this
game and their final two games against Newcastle and Blackburn.
Instead, United will be content to go to Stamford Bridge and
lay down a marker for next season and, with bet365, they
look terrific value at 13/5 (11/10 Chelsea, Draw 21/10).
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
Over the past two seasons, United have raised their game
when facing major opponents who want something badly,
in particular, ending the long unbeaten runs of both Chelsea
and Arsenal. Plus, United might be the more determined to
win this game and spoil the Blues' party, and they're likely to
come out all guns blazing, which makes bet365's 6/1 for the
double result also worth taking. If United take the early lead,
Chelsea will of course push for the equalizer, but they won't
need any more than that, so we'll a saver on the 1-1 draw
at 5/1.
As for the First Goalscorer market, the price on Rooney is
longer than usual at 13/2 due to the presence of the likes of
the mis-firing Hernan Crespo (9/2) and Didier Drogba (5/1),
and he's even greater value when you consider that they'll give
your money back if he scores the last goal in the game instead.
Once the game goes live, don't forget to check out bet365's
Live In-Play Console, where you'll find up to 14 dynamic
markets on the match.
Chelsea v Man United Picks:
Man United to beat Chelsea @ 13/5
United / United @ 11/2 (saver on 1-1 @ 5/1)
Wayne Rooney to score first @ 13/2
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 11:52 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Nigel Ridgeway (Friday, April 21, 2006) |
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BLUES CAN BREAK RED BLOCKADE AT bet365's 11/10
Chelsea v Liverpool
Sa Apr 22 - 5.15 pm ko (BBC1)
As usual with these two teams, a tight low-scoring game looks
on the cards, but its Chelsea who are fancied to prevail at the
bet365 price of 11/10 (Liverpool 12/5, 2/1 the Draw).
That doesn't look a bad price considering that Chelsea have
won five of the last nine encounters in the last two seasons,
compared to the Red's solitary triumph in May 2005, and they
probably have more potential match winners on the pitch than
Liverpool. Of course, the Reds won't be easy to break down at
Old Trafford, but Chelsea are fancied to nick his by one goal
and progress to the final.
In the bet365 First Goalscorer market, the in-form Didier
Drogba gets the nod at 5/1, especially as they'll give you your
money back if he scores the last goal in the game instead.
It's not difficult to envisage this game being really tight
leading up to the interval, so the same firm's 4/1 about the
Draw / Chelsea double result market also looks tempting.
Once the game goes live, don't forget to check out their
Live In-Play Console, which offers up to 14 dynamic
markets on the game.
Live Game Picks:
Chelsea @ 11/10
Didier Drogba to score first @ 5/1
Draw / Chelsea @ 4/1
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
BORO TO NAIL HAMMERS AT 13/10
Middlesbrough v West Ham
Su Apr 23 - 4.00 pm ko (SS1)
Not forgetting the 'other' semi final, which promises to be
at least as entertaining as the match at Old Trafford, with
both teams likely to go for each other's throats straight from
the whistle. Both teams are much better going forward than
they are sitting back, which should give the neutrals amongst
us plenty of excitement, and a decent bet to boot in the shape
of over 2.5 goals at 10/11. Both sides have averaged two
goals per game in the FA Cup this season, and this game is
likely to be no exception. As for the winner, Boro just get the
nod at 13/10, with their quality winger James Morrison a good
shout to score first at bet365's 11/1 (3/1 Anytime).
Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.90
James Morrison to score first @ 11/1
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
NIGEL RIDGWAY, an experienced punter and betting shop
owner of many years, believes that "The key to successful
gambling is getting value for money."
Nigel was once forced by local bookmakers, to stop writing
a tipping column in a UK newspaper, because he was costing
them a fortune. Find out what offers and lines are hot at bet365.com
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 6:34 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell () |
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She's got one hand in my pocket
Even a blind squirrel occasionally finds an acorn. I permed
my five strongest fancies in doubles and upwards last week,
in what proved to be the tastiest Canadian since Alanis
Morissette. Speaking of the diminutive whiny artiste, she
once wrote a song with the following lyrics, ‘It's like 10,000
spoons when all you need is a knife, isn't it ironic? The answer
is no. If you're looking for a knife, the cutlery drawer should
be the first port of call, searching in some sort of spoon factory
was flawed from the very beginning.
There's no doubting the irony surrounding Sunday's FA Cup
semi final between Boro and West Ham; two English managers
will face off in England's greatest competition, on St George's
Day, fighting to reach the Cathedral of English football; the
Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. Both teams have been priced
up at 2.50 to win the match, after securing victory in the
warm up earlier in the week, the Boro are a tentative pick.
Chelsea are a far more confident selection when they meet
Liverpool in the other semi. Liverpool may have had the
rub of the green in European competition against Jose's
superstars, but the Champions have handed the Reds a
couple of real spankings in the Premiership. At 2.10,
Chelsea are a boot-filler.
Adding a virtual Champions League playoff to a North
London derby is like pairing lager with a chicken madras;
a mouth-watering prospect. Arsenal are finishing the
season like a train; chalk up this battle to the Gunners at
1.80, as the war for four escalates.
Bolton's demise has been grossly exaggerated, only Chelsea
and Man U have won at the Reebok since August. Big Sam's
gang host a Charlton team that collected three points against
Pompey on Monday, but the police are considering launching
an investigation as it was such a blatant robbery. A home win
looks attractive at 1.80.
The odds makers will occasionally price up a game where a
team that needs a result will be a shorter price than their true
probability should dictate. A poor West Brom side are only
4.00 to win at St James' Park against an in form Newcastle
due to the ‘need to win' factor, resulting in the Toon Army
being available at a relatively huge 1.73. The Geordies
receive the coveted ‘nap of the week' award.
After drawing away at Old Trafford, Sunderland will be
hoping that lightning strikes twice (that's one more than
Jonathan Stead) as they travel to Fratton Park. Pompey
destroyed the Mackems at the Stadium of Light when
they weren't playing well, they're absolutely flying now.
Portsmouth at 1.33 are the next best bet on the coupon.
Wigan's season has been nothing short of a fairytale, and
they'll be hoping for a happy ending at the enchanted
Cottage. As Fulham's home form has been sensational,
the 2.00 about a home win is the call. Sometimes, the
bears have to eat.
The weekend specials revolve around the North London derby:
"Coming to an Ed" - Edgar Davids to score at any time 7.00
"What a Lehmann" - Arsenal to keep a clean sheet 2.38
"Imagine" - Aaron Lennon to score at any time 5.50
"RSVP" - Reyes, Silva and Van Persie all to score 101.00
"Carri OK" - Michael Carrick to score at any time 9.00
Quote of the week:
"If you have a car and you win a race, you cannot just settle
for that, you must try and make the car better. We're a good
car, but you always want a bigger engine."
Rafa Benitez tells a familiar tale.
Stat, you're a liberty:
There is only one team in the Premiership who have not been
involved in a goalless draw this season, it's Wigan.
Acc of the week:
Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle, Portsmouth and Fulham are all
standout wagers on their own, throw them together and you
have ‘super wager', an accer that pays out at 17.41.
Weekend Betting:
Arsenal v Tottenham Saturday 22nd April 12.45 Live on Sky
Arsenal 1.80
Draw 3.40
Tottenham 3.75
Get on: Arsenal
The Gunners have won their last six at home; Spurs have
only won two of their last eight on the road, losing five of
the other six. Spurs have lost on their last seven visits to
Highbury.
Match Special:
Thierry Henry to score two or more goals 5.50
Bolton v Charlton Saturday 22nd April 15.00
Bolton 1.80
Draw 3.40
Charlton 3.75
Get on: Bolton
Bolton have only lost 2 of their last 15 home matches; Charlton
haven't won on their travels in the league for six months.
Match Special:
Nolan to score at any time 3.00
Everton v Birmingham Saturday 22nd April 15.00
Everton 2.20
Draw 3.40
Birmingham 2.75
Get on: Everton
Tottenham are the only visitors to win at Goodison Park this
year; Blues have only managed wins on the road at Sunderland
and West Bromwich this season. Birmingham have not won
at Goodison Park since the 50's.
Match Special:
Beattie to score the only goal of the game 26.00
Newcastle v West Brom Saturday 22nd April 15.00
Newcastle 1.73
Draw 3.50
West Brom 4.00
Get on: Newcastle
Newcastle have won their last four; the Baggies haven't won
in ten. West Brom have never beaten the Geordies in the
Premiership.
Match Special:
Newcastle to keep a clean sheet 2.20
Portsmouth v Sunderland Saturday 22nd April 15.00
Portsmouth 1.33
Draw 4.50
Sunderland 7.00
Get on: Portsmouth
Pompey have only lost one of their last seven, scoring 14 goals
along the way. Sunderland have kept one clean sheet in their
last 13 matches.
Match Special:
Mendes to score at any time 4.50
Chelsea v Liverpool FA Cup semi final Saturday 22nd April 17.15 Live on BBC
Chelsea 2.10
Draw 3.00
Liverpool 3.25
Get on: Chelsea
Liverpool have won their last seven, but have not played
anyone close to Chelsea's class in that run. Chelsea have
already completed a league double over the Reds, winning
both games convincingly.
Match Special:
Chelsea to score three or more goals 5.00
Middlesbrough v West Ham FA Cup semi final Sunday 23rd April 16.00 Live on Sky
Middlesbrough 2.50
Draw 3.20
West Ham 2.50
Get on: Middlesbrough
With both teams resting players in the run up to this match,
the value of recent form is questionable. At the available
prices and with the Boro strikers looking sharp, McClaren's
men receive the nod.
Match Special:
Hasselbaink to score at any time 2.75
Fulham v Wigan Monday 24th April 20.00 Live on Sky
Fulham 2.00
Draw 3.25
Wigan 3.25
Get on: Fulham
Fulham have won 11 times at home this season, that's only
one less than the title challenging Man U. Wigan have only
won one of their last five.
Match Special:
Fulham to win and keep a clean sheet 3.00
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 6:27 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by David Walker () |
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A glut of home wins dominates this weekend's predictions
and Sunderland could add another twist to the relegation
battle at large odds. Love them or loathe them, Chelsea will
be in the FA Cup final along with Middlesbrough writes
David Walker.
Saturday 22 April
Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur
The race for fourth place hots up in this lunchtime offering
as Arsenal look to make up the four point gap that separates
them from their north London rivals. The statistics point to
a home win. The Gunners have won the last six home
Premiership fixtures against Spurs and seven out of 13
overall. Tottenham Hotspur have not had any joy at
Highbury since the Premiership began in 1992/93 when
they won 3-1. Forgotten striker John Hendry scored twice
on one of his few appearances in a Spurs shirt following a
£5,000 switch from Dundee.
Walker's Word: Arsenal to close the gap @ 4/5.
Bolton Wanderers vs Charlton Athletic
Bolton ended a run of five consecutive league defeats with
a goalless draw against West Brom on Monday and this
match could be a similar yawnfest. Two of the four last
meetings between these sides have produced goalless
draws while Charlton seem to love a 0-0 result as it has
featured in five of their last 10 Premiership matches.
Walker's Word: Another bore draw @ 23/10 and and 0-0 @ 17/2.
Everton vs Birmingham City
Birmingham City are running out of games if they are to
survive in the Premiership and are unlikely to get any
favours this Saturday. Steve Bruce's side have not won at
Everton since winning promotion to the top flight but have
drawn 1-1 twice in the last three meetings. Their chances
of victory are slim and they haven't won at Goodison Park
since 1957 and have lost 11 times on the road this season.
Walker's Word: Home win @ 11/10.
Newcastle United vs West Bromwich Albion
Under Glenn Roeder, Newcastle are one of the form teams
in the Premiership. They have won their last four matches
in a row and this is a great opportunity to make it five. The
Magpies have won both Premiership meetings at St James
Park while the Baggies have not won there since 1977.
Bryan Robson's side have won away from home once all
season and are unlikely to improve that record this weekend.
Walker's Word: Five on the spin for Newcastle @ 4/5.
Portsmouth vs Sunderland
On first glance this looks like a guaranteed home win.
Portsmouth had won six on the bounce until they crashed
2-1 at Charlton on Bank Holiday Monday while Sunderland
have nothing to play for after being relegated. Right? Wrong.
Portsmouth may have hammered Sunderland 4-1 at the
Stadium of Light back in October but have not beaten them
at Fratton Park in the league since 1992. Since then,
Sunderland have won three out of five visits, including two
4-1 wins. Add to that the fact Sunderland have nothing to
lose while Portsmouth could succumb to nerves and you
have a very tasty away victory proposition and at large
odds to boot. There could be another twist to the relegation
battle yet.
Walker's Word: Sunderland to cause a shock @ 8/1.
FA Cup
Chelsea vs Liverpool
This is the first time the pair have met in the FA Cup since
1997, when Chelsea fought back from 2-0 down to win 4-2.
Walker's Word: Chelsea to march on @ 6/5. Sunday 23 April
Get all the mentioned odds or even slightly higher in most cases at
Paddypower and Betfred .
About the Author
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.
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 6:09 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by David Walker (Thursday, April 13, 2006) |
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The bookies will anticipate a deluge of Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal trebles as all three play arguably "easy" matches although there is better value to be found at Craven Cottage and Upton Park. There could also be more Midlands derby misery in store for Aston Villa on Sunday at tempting odds. Friday 14 April Manchester United vs Sunderland
United's rousing 2-0 victory over Arsenal on Sunday was their ninth in a row and they could not have better opponents to make it a perfect 10. Sunderland are out of their depth at this level and will be relegated on Saturday if they lose. Kevin Ball's side took just nine minutes to concede against a Fulham side without an away win all season last weekend and are in danger of being on the receiving end of a thrashing. United's recent league record against the Black Cats at Old Trafford reads 2-1, 4-1, 3-0, 4-0 and 5-0. Bar the close encounter in 2002/03 season, United could well hit the three goals necessary to cover a two goal handicap but at odds-on it's no value is backing them outright at 1/10 (Bet365). If you want a run for your money, Wayne Rooney, who was magnificent against the Gunners, could be a good bet to score the first goal. Walker's Word: Wayne Rooney to score the first goal @ 3/1. Saturday 15 April Bolton Wanderers vs Chelsea
Chelsea showed great commitment to come back from both a goal and player down to crush West Ham at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and know they can't suffer any slip ups with Manchester United hot on their heels. Bolton have lost their last four Premiership matches in a row, although three of them were away with the home reverse coming against a resurgent United they have their work cut out to stop the rot against Jose Mourinho's side. Chelsea have won their last two visits to the Reebok Stadium 2-0 and a similar result is expected this weekend. Walker's Word: Five defeats in a row – back Chelsea @ 8/13. Arsenal vs West Bromwich Albion
After losing to Manchester United on Sunday, Arsenal cannot afford to lose any more ground on fourth placed Tottenham Hotspur and maximum points are required against the relegation-threatened Baggies. There is no value in an Arsenal win at 2/9 especially since Brian Robson's side earned a 1-1 draw at Highbury last season while Thierry Henry may be rested with the Champions League semi-final against Villarreal the following week in mind. Another goal scorer bet could be best investment here and prior to Sunday's defeat, Emmanuel Adebayor has scored twice in his last two matches against Charlton and Aston Villa and is value at odds-against to score at any time during the match. Walker's Word: Emmanuel Adebayor to score at any time @ 5/4. Everton vs Tottenham Hotspur
Everton are undefeated at Goodison Park this year and are on course for a top 10 finish while Tottenham have won just once in their last six away matches as they strive to claim fourth spot and a potentially lucrative Champions League place. Four of the last six meetings between have pair have been draws, although Spurs won last season 1-0 while season before Everton hammered them 3-1. Walker's Word: Another stalemate looks the likely result here @ 9/4. Fulham vs Charlton Athletic
Fulham may be cannon fodder on their travels but at Craven Cottage they are a force to be reckoned with, winning 10 out of 16 matches on home soil and accumulating 32 of the 36 points gained this season in front of their own fans. Charlton have not won at Fulham since 1983 and have not won away in the Premiership since beating Portsmouth at Fratton Park 2-1 in October. Walker's Word: Another home win for Fulham @ 6/5. Newcastle United vs Wigan Athletic
This is the first time the pair have met in the league at St James Park but Wigan have beaten the Magpies 1-0 on two separate occasions this season in both the Premiership and Carling Cup. While Newcastle look to have turned around a sticky patch with two successive victories, including the derby win at Middlesbrough on Sunday, Wigan look like a side running out of steam. They have won just twice in their last 10 games, although both were away from home at Manchester City and Sunderland, two sides arguably on a downtrend. Walker's Word: Newcastle to make it three wins in succession @ 5/6. Portsmouth vs Middlesbrough
If Portsmouth are to avoid relegation then they need to make their home matches count. Pompey have won the last two fixtures between the pair at Fratton Park, including a 5-1 drubbing two seasons ago which saw now-Boro striker Yakubu score four times. Middlesbrough have also played through a congested fixture list recently which has seen long runs in both the FA and UEFA Cup and may be susceptible to defeat a long way from home. Walker's Word: Not attractive at odds-on, but Portsmouth @ 5/6. West Ham United vs Manchester City
After a stunning collapse against 10-man Chelsea on Sunday, West Ham should be backed to return to winning ways against flagging Manchester City. Stuart Pearce's side has lost five matches home and away in succession and have not won at Upton Park since 1991/92 in the old Division One. The Hammers are without a win in three Premiership matches at Upton Park to give them an added incentive. Walker's Word: Stuart Pearce to go psycho - West Ham @ Evens. Sunday 16 April Aston Villa vs Birmingham City
Villa host their second Midlands derby in a week and again may not give their supporters much to cheer about. An improving Birmingham side have enjoyed the better of the results in recent derbies, winning twice and drawing once at Villa Park in the last three seasons. Villa have kept three successive clean sheets on home soil, including two goalless draws, so another low scoring encounter is anticipated. Birmingham are unbeaten in their last three but have not won away since their 1-0 victory at Sunderland in November. The Villains are without a home win since crushing Everton 4-0 on Boxing Day and the odds on Steve Bruce's side inflicting even more misery are too tempting to be ignored. Walker's Word: Birmingham's run to continue @ 9/4. Blackburn Rovers vs Liverpool
With Liverpool comfortably in third place, the onus will be on Blackburn Rovers to try and win to keep up the pressure on fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur. It will be a tall order as the Reds have won their last five in succession and are unbeaten at Ewood Park in the last six meetings between the pair. Four matches have ended all square with Liverpool winning 3-1 in both the 2003/04 and 1998/99 seasons. However, Rovers are unbeaten in their last five league matches and Craig Bellamy is the Premiership's form player with six goals in as many games. Walker's Word: A fifth draw in seven meetings @ 9/4. Get all the mentioned odds or even slightly higher in most cases at
Paddypower
and
Betfred
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.
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 6:49 PM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell () |
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The pair of the Drog
The press boys have had a field day reporting on Wayne Rooney's gambling losses this week, it's easy for them to pontificate about betting responsibly, but I refuse to condemn the big lad, I too have wasted money on an old dog or two.
Rooney's problems are insignificant compared to mine though, the wife is on the warpath after she overheard a private telephone conversation where I was discussing the importance of Fabregas to the future of Arsenal, she thinks i have a problem with Cesc chat lines. That's only partly true.
Jose Mourinho is also a worried man, he was right to voice his concerns about bird flu; there could well be a foul related epidemic at the Reebok. Bolton are having a disappointing end to the season; after four successive defeats, big Sam will have his boys fired up for this one. The Champions are a confident call at 4/7, an in form Drogba is worth a small tinkle at 11/2 to bag a brace.
An excellent betting opportunity has presented itself in the Blackburn v Liverpool match. The deadline has now passed for accumulated bookings to lead to a suspension; as a result, Robbie Savage's nine previous yellows can be disregarded. The blonde bombshell has been given a license to roam free in front of the TV cameras; the 7/4 on offer for a Savage booking is worth snapping up. Both Blackburn and Liverpool head into the game in great form, the draw's the call at 11/5.
When the Villa won at Birmingham earlier in the season, the home supporters were far from enamoured with David O'Leary as he ran across the pitch to gesticulate towards a pensioner. This fixture is always tasty, but with Birmingham's Premiership status and O'Leary's managerial career on the line, more fireworks are expected. The draw's a good call at 2/1, a goalless draw is a great call at 13/2, but a sending off at 5/2 is the piece de resistance.
Man City don't enjoy their trips to Upton Park, and not because of the supposed jellied eel eating, market stall trading, non washing machine owning locals that the BBC believe inhabit the area, but because they've never won there in the Premiership, and on four of the five trips, they've been absolutely shoed.
The footballer of the year awards have been dominated by the usual suspects, poor old Yossi Benayoun didn't even get a look in. The Israeli playmaker has a lot in common with Paolo Di Canio; he's not a referee pushing, scissor kicking, fascist sympathising Italian, but they can both change a game with a moment of brilliance. Yossi holds the key to a Hammers victory, get on at 11/10.
Pompey are the weekend nap at home to Middlesbrough. Their recent form has been superb and Boro have one eye on the UEFA Cup and the other on the FA Cup, the 10/11 on the table should be snapped up. The back flipping, goal scoring, non Toon performing phenomenon that is Lua Lua looks the man to do the damage; he's 5/1 to open the scoring.
The weekend specials:
"Gud, old boy" – Eidur Gudjohnsen to score at any time 7/4
"Luke warm" - Luke Moore to score two or more goals 8/1
"Good Friday" - Sunderland to score one goal or more 11/10
"Good pie day" - Wayne Rooney to score two or more goals 7/2
"The steaks are high" - Wayne Rooney to score with a header 7/2
Quote of the week:
"The only people we've not laid are Roger de Courcy and Nookie Bear, and by the time Freddie Shepherd makes up his mind we'll probably have seen some money for them too."
Ladbrokes spokesman Robin Hutchison edges out Jose Mourinho's bird flu quip.
Stat, you're a liberty:
The most successful team in the tackle this season is…Sunderland. The Mackem players have won 74% of their challenges.
Acc of the week:
If you put Fulham, Newcastle, Portsmouth and West Ham together in an accer, you end up with a Channel 4 game show; only this 15/1 appeals.
Weekend Betting:
Man Utd v Sunderland Friday 14th April 19.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Man Utd 1/10
Draw 11/2
Sunderland 20/1
Get on: Man Utd
Man U have won their previous nine league matches; Sunderland are truly diabolical.
Match Special:
Rooney to score a hat-trick 14/1
Bolton v Chelsea Saturday 15th April 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Bolton 4/1
Draw 13/5
Chelsea 4/7
Get on: Chelsea
Bolton have lost their last four; Chelsea have earned seven points out of nine. Frank Lampard has scored four goals in his last two appearances against big Sam's battlers.
Match Special:
Lampard to score at any time 6/4
Arsenal v West Brom Saturday 15th April 15.00
Arsenal 1/5
Draw 9/2
West Brom 9/1
Get on: Arsenal
Arsenal have won their last four at Highbury; the Baggies have took 2 points out of a possible 24.
Match Special:
Arsenal to score a penalty 6/1
Everton v Tottenham Saturday 15th April 15.00
Everton 6/4
Draw 11/5
Tottenham 6/4
Get on: Draw
Everton have only lost one in six; it's three wins out of four for the Spurs.
Match Special:
Match to finish 1-1 11/2
Fulham v Charlton Saturday 15th April 15.00
Fulham 6/5
Draw 9/4
Charlton 9/5
Get on: Fulham
Fulham have won five of their last seven at the Cottage; Charlton have drew a blank in four of their last five on the road.
Match Special:
McBride to score with a header 6/1
Newcastle v Wigan Saturday 15th April 15.00
Newcastle 5/6
Draw 9/4
Wigan 11/4
Get on: Newcastle
Newcastle have won their last two; Wigan are winless in three. The Latics have beaten the Geordies twice this season, a third is unlikely.
Match Special:
Solano to score direct from a free kick 14/1
Portsmouth v Middlesbrough Saturday 15th April 15.00
Portsmouth 10/11
Draw 12/5
Middlesbrough 12/5
Get on: Portsmouth
Pompey are unbeaten in five; Boro have lost four of their last six on the road. Middlesbrough have never beaten Portsmouth in the Premiership and their focus is on the Cups. Nap bet material.
Match Special:
Portsmouth to score three or more goals 7/2
West Ham v Man City Saturday 15th April 15.00
West Ham 11/10
Draw 9/4
Man City 2/1
Get on: West Ham
The Hammers have hosted City on five previous occasions in the Premiership; they've scored 14 goals and took 13 of the 15 points. Chelsea and an on fire Pompey are the only visitors to leave Upton Park with three points this year; City have lost five on the bounce.
Match Special:
Benayoun to score at any time 3/1
Aston Villa v Birmingham Sunday 16th April 12.00 Live on Sky
Aston Villa 5/4
Draw 2/1
Birmingham 2/1
Get on: Draw
Villa have drew two of their last three matches, Birmingham have also drawn two out of three. Defeat is unacceptable for both teams; it's rare to find such an obvious contender for a goalless draw.
Match Special:
No goal scorer in the match 13/2
Blackburn v Liverpool Sunday 16th April 14.30 Live on Sky
Blackburn 13/8
Draw 11/5
Liverpool 11/8
Get on: Draw
Blackburn are unbeaten at home this year and that run includes wins against Man U and Arsenal. The Pool are also in top form, they've won their last six, impressively. There have been four goals or more in this fixture on the last four occasions that Liverpool have travelled; a high scoring draw appeals.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 2:25 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Nigel Ridgeway (Wednesday, April 12, 2006) |
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UNITED QUICK OFF THE BLOCKS AT TASTY 2/1
Man United v Sunderland
Fr Apr 14 - 7.45pm ko (PremPlus)
Last week, we cashed in by taking the 11/10 on United to
beat Arsenal, and the Red Devils can again be a route to profit
when they play Sunderland on Good Friday. There is likely to
be nothing 'good' for the Black Cats in this game, and a score
line of 3-0 or even 4-0 (at 11/2 and 7/1 respectively) looks
about right.
However, a safer bet could be on United to score most of
their goals in the first half at a very tasty bet365 price of 2/1.
In their last four Premiership matches at home, nine of Man
United's twelve goals have been scored in the first half,
which underlines the fact that they are invariably quick
off the blocks at the Theatre Of Dreams.
United to score most goals in first half @ 2/1
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
ROONEY 11/10 TO OUTSCORE OWEN IN GERMANY
In bet365's first goal scorer market on the game, Wayne
Rooney is priced at 3/1 to open the scoring. Remember,
bet365 will give you your money back if he scores the
last goal in the game instead, but there could be even better
value in backing Cristiano Ronaldo at 11/2 (6/4 to score
anytime), as the Portuguese playmaker's pace looks sure
to exploit the Black Cats woeful defence. Looking further
ahead to the World Cup and, after all that's been written
over the past few days regarding a rift between Rooney
and Michael Owen, bet365 make the United striker
11/10 to outscore his England strike partner in
Germany.
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
TROTTERS CAN KEEP IT TIGHT AT 13/5
Bolton v Chelsea - Sunday April 9th, 4.00pm ko, live on
Sky Sports 1. This looks a particularly tough game to call,
so the value could lie with backing the draw at bet365's
13/5. It's true that the Trotters appear to be going
backwards, but they're particularly hard to break down
at the Reebok - just ask Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs -
while Chelsea's away form has been decidedly shaky
recently. The Blues have only beaten West Brom in their
last seven away matches and, while that run includes the
trip to Barca, they have also drawn away to Everton,
Aston Villa and Birmingham, and lost to Fulham and
Middlesbrough. All in all, this match looks sure to be
tight and, while Chelsea are the most likely winners, the
draw is the advice. Also, don't forget to check out
bet365's 14 dynamic In-Play markets on this game
(kick off 12.45pm).
Bolton to draw @ 13/5
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
HOME FORM MAKES ROVERS THE BET AT 9/4
Blackburn v Liverpool - Sunday April 16th, 2.30pm ko, live
on Sky Sports 1.
In Sunday's meeting between Blackburn and Liverpool, the
advice is again to oppose the visitors. Mark Hughes' side
have already beaten both Arsenal and Man United at
Ewood Park, and their two defeats came against mid-table
Newcastle and Everton, showing that they're capable of
producing their best performances against the better
teams. They're worth a bet at 9/4, but have a saver on
the 1-1 draw at 11/2 as, despite their impressive 11-3-2
home record, they invariably concede a goal per game.
However, the bet of the weekend has to be on Rovers
getting a quarter-ball start (currently 1.925), as you'll
only lose if Liverpool win the game.
bet365's Asian Handicap betting consistently provides
excellent value as they bet to 102%, while their
Premiership Accumulator Bonus pays out up to 60%
more on accas including top-flight teams. Why go
anywhere else for your footy bets!
Live Game Picks:
Blackburn @ 9/4
Blackburn to Draw @ 11/2
Blackburn (+1/4) @ 1.925
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 10:25 PM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Thursday, April 06, 2006) |
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Cesc, Drogs and Rock and Roll
Working on a Sunday is comparable to sleeping with the wife,
it occurs rarely and it's never enjoyable. The gaffer is aware
of my reticence, whenever circumstances demand that I
appear on the Sabbath he throws me double time and a day
in lieu, I'm reasonably happy with that, but Louise has just
handed her notice in. As a result, I'll be spending this Sunday
watching three live Premiership matches.
Chelsea v West Ham kicks off the action at midday and an
early shock could be on the cards. Man United are breathing
down the champion's necks and Chelsea are feeling the
pressure; they're currently wobbling like a jelly on a drunken
Sumo wrestler.
There's a definite cloud over the Bridge, after being booed
by his own supporters, a depressed Didier Drogba is reportedly
considering a move away from the club. Imagine that, Drogba,
down. There’s a real case for backing the Hammers at 8/1
against a choking Chelsea, but a lay of the Champions at around
the 3/10 mark on the exchanges is a more practical option.
It’s practically in already.
Super Sunday continues when Liverpool host Bolton, and
this one could be tasty. If my memory serves me correctly,
Stevie Gerrard used Kevin Nolan’s back as a trampoline
earlier in the season; you would think he could afford his
own. A sending off in the match is available at 10/3, that’s
definitely worth a small interest.
Robbie Fowler has had a good week, after overtaking Kenny
Dalglish in Liverpool’s all-time goal scorer list; Rafa has
confirmed that a couple more goals could earn him a new
contract at the club. The scally legend has a lot to play for,
and like a dyslexic hippy; i’m a big believer in ‘Fowler power’.
The Pool should be backed at 1/2 to take the three points;
Robbie should be backed at 11/10 to get on the scoresheet.
After a couple of tasty starters, the live action reaches a
crescendo when Arsenal travel to Old Trafford. This fixture
has finished goalless on the last two meetings, but that’s
about to change. Arsenal are currently in a purple patch,
and United’s patch is arguably even purpler, it’s a Fergie’s
nose patch. There will be goals in this one, and United want
it that little bit more. They’re good looking bets at even
money.
Van Nistelrooy started on the bench last week, came on,
went to ground easily, and then banged in his 150th goal
for the club, it was a typical Van the man performance.
Nistelrooy and Arsenal have a little history, he’s a 9/2 shot
to score the last goal against his old mates. The British press
have had Cesc on their brain all week, but United have a half
decent youngster of their own, his name’s Rooney, and he
can play ball. Wayne likes the big occasion, he’s a 6/4 shot
to score at any time.
Martin Jol’s decision to continuously play Mido ahead of
Jermain Defoe leaves me perplexed. As I often reassure
the wife, there’s nothing wrong with having two little ones
up front. Spurs play hosts to a Man City team who still have
their manager’s savage criticism ringing through their ears,
an improved performance from City is an absolute certainty;
7/2 screams value.
The Boro v Newcastle match reminds me of the time I
holidayed in the Orient, there’s every chance it might end
up in a tie. The last three meets between these two have
finished all square, a trend that looks set to continue. 11/5 is
on offer, let’s rock and roll.
The weekend specials:
“I should be so lucky” - Portsmouth to keep a clean sheet 15/8
“All you need is Love” - Lovenkrands to score and Rangers to win 1-0 20/1
“Johnny be good” - John Terry to be booked 11/4
“Shay a little prayer” - Newcastle to keep a clean sheet 15/8
“Let's talk about Cesc” - Fabregas to score two or more goals 25/1
Quote of the week:
“Every time I pull on the shirt, I give 120%.”
Jermain Defoe puts all other professional footballers to shame,
they only put in 110%.
Stat, you’re a liberty:
A quick perusal through the Premiership’s top 20 goal scorers
this season makes interesting reading; the most lethal striker is …
Luke Moore. Aston Villa’s rising star scores a goal every 1.88 shots.
To put that stat in perspective, Rooney’s ratio is 1 in 4.85,
Lampard scores 1 in 5.80.
Acc of the week:
Man City, Fulham, Aston Villa and Liverpool are all good
looking bets on their own, throw them all together, you’ve
got a gorgeous little 32/1 accer.
Weekend Betting:
Tottenham v Man City Saturday 8th April 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus
Tottenham 4/6
Draw 12/5
Man City 7/2
Get on: Man City
Both teams go in to the match on the back of a disappointing
defeat. Tottenham struggled to see off West Brom in their
last home match, 7/2 about City stands out.
Match Special:
Man City to score two or more goals 3/1
Charlton v Everton Saturday 8th April 15.00
Charlton 5/4
Draw 9/4
Everton 7/4
Get on: Charlton
Charlton are unbeaten at home this year; Everton are
winless in five on the road. The Toffeemen failed to beat
Sunderland last week, at home.
Match Special:
Darren Bent to score the only goal of the game 25/1
Portsmouth v Blackburn Saturday 8th April 15.00
Portsmouth 6/4
Draw 11/5
Blackburn 6/4
Get on: Portsmouth
It’s three wins out of three for Pompey; Blackburn have lost
five of their last six matches away from Ewood Park.
Match Special:
Mendes to score at any time 4/1
Sunderland v Fulham Saturday 8th April 15.00
Sunderland 13/8
Draw 11/5
Fulham 11/8
Get on: Fulham
Sunderland have not won a home match all season, Fulham
have failed to win away. The Mackems have only found the
net in two of their previous nine home matches, Fulham have
scored in five of their last six away games. An ‘O’ must go,
it’ll be Fulham’s.
Match Special:
Fulham to keep a clean sheet 7/4
Wigan v Birmingham Saturday 8th April 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus
Wigan 5/6
Draw 5/2
Birmingham 5/2
Get on: Birmingham
Wigan have lost their last three in front of their own supporters;
City have beaten Bolton and held Chelsea in their last two games.
Match Special:
Birmingham to win 1-0 8/1
Aston Villa v West Brom Sunday 9th April 12.00
Aston Villa 11/10
Draw 2/1
West Brom 9/4
Get on: Aston Villa
Villa have taken four points from their last two home matches
(against fellow strugglers Pompey and Fulham). The Albion
have lost their last three, and they’ve never beaten the Villa
in the Premiership.
Match Special:
Steven Davis to score at any time 4/1
Chelsea v West Ham Sunday 9th April 12.00 Live on Sky
Chelsea 2/7
Draw 7/2
West Ham 8/1
Get on: West Ham
Four points out of nine constitutes a bad run of form for Chelsea;
the Hammers have won five of their last eight away games,
including a triumph at Highbury. I’ve seen worse 8/1 shots.
Match Special:
Harewood to score the only goal of the game 90/1
Liverpool v Bolton Sunday 9th April 14.00 Live on Sky
Liverpool 1/2
Draw 12/5
Bolton 11/2
Get on: Liverpool
Liverpool have won five on the bounce, scoring 20 goals.
Bolton have lost their last three, conceding seven times.
It’s been over 50 years since Bolton won a league match
at Anfield.
Match Special:
Liverpool to win and keep a clean sheet 11/10
Middlesbrough v Newcastle Sunday 9th April 15.00
Middlesbrough 6/4
Draw 11/5
Newcastle 6/4
Get on: Draw
There’s a history of draws in this fixture, with both teams
being consistently inconsistent, another tied match is the
sensible conclusion.
Match Special:
Match to finish 2-2 14/1
Man Utd v Arsenal Sunday 9th April 16.00 Live on Sky
Man Utd Evs
Draw 9/4
Arsenal 9/4
Get on: Man Utd
The two hot teams in the Premiership collide, it’s eight
consecutive victories for Man U, while Arsenal have
handed out four beatings on the bounce. Either team
could win, at the available prices; the home team
receives the nod.
Match Special:
Any player to be sent off 13/5
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 8:23 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Nigel Ridgeway () |
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UNITED WORTHY FAVOURITES AT EVENS
Man United v Arsenal
Su Apr 9 - 4.00 pm ko (SS1)
Let's hope we don't see a repeat of the boring 0-0 draw at
Highbury, or the Cup Final for that matter, but that's unlikely
with both teams bang in form and looking like they could beat
anyone right now. Of course, Arsenal have a trip to Europe in
midweek to worry about, and the result there could influence
this game. If they lose to Juventus, their confidence is bound
to be affected, but there's nothing to affect United's confidence
right now, and they look a worthy favourite for the game at
bet365's Evens (11/4 Arsenal, 11/5 the Draw).
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
The Red Devils have won eight games on the spin and, with
home field advantage in front of 70,000 fans believing their
team can still win the Premiership, you have to fancy United
to win. It won't be my much, so we'll also be backing them to
win by one goal at 11/4 - the 1-0 correct score pays out
better at 6/1, while Louis Saha has to be the bet at 4/1 to
score first, as he's playing our of his skin right now.
Remember, if he scores the last goal in the game instead,
bet365 will give you your money back.
Also, don't forget to check out bet365's 14 dynamic In-Play
markets on this game (kick off 4.00pm).
Live Game Picks:
United to beat Arsenal @ Evens
United to win by one goal @ 11/4
United to win 1-0 @ 6/1 / Saha to score first @ 4/1 -
Scorecast pays out at 20/1
bet365 latest Premiership prices:
Chelsea 1/12, Man United 6/1, Liverpool 150/1
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
MANCINI BACKED AS INTER CRASH OUT
*********************************
bet365's Next Manager markets always create massive
interest, and it's not unusual to see several gambles before
an appointment is made. The bet365 Next Newcastle
Manager market is no exception. The latest gamble has seen
Inter boss Roberto Mancini slashed into 9/2 from an earlier
33/1 (one punt of £500 at 6/1), after his team were knocked
out of the champions League by Villarreal, and he could well
be looking for a job over the summer.
bet365 Next Permanent Newcastle Manager prices.
Martin O'Neil 15/8, Roberto Mancini 9/2, Quique Sanchez
Flores 7/1, Sam Allardyce 9/1, Mark Hughes, 12/1, others
on bet365 website.
6/4 POMPEY GOING THE RIGHT WAY
The battle to escape relegation from the Premiership is
hotting-up, and one of the key games this weekend looks
to be Portsmouth (6/4) at home to Blackburn (7/4, 11/5
the draw). Pompey are playing their way to Premiership
safety after a third successive win at the weekend, and this
is one of five remaining fixtures at home for them.
Here at bet365, they've emerged as favourites (8/13) to
win a three-horse race with Birmingham (1/2) and West
Brom (1/4) for top-flight survival. And they could take all
three points from Rovers, who are challenging for European
football on their home form alone (lost five straight ways,
before winning at Sunderland).
Portsmouth to beat Blackburn @ 6/4
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
bet365 Premiership Relegation prices:
West Brom 1/4, Birmingham 1/2 , Portsmouth 8/13,
others on website
O'LEARY 10/1 TO COME AWAY WITH NO POINTS
Birmingham are making a fight of it too, and will fancy their
chances of landing the odds (14/5) at Wigan on Saturday.
The Latics have only won one home game in their last six,
but that's probably more to do with the quality of their
opposition, and Birmingham just don't compare to the likes
of West Ham, United, Liverpool and Blackburn. Back Wigan
to win at 10/11, and have a few quid on West Brom at 3/1
to beat a Villa side who were woeful against Arsenal last time.
Here at bet365, we go 10/1 that Villa take no points from
their forthcoming Birmingham derbies, and a defeat here
(and against Birmingham on the 16th March), could see
Doug Ellis joining an ever-growing list of people wearing
"We're not fickle, we just don't like you" badges!
Wigan to beat Birmingham @ 10/11
West Brom to beat Aston Villa @ 3/1
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
UP TO 60% MORE FOR YOUR HITTING YOUR ACCA
THIS WEEKEND
As always, if you're thinking of having an acca on the footy
this weekend, make bet365 your choice of bookmaker as
they'll give you
a), decent odds (bet to 107% on the Premiership, and
b), a bonus of up to 60% on your acca if it includes all
top-flight teams.
This weekend's suggested acca involves United (Evens),
Wigan (10/11), Portsmouth (6/4) and West Brom (3/1),
and pays out just over £400 for a tenner, including a
bet365 bonus of 5%.
Good luck.
(Bet 365 - FREE £100)
Posted by soccerbetting.info @ 6:36 AM
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| PREMIERSHIP PREVIEW by Gerry McDonnell (Wednesday, March 30, 2006) (Tuesday, April 04, 2006) |
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Dairy goes again I often panic over nothing. When the wife trapped me into producing little gambling gurus, i did worry that they may end up with my intelligence and the wife’s looks, which would have narrowed down their future career prospects to ‘circus attraction’. Luckily, they’ve ended up with the wife’s brain, and curiously, the milkman’s looks. I say curious, as the wife and I are lactose intolerant; we have absolutely no time for lactose, and we’re not shy in speaking of our displeasure. I bring this to your attention because little Goliath is quite bright; he’s trying to remember animals by associating them with football. Whenever Ruud Van Nistelrooy comes off the bench for Man U, he shouts ‘horsey’, as Peter Crouch heads wide he cries ‘donkey’ and when Chelsea are playing, he shakes his head and murmurs ‘cheetahs’. It seems that everyone has cottoned on to Chelsea’s lack of sportsmanship, referees will be next. Any Chelsea player to be booked for diving / simulation against Birmingham is an 11/2 shot. Amongst all the theatrics, there will also be a game of football. You’ve got to fancy Chelsea to take three points home from St Andrew’s, but 1/3 does not represent value. Playing the correct scores can solve this conundrum; Chelsea to win either 1-0, 2-0 or 3-0 is a 5/4 shot; now we’re cooking. Phil Neville scored a beauty last week, unfortunately, it was an own goal, against Liverpool. His brother must have been literally seething. Everton are the lucky beneficiaries of a home fixture against Sunderland; they’re 3/10, certainties doesn’t really cover it. You can’t get rich backing Everton, so taking an interest in a bookings market may prove to be a profitable play. Duncan Ferguson is a fearsome character, like Jason Donovan, he’s done a little bird in the past. Big Dunc took only nine minutes to find his name in the book last week in the Merseyside derby; he’s a 7/2 shot to have his name taken again. Bolton’s Reebok stadium is a genuine fortress, but Manchester United have a tasty army. Wayne Rooney missed a couple of golden chances against Birmingham last week (If they were chicken legs, he would have put them away), but remains a class act. A rested Van Nistelrooy is back in favour and the talented wobbly-legged Ronaldo has already helped himself to a pair against Bolton earlier in the season. United are available at 10/11, its time to go to war. Unfortunately for Villa fans, Milan Baros has a get-out clause in his contract that can be triggered if a bid is received for £7 million pound or more, virtually ruling out a potential transfer. The poster declaring ‘We’re not fickle, we just don’t like you’ sums up the supporters’ frustration towards O’Leary’s inability to motivate; an Aston Villa divided amongst itself can not possibly survive at Highbury. Arsenal may rest a couple of players with one eye on Wednesday’s 2nd leg against Juventus, but in all honesty, I’d back Arsenal’s reserves at 2/7 at home to the Villa. Jermaine Jenas didn’t enjoy his time at Newcastle, he compared his time there to living in a goldfish bowl. On a related note, it’s a fallacy that goldfish only have a memory span of a few seconds, Rio Ferdinand may have, but that’s a different kettle of fish. JJ is set for another disappointing trip to the North East, Spurs will have to settle for a draw, an 11/5 shot. It’s been said that Middlesbrough’s Emanuel Pogatetz could start a ruck in an empty room, and still finish runner up; but don’t tell him who said it. The Austrian defender has either been booked or saw red in 14 matches this season, it’s 6/4 that he sees another card when he faces Joey Barton and Co. Man City have been depleted by injuries and suspensions, the Boro are the weekend nap at 11/4. The weekend specials: “Two halves at the Rovers” - Blackburn to score in both halves 2/1 “Come in handy” - Drogba to score two or more goals 4/1 “Cruising” - Stelios to score at any time 5/2 “April, Pool's day” - Liverpool to win with a clean sheet 6/5 “April, Mule's day” - Van Nistelrooy to score two or more goals 5/1 Quote of the week: “Sometimes I dive, sometimes I stand.” Drogba’s half right. Stat, you’re a liberty: If Bolton had held on to win all the matches where they had taken a lead, they would be 2nd in the Premiership. Acc of the week: Man Utd, Fulham, Liverpool and Middlesbrough tick all the right boxes, an acc on all four will pay 18/1. Weekend Betting: Birmingham v Chelsea Saturday 1st April 12.45 Live on Premiership Plus Birmingham 8/1 Draw 3/1 Chelsea 1/3 Get on: Chelsea Birmingham have lost their last three without scoring; Chelsea have won their last three without conceding. Historically, Birmingham haven’t beaten Chelsea since the 70’s. There is no argument for a home win. Match Special: Chelsea to win 2-0 11/2 Arsenal v Aston Villa Saturday 1st April 15.00 Arsenal 2/7 Draw 7/2 Aston Villa 8/1 Get on: Arsenal The Gunners have won their last three in the league; the Villa have earned one point out of 12. Match Special: Arsenal to win with a clean sheet 4/5 Bolton v Man Utd Saturday 1st April 15.00 Bolton 5/2 Draw 9/4 Man Utd 10/11 Get on: Man Utd Bolton have conceded 10 goals in 5 games; United have won six on the bounce. Match Special: Rooney to score two or more goals 11/2 Everton v Sunderland Saturday 1st April 15.00 Everton 3/10 Draw 10/3 Sunderland 8/1 Get on: Everton Everton have won their last four at Goodison Park; Sunderland have lost their last six away from home. Everton have beaten Sunderland on the last five occasions they have met. Match Special: Beattie to score with a header 7/2 Fulham v Portsmouth Saturday 1st April 15.00 Fulham 4/5 Draw 12/5 Portsmouth 11/4 Get on: Fulham In the Premiership, Fulham have won five of their last six at home, while Portsmouth have lost five of their last six away. Pompey have lost on their last four visits to the Cottage. Match Special: Malbranque to score at any time 3/1 Newcastle v Tottenham Saturday 1st April 15.00 Newcastle 11/8 Draw 11/5 Tottenham 13/8 Get on: Draw Newcastle have lost their last four, but it’s two wins out of three at St James’ Park. Tottenham have won three of their last four, but it’s only one win in five on the road. An interesting stat, this fixture has always produced a positive result this century, the draw’s due. Match Special: HT Newcastle FT Draw 14/1 West Brom v Liverpool Saturday 1st April 17.15 Live on Premiership Plus West Brom 9/2 Draw 5/2 Liverpool 8/15 Get on: Liverpool It’s six games without a win for the Albion; Liverpool have won their last four, scoring 18 goals. The Pool have won their last nine matches against West Brom, including two 5-0’s and a 6-0. Ouch. Match Special: Liverpool to score four or more goals 6/1 Man City v Middlesbrough Sunday 2nd April 15.00 < | | |
