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Friday, April 13, 2012

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Jamie Pacheco's selection: Back Sunderland @ [1.54]

/ Four By Four / 14 April 2012 / Leave a Comment

Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill

Back Sunderland @ [1.54]; Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [2.1] in Crystal Palace v Ipswich; Back Hartlepool @ [2.08]; Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [1.72] in Crawley v Wimbledon; The Multiple pays approximately [11.5]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Sunderland v Wolves, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Sunderland [1.54], Wolves [7.2], The Draw [4.6]

It's hard to see where Wolves go to from here. Attempting to outmuscle and out-run Arsenal was probably the game-plan on Wednesday night but an early sending off and subsequent penalty meant the plan never really materialised. The fans and players have pretty much lost belief by now and Terry Connor will fight on because he's that sort of guy but even he won't believe a Great Escape is possible. Apart from anything else, they simply don't have the playing resources.

Sunderland had a bad day at the office at Goodison Park and both the result and the performance will have hurt Martin O'Neill. That's even more reason why they'll bounce back from that rather than let it be the start of a bad run. One of the teams in the division with the best recent home form plays the worst team in the division and it's probably more a question of "by how many" rather than "what will be the outcome".

Crystal Palace v Ipswich, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Crystal Palace [2.88], Ipswich [2.72], The Draw [3.4]

The wheels have seemingly fell off Crystal Palace. The Eagles were right on the fringe of the play-off conundrum when they beat Barnsley six weeks ago but since then they have taken just one point from a possible 15 and fell down to 16th in the table. Their excellent home defensive record has gone up in smoke - six goals conceded at Selhurst Park in just three games, compared to five goals conceded in the 13 home games that went before.

Palace's confidence is obviously a bit low right now, which suggests backing Over 2.5 Goals is very sensible with Ipswich the visitors on Saturday. The Tractor Boys have been involved in some very high-scoring goals this term simply because they know how to score a few and sometimes don't know how to defend.

Mike Norman's selection: Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [2.1]

Hartlepool v Chesterfield, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Hartlepool [2.08], Chesterfield [4.0], The Draw [3.6]

Hartlepool have been gold dust recently for the Under 2.5 Goals backers. All of their last nine games have hit the target, with Pools scoring just three goals and conceding five during that spell of matches. An astonishing run. However, with a side that keep clean sheets and concede very few (18 in 21 all season at Victoria Park), they look a decent price to beat Chesterfield this weekend.

With the hosts' strong defensive record, it looks tough for John Sheridan's Spireites, who have won just twice away from home all season. Don't be fooled by their Monday 4-0 win over Wycombe (league's worst defence) as that is just a one-off that left not only Chairboys boss Gary Waddock flummoxed, but many others.

Hartlepool drew both games over Easter, but played fairly well in the 0-0 against Brentford on Monday. They tried to 'get at' the Bees and played at a tempo, but their 4-5-1 just doesn't allow too many openings. However, they ought to be strong enough to grind out a result here.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back Hartlepool @ [2.08]

Crawley v Wimbledon, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Crawley [1.5], Wimbledon [8.0], The Draw [4.7]

Life post Steve Evans begins in earnest for Crawley Town against their derby rivals AFC Wimbledon. The hosts should win, because the fourth-placed Red Devils have a great deal riding on the game against opponents who don't. The out-of-form Dons, who have lost their last three matches and their last four away games, have no fear of relegation. Is there enough intensity in this rivalry to fear an upset?

The hosts have already beaten Terry Brown's men twice this season, 3-2 in the Carling Cup and 5-2 on their own turf in October. But the odds are very short. Those two scorelines, however, represent a general trend in this fixture. Six of the eight meetings between the two have finished with over 2.5 goals being scored. So, even at the marginally better price of [1.72], that bet is the option offering more value.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [1.72]

Recommended Multiple

Back Sunderland @ [1.54]; Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [2.1] in Crystal Palace v Ipswich; Back Hartlepool @ [2.08]; Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [1.72] in Crawley v Wimbledon; The Multiple pays approximately [11.5]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Saturday, March 31, 2012

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Mike Norman's selection: Back Bolton @ [3.25]

/ Four By Four / 31 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Carlisle striker Lee Miller

Back Bolton @ [3.25]; Lay Leeds @ [1.9]; Back The Draw in Carlisle v Huddersfield @ [3.4]; Back Crewe @ [2.16]; The Multiple pays approximately [50.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Wolves v Bolton, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Wolves [2.4], Bolton [3.25], The Draw [3.6]

Two matches stick out like a sore thumb as incorrectly priced this weekend. One is Newcastle v Liverpool. How the Reds are [2.46] favourites to win that game is beyond me. Newcastle are eight points above them in the league table, are in better form, and have home advantage. Liverpool, need you reminding, have lost five out of their last six league games.

I will be backing Newcastle in that game obviously, but it is played on Sunday however so it is no good for inclusion in this column. The onus falls on Bolton instead, and I have to say that I'm equally surprised that they are [3.25] outsiders to beat hapless Wolves.

Terry Connor's men have lost six consecutive league games at Molineux and have conceded a staggering 20 goals in that time. They haven't won in front of their own fans for four months and they look absolutely drained of any confidence, which is obviously having a major impact on how they perform. Bolton meanwhile have won two league games on the bounce, and because of events off the pitch in the last fortnight they appear to have found some belief and fight which could well see them avoid the drop.

Leeds v Watford, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Leeds [1.89], Watford [4.6], The Draw [3.8]

It's certainly not game over for Leeds in terms of a play-off place, but with the teams from 6th to 14th only separated by six points, they have chosen the wrong time to hit an indifferent patch. New manager Neil Warnock has not been able to work the oracle so far, and United have won only two of their last seven. One home win in six attempts is the sort of stat that will stand between Leeds and a place in the top six come the end of the season, and they may well be running into Watford at just the wrong time.

The Hornets were as low as 22nd in mid-October, but Sean Dyche has steered his side to safety with a run of seven wins and three draws in 12 games since the end of January. With Watford currently unbeaten in six, and having lost just one of their last half dozen away fixtures, they could take something home with them.

Andrew French's selection: Lay Leeds @ [1.9]

Carlisle v Huddersfield, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Carlisle [3.4], Huddersfield [2.44], The Draw [3.4]

Carlisle's impressive home form has been the bedrock of a fine season, which has enabled their assault on the play-offs to remain on course. The Foxes are unbeaten at Brunton Park since September and have enjoyed a profitable March.

On-loan striker Jordan Cook netted both goals in Carlisle's 2-1 win over fellow promotion chasers the MK Dons on Tuesday, in what was an open and at times, breathless game. Cook is a good addition, but their best player is fellow forward Lee Miller. His hold-up play and aerial threat suits the team formation superbly.

Meanwhile, Huddersfield's own goal machine Jordan Rhodes netted his 35th of the season against Charlton last weekend to secure a vital 1-0 win over the league leaders. But looking at their away form, the Terriers have drawn far too many games - which was always the problem under Lee Clarke and it might be worth taking a chance on the bigger priced draw for two in-form teams.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back The Draw @ [3.4]

Crewe v Northampton, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Crewe [2.16], Northampton [3.9], The Draw [3.5]

Crewe have had a great run and are unbeaten in eight games, young and highly-rated forward Nick Powell always prominent. Just three defeats since the turn of the year have left them wondering if they can reach the play-offs. They need to beat Northampton if they are to continue that surge but that will be no easy task.

The Cobblers have been greatly improved under Aidy Boothroyd, their strong run waning a little with defeat to Accrington, a narrow and late win - perhaps undeserved - at desperate Burton and a goalless draw with fellow strugglers Plymouth. The Cobblers need a few more points to be sure of staying up, but that might have to wait.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Crawley @ [2.16]

Recommended Multiple

Back Bolton @ [3.25]; Lay Leeds @ [1.9]; Back The Draw in Carlisle v Huddersfield @ [3.4]; Back Crewe @ [2.16]; The Multiple pays approximately [50.0]

*Last week's Multiple was successful and was available to back at combined odds of just over [20.0] prior to kick-off

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Saturday, March 24, 2012

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Mike Norman's selection: Back Norwich @ [1.81]

/ Four By Four / 24 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Wolves boss Terry Connor

Back Norwich @ [1.81]; Back Over 2.5 Goals in Watford v Ipswich @ [1.78]; Back The Draw in Colchester v Carlisle @ [3.5]; Back Crawley @ [1.7]; The Multiple pays approximately [19.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Norwich v Wolves, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Norwich [1.81], Wolves [5.1], The Draw [3.9]

I don't think I'm being cruel by saying that Wolves have become a bit of a laughing stock since they sacked Mick McCarthy. They tried desperately to bring in an experienced manager but it seemed everyone turned them down, and eventually Terry Connor - with no previous managerial experience whatsoever - was appointed. Wolves have conceded 14 goals in just four games under his leadership!

Norwich haven't been in the best of form lately either, but they remain pretty solid at Carrow Road; in fact their only three defeats on home soil since September have come at the hands of Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United. Wolves certainly don't fall into the class of those three, and with confidence shattered amongst Connor's men, I fear they'll lose again.

Watford v Ipswich, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Watford [2.66], Ipswich [2.88], The Draw [3.6]

This is classic mid-table end-of-season fodder. Both sides are 19 points clear of the drop despite having flirted with trouble earlier in the season, and although they are only nine points short of the play-off positions, finishing in the top six looks unlikely. So, the shackles are off and both can relax.

Last week's goalless draw with Coventry ended a run of six consecutive games at Vicarage Road that had produced more than 2.5 goals. Having been there, the Coventry fixture could have easily done so as well, and Watford have generally played out high-scoring home games with those around them in the table: 60% of the games at Vicarage Road against bottom-half sides have delivered more than 2.5 goals.

Ipswich have the worst defensive record in the division, which has contributed to their 37 matches so far generating a whopping 125 goals (3.38 a game on average). Like Watford, they seem to serve up goal feasts against sides of similar stature: seven of their nine away fixtures at bottom-half sides have paid out on Over 2.5 Goals.

Andrew French's selection: Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [1.78]

Colchester v Carlisle, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Colchester [2.34], Carlisle [3.3], The Draw [3.5]

Colchester are one of the in-form teams at the moment, with an eight game unbeaten run heading into this weekend's clash between two potential play-off contenders. The Essex club look a very fit side of late, possessing plenty of pace but lacking a finishing kick. Manager John Ward is a cute tactician and will be looking to create a few more openings this Saturday.

Ward's team have been involved in five straight Under 2.5 Goals affairs recently, and are looking very strong defensively. However, they do have goalscorers in the team.

Carlisle are a much better unit when forward Lee Miller is leading the line. His hold-up play and linking is crucial to United, which was highly apparent when he was suspended. Carlisle's home form has been a revelation, and are on course to make the play-offs. Manager Greg Abbott has a good determined group at his disposal, and I like the way their play has improved with crosses into the box.

It's a very tight clash to call as both will look to take something from the game bearing their league positions. Under 2.5 Goals looks a possibility, but it might be worth chancing the bigger price draw.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back The Draw @ [3.5]

Crawley v Rotherham, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Crawley [1.7], Rotherham [6.0], The Draw [4.0]

Rotherham released their spleen on Macclesfield in midweek after Andy Scott was sacked and former Oxford boss Darren Pattison stepped up from his assistant to take the reins. So that got the "new boss wins first game" out of the way in time to visit the Broadfield, where Crawley are making noises that should be music to punters' ears: Never mind entertainment, we're here to grind out victories was the message on and off the field on Tuesday, when they beat free-scoring, often free-conceding Gillingham 1-0.

The Reds' new-look strike force of Leon Clarke and Gary Alexander looks like a potent partnership. The Millers' big pull of a £20million new stadium back in the town next season will mean they attract good candidates, but will take their time to decide. Two wins after three draws puts Crawley back in the driving seat for a promotion push.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Crawley @ [1.7]

Recommended Multiple

Back Norwich @ [1.81]; Back Over 2.5 Goals in Watford v Ipswich @ [1.78]; Back The Draw in Colchester v Carlisle @ [3.5]; Back Crawley @ [1.7]; The Multiple pays approximately [19.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Timeform Radio Racing Tips: Sedgefield selections

Timeform Radio Tip

/ David Cleary / 04 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Wil you get involved in Sedgefield's offerings today?

"Total Rebellion is stepping up in trip but he shapes as if that will suit him."

The standard of racing isn't high today but winners are winners and these are David Cleary's Sunday selections for you to consider...

It's fair to say quality is in very short supply at this afternoon's two jumps meetings in Britain, Sedgefield and Huntingdon (where the prospect of rain throughout the day complicates matters). The handicaps in particular cater for low-grade horses and quite a few of the races have far more negatives than positives about the runners.

That is certainly true of most in Sedgefield's staying hurdle at 15.20. The exception is Total Rebellion, who was making his handicap debut when winning at Ayr last time. That was his best effort by a long way, with the fitting of blinkers and forcing tactics seemingly making the difference. Similar tactics are likely to be applied today and could have most of his rivals in trouble a fair way out. Total Rebellion is stepping up in trip but he shapes as if that will suit him.

The handicap chase which follows at 15.50 is a shocker, with negatives about virtually all the runners. Shannagarry has certainly got little to recommend him on his efforts over hurdles but he had ability in bumpers and is bred to be a better jumper than he's so far shown. His trainer George Charlton was badly out of form when he was last seen but his horses are generally going a fair bit better at the moment, even if a winner is proving elusive. He's very much a speculative selection, but Shannagarry could well spring a surprise if he takes to fences first time.

It's a low-key but busy Saturday on Timeform Radio featuring jumping at Kelso, Doncaster and Newbury, with Flat action at Lingfield as well. Rory Delargy will be on hand for all the action, and outlines his best bet here....

Graham Cunningham selects three Friday afternoon runners that could all have a spring in their steps......

David Cleary is focusing on a pair of Donald McCain's horses at Ludlow where the in-form trainer holds three entries...

Saturday, March 3, 2012

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Mike Norman's selection: Back Chelsea @ [2.02]

/ Four By Four / 03 March 2012 / Leave a Comment

Bristol Rovers boss Mark McGhee

Lay Chelsea @ [2.0]; Back Under 2.5 Goals in Crystal Palace v Peterborough @ [1.88]; Back The Draw in Colchester v Preston @ [3.5]; Back Bristol Rovers @ [1.66]; The Multiple pays approximately [22.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

West Brom v Chelsea, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: West Brom [4.3], Chelsea [2.02], The Draw [3.6]

It probably takes a brave man to a) oppose West Brom at the Hawthorns after their last two league performances, and b) back Chelsea away from home given their current form away from Stamford Bridge. But that's partially the reason why we can back the Blues at odds against for this encounter.

Albion have scored nine in their last two league games but one of those games was against a poor Wolves side and the other was against a Sunderland side that simply didn't turn up. Prior to last week West Brom had taken just a single point from the last 18 available to them on home soil at that is the form I'm prepared to concentrate on here.

Chelsea haven't been brilliant of late admittedly but the fact remains they have lost just one of their last eight away games in the league, and I thought they put in a good performance when losing to Napoli in their last away trip. They got back to winning ways last weekend and I fancy them to record back-to-back league wins at the Baggies expense.

Crystal Palace v Peterborough, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Crystal Palace [2.04], Peterborough [4.1], The Draw [3.7]

If you ignore the 4-0 rout of Watford last time (and being a Watford fan, I'm keen to) Crystal Palace have not been frequent scorers at home: in their previous nine games at Selhurt Park they netted just six times, and never more than once in any fixture. Their home fixtures produced an average of only 1.8 goals, the lowest in the division.

Visitors Peterborough have had a reputation as the Championship's goal merchants, but that has been less of the case since December. They have averaged less than a goal a game in their last 12 fixtures, and have only once scored more than a goal in any of those games. Indeed, Under 2.5 Goals would have been a winning bet in six of their last seven away matches - marry that with the fact that more than 70% of Palace home fixtures would have paid out on the same market, and Unders is the way to go.

Andrew French's selection: Back Under 2.5 Goals @ [1.88]

Colchester v Preston, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Colchester [2.14], Preston [3.9], The Draw [3.5]

A classic mid-table tussle this weekend involving 12th against 13th. Colchester have drawn their last two games against Oldham and Rochdale with manager John Ward describing their most recent performance as 'strong rather than gifted'.

The Essex side are physical and can rely on set-pieces. Ward changed his formation slightly against Oldham last Saturday, rather than the more narrow set-up against Rochdale. However, they can struggle to carve open teams and find scoring opportunities.

Preston have conceded just two goals in their last three games - which is not a surprise under their new boss Graham Westley. His footballing philosophy is not to give goals away. The bedrock of all Westley side's remains the defensive organisation, and his time at Deepdale continues to be a work in progress.

In short, both could cancel each other out with the draw making most appeal.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back The Draw @ [3.5]

Bristol Rovers v Macclesfield, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Bristol Rovers [1.66], Macclesfield [6.2], The Draw [4.0]

Odds-makers have definitely caught up with the improvement in the Pirates since Mark McGhee took over from Paul Buckle. One defeat in seven tells you why, even if the last three games have produced one goal in their favour, but reaped four points. Not everything can be expected to go right in the rebuilding process. Now, however, mid-table security gives the hosts a basis on which to build. Scott McGleish, Eliot Richards and Chris Zebroski are enjoying themselves, it seems. Macclesfield are not. A Michael Duberry own goal giving them a point against Oxford and a George Donnelly last-gasp equaliser to deny Plymouth is hardly reason for huge celebration for Paul Simpson, whose side lost eight on the trot before those two points. Back the hosts.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Bristol Rovers @ [1.66]

Recommended Multiple

Lay Chelsea @ [2.0]; Back Under 2.5 Goals in Crystal Palace v Peterborough @ [1.88]; Back The Draw in Colchester v Preston @ [3.5]; Back Bristol Rovers @ [1.66]; The Multiple pays approximately [22.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Saturday, February 18, 2012

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Mike Norman's selection: Back Norwich @ [1.89]

/ Four By Four / 18 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Will Norwich boss Paul Lambert field a full-strength side against Leicester?

Back Norwich @ [1.89]; Back Over 2.5 Goals in Leeds v Doncaster @ [1.82]; Back Bournemouth @ [2.42]; Lay Southend @ [1.74]; The multiple pays approximately [20.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Norwich v Leicester, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Norwich [1.89], Leicester [4.6], The Draw [3.8]

Decades ago, perhaps even just a few years ago even, there would be no question whatsoever over the strength of line-up a manager would field for a FA Cup tie; he would simply select the strongest side available to him. Unfortunately those days are gone and you can never be certain how a newly-promoted Premier League side, desperately trying to get to that magical 42 point mark as quickly as possible, will line-up when it comes to a cup competition.

Norwich are sitting pretty in the Premier League, and with their next league game not until eight days time, boss Paul Lambert should field a full strength side for the visit of Leicester. Should being the operative word. And if they are then [1.89] about a home victory looks a decent wager. I won't go into stats or recent results, put simply, at full-strength Norwich are the better outfit.

Leeds v Doncaster, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Leeds [1.65], Doncaster [6.0], The Draw [4.1]

It doesn't get much worse than losing to struggling Coventry: the midweek defeat certainly didn't help Neil Redfearn's chances of landing the job at Leeds on a permanent basis. One thing the Whites have done during their current indifferent run is keep scoring: they have netted at least once in each of their last eight league games, and have only failed to score five times all season. Their home games average exactly three goals each, and that is likely to continue when they host the team with the worst defensive away record in the division.

Doncaster concede at a rate of 2.2 goals per game on the road, and now find themselves bottom of the table. A run of six defeats in seven away games suggests they will struggle to achieve much at Elland Road. A whopping 73% of Rovers' away games have delivered 2.5 goals or more - you've got to fancy that to be extended this weekend.

Andrew French's selection: Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [1.82]

Rochdale v Bournemouth, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Rochdale [3.4], Bournemouth [2.42], The Draw [3.4]

Bournemouth's play-off hopes were dented on Tuesday at Leyton Orient, but this looks a good opportunity to make inroads into fellow promotion hopefuls Stevenage and Carlisle United.

I was encouraged by several aspects of their play in midweek, despite losing 2-1. They passed the ball better than Orient, they had more possession and created enough chances to win the game. The only downside was the lack of a clinical edge up front, surprising considering their costly January window signing Matt Tubbs was in the line-up.

The Cherries were involved in a dour affair at Hartlepool last Saturday, drawing 0-0. But their away from in December was excellent, winning two and drawing one. Their squad now looks much stronger with the additions of Tubbs and Donal McDermott, and they have a classier edge to their team than Rochdale. The latter is an extremely gifted player with an eye for a pass.

The Dale gained their first win under new boss John Coleman at the end of January, beating Bury 3-0. Coleman described it as like watching Brazil or Inter Milan, and was mystified at their rock-bottom league position. However, if anyone is going to play like Brazil this weekend, it should be Bournemouth.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back Bournemouth @ [2.42]

Southend v Crewe, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Southend [1.75], Crewe [5.3], The Draw [4.0]

Could Southend's win at Gillingham last Monday be enough to restore their confidence and winning ways permanently after just one point in four league games before that? Not for me. Andy Hessenthaler's side have only three points, from a win over Aldershot, to show for their last six league games. The jury is out. Therefore Paul Sturrock's Southend are still on my "lay" list, a tactic that has paid dividends on the last two Saturdays. This time my assessment is because Crewe have five wins from seven games. Nick Powell and Greg Pearson are just two players to watch out for.

Ian Lamont's selection: Lay Southend @ [1.76]

Recommended Multiple

Back Norwich @ [1.89]; Back Over 2.5 Goals in Leeds v Doncaster @ [1.82]; Back Bournemouth @ [2.42]; Lay Southend @ [1.74]; The multiple pays approximately [20.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Saturday Tote Scoop6 rollover selections: £2million up for grabs

Daily Placepots

/ Joe Szekeres / 02 December 2011 / Leave a Comment

The Becher Chase over the National fences is leg 2 of the Scoop6

"Always Waining has to be respected bearing in mind his affinity with Aintree and the unique Grand National fences..."

There is £2million+ up for grabs this weekend for anybody lucky enough to land the Scoop6 before going on to land the bonus. Timeform's Joe Szekeres gives you his thoughts on the six races while coming up with a suggested perm...

13:25 Sandown - Drumbaloo was a very promising youngster two seasons ago and went off the well-fancied third favourite for the 2010 Cheltenham Champion Bumper, only to finish well beaten. He never seemed to transfer that Bumper ability to hurdles last year, but a change of stable seems to have revitalised him, an impressive victory at Chepstow on his debut for Evan Williams last time clear evidence of that. Drumbaloo is only 8 lb higher now, which isn't enough to prevent him giving another good account. Arrayan is another worthy of inclusion given David Pipe's ability to get his horses ready first time out and his record in recent big-race handicaps. Arrayan looked on the upgrade last season before unseating at Taunton on his penultimate start, when almost certain to win. He disappointed in the Imperial Cup last time, but we can forget that run and there is every chance he has improved over the summer. Poungach is the final selection in a tricky opener, given his progressive profile and lofty reputation, and one of the trio will hopefully navigate us through the first leg.

14:10 Aintree - Always Waining has to be respected bearing in mind his affinity with Aintree and the unique Grand National fences, so he is an obvious starting point. Twice a winner of the Topham, his style suggests the extra distance here should be of little problem. Niche Market is another with Aintree experience, having finished fifth in last season's Grand National, and he should be capable of going close. Nicto de Beauchene is the third and final selection in this leg. An impressive winner on his seasonal reappearance at Bangor last month, he is well handicapped based on a victory at Sandown last season and, with headgear employed, seems a solid selection.

14:30 Sandown - Edgardo Sol is the most likely winner of this handicap given the manner of his victory last time out at Cheltenham, travelling well for much of the way before quickening up to put the race to bed inside the final two furlongs. He seemed to have a bit in hand at the finish and is definitely worth siding with again. Venetia Williams' horses have come back into form recently and Tenor Nivernais can add to her good run. Tenor Nivernais, who ran well below form when well fancied for the Fred Winter Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival last season, was pulled up on his reappearance this term, but the yard was out of form and he can now regain the progressive thread.

15:05 Sandown- Many will be banking on Sizing Europe in this leg, but we're going to take the favourite on with Wishfull Thinking . Wishfull Thinking has all of the right attributes to do well at Sandown, given his front-running tactics and natural jumping ability, so there is every chance he could get a few of these in trouble from some way out. He is our one and only banker of the afternoon

15:20 Aintree - Buffalo Bob is Timeform top-rated and the main hope in the fifth leg. The pick of his form comes from Bangor last year, where he finished second behind Summery Justice. There have been a couple of subsequent winners emerge from that contest, whilst the winner himself is fancied to go well in the Welsh National later on this month. Linnel is the other one worth siding with in this contest and he should come on for his latest run, where he finished second. A lack of recent run seemed to be his undoing on that occasion and, with Arthur Moore rarely racing his horses in Britian, Linnel should be respected.

15:40 Sandown - Madison du Berlais has dropped so far down the weights recently that he is worth gambling on. Deep Purple is another classy chaser who has dropped in the weights and the step up in trip gives him the chance to banish his critics. The final selection is Do it for Dalkey, who boasts a progressive profile and is definitely a chaser on the upgrade. Two recent victories have seen him increase in the weights but we predict there might still be further improvement to come.

Selections
13:25 Sandown - 3, 10, 16
14:10 Aintree - 3, 5, 9
14:30 Sandown - 6, 10
15:05 Sandown - 9
15:20 Aintree - 11, 13
15:40 Sandown - 1, 3, 7
= 108 lines
............
The Timeform Jury were in great form in November, with 13 individual winners at up to 10/1 and 58% profit on stakes*. Click HERE to find out more.

*At advised prices to recommended stakes.

The quality clearly lies at Sandown today, but I'm going to stick to what I know and head to the leafy surroundings of Lingfield for today's placepot......

Wolverhampton's twiliight meeting makes the most appeal for placepot purposes today......

Wednesday twilight means Kempton, and that's where we're heading for today's crack at the placepot......

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Daily Tipping

/ Four By Four / 03 December 2011 / Leave a Comment

New Portsmouth boss Michael Appleton

Back Arsenal @ [1.62]; Back Portsmouth @ [1.84]; Back MK Dons @ [1.85]; Back Southend @ [2.2]; The multiple pays approximately [12.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection each from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Wigan v Arsenal, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Wigan [6.4], Arsenal [1.62], The Draw [4.2]

Apologies for the short price selection, but with Manchester City ([1.2]) and Tottenham ([1.32]) looking like home bankers, and the other two afternoon kick-offs being too difficult to call, then Arsenal automatically became the choice.

The Gunners are one of the form teams in the Premier League having taken 16 points from a possible 18 and they'll be geared up to bounce back from last week's disappointing home draw with Fulham. Arsene Wenger's men have scored seven goals in their last two away games and now face a Wigan side that lost eight on the bounce prior to taking four points from bottom of the table Blackburn and out-of-form Sunderland. The Latics will face a much sterner test in the form of Arsenal, and they are very likely to return to losing ways.

Mike Norman's selection: Back Arsenal @ [1.62]

Portsmouth v Coventry, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Portsmouth [1.84], Coventry [5.2], The Draw [3.7]

When you're as bad as Portsmouth are on the road, you need to be getting plenty of points on your own turf. New manager Michael Appleton will console himself that while Pompey have not managed an away win all season, their home record would not look out of place in the top 10 of the table. They have won three and drawn the other of their last four at Fratton Park, and have conceded just seven goals in their nine home games all season. That is bad news for Coventry, the division's lowest away scorers (just five in nine outings).

The Sky Blues have not taken maximum points on their travels, losing six and drawing the other three games. They have not won at all in eight attempts, and the fact they have conceded every time they have left the Ricoh Arena suggests Pompey are good for at least one goal - which may well be enough for all three points.

Andrew French's selection: Back Portsmouth @ [1.84]

Barnet v MK Dons, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Barnet [4.7], MK Dons [1.85], The Draw [4.0]

The famous Underhill slope plays host to the free scoring MK Dons this weekend, in what sets up an intriguing FA Cup second round encounter.

The Dons have hit a staggering 20 goals in their last five matches, including a first round demolition job on Nantwich, who were beaten 6-0. Since then Karl Robinson's side have hit Colchester 5-1 and Wycombe 4-3 in a pulsating Buckinghamshire derby. The latter, was described as Robinson as the best 30 minutes of football he has seen this season. Some of their play can be sensational, and goals are coming from everywhere.

Barnet are good travellers, but have been a side quite nervy at home. Manager Lawrie Sanchez has brought in some new, younger faces recently, mixed with a nice blend of experience. Last Friday's 2-1 home win against Macclesfield was a sign that maybe their home form is turning.

However, MK's football can be so fluent and crisp at times, Barnet might get stretched all over the place, and the [1.85] on offer looks too good to turn down.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back MK Dons @ [1.85]

Southend v Oldham, KO: Saturday 15:00, Match Odds: Southend [2.2], Oldham [3.5], The Draw [3.5]

Paul Sturrock's side must fancy their chances of causing another upset after narrowly sending out Preston, who are similarly placed to Oldham in League One, in the last round. Liam Dickinson's seven goals are reason to take notice, while Kane Ferdinand is grabbing headlines as a "distant" cousin to the more famous Anton and Rio. The Blues have not lost in 16, quite remarkable, and won't want to give that up easily.

Oldham beat tricky customers Burton in the last round and showed resolve on the road to Bournemouth. They also have a class scorer in the shape of Shefki Kuqi, if he is on his game, and Southend's defence that is rarely ever breached more than once a game will have to be fully on its metal. That adage that if a team is doing well in the league it should do well in the cup will need to be proven by the League Two leaders, but they could well prevail.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Southend @ [2.2]

Recommended Multiple

Back Arsenal @ [1.62]; Back Portsmouth @ [1.84]; Back MK Dons @ [1.85]; Back Southend @ [2.2]; The multiple pays approximately [12.0]

Over in Argentina this evening, Estudiantes, a side who have won just two of their last 13 matches at home, take on All Boys, a side who have lost just one of their last eight away from home. Paul Robinson...

Jonno Turner expects Crystal Palace to build on their Carling Cup heroics, and can see no end in sight to the staggering demise of Monaco......

Jonno Turner is focussing his attention on the Europa League this evening, backing Vaslui and Anderlecht to kick off Advent in style......

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Timeform Radio Tip: Kempton and Bath selections

Timeform Radio Tip

/ Jeremy Grayson / 16 October 2011 / Leave a Comment

"Whilst Kempton ushers in its new jumps season this afternoon, Bath says farewell to 2011 with an eight-race fixture, and the handicap entrant clearest of all its rivals on Timeform ratings is Ninfea in the 1m2f fillies’ handicap (16.40)."

Jeremy Grayson talks us through the best bets ahead of Sunday's racing.

It's almost tempting to suggest the 15.50 at Kempton this afternoon should be overlooked on a matter of principle, it being something of a pale shadow of the Charisma Gold Cup which used to be one of the first major 3m handicap chases of the autumn throughout this pundit's callow youth. There does seem to be one candidate very much worth nominating among the eight-strong line-up, however, in the form of C&D beginners' chase winner Key Cutter.

This is one Alderbrook that doesn't appear to be as inconvenienced by drier surfaces as many, having recorded that score here last November on good. Moreover, the form of that effort was virtually the equal of his best over fences to date, gained the outing before courtesy of a Ludlow handicap chase second off a mark 3lb higher than today's.

It's also easy to have grave reservations about all his rivals. Total Submission and Traffic Chaos are being asked to take on Kempton's stiff fences on their chasing debuts; Ballagio and Princely Hero both look lazy horses requiring more of the whip than is now permitted; The Wife's Sister comes here off the back of a shocker; Ratify hasn't yet proven as effective on quicker as on soft; and Nothingbutthetruth hasn't shown anything away from Wetherby for an age.

Whilst Kempton ushers in its new jumps season this afternoon, Bath says farewell to 2011 with an eight-race fixture, and the handicap entrant clearest of all its rivals on Timeform ratings is Ninfea in the 1m2f fillies' handicap (16.40).

Sylvester Kirk's three-year-old hasn't scored since September of last year but now finds herself 5lb below her last winning mark. That's inclusive of a 2lb dip since a late rattle at Brighton on Thursday afternoon just failed to gain her the verdict over today's trip (good to firm), and getting her out again quickly before the assessor gets chance to renege on that charity, seems a very wise move.

Still as effective over shorter if her penultimate effort over 1m is any guide, it shouldn't prove fatal to her prospects if the lack of an obvious pace influence results in a muddling affair.

Terry Norman makes the picks today and a pair of late runners have caught his eye...

In the hotseat today is Graham Cunningham who keeping a close eye on these three jumps horses...

Andrew Sheret makes the picks today and he's gone for a pair of value wagers at Nottingham...

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Follow The Money: Saturday selections

Follow the Money

/ Follow The Money / 09 July 2011 / Leave a Comment

It's abck to Newmarket's July course for the final day of the festival

"With the majority of today's rivals relatively exposed Spifer should put up a bold show."

Follow The Money's three Saturday selections come from Chester and Newmarket.

First up is Chester and in the 7f Listed Race at 16:35 there has been solid support for Our Jonathan who has shortened to [4.5] from an early [7.4]. Kevin Ryan's charge has been in good form this season, consistently finishing in the frame including a good victory over course and distance in May when he had a couple of today's rivals in behind. He can be excused his latest effort at Royal Ascot as he received a bump when about to make his challenge. This looks less competitive than that race and the money suggests he will bounce back.

We cross to Newmarket for our other selections the first of which is the day's negative - Ladyship in the Fillies Maiden at 16:45 whose price has drifted out to [4.0] from [2.88]. This unraced Michael Stoute filly has an excellent pedigree and this looks like a decent starting point. Her trainer has only five 2yo runners this year, of which just one has recorded a victory, though he usually saves his best ones for later in the season. Whilst her connections entitle her to respect she face some rivals who have experienced a racetrack before, as well as a couple of other unraced fillies who look interesting and it may pay to take a watching brief today.

In Newmarket's final race of the day a 1m4f Handicap at 17:55 there has been sustained support for the Luca Cumani-trained Spifer who has come in to [3.2] from [5.0]. He has only had three starts but has shown a decent amount of ability and there should be more to come off a mark of 82. He won first time out this season when staying on strongly over 1m2f in a Newbury maiden then ran well again over the same trip at Kempton last time out when coming from last in the final furlong to finish second. The way he finished that day seems to bode well for this step up in trip and with the majority of today's rivals relatively exposed he should put up a bold show.

Recommended Bets
http://sports.betfair.com/Index.do?mi=103187382&ex=1&origin=MRL&rfr=3013
http://sports.betfair.com/Index.do?mi=103187434&ex=1&origin=MRL&rfr=3013
http://sports.betfair.com/Index.do?mi=103187438&ex=1&origin=MRL&rfr=3013

Today's Follow The Money movers come from the meetings at Newmarket, Ascot and York....

Today's Follow The Money movers come from the meetings at Folkestone and Newmarket...

Today's movers come from Lingfield and Catterick...

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Timeform Radio Racing Tips: Day one selections at Royal Ascot

Timeform Radio Tip

/ David Cleary / 14 June 2011 / Leave a Comment

Dream Ahead on the gallops - can he win the race betting 'without Frankel'?

"So long as he doesn't pay too high a price for trying to take on the favourite, Dream Ahead really ought to finish second at worst in the St James's Palace Stakes."

David Cleary looks at the betting ahead of a monumental first day at Ascot

Rarely can the opening day of Royal Ascot have been awaited with such fevered anticipation, for surely a day of outstanding quality, even by the exalted standards of this fixture, is in store. Three Group 1 events open proceedings, starting with the monumental clash between Canford Cliffs and Goldikova in the Queen Anne Stakes at 14:30. This is impossible to call with confidence, and while Cape Blanco is not without a chance of causing an upset, the two favourites are obviously rock solid and seven runners make this much less appealing as an each-way race than it would have been with eight.

Frankel can't sensibly be opposed in the St James's Palace Stakes at 15:45, but there may be an option in the 'betting without' market. The horse with easily the second-best form chance is Dream Ahead. His return has been delayed by the lack of rain but the ground should be fine for him to show his form this afternoon and he's bred to stay a mile without too much trouble. So long as he doesn't pay too high a price for trying to take on the favourite Dream Ahead really ought to finish second at worst.

The King's Stand Stakes at 15:05 looks very hard, complicated by trying to guess what impact the draw will have, if any. The Coventry Stakes at 16:25 and the Windsor Castle Stakes at 17:35 for two-year-olds make limited appeal from a punting point of view, which leaves the Ascot Stakes over two-and-a-half miles at 17:00. This is typically wide open, but it will be well run and a couple of hold-up horses look overpriced in the shape of Desert Sea and Palomar. Both have plenty of form in this type of race, being strong travellers who have plenty of stamina, and with a little luck in running hold a decent chance of making the frame.

Recommended Bets:
Back Dream Ahead 'without Frankel' @ 5.5 in the 15:45 at Royal Ascot
Back Desert Sea and Palomar win and place/each-way @ 40.0 and 28.0 (win) respectively in the 17.00 at Royal Ascot
..............................

Royal Ascot Special Offer - Betfair are offering you up to £100 cashback on your multiples, 10% cashback on Tote bets & a free Timeform Racecard. Click HERE to find out more.

It's the quiet before the Royal Ascot storm but racing must continue! Rory Delargy is the Timeform Radio pundit on Monday for afternoon racing at Carlisle on the Flat and over the sticks at Sedgefield. Here are his best bets for the afternoon...

With rain set to fall throughout the afternoon, the Betfair Sunday racing markets could see significant odds fluctuations, says Jeremy Grayson....

Terry Norman serves up a pair of promising selections on a busy Saturday of racing......

Thursday, April 28, 2011

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Four By Four

/ Four By Four / 28 April 2011 / Leave a Comment

QPR’s title celebrations might be put on hold once more at Vicarage Road

"QPR's away form against the Championship's better sides is not impressive - they have won only two of their 10 games when visiting top-half teams."

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Blackpool v Stoke

Blackpool didn't get the win last week against Newcastle when I put them up as a selection but they did do enough to win two or three games by all accounts. Newcastle scored completely against the run of play, and the Tangerines had at least two genuine penalty appeals turned down. On the plus side, Ian Holloway's men did score for the 17th consecutive game at Bloomfield Road and they narrowly climbed out of the drop zone.

Stoke's midweek win against Wolves means they are completely safe now, so with injuries starting to mount up Tony Pulis can turn his attention to the FA Cup final and rest a few of his better players. That's not to say the players that come in won't be trying because with a Wembley final on the horizon, everyone at the club will be busting a gut to win a place in the team. But ability wise, some of the Stoke fringe players aren't as good as the usual starting line-up and Blackpool might just be in a better frame of mind to take full advantage.

This really is last chance saloon for Holloway's men, and I'm desperate for them to win, not only for this column, but for the entertainment factor they bring to the Premier League.

Mike Norman's selection: Back Blackpool to beat Stoke at [2.82]

Watford v QPR

It would be something of a travesty if QPR didn't finish the season atop the table, as they have been there virtually all season. Whether they get to stay there remains to be seen with all the talk of possible points deductions but, on the pitch, Rangers have been the best side. Having said that, I think they may have to settle for no more than a point in this one. Their away form against the Championship's better sides is not impressive - they have won only two of their 10 games when visiting top-half teams. And they suffered their only home defeat to Watford, who have one of the best attacks in the division and have scored at least once in each of their last 15 home games. The Hornets have nothing to play for, but that equates to no pressure and certainly no nerves, unlike QPR who could feel it a bit trying to get the point needed to secure promotion.

Andrew French's selection: Lay QPR v Watford at [2.36]

MK Dons v Notts County

The MK Dons surprisingly lost both of their matches over Easter, yet according to manager Karl Robinson deserved more. Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Huddersfield was described by Robinson as 'a near perfect performance'. An odd thing to say after a defeat, but they were definitely the better side. The Buckinghamshire outfit need to make sure their season doesn't end with a whimper, and one victory will seal their place in the play-offs. I have often praised the Dons this season for their style and flair, which is a crucial angle into this weekend's game.

Notts County have collected seven points from their last three matches under Martin Allen, almost unheard of pre-Mad Dog days. However, there is more to Allen than his bite, he is a very clever and highly skilled coach, and has got belief, energy and passion back into this team. County lined up with a new 3-5-2 against Brentford last Monday with a view of getting hold of the ball in the middle, and Allen might have to do the same here, as the MK Dons keep the ball brilliantly - and might not give it back.

The home side are due to give someone a beating, and have been creating lots of chances. Robinson has his team set up to carve opponents up at will, and for all Notts County's improved run of form, the Dons are one of the best sides in the division.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back MK Dons to beat Notts County at [1.93]

Gillingham v Macclesfield

This has to be the biggest gimme in League Two this weekend if Gillingham are to assert themselves for a play-off push. The saving graces of defeat to Barnet are that the visitors were desperate for a win at the wrong end of the table and, in the Gills' case, that Andy Barcham scored twice. It shows that Andy Hessenthaler's men have a striker of note other than Cody McDonald, the 24-goal striker. Barcham has scored six in his 22 appearances (another to knock Rotherham out of the play-off race) but the suspicion remains that if you stop McDonald, you stop the Kent club.

The Silkmen should prove lesser opponents, after one win in eight - at out of form Cheltenham - and have nothing to play for. If Gillingham can't beat them, their play-off hopes deserve to be finished. This is the perfect chance to improve on their home form, where there have been too many draws lately.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Gillingham to beat Macclesfield at [1.6]

Recommended Multiple

Back Blackpool @ [2.82]; Lay QPR @ [2.36]; Back MK Dons @ [1.93]; Back Gillingham @ [1.6]; The multiple pays approximately [15.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Timeform Radio Racing Tips: Sedgefield selections!

Timeform Radio Tip

/ Graham Cunningham / 25 March 2011 / Leave a Comment

Will Sedgefield's hurdles suit Shadows Lengthen?

"I reckon Priceless Art should be a shade of odds on in the 15:25, so [2.16] and bigger makes clear appeal."

Graham Cunningham picks a quartet of horses to focus on in today's action in the north east

Now and again the value in Betfair's markets lies at the head of the market and that could be very much the case today with Shadows Lengthen, Priceless Art and Lightening Rod.

Shadows Lengthen bolted up at Catterick and should put a couple of frustrating rivals in their place in Sedgefield's 14:20.

I reckon Priceless Art should be a shade of odds on in the 15:25, so [2.16] and bigger makes clear appeal, while Lightening Rod will be very well served by a return to further in the 16:00.

Lastly today, a positive word for Waterloo Corner in Sedgefield's 17:10. This gelding lines up fresh from a fine effort in similar company here and is 3lb well in on official figures.

More importantly, the bang-in-form claimer Paul Gallagher replaces the veteran journeyman Kenny Johnson in the saddle today. And that could be very significant.

Recommended Bets
Sedgefield 14:20: Back Shadows Lengthen at [1.8]
Sedgefield 15:25: Back Priceless Art at [2.16]
Sedgefield 16:00: Back Lightening Rod at [1.9]
Sedgefield 17:10: Back Waterloo Corner at [4.4]

Terry Norman makes the picks on another sunny day in the British Isles...

Rory Delargy is still on course at Cheltenham, but today's racing fayre is rather more mundane. Nevertheless, winners are winners, so can he find some on this sunny Wednesday?...

Timeform's Andrew Sheret makes the picks today......

Sunday, March 6, 2011

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Four By Four

/ Four By Four / 03 March 2011 / Leave a Comment

West Ham striker Demba Ba nearly joined Stoke in January

"Neil Warnock’s QPR still only have one home defeat against their name, and they have only failed to score twice at Loftus Road this season."

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

West Ham v Stoke

The Hammers should take great confidence from their relatively easy victory over Liverpool last weekend; a reproduction of that form will almost certainly be good enough to see off a Stoke side that have lost five consecutive away games, the last four without scoring. Although occupying one of the relegation slots, the Hammers are just six points behind 10th place Stoke and they enter this game in decent form having won four of their last six games (all competitions). Scott Parker will be inspirational as ever in the middle of the park, but wouldn't it be just ironic if striker Demba Ba got on the scoresheet; the West Ham striker almost joined the Potters in the January transfer window but failed a medical before joining his current club.

Mike Norman's selection: Back West Ham to beat Stoke at [2.3]

QPR v Leicester

You'll not get many chances to back league leaders QPR in a home fixture at odds-against this season, this is one of those rare occasions - and I think layers are paying Leicester a huge compliment in the way they have priced this game. True, Leicester have been on a great run and have moved up the table to the point where they look a live play-off contender. But have a closer look at their away form; they have lost 10 of 17 on the road, a total only surpassed by relegation scrappers Crystal Palace and Scunthorpe. What's more, the Foxes have really struggled when travelling to face top-half sides; they have lost six of eight and only scored four times. Neil Warnock's QPR still only have one home defeat against their name, and they have only failed to score twice at Loftus Road this season. They have won three of their last four on their own turf, and have not lost at all since New Year's Day.

Andrew French's selection: Back QPR to beat Leicester at [2.28]

Bristol Rovers v Dagenham & Redbridge

The proverbial relegation six-pointer here, with the sides occupying 22nd and 23rd in the division going head-to-head, and a match which could have a major bearing on League One survival.

Bristol Rovers addressed their horrendous slump and shocking defending, by winning 1-0 against Oldham, but have since lost their last two by the odd-goal, and are struggling to score. However in forward Will Hoskins, they have a player who has genuine quality who can nick a game with a flash of brilliance. Dagenham will need to keep Hoskins quiet here, and will see this as a chance to get three points. Yeovil have hauled themselves out of the drop zone with 36 points, and with the Daggers on 30 points, a draw might not be much use.

The Londoners have played two top sides recently (in Huddersfield and Bournemouth), and showed a good level of performance in both, and unluckily lost the latter. Manager John Still is an old head, who will have his team competing to the death. It might not be pretty here, but if the visitors get plenty of balls into the box to ruffle the hosts, the price might be worth taking a chance on an away victory.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back Dagenham & Redbridge to beat Bristol Rovers at [3.2]

Gillingham v Bradford

Peter Jackson's appointment in interim charge of Bradford has not gone down well with fans, who see him as the man Lincoln sacked last season. They had to get someone and he at least knew the club, although there has been a 35-year hiatus. Clearly, with interviews on-going, Jackson is not stable in the role, which breeds doubt and confusion all round. Gillingham should take advantage. They have turned into draw specialists, but that is just an accident of the misfortune of facing quality sides such as Shrewsbury and Bury and then Aldershot, who are not in the quality bracket but at least are now working hard and themselves drawing frequently. Just two defeats in 18 games suggests Cody McDonald and co will have little trouble dispatching the Bantams.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Gillingham to beat Bradford at [1.82]

Recommended Multiple

Back West Ham @ [2.3]; Back QPR @ [2.28]; Back Dagenham & Redbridge @ [3.2]; Back Gillingham @ [1.82]; The multiple pays approximately [30.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Saturday, February 26, 2011

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Four By Four

/ Four By Four / 24 February 2011 / Leave a Comment

Blackpool’s Charlie Adam is suspended for his club’s trip to Wolves

"The Tangerines have been picking up points by out-scoring the opposition but the worry here is that the architect behind Blackpool’s goals – Charlie Adam – is suspended for this encounter."

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Wolves v Blackpool

I read somewhere this week that Wolves are unpredictable; I disagree, they beat the top clubs (Man City, Man Utd, Liverpool, Chelsea etc) and lose to the bottom clubs (West Ham and Wigan for example). How is that unpredictable? Seriously, I know what people mean when they refer to Mick McCarthy's men as a bit in-and-out but that perception might change if they - as they are expected to do - beat Blackpool on Saturday.

Ian Holloway's men have bee a terrific addition to the Premier League this season and I sincerely hope they stay up. But in all honesty their defence is woeful; how they didn't concede six at home to Tottenham in midweek is a mystery. The Tangerines have been picking up points by out-scoring the opposition but the worry here is that the architect behind Blackpool's goals - Charlie Adam - is suspended for this encounter. It will still be a tough game for Wolves, but on an afternoon of difficult games in the Premier League, Wanderers just about get the nod to succeed.

Mike Norman's selection: Back Wolves to beat Blackpool at [1.91]

Crystal Palace v Reading

November 9, that's ages ago, right? Incredibly, that was the day when Crystal Palace last conceded a goal at home. Since then, they have played 12 hours of Championship football at Selhurst Park and not had their defences breached. If defensive impregnability is the platform for safety, then Dougie Freedman's side ought to pull clear of trouble. They have won their last two at home, albeit against struggling sides (Middlesbrough and Sheffield United) - yet although this weekend's visitors Reading are further up the table, they are not in the greatest of form. The midweek win over Millwall was their first in six attempts and they are without a win in three away games.

Andrew French's selection: Back Crystal Palace to beat Reading at [3.4]

Huddersfield v Leyton Orient

National news headlines, trips to Las Vegas and the unknown Jonathan Tehoue now becoming err known. It's all been happening at Brisbane Road after their amazing 1-1 FA Cup heroics against Arsenal. With all that in mind, perhaps Orient's minds might be elsewhere with the Emirates replay looming?

Huddersfield are unbeaten in 2011 and need to close the seven point gap with league leaders Brighton this weekend, and [1.84] is a decent price for an excellent team. The Terriers have drawn their last two games 1-1 with Bournemouth and Dagenham, and failed to sparkle in the former. They need to get going again. The Yorkshire team looked jaded mentally and physically at Bournemouth according to manager Lee Clark, but created plenty of chances against the Daggers and should have killed off that match on Tuesday night.

I respect Orient, who are playing so well this season under the tactically astute Russell Slade. But if their players are not quite on it, Huddersfield can get their tempo and passing back to get a result here.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back Huddersfield to beat Leyton Orient at [1.84]

Southend v Northampton

As good as Northampton's home form has been, it has been poor away for most of the season. The second worst in the division, in fact. They seem to have picked up in the last two trips with draws - to opponents of apparently varying qualities in Hereford and Port Vale - in an overall five draws and two wins. The draw at Hereford is actually a good result against one of the division's form teams. Southend present a different prospect. Despite having a depleted squad, boss Paul Sturrock seems to be relatively happy, suggesting that while loan signings would be nice they would face a battle to get into the side, after one defeat in nine. Defender Mark Phillips and midfielder Anthony Grant remain out, while a couple of strikers including Barry Corr could return. Talk of new players suggests enough ambition to turn a good run into a genuine play-off push.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Southend to beat Northampton at [2.24]

Recommended Multiple

Back Wolves @ [1.91]; Back Crystal Palace @ [3.4]; Back Huddersfield @ [1.84]; Back Southend @ [2.24]; The multiple pays approximately [26.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....

Friday, February 18, 2011

The Four by Four column: A quartet of English football selections

Four By Four

/ Four By Four / 17 February 2011 / Leave a Comment

Peterborough striker Craig Mackail-Smith is having another solid goal-scoring season

"Posh midfielder and trequartista Lee Tomlin is a top player with great feet and eye for goal, whilst forward Craig Mackail-Smith is having his usual goalscoring season."

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option.

Stoke v Brighton (FA Cup)

I don't particularly like tipping top-flight clubs in the cup against in-form underdogs, but in this case I had Stoke priced up at around [1.5], so to see them at [1.7] in the Match Odds market is very appealing. Plus, we're at the stage of the competition now where shocks become less frequent, and any Premier League club with a home tie must surely have their sights set on going all the way. League One leaders Brighton play some attractive football under Gus Poyet but I'm not sure that's what will be required at the Britannia Stadium against 'bully' boys Stoke. Tony Pulis' men have won their last three on home soil whereas Brighton's only league wins on the road since October were against lowly Exeter and bottom of the table Bristol Rovers.

Mike Norman's selection: Back Stoke to beat Brighton at [1.7]

Crystal Palace v Sheff Utd

Time to roll out that classic cliché - a relegation six-pointer. With Preston rapidly getting detached at the foot of the table, and next-to-bottom Scunthorpe's miserable home record crippling their survival chances (despite a heroic win against Nottm Forest in midweek), Palace and United are in the box seats to join them in making the drop. But at least Palace are showing a bit of resistance. Okay, so two wins and three draws in the last seven isn't exactly scintillating, but at least Dougie Freedman's side are giving themselves a platform on which to win games by not giving away goals: they have kept four clean sheets in that seven-game sequence. And that could be the decisive factor against Saturday's opponents, who are still to win under Mickey Adams since he took over nine games ago.

The Blades have failed to score in both their last two away games, and are on a run of five defeats in their last six road trips. Most tellingly, though, United have managed to score just once in seven away games against fellow bottom-half sides. That stat when travelling to face Palace - who have conceded only three in seven when hosting teams below halfway - suggests the Eagles could just edge this one. If I were braver, I'd suggest 1-0 to Palace at [7.6].

Andrew French's selection: Back Crystal Palace to beat Sheff Utd at [2.26]

Peterborough v Tranmere

League One's most entertaining team are back on home soil this Saturday, and Peterborough have a chance to add to their amazing tally of 45 goals in 15 games at London Road - a truly staggering effort from a side with an embarrassment of attacking riches.

Posh beat Yeovil at Huish Park on Tuesday night in a slightly different manner, and that pleased manager Darren Ferguson. The goals came in the final nine minutes of the match, but they battled and showed far more defensive resolve than previously. Mind you, it helps playing Yeovil. Central defender Gabriel Zakuani returned to the side in midweek, and his aerial ability is undoubtedly the best in the division. Posh midfielder and trequartista Lee Tomlin is a top player with great feet and eye for goal, whilst forward Craig Mackail-Smith is having his usual goalscoring season.

Posh have big players that can hit opponents in spells and short bursts, and are still attractive in the outrights despite their skinny odds.

Alan Dudman's selection: Back Peterborough to beat Tranmere at [1.7]

Hereford v Burton

Strike while the iron is hot. The Bulls have their tails up, the Brewers are still stewing after their cup exit. Burton continue to frustrate their manager and fans, unable to string two league wins together more than once this season. They caught Chesterfield at the right moment last weekend - confirming their penchant for quirky results - but Hereford are in confident mood. Stuart Fleetwood continues in good form for the hosts, whose home form has been solid except against their bogey side Lincoln and even their away form has been good, with away wins at Cheltenham and Torquay.

Ian Lamont's selection: Back Hereford to beat Burton at [2.52]

Recommended Multiple

Back Stoke @ [1.7]; Back Lay Crystal Palace @ [2.26]; Back Peterborough @ [1.7]; Back Hereford @ [2.52]; The multiple pays approximately [16.0]

Every weekend, four of betting.betfair's football writers will contribute one selection from the top four leagues in English football, giving you, the readers, an exciting Multiple option....