So far this season Hull and Portsmouth have been shambling along like a pair of old drunks trying to find their way home after a night out. Hull got lucky and managed to find a late bus but after a promising start to the journey, they promptly fell asleep and missed their stop. Portsmouth meanwhile have fallen into a ditch and are still trying to get up.
This weekend has actually thrown up two winnable fixtures for the duo, with Hull at home to Wigan, while Portsmouth travel to Wolves. Both sides will be hopeful of picking up points but the smart money is on another miserable day for the pair at the bottom of the Premier League table
Roberto Martinez has taken a while to settle in at Wigan but last weekend's shock win over Chelsea will rejuvenate the side and that confidence should be enough to see off Hull, who were knocked for six at Anfield last week.
The match is also likely to be a high scoring affair, with the two teams conceding a combined total of 32 goals already this season.
Wigan to win can be backed at 2.6, while the +2.5 goals market looks a steal at 2.1.
Down on the south coast, Portsmouth's problem has not been conceding goals but scoring them. Only Aston Villa and Arsenal have scored more than a solitary goal against Pompey this season and yet Paul Hart's men are still pointless, courtesy of just 3 goals in the 'for' column.
Their opponents have been no great shakes either but with a couple of wins already this season and the added bonus of home support, Wolves should have enough about them to pile on the misery.
A home win is priced at 2.14 but the pick of the Premier League bets may just be the 2.64 on offer for a Wolves clean sheet.
By Josh Allen.
(Guest writer from Betfair on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)
Showing posts with label Betfair. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Betfair. Show all posts
Friday, October 2, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
'Best Bet Summer Special' - The Ashes 2009 with Betfair
Hello and welcome to the latest edition of my guest betting blog. In the second part of my 'summer special' I am switching my attention from rugby union to cricket, and focusing on the current Ashes series between England and Australia.
The Aussies, are of course holders of the famous urn, after their 5-0 whitewash down under in 2006/07. Not that you would think that if you have been following the media circus surrounding this iconic 'cricketing battle.'
The British media seemed to have conveniently forgotten about 'that' series and before a ball had been bowled in anger this series, every broadcast and journalistic column inch had instead been devoted to that famous summer of 2005, when England regained the Ashes for the fist time since 1989.
To the current series:
The opening test in Cardiff re-created some of the spirit of 2005, especially on the last day as Monty Panesar and James Anderson clung on to secure an unlikely draw for England.
It got even better at Lord’s as England buried a 75 year hoodoo to go 1-0 up in the second test of this five match series.
England’s hero on that dramatic final day at the home of cricket, Andrew Flintoff, has announced his retirement from test cricket after this series. Will he go out on a high? Can we grasp the Ashes back from the clutches of the Aussies?
Here are the latest Ashes odds:
Who will win the Ashes?
Australia 11/4 England 5/4
Series score:
England to win:
4-0 54/1 3-0 16/1 3-1 19/1 2-0 8/1 2-1 9/2 1-0 12/1
Australia to win:
3-1 14-1 2-1 9/2
Drawn series:
1-1 4/1 2-2 6/5
Top series run-scorer:
Andrew Strauss 3/1 Ricky Ponting 7/2 Michael Clarke 5/1 Simon Katich 9/1 Paul Collingwood 11/1 Alastair Cook 14/ Brad Haddin 14/1 Michael Hussey 22/1 Philip Hughes 49/1
Top series wicket taker:
Mitchell Johnson 5/6 James Anderson 5/1 Ben Hilfenhaus 4/1 Andrew Flintoff 7/1 Nathan Hauritz 9/1 Peter Siddle 10/1 Graeme Swann 12/1 Stuart Broad 27/1 Graham Onions 41/1 Brett Lee 69/1
Series Specials:
Will there be a hatrick in the series? Yes 15/2 No 1/18
Will there be a double century? Yes 5/2 No 1/3
Will someone get ten wickets in the match? Yes 6/1 No 1/14
My 'best bet' prediction’ for Ashes betting:
I have to admit at the outset I thought the Aussies would come out on top. Though Ricky Ponting’s men are not as formidable as they once were, due in part to the retirement of cricketing legends such as Warne, McGrath, Hayden, Langer and Gilchrist, the Aussie's should not be underestimated.
But with the advantage now lying with England I did wonder whether I should change my mind. However without the likes of Simon Jones and a firing Steve Harmison I just don't think we have enough in our bowling attack to consistently take 20 wickets a test, especially with the continuous doubts surrounding the extent of Freddie Flintoff's knee problems.
On that basis I am going to be very unpatriotic and predict a 2-1 Australia series win at 9/2.
The Aussies, are of course holders of the famous urn, after their 5-0 whitewash down under in 2006/07. Not that you would think that if you have been following the media circus surrounding this iconic 'cricketing battle.'
The British media seemed to have conveniently forgotten about 'that' series and before a ball had been bowled in anger this series, every broadcast and journalistic column inch had instead been devoted to that famous summer of 2005, when England regained the Ashes for the fist time since 1989.
To the current series:
The opening test in Cardiff re-created some of the spirit of 2005, especially on the last day as Monty Panesar and James Anderson clung on to secure an unlikely draw for England.
It got even better at Lord’s as England buried a 75 year hoodoo to go 1-0 up in the second test of this five match series.
England’s hero on that dramatic final day at the home of cricket, Andrew Flintoff, has announced his retirement from test cricket after this series. Will he go out on a high? Can we grasp the Ashes back from the clutches of the Aussies?
Here are the latest Ashes odds:
Who will win the Ashes?
Australia 11/4 England 5/4
Series score:
England to win:
4-0 54/1 3-0 16/1 3-1 19/1 2-0 8/1 2-1 9/2 1-0 12/1
Australia to win:
3-1 14-1 2-1 9/2
Drawn series:
1-1 4/1 2-2 6/5
Top series run-scorer:
Andrew Strauss 3/1 Ricky Ponting 7/2 Michael Clarke 5/1 Simon Katich 9/1 Paul Collingwood 11/1 Alastair Cook 14/ Brad Haddin 14/1 Michael Hussey 22/1 Philip Hughes 49/1
Top series wicket taker:
Mitchell Johnson 5/6 James Anderson 5/1 Ben Hilfenhaus 4/1 Andrew Flintoff 7/1 Nathan Hauritz 9/1 Peter Siddle 10/1 Graeme Swann 12/1 Stuart Broad 27/1 Graham Onions 41/1 Brett Lee 69/1
Series Specials:
Will there be a hatrick in the series? Yes 15/2 No 1/18
Will there be a double century? Yes 5/2 No 1/3
Will someone get ten wickets in the match? Yes 6/1 No 1/14
My 'best bet' prediction’ for Ashes betting:
I have to admit at the outset I thought the Aussies would come out on top. Though Ricky Ponting’s men are not as formidable as they once were, due in part to the retirement of cricketing legends such as Warne, McGrath, Hayden, Langer and Gilchrist, the Aussie's should not be underestimated.
But with the advantage now lying with England I did wonder whether I should change my mind. However without the likes of Simon Jones and a firing Steve Harmison I just don't think we have enough in our bowling attack to consistently take 20 wickets a test, especially with the continuous doubts surrounding the extent of Freddie Flintoff's knee problems.
On that basis I am going to be very unpatriotic and predict a 2-1 Australia series win at 9/2.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
‘Best Bet Summer Special’ - English & Irish Lions Betting Tips with Betfair
Hello and welcome to my latest guest betting blog with Betfair. With the football all done and dusted for another season we now have to get our sports betting fix from somewhere else, and where better than South Africa for the British and Irish Lions tour.
Ahead of the main event there were six warm up games to get themselves primed for the World Champions. But Ian McGeekan’s men found it tough going at times. Here is a quick review of the action so far:
Royal XV 25-37 Lions
Royal XV (18) 25
Tries: Koch, Barnes, Roux Cons: Olivier, Viljoen Pens: Olivier 2
Lions (10) 37
Tries: Bowe, Byrne, Wyn Jones, O'Gara Cons: O'Gara 4 Pens: O'Gara 3
A slow start from the Lions saw them slip to an 18-10 half-time deficit, but a battling second half performance saw Tommy Bowe go over and Ronan O'Gara convert to reduce the Royal XV's lead. Late tries from Lee Byrne, Alun Wyn Jones and O'Gara saw a relieved Lions home to record an opening tour victory, against the stubborn Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace team in Rustenburg.
Golden Lions 10-74 Lions
Golden Lions (10) 10
Try: Frolick Con: Pretorius Pen: Pretorius
British and Irish Lions (39) 74
Tries: Roberts 2, O'Driscoll, Monye 2, Croft, Bowe 2, Hook, Ferris
Cons: Jones 6, Hook 3 Pens: Jones 2
As sluggish as they were in the tour’s opener the Lions were as slick, energetic and powerful in their second game as they finally put a marker down with an impressive and convincing win over the Golden Lions.
Tries from Brian O'Driscoll, Ugo Monye, Tom Croft and two from Jamie Roberts helped them into a 39-10 half-time lead at Johannesburg's Ellis Park. A brace from Tommy Bowe and further scores from Monye, James Hook and Stephen Ferris will have made South Africa sit up and take notice.
Cheetahs 24-26 Lions
Cheetahs (14) 24
Tries: Dumas, Du Preez, Uys Cons: Potgieter 2, Strydom Pen: Potgieter
British and Irish Lions (23) 26
Tries: Ferris, Earls Cons: Hook 2 Pens: Hook 4
Bloemfontein was the next venue on the list and a third Lions win out of three was secured, though they were severely tested against a determined Cheetahs side. Converted tries from Stephen Ferris and Keith Earls gave them a flying start. But when Ferris was sin-binned late on the Cheetahs took full advantage and closed the gap to just two points with eight minutes of the match still remaining. This set up a tense, nervy finish for the tourists but they stood firm and held on for a narrow victory.
Sharks 3-39 Lions
Sharks (3) 3
Pen: Kockott
British and Irish Lions (7) 39
Tries: Mears, Phillips, Fitzgerald, Byrne, Heaslip Cons: O'Gara 3, Hook
Pens: O'Gara 2
Things were much more straight forward against the Sharks in Durban. They would have been frustrated to only have a Lee Mears try to show for their first half efforts, as they dominated their Super 14 opponents. But they were more clinical in the second half with Mike Phillips, Luke Fitzgerald and Lee Byrne all going over. Jamie Heaslip completed the scoring right at the final whistle to give the scoreline a comfortable look.
Western Province 23-26 Lions
Western Province (12) 23
Try: Pietersen Pens: De Waal 4 Drops: De Waal, Pietersen
British and Irish Lions (18) 26
Tries: Bowe, Monye, M Williams Con: Jones Pens: Jones 2, Hook
As the first test gets ever closer so does the quality of the opposition and the Lions endured their toughest game yet, needing a late James Hook penalty to overcome Western Province in a soggy Newlands.
The Lions fell behind 9-6 early on but Tommy Bowes fourth try of the tour and a second from Ugo Monye gave them a 18-12 advantage at the break. Martyn Williams increased the lead but Western Province fought back and leveled the scores just after the hour. Defeat was looking a real possibility, before Hook held his nerve to calmly convert a long range penalty between the sticks with just three minutes remaining.
Southern Kings 8-20 Lions
Kings (3) 8
Tries: Mbiyozo Pens: Van der Westhuyzen
Lions (3) 20
Tries: Monye, penalty Cons: O'Gara 2Pens: O'Gara 2
The final warm-up game proved just as tough though coach Ian McGeekan will be pleased at the resilience showed after a second half onslaught by the Southern Kings. Jaco van der Westhuyzen put the Kings ahead early on before two O'Gara penalties and a Monye try put the Lions ahead. They pulled clear with a penalty try in the second half before a tight finish was ensured when Mpho Mbiyozo reduced the arrears.
The British and Irish Lions V South Africa – 20th and 27th June, 4th July.
Lets face it, these are the games everyone is waiting for. Durban, Pretoria and Johannesburg play host to the three tests and The Lions will hope they can re-create the events of 1997 when they last toured South Africa.
On that occasion Jerry Guscott and Co. came away with a 2-1 series win, but the current crop of Lions will have to be at their best if they are to overcome the World Champions.
Betfair has variety of bets available if your want to bet on the Lions this summer.
Here is a selection to get you started:
Series winner:
South Africa 4/9 Lions 12/5 Draw 37/1
Series correct score:
Lions to win:
1-0 119/1 2-0 69/1 2-1 4/1 3-0 16/1
South Africa to win:
1-0 139/1 2-0 35/1 2-1 5/2 3-0 5/4
Drawn series:
0-0 999/1 1-1 69/1
Selected 1st Test Odds:
Lions 13/5 South Africa 2/5 Draw 33/1
Winning margin:
South Africa under 12.5pts 11/5 South Africa over 12.5pts 5/4
Lions under 12.5pts 7/2 Lions over 12.5pts 7/1
First team to score a try:
Lions 2/5 South Africa 6/5 No try 9/2
My 'best bet' prediciton:
The Lions victory in 1997 was based on a solid defensive unit, and I expect that to be the bedrock of any victory charge this time round. The Springboks have an imperious backline themselves and it is a tall order to expect the Lions to score a hatful of tries. Therefore I would back all the matches to be low scoring affairs. But in all honestly I can't see beyond the World Champions in this one.
I predict a 2-1 series win for the South Africans at 5/2.
Ahead of the main event there were six warm up games to get themselves primed for the World Champions. But Ian McGeekan’s men found it tough going at times. Here is a quick review of the action so far:
Royal XV 25-37 Lions
Royal XV (18) 25
Tries: Koch, Barnes, Roux Cons: Olivier, Viljoen Pens: Olivier 2
Lions (10) 37
Tries: Bowe, Byrne, Wyn Jones, O'Gara Cons: O'Gara 4 Pens: O'Gara 3
A slow start from the Lions saw them slip to an 18-10 half-time deficit, but a battling second half performance saw Tommy Bowe go over and Ronan O'Gara convert to reduce the Royal XV's lead. Late tries from Lee Byrne, Alun Wyn Jones and O'Gara saw a relieved Lions home to record an opening tour victory, against the stubborn Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace team in Rustenburg.
Golden Lions 10-74 Lions
Golden Lions (10) 10
Try: Frolick Con: Pretorius Pen: Pretorius
British and Irish Lions (39) 74
Tries: Roberts 2, O'Driscoll, Monye 2, Croft, Bowe 2, Hook, Ferris
Cons: Jones 6, Hook 3 Pens: Jones 2
As sluggish as they were in the tour’s opener the Lions were as slick, energetic and powerful in their second game as they finally put a marker down with an impressive and convincing win over the Golden Lions.
Tries from Brian O'Driscoll, Ugo Monye, Tom Croft and two from Jamie Roberts helped them into a 39-10 half-time lead at Johannesburg's Ellis Park. A brace from Tommy Bowe and further scores from Monye, James Hook and Stephen Ferris will have made South Africa sit up and take notice.
Cheetahs 24-26 Lions
Cheetahs (14) 24
Tries: Dumas, Du Preez, Uys Cons: Potgieter 2, Strydom Pen: Potgieter
British and Irish Lions (23) 26
Tries: Ferris, Earls Cons: Hook 2 Pens: Hook 4
Bloemfontein was the next venue on the list and a third Lions win out of three was secured, though they were severely tested against a determined Cheetahs side. Converted tries from Stephen Ferris and Keith Earls gave them a flying start. But when Ferris was sin-binned late on the Cheetahs took full advantage and closed the gap to just two points with eight minutes of the match still remaining. This set up a tense, nervy finish for the tourists but they stood firm and held on for a narrow victory.
Sharks 3-39 Lions
Sharks (3) 3
Pen: Kockott
British and Irish Lions (7) 39
Tries: Mears, Phillips, Fitzgerald, Byrne, Heaslip Cons: O'Gara 3, Hook
Pens: O'Gara 2
Things were much more straight forward against the Sharks in Durban. They would have been frustrated to only have a Lee Mears try to show for their first half efforts, as they dominated their Super 14 opponents. But they were more clinical in the second half with Mike Phillips, Luke Fitzgerald and Lee Byrne all going over. Jamie Heaslip completed the scoring right at the final whistle to give the scoreline a comfortable look.
Western Province 23-26 Lions
Western Province (12) 23
Try: Pietersen Pens: De Waal 4 Drops: De Waal, Pietersen
British and Irish Lions (18) 26
Tries: Bowe, Monye, M Williams Con: Jones Pens: Jones 2, Hook
As the first test gets ever closer so does the quality of the opposition and the Lions endured their toughest game yet, needing a late James Hook penalty to overcome Western Province in a soggy Newlands.
The Lions fell behind 9-6 early on but Tommy Bowes fourth try of the tour and a second from Ugo Monye gave them a 18-12 advantage at the break. Martyn Williams increased the lead but Western Province fought back and leveled the scores just after the hour. Defeat was looking a real possibility, before Hook held his nerve to calmly convert a long range penalty between the sticks with just three minutes remaining.
Southern Kings 8-20 Lions
Kings (3) 8
Tries: Mbiyozo Pens: Van der Westhuyzen
Lions (3) 20
Tries: Monye, penalty Cons: O'Gara 2Pens: O'Gara 2
The final warm-up game proved just as tough though coach Ian McGeekan will be pleased at the resilience showed after a second half onslaught by the Southern Kings. Jaco van der Westhuyzen put the Kings ahead early on before two O'Gara penalties and a Monye try put the Lions ahead. They pulled clear with a penalty try in the second half before a tight finish was ensured when Mpho Mbiyozo reduced the arrears.
The British and Irish Lions V South Africa – 20th and 27th June, 4th July.
Lets face it, these are the games everyone is waiting for. Durban, Pretoria and Johannesburg play host to the three tests and The Lions will hope they can re-create the events of 1997 when they last toured South Africa.
On that occasion Jerry Guscott and Co. came away with a 2-1 series win, but the current crop of Lions will have to be at their best if they are to overcome the World Champions.
Betfair has variety of bets available if your want to bet on the Lions this summer.
Here is a selection to get you started:
Series winner:
South Africa 4/9 Lions 12/5 Draw 37/1
Series correct score:
Lions to win:
1-0 119/1 2-0 69/1 2-1 4/1 3-0 16/1
South Africa to win:
1-0 139/1 2-0 35/1 2-1 5/2 3-0 5/4
Drawn series:
0-0 999/1 1-1 69/1
Selected 1st Test Odds:
Lions 13/5 South Africa 2/5 Draw 33/1
Winning margin:
South Africa under 12.5pts 11/5 South Africa over 12.5pts 5/4
Lions under 12.5pts 7/2 Lions over 12.5pts 7/1
First team to score a try:
Lions 2/5 South Africa 6/5 No try 9/2
My 'best bet' prediciton:
The Lions victory in 1997 was based on a solid defensive unit, and I expect that to be the bedrock of any victory charge this time round. The Springboks have an imperious backline themselves and it is a tall order to expect the Lions to score a hatful of tries. Therefore I would back all the matches to be low scoring affairs. But in all honestly I can't see beyond the World Champions in this one.
I predict a 2-1 series win for the South Africans at 5/2.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
‘Best Bet Special’ Championship Play-Off Final Betting Tips with Betfair
Hello, I'm Tom Mallows and welcome to my final betting preview of the season as we look forward to the three play-off finals, with a particular focus on the Championship Play-Off Final
I correctly predicted that it would be Burnley and Sheffield United who would meet at Wembley this Monday, to contest the £60 million prize that awaits the winners.
Here’s hoping I can help win you some cash with my 'best bet' tips.
Burnley v Sheffield Utd
Mon 25th May KO 15.00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It's a war of the roses in this year’s instalment of the play-off final. The multi-million pound goldmine of the Premier League awaits the winners, and for the losers - all their hard work over the past season will amount to nothing!
Expect tears, drama, shredded nerves and no shortage of excitement. They are horrible matches to be involved in, but are exciting to watch – and great to have a flutter on!
Burnley:
Owen Coyle’s 'Clarets' have certainly served up a rich vintage this season. With a small squad and despite playing 60 games already this season, they are showing no sign of letting up - their convincing 3-0 aggregate win over Reading in the semi-final is proof to that.
Can he guide the Lancashire club to the top division for the first time in 33 years?
Sheffield United:
United go into this game fuelled with a sense of injustice. The fall-out from the Carlos Tevez affair still wrangles within the Yorkshire club. They still feel in part a sense of injustice in their relegation from the Premier League in 2007, revolving around the 'illegal' third-party ownership of Tevez, then a West Ham player.
I feel they will never be satisfied until they feel they are back where they belong.
Kevin Blackwell has some bad memories of his own to banish. The last time he was involved in a Championship play-off final it cost his job as boss of Leeds, as they were hammered 3-0 by Watford in the 2006 final.
Current Match odds (90 mins only):
Burnley 2/1 Sheff United 13/8 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Burnley 1-0 15/2 2-0 15/1 2-1 11/1 3-0 45/1
Sheff U 0-1 7/1 0-2 14/1 1-2 10/1 0-3 37/1
Draw 0-0 17/2 1-1 6/1 2-2 18/1
My 'best bet' football prediction:
It will be tight, tense, nervy affair and I wouldn’t rule out extra time and/or penalties. But I feel the Blades' may have just enough to blunt 'Coyle's Clarets.'
A narrow victory by the odd goal will secure a return to the top flight for United, after a two year absence.
Sheffield Utd 1-0 win @ 7/1
The Best Of The Rest:
League One Play-off Final
Millwall v Scunthorpe
Sunday 24th May KO 13.00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Kenny Jacket's Millwall were mightily impressive in their disposal of Leeds in the semi-final, whilst Scunthorpe booked their place at Wembley by beating Bury on penalties. Some might say luck is on the side of Nigel Adkins' Irons, but I still think the Lions will come out on top in this one.
Millwall 2-1 win @ 9/1
League Two Play-off Final
Gillingham v Shrewsbury
Saturday 23rd May KO 15.00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Both teams have decent strikers in Jackson (Gillingham) and Holt (Shrewsbury) with 39 goals between them this season.
Way back in September the Gills were on the end of a 7-0 league hiding at the hands of their hosts on Saturday.
However eight months is a long time in football, and I fancy the Gills to seal an immediate return back to League One.
Gillingham 2-0 win @ 10/1
I correctly predicted that it would be Burnley and Sheffield United who would meet at Wembley this Monday, to contest the £60 million prize that awaits the winners.
Here’s hoping I can help win you some cash with my 'best bet' tips.
Burnley v Sheffield Utd
Mon 25th May KO 15.00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It's a war of the roses in this year’s instalment of the play-off final. The multi-million pound goldmine of the Premier League awaits the winners, and for the losers - all their hard work over the past season will amount to nothing!
Expect tears, drama, shredded nerves and no shortage of excitement. They are horrible matches to be involved in, but are exciting to watch – and great to have a flutter on!
Burnley:
Owen Coyle’s 'Clarets' have certainly served up a rich vintage this season. With a small squad and despite playing 60 games already this season, they are showing no sign of letting up - their convincing 3-0 aggregate win over Reading in the semi-final is proof to that.
Can he guide the Lancashire club to the top division for the first time in 33 years?
Sheffield United:
United go into this game fuelled with a sense of injustice. The fall-out from the Carlos Tevez affair still wrangles within the Yorkshire club. They still feel in part a sense of injustice in their relegation from the Premier League in 2007, revolving around the 'illegal' third-party ownership of Tevez, then a West Ham player.
I feel they will never be satisfied until they feel they are back where they belong.
Kevin Blackwell has some bad memories of his own to banish. The last time he was involved in a Championship play-off final it cost his job as boss of Leeds, as they were hammered 3-0 by Watford in the 2006 final.
Current Match odds (90 mins only):
Burnley 2/1 Sheff United 13/8 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Burnley 1-0 15/2 2-0 15/1 2-1 11/1 3-0 45/1
Sheff U 0-1 7/1 0-2 14/1 1-2 10/1 0-3 37/1
Draw 0-0 17/2 1-1 6/1 2-2 18/1
My 'best bet' football prediction:
It will be tight, tense, nervy affair and I wouldn’t rule out extra time and/or penalties. But I feel the Blades' may have just enough to blunt 'Coyle's Clarets.'
A narrow victory by the odd goal will secure a return to the top flight for United, after a two year absence.
Sheffield Utd 1-0 win @ 7/1
The Best Of The Rest:
League One Play-off Final
Millwall v Scunthorpe
Sunday 24th May KO 13.00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Kenny Jacket's Millwall were mightily impressive in their disposal of Leeds in the semi-final, whilst Scunthorpe booked their place at Wembley by beating Bury on penalties. Some might say luck is on the side of Nigel Adkins' Irons, but I still think the Lions will come out on top in this one.
Millwall 2-1 win @ 9/1
League Two Play-off Final
Gillingham v Shrewsbury
Saturday 23rd May KO 15.00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Both teams have decent strikers in Jackson (Gillingham) and Holt (Shrewsbury) with 39 goals between them this season.
Way back in September the Gills were on the end of a 7-0 league hiding at the hands of their hosts on Saturday.
However eight months is a long time in football, and I fancy the Gills to seal an immediate return back to League One.
Gillingham 2-0 win @ 10/1
Sunday, May 10, 2009
'Best Bet Special' - 2nd Leg Play-Off Betting Tips with Betfair
Hello and welcome to the second leg of my 'special' edition guest blog. I am going to be previewing this week's 2nd leg play-off fixtures, and in particular those games involving Championship sides.
Drama, nerves and excitement are guaranteed, but hopefully I can also try and win you some cash with my best bet tips.
I told you last Wednesday predicting the play-off was hard, and as if to prove the point a narrow victory for Burnley was the only game I got right! Here’s hoping for better luck this week:
Sheff United v Preston - 2nd leg
Mon 11th May KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It is still all to play for at Bramall Lane after the two sides couldn’t be separated in the first game at Deepdale. Sean St Ledger gave Preston the lead only to be pegged by back Brian Howard minutes into the second half. With no away goals rule this one could go all the way to penalty kicks.
Current Match odds:
Sheff U 11/10 Preston 3/1 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Sheff U 1-0 7/1 2-0 17/2 2-1 8/1 3-0 17/1
Preston 0-1 17/2 0-2 20/1 1-2 13/1 0-3 69/1
Draw 0-0 17/2 1-1 6/1 2-2 15/1
My 'best bet' prediction:
It is almost too close to call but I am going to stick my neck out and tips United to go through - but only after extra time or penalties. I think it will be level after the 90 minutes.
1-1 draw @ 15/2
Reading v Burnley - 2nd leg
Tuesday 12th May KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Despite having an array of attacking talent on show, Saturday’s first leg failed to live up to expectations. The game looked to be heading for a bore draw until a moment of madness by Andre Bikey. The Reading defender inexplicably pulled back Stephen Thompson in the area with only six minutes of the match remaining. Referee Martin Atkinson pointed to the spot, and Graham Alexander duly converted the penalty to give the Clarets a vital first-leg lead.
Current Match odds:
Reading Evens Burnley 16/5 Draw 5/2
Scorecast:
Reading 1-0 7/1 2-0 9/1 2-1 8/1 3-0 20/1
Burnley 0-1 12/1 0-2 25/1 1-2 14/1 0-3 79/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 6/1 2-2 16/1
My 'best bet' prediction:
Steve Coppell's Reading team are in poor form of late, and they will have to produce a much improved performance on Tuesday night if they want to progress any further.
Meanwhile Owen Coyle's Burnley have been going great guns of late, and I fancy them to grind out a draw at the Madejski Stadium, and book themselves a place at Wembley on May 25th.
O-O draw @ 10/1
The Best Of The Rest:
Eight other teams face off this week in the race to earn promotion from Leagues One and Two.
Here are my predictions:
Home wins:
Sunday 10th May KO 18.30 Gillingham v Rochdale
Thursday 14th May KO 19.45 Leeds v Millwall
Draws:
Sunday 10th May KO Noon Bury v Shrewsbury
Friday 15th May KO 19.45 MK Dons v Scunthorpe
Drama, nerves and excitement are guaranteed, but hopefully I can also try and win you some cash with my best bet tips.
I told you last Wednesday predicting the play-off was hard, and as if to prove the point a narrow victory for Burnley was the only game I got right! Here’s hoping for better luck this week:
Sheff United v Preston - 2nd leg
Mon 11th May KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It is still all to play for at Bramall Lane after the two sides couldn’t be separated in the first game at Deepdale. Sean St Ledger gave Preston the lead only to be pegged by back Brian Howard minutes into the second half. With no away goals rule this one could go all the way to penalty kicks.
Current Match odds:
Sheff U 11/10 Preston 3/1 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Sheff U 1-0 7/1 2-0 17/2 2-1 8/1 3-0 17/1
Preston 0-1 17/2 0-2 20/1 1-2 13/1 0-3 69/1
Draw 0-0 17/2 1-1 6/1 2-2 15/1
My 'best bet' prediction:
It is almost too close to call but I am going to stick my neck out and tips United to go through - but only after extra time or penalties. I think it will be level after the 90 minutes.
1-1 draw @ 15/2
Reading v Burnley - 2nd leg
Tuesday 12th May KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Despite having an array of attacking talent on show, Saturday’s first leg failed to live up to expectations. The game looked to be heading for a bore draw until a moment of madness by Andre Bikey. The Reading defender inexplicably pulled back Stephen Thompson in the area with only six minutes of the match remaining. Referee Martin Atkinson pointed to the spot, and Graham Alexander duly converted the penalty to give the Clarets a vital first-leg lead.
Current Match odds:
Reading Evens Burnley 16/5 Draw 5/2
Scorecast:
Reading 1-0 7/1 2-0 9/1 2-1 8/1 3-0 20/1
Burnley 0-1 12/1 0-2 25/1 1-2 14/1 0-3 79/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 6/1 2-2 16/1
My 'best bet' prediction:
Steve Coppell's Reading team are in poor form of late, and they will have to produce a much improved performance on Tuesday night if they want to progress any further.
Meanwhile Owen Coyle's Burnley have been going great guns of late, and I fancy them to grind out a draw at the Madejski Stadium, and book themselves a place at Wembley on May 25th.
O-O draw @ 10/1
The Best Of The Rest:
Eight other teams face off this week in the race to earn promotion from Leagues One and Two.
Here are my predictions:
Home wins:
Sunday 10th May KO 18.30 Gillingham v Rochdale
Thursday 14th May KO 19.45 Leeds v Millwall
Draws:
Sunday 10th May KO Noon Bury v Shrewsbury
Friday 15th May KO 19.45 MK Dons v Scunthorpe
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
'Best Bet Special' - 1st Leg Play-Off Betting Tips with Betfair
Hello and welcome to a 'special' edition of my guest blog, previewing this weekend's 1st leg play-off fixtures, and in particular looking at The Championship as four teams fight it out for that lucrative final promotion place, that will ultimately take them to the 'promise land' - The Premier League.
Drama, nerves and excitement are guaranteed but hopefully I can also try and win you some cash with my 'best bet' tips.
Last time out I correctly predicted two home wins and two draws in my sections list so here’s hoping for more correct football predictions this week.
Preston North End v Sheff United
Friday 8th May KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Going into the final 45 minutes of the season Alan Irvine’s Preston were still outside the play-off places. But a Sean St-Ledger header against QPR coupled with Sheffield Wednesday’s defeat of Cardiff saw the Lilywhites sneak through in dramatic style, at the expense of The Bluebirds. Kevin Blackwell’s Blades still held hopes of automatic promotion on the last day, but with Birmingham ending the campaign with a win they had to be content with a play-off spot.
Current Match odds:
Preston 13/8 Sheff Utd 2/1 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Preston 1-0 15/2 2-0 13/1 2-1 11/1 3-0 37/1
Sheff U 0-1 8/1 0-2 16/1 1-2 12/1 0-3 47/1
Draw 0-0 9/1 1-1 6/1 2-2 18/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
Tight, passionate and tense – all the attributes we expect from the play-offs. Preston know they need to take some sort of result over the Pennines' for the 2nd leg, and they have been in good form at Deepdale recently. Because of that I am going for a narrow home win.
Preston 1-0 win @ 15/2
Burnley v Reading
Saturday 9th May KO 17.20 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Burnley’s mammoth season continues – this will be their 59th game of a campaign, which has also included a journey to the FA Cup fifth round and the semi-final of the Carling Cup. Standing in their way is Steve Coppell’s Reading. Pre-season favourites for automatic promotion the Royals will be disappointed to have finished 4th, as they now face the lottery of the play-offs. However with last year’s final day relegation still fresh in the memory, they will be hungry and determined to make a return to the Premier League at the first attempt.
Current Match odds:Burnley 6/4 Reading 2/1 Draw 5/2
Scorecast:
Burnley 1-0 15/2 2-0 13/1 2-1 10/1 3-0 33/1
Reading 0-1 17/2 0-2 17/1 1-2 12/1 0-3 45/1
Draw 0-0 9/1 1-1 6/1 2-2 17/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
Burnley are a tough proposition at Turf Moor, and despite their long season they are showing no apparent signs of fatigue. I think they will take a valuable lead to the Madejski Stadium for the 2nd leg.
Burnley 2-1 win @ 10/1
The Best Of The Rest:
Eight other teams face off this week in the race to earn promotion from Leagues One and Two.
Here are my predictions:
Home win:
Thursday 7th May KO 19.45 Rochdale v Gillingham
Away win:
Friday 8th Mat KO 19.45 Scunthorpe v MK Dons
Draws:
Saturday 9th May KO 12.45 Millwall v Leeds
Thursday 7th May KO 19.45 Shrewsbury v Bury
Thursday, April 23, 2009
'Best Bet' - Championship Betting Tips with Betfair
Hello, I'm Tom Mallows and welcome to my latest fortnightly football betting preview on behalf of this site.
I shall be looking at this weekend's Coca-Cola Championship fixtures, along with some of the LIVE TV games in more detail.
Hopefully I can try and win you some cash with my 'best bet' football tips.
Here’s my pick of the action this weekend:
Birmingham 4/5 Preston 4/1 Draw 13/5
Scorecast:
Birmingham 1-0 6/1 2-0 8/1 2-1 17/2 3-0 18/1
Preston 0-1 13/1 0-2 31/1 1-2 18/1 0-3 109/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 13/2 2-2 21/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
There is no margin for error for either side, but with the carrot of the Premier League dangling tantalisingly in front of Birmingham I think they will do enough to win and secure automatic promotion.
Birmingham 2-0 win @ 8/1
Norwich v Reading
Monday 27th April KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Two sides at either end of the table who need the points for very different reasons. Reading would have fancied automatic promotion at the start of the year, so will be disappointed that the play-offs is the best they can do. Norwich are staring relegation in the face following a disappointing derby defeat against Ipswich last Sunday. They remain third bottom, two points adrift of safety with two to play.
Current Match odds:
Norwich 8/4 Reading 2/1 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Norwich 1-0 17/2 2-0 14/1 2-1 9/1 3-0 35/1
Reading 0-1 9/1 0-2 16/1 1-2 10/1 0-3 43/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 6/1 2-2 14/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
Reading may be riding high in the table, but they only have one win in their last six matches. Norwich are scrapping for their lives, but I don’t think they have enough quality to take all three points, so I predict a share of the spoils.
Draw 1-1 @ 6/1
The Best Of The Rest:
Fancy a sections list this weekend? A multiple bet can win you some 'serious' cash.
Here are my tips for this weekend's matches:
Home wins:
Bristol City v Sheff Wed
Doncaster v Crystal Palace
Sheff Utd v Swansea
Away wins:
Barnsley v Wolverhampton
Southampton v Burnley
Draws:
QPR v Plymouth
Coventry v Watford
Derby v Charlton
Blackpool v Nottm Forest
My Tip Of The Weekend:
Cardiff City v Ipswich Town
It's sure to be an emotional day in South Wales as Cardiff bid farewell to Ninian Park, their home for 99 years, and also look for the point they need to seal a play-off spot. It will be a significant day for Ipswich too, as Roy Keane takes charge of the Tractor Boys for his first game at the helm. The Bluebirds have more to play for though and I think they will be smiling come the final whistle. Sorry Roy!
Cardiff 2-1 win @ 15/2
I shall be looking at this weekend's Coca-Cola Championship fixtures, along with some of the LIVE TV games in more detail.
Hopefully I can try and win you some cash with my 'best bet' football tips.
Last time out I correctly predicted a 1-0 Sheffield United win at Reading at 11/1, as well as correctly picking two home wins and a draw from my sections list. Here’s hoping for more success this week.
Here’s my pick of the action this weekend:
Birmingham v Preston
Saturday 25th April April KO 17:30 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It’s a day of destiny for Alex McLeish’s Birmingham. With Sheffield United losing to play-off hopefuls Burnley in midweek, the Blues know a win can seal a return to the Premier League at the first attempt. Preston’s play-off hopes are fading fast and they know they have to win both their remaining games, and hope the likes of Burnley and Cardiff immediately above them lose theirs - if they are going to crash the party.
Current Match odds:
Birmingham 4/5 Preston 4/1 Draw 13/5
Scorecast:
Birmingham 1-0 6/1 2-0 8/1 2-1 17/2 3-0 18/1
Preston 0-1 13/1 0-2 31/1 1-2 18/1 0-3 109/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 13/2 2-2 21/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
There is no margin for error for either side, but with the carrot of the Premier League dangling tantalisingly in front of Birmingham I think they will do enough to win and secure automatic promotion.
Birmingham 2-0 win @ 8/1
Norwich v Reading
Monday 27th April KO 19.45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
Two sides at either end of the table who need the points for very different reasons. Reading would have fancied automatic promotion at the start of the year, so will be disappointed that the play-offs is the best they can do. Norwich are staring relegation in the face following a disappointing derby defeat against Ipswich last Sunday. They remain third bottom, two points adrift of safety with two to play.
Current Match odds:
Norwich 8/4 Reading 2/1 Draw 12/5
Scorecast:
Norwich 1-0 17/2 2-0 14/1 2-1 9/1 3-0 35/1
Reading 0-1 9/1 0-2 16/1 1-2 10/1 0-3 43/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 6/1 2-2 14/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
Reading may be riding high in the table, but they only have one win in their last six matches. Norwich are scrapping for their lives, but I don’t think they have enough quality to take all three points, so I predict a share of the spoils.
Draw 1-1 @ 6/1
The Best Of The Rest:
Fancy a sections list this weekend? A multiple bet can win you some 'serious' cash.
Here are my tips for this weekend's matches:
Home wins:
Bristol City v Sheff Wed
Doncaster v Crystal Palace
Sheff Utd v Swansea
Away wins:
Barnsley v Wolverhampton
Southampton v Burnley
Draws:
QPR v Plymouth
Coventry v Watford
Derby v Charlton
Blackpool v Nottm Forest
My Tip Of The Weekend:
Cardiff City v Ipswich Town
It's sure to be an emotional day in South Wales as Cardiff bid farewell to Ninian Park, their home for 99 years, and also look for the point they need to seal a play-off spot. It will be a significant day for Ipswich too, as Roy Keane takes charge of the Tractor Boys for his first game at the helm. The Bluebirds have more to play for though and I think they will be smiling come the final whistle. Sorry Roy!
Cardiff 2-1 win @ 15/2
Thursday, April 9, 2009
'Best Bet' - Championship Betting Tips with Betfair
Hello and welcome to my latest guest blog previewing this weekend’s Coca-Cola Championship fixtures as well as looking at some of the LIVE TV games in more detail. Hopefully I can try and win you some cash with my best bet football tips.
Last time out I got my prediction for the Bristol City v Preston game spot on as well as correctly picking three draws in my sections list. Here's hoping for more success this week.
Here’s my pick of the action this Easter weekend:
Reading v Sheff Utd
Friday 10th April KO 17:30 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It's third versus fourth in this Good Friday clash, live in front of the Sky cameras. Kevin Blackwell's Blades have won four in a row, a run of form which has seen them overtake Reading into third and are now just three points behind Birmingham in the race for automatic promotion. Reading meanwhile have had just one win in six so will look to stop that slide against the Blades.
Current Match odds:
Reading 5/4 The Draw 13/5 Sheff Utd 5/2
Scorecast:
Reading 1-0 8/1 2-0 12/1 2-1 9/1 3-0 26/1
Sheff Utd 0-1 11/1 0-2 20/1 1-2 13/1 0-3 54/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 13/2 2-2 17/1
My 'best bet' prediction:
Two talented sides who would not look out of place in the Premier League. The Blades are coming up on the rails of Reading at the moment, they have the momentum and I fancy them to come away from the Madejski Stadium with a narrow victory.
Sheff Utd 1-0 win @ 11/1
Wolves v Southampton
Friday 10th April KO 15.15 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It’s not been a good few weeks for Southampton. Their parent company has gone into administration, with the prospect of a potential ten point penalty as a result, added to their precarious league position as they face the threat of relegation to the third tier of league football (even without a points deduction) - it would be safe to say that things down on the South Coast right now are looking bleak! They left Watford on Tuesday night with a point when three would have seen them jump out of the relegation zone. They now have only five more league games to save their Championship status, beginning with a tricky trip to the Black Country on Good Friday.
Wolves remain top of the tree, although their lead was cut following a disappointing derby defeat at Birmingham on Monday night. Mick McCarthy's side will look to secure automatic promotion as soon as possible, starting with a victory against the Saints.
Current Match odds:
Wolves 4/7 The Draw 3/1 Southampton 13/2
Scorecast:
Wolves 1-0 6/1 2-0 7/1 2-1 10/1 3-0 12/1
Southampton 0-1 20/1 0-2 49/1 1-2 23/1 0-3 189/1
Draw 0-0 13/1 1-1 8/1 2-2 17/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
Southampton look doomed in my opinion. Wolves may have lost their last game but I think they will have enough quality to get the win and hammer another nail in the Saints coffin.
Wolves 2-0 win @ 7/1
The Best of the rest:
Fancy a sections list this weekend? A multiple bet can win you some 'serious' cash.
Here are my tips for this weekend's matches:
Home wins:
Burnley v QPR
Preston v Blackpool
Sheff Wed v Derby
Swansea v Norwich
Away wins:
Charlton v Birmingham
Nottm Forest v Bristol City
Draws:
Ipswich v Doncaster
Plymouth v Coventry
Watford v Barnsley
My Tip Of The Weekend:
Crystal Palace v Cardiff City
Dave Jones' Cardiff are bang in form at the moment as they look to seal a play-off spot. Palace, rooted in mid-table, don’t have much to play for so I fancy the Bluebirds to come away from Selhurst Park with all three points.
Cardiff to win 2-1 @ 11/1
Last time out I got my prediction for the Bristol City v Preston game spot on as well as correctly picking three draws in my sections list. Here's hoping for more success this week.
Here’s my pick of the action this Easter weekend:
Reading v Sheff Utd
Friday 10th April KO 17:30 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It's third versus fourth in this Good Friday clash, live in front of the Sky cameras. Kevin Blackwell's Blades have won four in a row, a run of form which has seen them overtake Reading into third and are now just three points behind Birmingham in the race for automatic promotion. Reading meanwhile have had just one win in six so will look to stop that slide against the Blades.
Current Match odds:
Reading 5/4 The Draw 13/5 Sheff Utd 5/2
Scorecast:
Reading 1-0 8/1 2-0 12/1 2-1 9/1 3-0 26/1
Sheff Utd 0-1 11/1 0-2 20/1 1-2 13/1 0-3 54/1
Draw 0-0 10/1 1-1 13/2 2-2 17/1
My 'best bet' prediction:
Two talented sides who would not look out of place in the Premier League. The Blades are coming up on the rails of Reading at the moment, they have the momentum and I fancy them to come away from the Madejski Stadium with a narrow victory.
Sheff Utd 1-0 win @ 11/1
Wolves v Southampton
Friday 10th April KO 15.15 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
It’s not been a good few weeks for Southampton. Their parent company has gone into administration, with the prospect of a potential ten point penalty as a result, added to their precarious league position as they face the threat of relegation to the third tier of league football (even without a points deduction) - it would be safe to say that things down on the South Coast right now are looking bleak! They left Watford on Tuesday night with a point when three would have seen them jump out of the relegation zone. They now have only five more league games to save their Championship status, beginning with a tricky trip to the Black Country on Good Friday.
Wolves remain top of the tree, although their lead was cut following a disappointing derby defeat at Birmingham on Monday night. Mick McCarthy's side will look to secure automatic promotion as soon as possible, starting with a victory against the Saints.
Current Match odds:
Wolves 4/7 The Draw 3/1 Southampton 13/2
Scorecast:
Wolves 1-0 6/1 2-0 7/1 2-1 10/1 3-0 12/1
Southampton 0-1 20/1 0-2 49/1 1-2 23/1 0-3 189/1
Draw 0-0 13/1 1-1 8/1 2-2 17/1
My ‘best bet’ prediction:
Southampton look doomed in my opinion. Wolves may have lost their last game but I think they will have enough quality to get the win and hammer another nail in the Saints coffin.
Wolves 2-0 win @ 7/1
The Best of the rest:
Fancy a sections list this weekend? A multiple bet can win you some 'serious' cash.
Here are my tips for this weekend's matches:
Home wins:
Burnley v QPR
Preston v Blackpool
Sheff Wed v Derby
Swansea v Norwich
Away wins:
Charlton v Birmingham
Nottm Forest v Bristol City
Draws:
Ipswich v Doncaster
Plymouth v Coventry
Watford v Barnsley
My Tip Of The Weekend:
Crystal Palace v Cardiff City
Dave Jones' Cardiff are bang in form at the moment as they look to seal a play-off spot. Palace, rooted in mid-table, don’t have much to play for so I fancy the Bluebirds to come away from Selhurst Park with all three points.
Cardiff to win 2-1 @ 11/1
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