with OnThePunt's football guru
Updated 10:15 AM AEST, Saturday 21 March
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ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP - WEEKEND 21-22 MARCH
Aston Villa +1 vs Liverpool
3 at 2.07
-3
Liverpool have been enjoying the last couple
of weeks with emphatic wins over Real Madrid and Man Utd giving their fans
something too cheer. However we still need to keep things in perspective and
they have been anything but consistent this season and they take on a well
equipped Aston Villa side this weekend. Whilst Villa look like they will
miss out on the 4th spot this season, they still boast a 10-0-4 away record
which matches up pretty well to Liverpool's home record which has seen them
draw 6 from their 14 games. Overall I think there is too much emphasis in
Liverpool's last couple of games and this could easily be a reality check
for them.
Stoke to bt Middlesbrough
2 at 2.37
+2.74
For all the criticism of Stoke's style of
football it would be easy to overlook the fact that their home form is
actually very decent considering they sit in 18th place. 7-4-3 matches up
well enough to most sides in this league outside of the top 4 and they will
be keen to keep that up in order to stay in the league because their away
form is pitiful. The same can be said for boro' who have lost 10 from their
14 away matches this season. This match is unlikely to be pretty but Stoke's
direct style may be enough to unsettle a Middlesbrough side who are low on
confidence and there is value in the odds.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - WEEKEND 21-22 MARCH
Birmingham to bt Norwich
3 at 1.91
-3
Appears to be generous odds about a side who
have won their past 3 at St Andrews and find themselves right in the mix for
automatic promotion. Norwich are equally desperate for points but with 12
losses from 19 on the road they aren't showing much form too suggest they
can trouble Birmingham. The home side cant afford any slip ups at home if
they are to finish in the all important top 2 and they should have too much
quality in this one.
Cardiff v Sheff Utd OVER 2.25
3 at 2.02
+3.06
This is a tight game on paper but I expect an
open encounter as both sides tend to be fairly attacking and since neither
is completely sure of their play-off berths yet, they cannot afford to be
settling for a point. Cardiff have been very strong at home but Sheff Utd
have scored more than their fare share on the road and this could easily
have a few goals in it.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 21-22 MARCH
Walsall +0.25 vs Leyton Orient
3 at 2.05
+3.15
Walsall have only lost 1 from their last 5 on
the road and Orient have only 2 home wins in 9. Walsall seem to be playing
well enough at the moment as well, aside from a heavy home defeat to Bristol
Rvs, to suggest that the quarter ball start represents good value on the
away side.
Southend v Carlisle OVER 2.5
3 at 2.00
+3
Carlisle are a few points clear from
relegation whilst Southend have an outside chance of the play-offs so there
is enough too play for here. Southend are creating enough chances to suggest
they should be scoring more goals and Carlilsle have scored in 6 of their
last 7 away from home. I can see both sides scoring here and give the overs
a better than even money chance.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - WEEKEND 21-22 MARCH
Bournemouth -0.75 v Notts County
3 at 2.05
-3
Bournemouth have been handy enough at home
this season (9-6-4) and have won 4 from their past 6 games. They are clearly
in good nick and take on Notts County who have lost 5 from 6 and aren't
great on their travels. Everything points to the home side getting the win
here and the odds are value for me.
Bury -1 v Chester
4 at 1.80
-4
Bury sit 5th and can potentially gain
automatic promotion or miss out on the play-offs altogether so they cant
afford to rest on their laurels at all. Chester are in relegation trouble
and with a 2-4-13 away record, that is no surprise. Bury don't struggle for
goals and are in decent enough form, despite a couple of slips, to suggest
that this shouldn't be too tough a test for them.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - MIDWEEK 17-18 MARCH
Bristol Rovers to bt Crewe DNB
2 at 1.87
void
Crewe v Bristol Rovers OVER 2.75
2.5 at 2.10
-2.5
Both these sides are showing good form which
as seen Crewe escape the relegation zone and Bristol Rovers sit safely in
mid table. They have each scored in their past 5 home and away respectively
so I expect an entertaining game and can see Rovers getting the win based on
their impressive form. They have won 4 and drawn 1 from their past 5 away
and conceded only 1 in the progress - after a 5-0 demolition on Walsall they
should be able to overcome a resurgent Crewe side.
Milton Keynes v Millwall OVER 2.5
2 at 1.95
-2
All to play for as 3rd take on 4th. Automatic
promotion is on the cards for MK dons if they keep winning whilst Millwall
should be safe from the teams chasing them for the play-offs. MK Dons scored
6 at the weekend and both these sides have enough attacking threats to see
this game go over the 2.5 line.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - MIDWEEK 17-18 MARCH
Rotherham -0.75 to bt Aldershot
2.5 at 2.01
-2.5
Rotherham are 8-4-3 at home and have 4 wins in
the last 6 whilst Aldershot are 3-1-12 and lost 5 from the past 6. Neither
side has much to play for but I think the home side will be looking to
finish strongly in what has been a frustrating season for them after their
points deduction. The stats are in the favour and I think the line could
possible be higher than it is for this one.
ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP - WEEKEND 14-16 MARCH
West Ham -0.75 v West Brom
3 at 1.99
-3
The Hammers have been pretty decent under Zola
and Clarke, and they should be too strong for a Baggies side who have lost
11 of 14 on the road. West Ham have won half their home games and have
European aspirations as they sit in 7th place. With 4 wins in their last 5
(the other a 0-1 loss to Man Utd), they will be confident enough of seeing
off West Brom, and I share that faith.
Portsmouth +0.25 vs Middlesbrough
3 at 2.00
+1.5
Crucial game in the relegation battle as 19th
takes on 18th here. Boro are 4-6-4 at home which matches up pretty well to
Pompey's 2-5-6 away record. However, I think boro have come up a little
short considering they have one home win in 9. That came against Liverpool
but on another day it would have been a very different story if Liverpool
had taken their chances. Portsmouth have shown glimpses of quality on the
road and they still possess classy players in the likes of Kranjcar and
Pennant. Overall I am more than happy to take the away side with the start.
Aston Villa v Spurs OVER 2.5
2.5 at 2.10
+2.75
Decent chance for overs here since Aston Villa
cant afford to be dropping any points at home with Arsenal right on their
heels in the chase for 4th spot. Spurs will be looking for a fast finish to
the season after an awful start and are blessed with a wealth of attacking
talents. Everything just looks set for an entertaining clash at Villa Park
and I will go with the goals.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - WEEKEND 14-15 MARCH
QPR +0.25 vs Southampton
2.5 at 2.00
+1.25
QPR's play-off hopes are probably over after
some poor results but they will still be keen to push on just in case the
teams above them do slip up. They showed some ambition with the signing of
promising youngster, Taarabt, on loan from Spurs this week. Southampton need
this win as they are still in relegation problems but since QPR still have
something to play for, I think the home side are too short.
Watford v Sheff Wed OVER 2.5
2 at 2.00
+2
Chance for goals here as two sides meet up who
have been creating plenty of chances recently. Watford have 3 wins from 3 at
home lately whilst Wednesday have scored 9 in their last 3 on the road.
Overall, with both sides fairly safe from danger, we should see a free
flowing game with both sides looking for the win.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 14-15 MARCH
Leicester to bt Millwall DNB
2 at 1.94
+1.88
Leicester suffered only their 2nd away defeat
this week against Tranmere. They travel to 4th placed Millwall here as they
look to extend their 9 point lead at the top of League 1. Millwall are
10-4-4 at home whilst Leicester are 10-6-2 away. Despite their midweek
slip-up, Leicester have the better recent form since Millwall only have one
home win in their past 5. I think Leicester also have a superior squad which
is evident in the way they have run away with this league. I think they will
be looking to bounce back and will do here.
Colchester v Crewe OVER 2.5
2 at 2.00
-2
Interesting game here because Colchester have
been poor all season but would still expect to be strong enough to see off
Crewe fairly comfortably. Crewe do however always pose a threat up front and
with both sides showing some attacking flair of late, I will give the overs
a decent shout in this high scoring league.
ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP - MIDWEEK 10-11 MARCH
Fulham to bt Blackburn
2 at 2.29
-2
Fulham v Blackburn OVER 2.5
2 at 2.06
+2.12
Simply about the value in this one. Fulham
suffered badly in the FA Cup but Man Utd are a far different proposition to
Blackburn. Fulham sit 10th but with a home record of 8-3-2 which is superior
to that of Arsenal and Chelsea. Blackburn have improved under Allardyce but
are still in the relegation zone and with just 3 away wins to date. They
need to win which so often becomes a factor in the bookmaker's prices but
the value is with Fulham. The home side were also scoring a fair few before
their loss to Hull, and coupled with the necessity for Blackburn to have a
go, I think the goal market is short enough to warrant a play.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - MIDWEEK 10-11 MARCH
Swansea -0.75 v Plymouth
4 at 1.92
+1.84
Swansea let slip a 1-0 lead at the weekend so
will feel that they lost 2 points there. They still sit just outside the
play-offs but any slip up now is becoming major with there being so many
teams on similar point tallies. The Swans have only lost once at home this
season but have drawn 9 matches which is a very high amount. They are
playing a Plymouth side who have recorded decent results against Wolves and
Reading lately, but I fancy the home side will have too much here. The
biggest difference between the sides is simply their ability to score and
Swansea rarely fail in this objective whereas Plymouth can really struggle
and as such I think Swansea will edge this.
Cardiff to bt Norwich DNB
3 at 1.85
-3
Cardiff are not completely out of the running
for a top 2 spot but they it looks likely that they will be settling for a
play-off spot. They travel to a Norwich side midweek who are themselves in
urgent need of points as they sit 23rd of 24. I am a little surprised the
betting is so close in a game which both sides have strong motivation to
win. Cardiff do have injury worries but late fitness tests could work for or
against them and they have talent all the way through the squad anyway with
the likes of Chopra and Ledley definitely fit. Cardiff have suffered just 2
defeats in their past 10 away outings whereas Norwich have one home win in
6.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - MIDWEEK 10-11 MARCH
MK Dons v Huddersfield OVER 2.5
3 at 1.91
-3
In a league which has been very high scoring
this season, this game stands out as one which should have some goals in it.
MK Dons have scored in all but one of their home games so far including 5 in
their past 2 home games. Huddersfield started slow but also generally find a
way for their talented strikeforce to get on the board. Though Huddersfield
will struggle to make the play-offs, there is a possibility of them doing so
if they win most their remaining games, and coupled with the need for 3rd
placed MK Dons to secure all 3 points, I like the look of the overs here.
Northampton +0.75 vs Millwall
2 at 1.91
-1
Millwall are an impressive 9-4-4 this season
but in terms of more recent form, they haven't won their last 4 down at the
Den and if we expand it a little more, they have only 1 win in 7.
Northampton have a pretty bleak away record but they are 2 unbeaten on their
travels and if they keep this tight for long enough then there is every
chance of them taking something from this game against a Millwall side who
aren't firing on all cylinders at this moment in time.
Swindon +0.5 vs Colchester
2 at 2.02
-2
Colchester were tipped to win this league but
haven't delivered at all, particularly at their new home ground where they
are 6-4-8. Swindon narrowly lost at Tranmere last time out but prior to that
they drew games at Oldham, Leicester and Millwall. This all suggests to me
that they are overpriced to remain unbeaten a Colchester who themselves have
only 1 home win in 4.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - MIDWEEK 10-11 MARCH
Brentford -1 v Barnet
3 at 2.13
push
Brentford (10-5-1) look certain to be promoted
to League 1 since they sit top of the tree, 8 points clear of 4th place. I
see no reason for them to ease up however and like the look of them against
a Barnet side who sit 19th (3-6-8). The home side have won 6 from their past
7 and have only failed to score once on their home patch and though Barnet
do pick up their fair share of draws, I think this is a hurdle to high for
them and the home side should win with some ease here.
Shrewsbury to bt Aldershot
2 at 2.75
-2
I wont bore you again with Shrewsbury's dismal
away form. Simply put, that has to change and despite the actual results,
recent performances suggest it wont be long till they get a win on the road
which they desperately need. Aldershot won their last home game but that was
the first in 7 and the class difference should show here. The Shrewsbury
players don't seem to be able to get up for the away games but since they
sit 1 place outside the play-off zone, you would hope that this is the stage
of the season when they might buck their ideas up a little and put a decent
performance in.
FA CUP - WEEKEND 7-8 MARCH
Everton -0.75 v Middlesbrough
4 at 1.95
+1.9
It could be considered sensible to swerve
Everton at the moment when you take into consideration their injury crisis
which has stripped them of several star players including their lynch pin,
Mikel Arteta as well as strikers, Yakubu and Anichebe. However, they seem to
keep overcoming these problems and recording several impressive wins on the
way which is testament to their team spirit and also to the guidance of
David Moyes. They do also still possess some class on the pitch with Cahill,
Saha and Jo all capable of winning matches and at the other end, Jagielka
and Lescott forming an impressive back line. Middlesbrough will be enjoying
their cup run but at the same time they will be focused on their Premiership
survival which is looking increasingly unlikely. Devoid of any genuine star
players and under the leadership of an unproven and underwhelming manager,
they have lost 10 from 14 away matches at Premiership opposition this
campaign. Form-wise everything points to the superior Everton side getting
the win and I reckon that they will deliver over a poor Middlesbrough side
who likely have one eye on their next premiership game.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - WEEKEND 7-8
MARCH
Sheffield United +0.25 vs QPR
3 at 1.86
+1.29
I think Sheffield United should possibly be
favourite for this trip to Loftus Road. They arguably boast the best away
record in the league (8-6-4) and are unbeaten on the road in an incredible
12 games. They have overcome the loss of star striker, James Beattie, and
look likely to secure a play-off berth. Big things were expected of QPR but
not much has been delivered thus far. Sitting in 11th, they are all but out
of the play-offs picture and have had some very ordinary results of late
with defeats to Ipswich and Norwich. They are without a win in 5 on their
home patch and Sheffield United must be confident of snatching at least a
draw here and I share that confidence.
Swansea to bt Notts Forest
2 at 2.75
-2
Swansea still hold hopes of making the
play-offs and few would begrudge them that honour after displaying great
football throughout the season under the influence on Spaniard, Martinez.
They came back from the dead to grab a draw at Derby midweek and now they
take their multinational team to Nottingham Forest who are scrapping for
survival down in 18th spot. Forest have improved under Billy Davies but they
are still a little short of class at this level and seem to be struggling to
create a lot of chances. Swansea are the opposite with several top players
in their side who are all potential match-winners and in a game which they
really need to win, I fancy they will produce the goods.
Birmingham v Southamp OVER 2.5
2 at 2.14
-2
Southampton are one of the form sides in the
league and are showing signs that they will avoid relegation, which looked
almost certain a short while ago. They have adopted an attacking approach as
part of this success and I can see this game going over. Birmingham don't
score a lot, but they generally do score - in a game where a draw isn't
really enough for either side, I can see an open contest with a few goals to
boot.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 7-8 MARCH
MK Dons -0.25 vs Swindon
3 at 1.93
-1.5
MK Dons have slipped to 3rd in the league but
wont be overly concerned since they have several games in hand to come. They
have had a few games postponed lately so will be eager to regain 2nd spot as
quickly as possible starting here. After 10 wins in 16 games, they have
shown their ability on the road and though Swindon arent awful at home, at
least compared to away, I expect the class difference to be too much.
Northampton to bt Tranmere DNB
2 at 1.92
push
Despite Northampton's lowly league position,
they are pretty handy at home with only 4 defeats so far. In a reverse of
that situation, despite Tranmere's lofty league position, their away form is
very ordinary (4-3-9). Though Northampton only have 1 win in 5, Tranmere
only have a solitary away win from 10 games played. The home side are
playing decently enough at the moment and I think they are well worth taking
with the insurance on the draw.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - WEEKEND 7-8 MARCH
Darlington -0.5 v Macclesfield
2 at 1.96
-2
Darlington seem to be very overpriced for this
match and I can only assume that it is down to the club being placed in
administration and deducted 10 points. It was the same scenario midweek
where they went off at a huge price despite their impressive home record,
and they delivered the goods with a 1-0 win over Notts County. This week
they take on Macclesfield who are 4-3-9 on their travels. Darlington can
still make the play-offs despite the points deduction and with 10 wins from
17 at home, they certainly look overpriced to maintain some momentum here.
Bradford -0.5 v Aldershot
2 at 1.86
+1.72
Aldershot have maintained a strong home record
this season but away from home is an altogether different scenario (3-1-11).
4 defeats in the last 5 hasn't helped the issue and they wont be relishing a
trip to Bradford, who have lost just once on their home patch all season.
Unfortunately for the home side, they have drawn 8 from 18 which is a high
amount but as I indicated midweek, they have dominated most of these games
and better finishing could have seen them higher up in the table. They seem
to be playing some decent stuff at the moment and with things so tight at
the top of the table, this is a match which they really should be taking all
3 points from.
Shrewsbury -0.75 v Notts County
3 at 2.12
+1.68
Shrewsbury are perhaps the biggest mystery in
English football at the moment. They were expected to win the league, and
find themselves in 9th spot with an absolutely abysmal away record which has
seen them win 1 game in 17, which was their first game of the season.
Fortunately for them (and their manager one suspects) their home record is
exemplary at 13-2-3 and Notts County are fairly ordinary on their travels at
3-7-7. Shrewsbury cannot afford any more slip ups at home because they
clearly cant rely on many points on their travels, and this isn't a game
which they should be slipping up in.
ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP - MIDWEEK 3-4 MARCH
Manchester United -1 vs Newcastle
4 at 1.87
push
Man Utd may be a little weary after their cup
exploits but they also have fresh players in the likes of Carrick, Berbatov
and Rooney to return to the side. Newcastle are still in relegation problems
after a narrow defeat at Bolton last weekend. They haven't been too bad at
home but they haven't been winning to many games either and they look short
of confidence. The Magpies did manage a draw at Old Trafford this season but
for me that means that United will be out for revenge and after 6-0 and 5-1
victories over the Toon army in recent times, it could turn ugly down at St
James Park again.
Tottenham -0.5 v Middlesbrough
3 at 1.86
+2.58
Boro' had a good win last weekend over
Liverpool but in all honesty it was a poor liverpool side and one which
should still have taken something from the game if not for some woeful
finishing. Tottenham gave a decent account of themselves in the Carling Cup
final, created a few decent chances, but ultimately came up short in the
penalty shoot-out. Spurs have only lost once at home in the last 9 but they
are drawing too many games for a side which was meant to be challenging the
top 4 this season. They must still be licking their lips at taking on this
boro side who have lost their past 6 on the road and don't seem to have much
direction under the leadership of Gareth Southgate. I expect the likes of
Palacios and Keane to return to the side and along with the impressive
Lennon, I feel there is too much firepower with the home side here for
Middlesbrough to cope with.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - MIDWEEK 3-4 MARCH
Derby v Swansea OVER 2.5
2 at 2.10
+2.2
Nigel Clough seems to have opened Derby up a
little and got them playing a bit more attacking and there is no reason why
not with this season pretty much over for them already. Safe from relegation
but too far from the play-offs, they are just looking for a more respectable
finishing position. Swansea on the other hand, are right amongst the
play-off picture and after a disappointing home draw with Charlton they will
need to have a strong finish to the season if they are to make the top 6.
This is a game where I can see both sides scoring and with the emphasis on
the home side to attack, and on the away side to record the points, I can
see an entertaining clash.
Cardiff -0.75 v Barnsley
3 at 1.89
+2.67
Cardiff suffered a damaging defeat at
Southampton last weekend in that as well as losing out on 3 points, they
failed to make up any ground on Reading and Wolves, who also both lost. They
go back to Ninian Park for this one where they boast a 9-4-2 record and have
won 8 from the past 11. Barnsley are hovering above the relegation zone
which is mainly down to a pretty poor away record with 10 defeats in 16
games. Cardiff should have too much in this game and coming in off a poor
performance, I expect them to be fired up to record a crucial victory.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - MIDWEEK 3-4 MARCH
Peterborough -0.25 vs Leyton Orient
3 at 1.90
+2.7
Peterborough have been slipping up lately and
a top 2 place is beginning to look out of their reach. Home defeats to
Yeovil and Southend have played a big part in this but their away form is
still decent enough (7-5-5). Orient are fighting for their lives and their
recent 1-0 win over Crewe was their first home triumph in 7. They are short
of class at this level and despite Peterborough's recent falterings they do
possess some of the leagues top attacking talent. As such I think that they
are the play in this one.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - MIDWEEK 3-4 MARCH
Shrewsbury to bt Exeter
2 at 2.05
-2
Shrewsbury continued their awful away record
at the weekend but now get back on their home patch where they are an
incredible 13-1-3. Exeter are decent on their travels and sit 5th so will
fancy their chances of taking something here. I think the value is with the
home side though and to be getting over evens for such a good home side is
definitely worth a play.
Bradford -0.75 v Macclesfield
3 at 1.88
+1.32
Bradford have drawn a few too many games for
their liking lately though its not for the want of trying and they have
dominated the majority of their recent home matches. Macclesfield have lost
4 from their last 5 on the road and unlike Bradford, they really aren't
creating much either. Bradford have it all to play for if they are to finish
in the play-offs this season and I expect them to see off a Macclesfield
side who aren't playing for much even at this stage of the season.
ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP - WEEKEND 28
FEBRUARY-1 MARCH
Everton -1 v West Brom
4 at 1.84
+3.36
Everton suffered a massive blow during the
week with Mikel Arteta ruled out for 6 months. They must feel that they have
been cursed this season with all of their strikers suffering injuries and
now this latest setback and yet they still find themselves in 6th place.
Massive credit has to go to David Moyes and the youth system at the club
which is helping to fill in the gaps which the injury list is leaving.
Despite their problems, I feel they will be too strong for a West Brom side
which has been woeful on its travels this season. 1-2-10, they have scored
only 6 goals and are struggling to compete at all at this level, and will be
put firmly to the test against a well organised and hard working Everton
side. Jo has been an inspired loan signing for the Toffees and with Cahill
back to supplement the likes of Rodwell and Saha, I expect them to have
enough to see the baggies off at Goodison Park.
West Ham to bt Man City DNB
2 at 1.83
+1.66
West Ham are very up and down at home with 6
wins and 6 defeats to their name. They do have 2 wins from the last 3 and
are playing some decent stuff under Zola at the moment. Man City earned a
draw at Liverpool but still haven't convinced on their travels this season
and are struggling to accommodate and get the best out of their star
players. This match will be set up for Craig Bellamy to stick the knife into
his former employees so the West Ham defence will need to be on their toes
to that threat. This is a tight match but with City also playing on Thursday
night, I will edge with the fresher Hammers side to scrape the victory here.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - WEEKEND 28
FEBRUARY-1 MARCH
Swansea -1 v Charlton
3 at 2.09
-3
Swansea, with 12 goals in their past 4 games,
will be eager to bounce back from their FA cup disappointment in midweek.
They are playing an ideal team in Charlton who have lost 12 from 17 on their
travels. Simply put, I feel that Swansea are better in every single area of
the park than their opponents and should comfortably put them away. They
showed their class against Fulham and were very unlucky not to make it
through, but back in this level, they should be far too good for a poor
Charlton team.
Burnley to bt Sheff Wed
3 at 1.87
-3
Sheffield Wednesday are a pretty poor side on
their travels with only 3 wins in 17 games. Burnley aren't as consistent as
they would perhaps like but generally put on a good showing on their home
patch. They are nicely poised for a push towards the play-offs and this is a
game that they will be expecting to win after beating the likes of Wolves
and West Brom in recent weeks, who are far superior opposition.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 28
FEBRUARY-1 MARCH
Peterborough -0.75 v Southend
2 at 1.87
-2
Peterborough overcame Carlisle during the week
too end a recent stutter and now take on Southend as they look to keep up
with the top 2. Southend arent a bad side but they are much stronger at home
than on their travels which is why they are stuck in mid-table. Peterborough
generally dominate their home games, perhaps without killing sides of as
they should, but with the talents at their disposal I think they should be
ok in this one.
MK Dons v Leicester OVER 2.5
2 at 1.95
+1.9
The top 2 sides meet up here and I expect an
open game despite what is at stake. The Dons have been strong at home,
scoring 27 in the process whilst Leicester have scored 32 on their travels.
The home side have scored in all but one of their home matches and Leicester
are the same on their travels. I don't see either side trying to keep it
tight when points mean so much, especially for MK Dons who are only
marginally ahead of 3rd place. Overall, this game promises a lot of
entertainment value and goals.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - WEEKEND 28
FEBRUARY-1 MARCH
Rochdale -1 v Grimsby
2 at 1.92
+1.84
Rochdale have fallen into the familiar trap of
dominating matches but failing to turn that possession into goals. They have
still won 6 from 11 but in the most recent games they have slipped up a
little. Sitting in 4th place they cannot afford any more slip-ups if they
are to avoid the lottery of the play-offs. Grimsby have just as much to play
for because they are one place above the relegation zone. They have lost 9
from 16 on their travels and against such a strong team as Rochdale, I
expect this to become their 10th fruitless journey.
Dagenham to bt Chester
1.5 at 2.20
-1.5
Dagenham, in 10th spot, need to string
together some wins if they are to make the play-offs this campaign. If that
is too happen then this is the type of game which they will need to be
taking maximum points from. Chester ha vent won at home in 5 whilst Dagenham
havent lost away in 8, though 6 draws in this time frame is a concern. I am
confident they can turn that around here and get their promotion push back
on track.
Shrewsbury to bt Macclesfield
1.5 at 2.30
-1.5
Shrewsbury amazingly sit in 5th position
despite only winning 1 game on their travels all season. They have drawn an
incredible 9 games from 16 played but surely have to start picking up some
victories if they are to make the automatic promotion places. Macclesfield
are pretty average at home and have only won 3 from their past 12. Its
clearly a worry that Shrewsbury aren't picking up wins but they are a class
above their opponents here and are surely well overdue an away victory.
ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP - WEEKEND 21-22
FEBRUARY
Aston Villa +0.25 vs Chelsea
2 at 2.02
-2
Value here in Aston Villa who have suffered
only one home defeat this season. They have taken draws from Man Utd,
Liverpool and Arsenal on their own patch and will be confident of doing the
same to Chelsea. The away side will be rejuvenated under Hiddink but they
still seem to have a few problems both on and off the pitch, and as such I
will take Villa with the start.
Wigan +0.25 vs Middlesbrough
2 at 1.88
+0.88
Wigan lost Palacios over the transfer window
but they haven't suffered too much with a solid draw at Villa and narrow
defeats to the likes of Man Utd and Arsenal. They generally keep things
tight on their travels and Middlesbrough have only won 3 at home all season
and are clearly going nowhere under Southgate. I feel Wigan will come out on
top tactically in this one and hopefully that will be enough to nab all 3
points.
Hull +0.25 vs Tottenham
2 at 1.96
-2
Will take the start again here as Hull take on
a Tottenham side, with 2 away wins this campaign and a host of
underachievers amongst their squad. Redknapp has already begun whinging
about how tough life is and I just don't feel they have enough players
willing to get stuck in, to win this type of match. Hull have been better on
their travels than at home but I fancy that this is the type of game which
they might just pinch.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - WEEKEND 21-22
FEBRUARY
Derby to bt Notts Forest DNB
2 at 2.10
+2.2
Big derby match here and I will side with
Derby who are playing a lot better since the arrival of Nigel Clough at the
club. They smashed Plymouth on their last trip and followed up with a
convincing home win over Blackpool. Forest are short of quality at this
level and despite Davies' tactical prowess at this level, I feel they will
struggle to overcome a newly resilient Derby outfit.
Blackpool to bt Watford
2 at 2.46
-2
Blackpool are less than prolific at home but
Watford have been even worse on their travels. Looking at the statistics,
Blackpool seem to be creating significantly more opportunities than the away
side and at generous odds, I will side with them.
Norwich to bt Burnley DNB
2 at 1.99
push
Norwich are improved under Bryan Gunn and I am
surprised to see them outsiders here. Burnley had two cup runs this season
and may be suffering a little from that now with 3 away defeats on the
bounce. I am confident that the canaries can snatch at least a draw and
hopefully the win
Cardiff +0.25 vs Wolves
2 at 2.06
+1.06
Top of the table clash here as Cardiff,
unbeaten in 6 away, take on Wolves who have 1 home win in the last 4.
Wanderers are slipping up a little at the moment, whilst Cardiff seem to be
going from strength to strength. They suffered a heavy defeat at Arsenal but
hopefully that will re-focus their priorities and they should be able to
snatch a draw here on current form.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 21-22
FEBRUARY
Leyton Orient +0.5 vs Hartlepool
2 at 1.95
+1.9
Despite Hartlepool's impressive draw from
Leicester last match, they only have 2 home wins in 9 which doesn't seem
strong enough form to warrant being odds-on. In the same time frame, Orient
have suffered only 3 defeats so for me Hartlepool are far too short here.
Scunthorpe to bt Swindon
2 at 2.37
-2
Scunthorpe's away record is erratic but a win
at Millwall shows they are capable of beating anybody on their day. Swindon
have won 1 in 7 and are far from the class of their opponents here and
Scunthorpe really should be seeing sides like this off if they are to be
promoted.
Northampton to bt Walsall
2 at 2.25
-2
Northampton's recent play is pretty decent
even if results haven't always followed and Walsall haven't won on their
travels in a long time now. I feel Northampton just need some luck in front
of goal and the odds on that happening and worth taking.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - WEEKEND 21-22
FEBRUARY
Bradford to bt Barnet
2 at 2.26
-2
Bradford's recent away form isn't great but
they are one of the most gifted sides in this league. Barnet are completely
opposite and 1 home win all season illustrates that. Once again, the away
side is far superior and the odds do represent value for me.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - MIDWEEK 17-18
FEBRUARY
Bristol City +0.25 vs Doncaster
2 at 1.85
-2
Bristol City are unbeaten in 4 games on the
road whilst Doncaster have only lost 1 from their past 8 home matches. City
have the superior seasonal form and sit on the brink of the play-offs. They
possess one of the brightest managers in the division and will be confident
of finishing in the top 6 if the likes of Adebola can keep up their good
recent form. I feel that the odds should be closer here in a very tight
match-up.
Swansea to bt Watford DNB
2 at 1.84
-2
Two sides who put on decent performances in
the FA cup last weekend. Watford kept it tight before inevitably caving in
against Chelsea whilst Swansea dominated Fulham and will consider themselves
very unlucky not to have killed the tie off. The Swans are flying at the
moment and playing great football away from home. Watford have improved
under their new manager but they will struggle against this classy Swansea
team.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - MIDWEEK 17-18
FEBRUARY
Hereford +0.5 vs Leeds
2 at 1.94
+1.88
Leeds suffered another defeat last weekend to
Huddersfield and they remain on the brink of the play-offs rather than being
in the top 2 as many expected them to be. I don't expect them to be given an
easy ride in this one despite Hereford's lowly league position. They have
only lost 1 from the last 4 at home and have been creating many chances as
they look to go on the attack in order to climb up the table.
Stockport -1 vs Cheltenham
2 at 2.18
push
Cheltenham have lost 10 from 13 on the road
and rightfully prop up the rest of the table. Stockport are 5-0-3 in their
past 8 at home - the defeats came to Peterborough, Leeds and MK Dons who are
amongst the top teams in this league. In the 5 games they won, all have been
by 2 or more goals and they should be too good here.
Swindon +0.75 vs Millwall
2 at 1.94
+1.88
Its hard to go against Millwall's home record
(9-3-2) but Swindon may be able to trouble them. They have only won twice on
the road but have amassed 7 draws which certainly hightlights that they are
no pushovers. They come into this game on the back of creditable draws at
Leicester and Oldham so they wont be fearing this trip.
Tranmere to bt Peterborough DNB
2 at 1.82
push
Peterborough have suffered a few losses of
late. Those at Leeds and Huddersfield could be forgiven but losing to the
likes of Yeovil at home is not what you would expect from a top 3 side.
Tranmere suffered a late defeat at the weekend but are unbeaten in 10 at
home and have won 8 of these matches so are in the superior form here.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - MIDWEEK 17-18
FEBRUARY
Bradford to bt Darlington
2 at 2.32
-2
Fifth placed Bradford take on 9th placed
Darlington having lost only 1 game from 15 at home. They have been
dominating games recently without killing their opponents off and they will
need to rectify that if they are go up. Darlington won at the weekend but
that was their first win in 5 on the road and they should come up short
here.
Rochdale -1 vs Morecambe
2 at 2.06
-2
Rochdale continued to sweep aside any
opposition at the weekend as they ascended to 4th spot in the league. They
take on a Morecambe side who are decent at home but struggle to replicate
that form on their travels. With just 2 wins on the road all season they
wont be looking forward to this trip to a Rochdale side who are 6-3-0 in
their past 9 home games. I expect a fairly comfortable win for them in this
one.
Shrewsbury -1.25 vs Chester
2 at 2.09
-1
Another big handicap but I feel Shrewsbury
will be too strong for Chester. 12-1-3 at home, they have won 7 from 9
recently and are looking to hang on to the final play-off spot which they
currently occupy. Chester have lost 5 from 7 on the road recently and are
perilously close to the relegation zone. For me this is a big class
difference between the sides and Shrewsbury could probably justify being
shorter in this match up.
ENGLISH CONFERENCE - MIDWEEK 17-18
FEBRUARY
Kidderminster to bt Cambridge
2 at 2.37
-2
Kidderminster could justify being a shorter
here in my opinion. 11-2-3 at home and with only 11 goals conceded, they
don't seem to be taking many prisoners and despite Cambridge's lofty league
position, they have only won 3 on their travels. They have managed to take a
lot of draws from games but they may come up short here.
Northwich +0.75 vs Forest Green
2 at 1.88
-2
Northwich have picked up some half decent
results lately with a win at Kidderminster (8th) and draw at Wrexham (4th)
which defies their league position of 23rd. Forest Green are only 4-2-9 at
home s and have only won 2 of their last 12. They will expect a win but
recent form suggests it should be a lot tighter than the odds suggest.
Kettering +0.25 vs Mansfield
2 at 2.05
+1.05
Mansfield have decent home form as do
Kettering on their travels. However, Mansfield may consider themselves lucky
in that several teams have seen more of the ball than them yet ended up with
defeats. Kettering are always competitive on the road and represent value
with the quarter ball start.
Woking +0.25 vs Salisbury
2 at 1.89
-2
Similarly to above, Salisbury have slightly
better seasonal home form than Woking do away, though Woking are managing to
draw a lot of games with only 2 defeats in 9. Since Salisbury have only won
2 from 11 at home this game looks very drawish so the value is in Woking to
hopefully nick it, but if not, take at least a point.
ENGLISH CONFERENCE - THURSDAY 12
FEBRUARY
Crawley to bt Eastbourne DNB
2 at 2.00
PP
Crawley should be a decent favourite for me.
With only 1 defeat on 5 on the road they take on Eastbourne who despite some
decent home form, probably aren't in the same sort of class as the away
side. They should be able to at least grab a draw but on recent form they
are capable of scraping home with the win.
Altrincham +1 vs Torquay
2 at 1.93
-2
Torquay have slipped up a little at home with
only 1 win in 5 and they went down 0-2 to Weymouth during the week.
Altrincham have only lost 1 in the last 5 including a draw at runaway
leaders Burton. On current form the odds could probably be a little larger
on the home side and hence i'll side with Altrincham.
Kettering to bt Woking DNB
2 at 1.93
+1.86
Kettering go in as slight favourites when I
feel they could be decent favourite. 5-4-4 is a very decent away record for
a mid-table side and 18th placed Woking have just 2 wins in 8 home matches.
Tight game reflected in the odds but still value in the outsider in my
opinion.
Burton to bt Ebbsfleet
2 at 2.16
PP
Shortish odds on the away side here but still
value in them I believe. Though they have lost manager, Nigel Clough, they
are still an incredible 19 points clear at the top of the league, albeit
having played more games than their rivals. 10-1-4 on their travels and with
7 straight wins on the road, it is going to take something special to stop
them at the moment. Ebbsfleet are decent enough but with 1 win in 4 probably
aren't showing enough form to indicate they have enough to trouble Burton
here and I expect it to become 8 wins on the bounce.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 13-15
FEBRUARY
Carlisle +0.25 vs Brighton
2 at 1.94
+1.88
Brighton have been woeful all season and have
just 3 wins from 14 home games all season. Carlisle started brilliantly, had
a massive slump and are now beginning to get going a little bit again. They
have lost 2 from 6 on the road, enjoying wins at Leeds and solid draws at
the likes of Oldham. I had this game down as a DNB game and as such am happy
to take Carlisle with the start. Recent form is in their favour and they
certainly have enough quality to get a result against a Brighton side in
real relegation problems.
Crewe +0.25 vs Leyton Orient
2 at 2.12
-2
Two sides in the relegation zone meet up in an
encounter which neither can afford to lose. Orient havent won at home in 6
whilst Crewe have lost all but 3 games away from home this season so in
terms of form, there isn't much good to highlight. I'm edging with Crewe
because I just think that Orient are too short for a side with just 2 home
wins all season and recent form is pretty similar between the two sides.
Southend to bt Tranmere
2 at 1.96
+1.92
I had Southend a lot shorter here based on a
very respectable 7-2-4 home record. Tranmere are pushing up the table but
have struggled away from home (4-3-7) and have lost 5 from their past 8
travels. Southend have won 2 and lost 2 in the past 4 home outings but have
dominated each of these games to the extent that they really should have won
all 4. I really think they are much too big for this match-up and will side
with them in the DNB market.
Colchester to bt Walsall DNB
2 at 2.05
-2
Colchester's recent run of form came to an end
during the week but they have still only lost 1 from 9 on their away travels
of late. Walsall have been decent enough at home and enjoyed a recent win
over Leeds, but I just think Colchester have more quality over the park and
should be able to record a win here. Sitting in 11th spot, they really need
to put some wins together if they are to make the play-offs and I am
confident that Lambert can mastermind a victory in this one.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - WEEKEND 13-15
FEBRUARY
Rochdale -0.5 vs Macclesfield
2 at 2.15
+2.3
A shortie on the road here but with 2 wins in
their last 2 they should be able to topple a poor Macclesfield side here.
The home side have just 3 home wins in 9 and generally struggle to score
enough goals to put sides away. Rochdale have 8 goals in their past 3 away
games and are in the type of form which saw them narrowly miss out on
promotion last season. I always hesitate with short priced teams on the road
but form is clearly in their favour and it really is a match which they
should prove too strong in.
Morecambe -0.75 vs Chester
2 at 2.23
+2.46
Morecambe have suffered just 3 home defeats
this campaign but have struggled to turn draws into wins. They take on a
Chester side with woeful away form (2-4-9) and 3 defeats in the last 4. The
key stat for me is that Morecambe have created so many chances lately and
with some better finishing they could be recording some decent wins. On the
other side of the coin, Chester are really struggling to create let alone
score and as such I think they are likely to come up short here. Ideally I
would take Morecambe -0.5 but the coupon prices really aren't reflecting
what is going on in the Asian market so and as such the value is lying in
the three quarter ball.
Barnet +0.5 vs Notts County
2 at 2.08
-2
Decent start on a Barnet side who are actually
better on their travels than they are on their home patch. With 7 losses in
15 away games they are securing at least a point in over 50% of their trips
and have only lost 3 from their last 10, though admittedly 2 of those were
in recent weeks. County in similar circumstances have had a couple of recent
wins but still only 3 in their last 11. Overall I just think this game looks
very 'drawish' and certainly Notts County are going about very short at the
moment. Barnet's only saving grace this season has been some decent away
form and I will back them to keep that up.
SCOTLAND - WEEKEND 13-15 FEBRUARY
St Mirren to bt Falkirk
2 at 2.44
-2
Decent odds here about the home win in my
opinion. Falkirk are a very poor away side (1-4-7) and St Mirren arent
travelling too bad at home (3-5-4). St Mirren are unbeaten at home in 4
matches with 2 wins and 2 draws and although Falkirk grabbed a draw last
time out, that was preceded by 4 straight defeats. St Mirren are one place
above Falkirk in the league and they will surely be looking at this game as
being a great opportunity to pull further clear. They might be struggling to
convert draws into wins at home but I feel that there is definite value in
them overcoming that hurdle in this one.
Rangers +0.25 vs Celtic
2 at 1.95
+0.95
The Old Firm meet up this weekend in another
crucial encounter. Currently Celtic lie 2 points ahead of their rivals so
either team has the opportunity to lead the table at full time. As you would
expect in this division, both sides boast great records this season - Celtic
are 9-2-1 at home whilst Rangers are 6-4-2 away from home. I am going to
side with Rangers here because I feel that they are currently playing the
better football and I see a great chance for them to snatch at least a draw
here. Celtic beat Hibs last time out but prior to that had been struggling a
little more than usual with 2 back to back draws. They don't seem to have
the cutting edge up front which we are used to seeing from them and Rangers
are looking decent enough on their travels though they are probably drawing
too many games for their liking. Celtic have had a few bothers on the pitch
lately with player bust-ups and I expect them to encounter a few more this
weekend.
ENGLISH CONFERENCE - MIDWEEK 10-11 FEBRUARY
Kidderminster to bt Cambridge
2 at 2.25
PP
Kidderminster could justify being a lot short
here in my opinion. 11-2-2 at home and with only 9 goals conceded, they
don't seem to be taking many prisoners and despite Cambridge's loft league
position, they have only won 3 on their travels. They have managed to take a
lot of draws from games but this is one which they may find themselves
coming up short in.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - MIDWEEK 10-11 FEBRUARY
Bristol Rovers to bt Crewe DNB
2 at 1.95
PP
I had Rovers a solid favourite for this one.
They have only lost one from their past 3 on the road and manage to secure
their fair share of draws on their travels. Crewe have improved lately but
are still in big relegation trouble this season and though Rovers don't win
as many on the road as they would like, this is certainly a ground at which
they have a decent shout of doing so.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - WEEKEND 7-8 FEBRUARY
Cardiff -0.5 vs Charlton
2 at 2.25
PP
Cardiff, unbeaten in 6 on the road, are edging
further up the table on the back of a terrific run of form. They have
managed to keep hold of their star players during the transfer window and
now take a trip to bottom club, Charlton. The home side beat Crystal Palace
last time out at the Valley but that was their first home scalp in 10 games
and they immediately went back to their woeful form with defeats at Burnley
and Bristol City. Cardiff must be full of confidence and relishing this trip
whilst you would expect that Charlton are wondering where their next point
is going to come from. I think Cardiff have enough quality and a bit more to
get the job done here.
QPR to bt Notts Forest DNB
2 at 2.15
Push
Forest have been travelling well under new
manager, Billy Davies, though that came to an end at Cardiff last weeked
with a 2-0 defeat. QPR are on the verge of the play offs and every point
from now till the end of the season will be critical for them, if they are
to finish in that top 6. With only 1 defeat in the last 6, they are in good
shape for this clash and I fancy them to edge it. Forest will leave nothing
on the pitch under Davies but I think QPR have more quality with the likes
of Routledge, Cook and Helguson all proven at this level. It will be a tight
match but for me QPR should probably be favourites so there is value in them
this weekend.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - WEEKEND 7-8 FEBRUARY
Scunthorpe -1.25 vs Cheltenham
2 at 2.03
PP
Scunthorpe are playing some great stuff at
home right now. They have scored 2 or more goals in 6 of their last 7 and
have won their last 3 with relative ease. Cheltenham are a poor away side
and have lost 6 from 8 going into this one. They seem to be really
struggling to even create chances, let alone put them away and up against
Scunthorpe, who have none of those problems, they could wind up on the end
of a heavy defeat.
Northampton to bt Yeovil DNB
2 at 2.18
PP
v (2 units on Northampton DNB at 2.18)
Pinnacle This is a very tight match on paper and I just feel that if there
was to be a favourite at all, then it should be Northampton. They just shade
recent form and Yeovil are struggling to win at home with the solitary
victory coming from their last 5 games. Northampton seem to have a little
more bite up front than their opponents and that could be enough to get them
home in this one.
Stockport +0.5 vs Colchester
2 at 1.89
PP
This is a riskier pick because Colchester have
been putting a string of good results together recently. I just feel that
they are a little short here because they ha vent really had great results
at home over the season and Stockport's away record is pretty handy.
Colchester are also struggling to score at home with only 16 goals in 14
games and I have faith in Stockport keeping this match tight and nicking
something from it. Both these clubs harbour slim hopes of a play-off spot
and that could also lead to a close affair as both sides look to avoid
defeat.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - WEEKEND 7-8 FEBRUARY
Rotherham -0.5 vs Barnet
2 at 2.37
PP
Only a couple of places separate these teams
in the league but that is as a result of Rotherham's point deduction rather
than any indication of Barnet's ability. With only 1 home win this season
they find themselves in real relegation bother. Rotherham have lost their
last couple on the road but I had them shorter here and expect them to
return to winning ways.
Darlington -0.5 vs Wycombe
2 at 2.37
PP
Two high flyers meet up here and Wycombe are
struggling a little of late. They hit a late winner last match but haven't
picked up as many points recently as they would have liked. Darlington are
looking very strong at home and this is probably the best time to be playing
Wycombe, and as such they have a good shot at taking all the points.
Rochdale -1 vs Morecambe
2 at 2.07
PP
Rochdale are going great guns right now and
are closing in on the top 3 rapidly. Their home form all season has been
terrific and they should have no problems in seeing off a Morecambe side
with just 2 away wins all campaign. They are creating plenty of chances and
possess enough class at this level to get the job done with relative ease.
ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP - MIDWEEK 3-4
FEBRUARY
Wolves -1 vs Norwich
2 at 2.02
-2
Massive gulf in class here with Wolves, 11-2-2
at home, taking on relegation threatened Norwich City. The simple fact that
players like Iwelumo were on the bench at the weekend illustrate the depth
to the Wolves squad. Players like Kightly, Keogh and Vokes are top players
at this level and they will be relishing playing a Norwich side who have
conceded 46 goals this season. They may have changed manager but 10 defeats
in their last 12 away games is about as grim as it gets and I don't see
things getting any better for them at Molineux.
Bristol City -0.75 vs Charlton
2 at 2.06
+1.06
Bristol City are a little of a concern at home
with 8 draws to their name but they are on a decent little run of form right
now and Charlton are still as woeful as ever. They lost their 7th away game
on the bounce at the weekend ad are surely destined for the drop come the
seasons end. Bristol City have one of the top managers in the division in
Gary Johnson and I am hopeful that he will find a way to turn the high
percentage of draws into a win this time out.
Birmingham to bt Crystal Palace DNB
2 at 2.15
PP
Very tight game here with almost nothing to
pick between the two sides. I am siding with Birmingham here as I believe
that they just have a touch more quality at their disposal. The likes of
Sinclair, Jerome, Carsley and Phillips should be loving life in this
division, particularly Sinclair who possess blistering speed and a decent
end product. The whole team was disappointing at Sheffield Wednesday though
they did show glimpses of the quality which they possess though they waited
to the last 5 minutes to really give it a go. Palace have lost a couple at
home recently and I would be expecting Brum to pick up at least a draw
should they harbour any chance of making the top 2 in this division.
ENGLISH LEAGUE ONE - MIDWEEK 3-4
FEBRUARY
Peterborough -0.25 vs Brighton
2 at 2.07
PP
Brighton are having a poor season and are in
real danger of relegation unless their form improves sharply. I like
Peterborough to inflict further misery on them simply because they are far
more talented attacking wise and in addition to this, they are creating far
more chances on their travels than Brighton are at home. This is a pretty
dangerous combination and should be enough for Peterborough to turn over
Brighton and maintain pressure on the top 2.
Carlisle -0.75 vs Hereford
2 at 2.18
PP
Carlisle endured a dramatic fall from grace
after going so well last season and at the beginning of the current one.
They have steadied the ship a little and have 4 wins from the last 6 at home
which includes a superb victory over MK Dons where they were 0-2 down.
Hereford have been terrible on their travels and I would like to think that
this is a game which Carlisle should be dominant in.
Yeovil +0.25 vs Crewe
2 at 1.92
PP
Yeovil should be favourites here for my money.
Unbeaten on the road in 5 matches and with 2 wins in the last 2, they are
pulling away from the relegation zone. Crewe are deeply entrenched in this
danger zone and despite a few decent wins of late, they are still pretty
ordinary at home and as such I will happily side with Yeovil here.
Colchester +0.5 vs Millwall
2 at 1.86
PP
Milwall, 9-3-2 at home, are a tough team to
oppose but I see value in doing so this week. Colchester were tipped for an
immediate return to the Championship but started poorly and are going to
struggle to make the play-offs. Despite this poor start, they are now on a
tremendous run of form which has seen them unbeaten in 5 home games and 6
away. They have some class players in their ranks and Lambert seems to be
getting the best out of them. To be given a half ball start here is surely
too generous and is well worth taking as the U's look to climb further up
the table
Northampton to bt Swindon
2 at 2.00
PP
I had Northampton down a little shorter for
this match-up. They have just the 3 home defeats this season and despite too
many draws for their liking, they have been dominating the majority of their
games. Swindon are pretty poor on their travels and after losing 3 from
their last 4, I would fancy Northampton too have too much here on their home
patch
Southend +0.25 vs Scunthorpe
2 at 1.89
PP
Scunthorpe are hot on the heels of the top 2
in League 1 but this could be a dangerous trip for them as they travel down
to Essex to take on Southend. Each sides home and away form is very similar
and with just 4 home defeats all season, and decent recent form, I will give
Southend a chance here to get something from this one.
ENGLISH LEAGUE TWO - MIDWEEK 3-4
FEBRUARY
Chesterfield to bt Aldershot DNB
2 at 2.12
PP
I had Chesterfield as favourite here and since
they are unbeaten in 4 on their travels, I am more than happy to take them
as underdogs. Aldershot are strong at home but they are without a win in the
last 5 so Chesterfield will be confident in taking at least a point as they
strive towards the play-offs.
Rochdale to bt Chester
2 at 2.25
+2.5
Rochdale had an emphatic victory at Aldershot
on Saturday and now take on lowly Chester. I like their chances of winning
down there based on the difference in ability between the two sides and also
in how they are playing right now. They should be able to create enough
chances, and put enough away, to see off Chester here.
Port Vale +0.5 vs Exeter
2 at 1.96
PP
Exeter could justify being pretty solid
favourite but odds-on is maybe a touch too far. They only have one win in
the last 3 and probably aren't playing that much better than Vale in
reality. I am fairly confident in Vale's chances of holding out for a point
here.
Shrewsbury -0.75 vs Accrington
2 at 1.93
+1.86
Shrewsbury were embarrassed by Brentford at
the weekend and will be looking to put Accrington to the sword as they look
to bounce back. Sitting 9th they still possess a more than handy home record
and Accrington, 2-4-8 away, aren't in any form to suggest that they can
trouble this. With 4 defeats in their past 5 trips they would be more than
happy to take a point from this and I don't see them getting anything.
ENGLISH CONFERENCE - MIDWEEK 3-4
FEBRUARY
Weymouth +1 vs Torquay
2 at 1.92
PP
Torquay are a big favourite here and its hard
to argue with that as they sit up in 5th. They are struggling a little right
now though with just 1 home win in the last 4. Weymouth are a decent away
side and have only been beaten once by more than 1 goal on their travels
this season. Judging by that we can be fairly confident of at least a stake
refund here, and with any luck they can snatch a draw.
2010 BRITISH OPEN
Tiger Woods 4.50
Lee Westwood 13.00
Phil Mickelson 15.00
P Harrington 17.00
Rory Mcilroy 17.00
Ernie Els 21.00
Ian Poulter 31.00
Adam Scott 34.00
Anthony Kim 34.00
Paul Casey 34.00
Martin Kaymer 34.00
Sergio Garcia 41.00
Jim Furyk 41.00
Geoff Ogilvy 41.00
Luke Donald 41.00
Retief Goosen 41.00
Hunter Mahan 41.00
Steve Stricker 41.00
Ross Fisher 41.00
G Mcdowell 41.00
-3
+2.74
OZ
'10 GOLF MAJORS
