Premier League: Festive season unlikely to solve Title puzzle

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Man United 12/13: Arguably their best title winners ever

"With virtually three generations of United players clubbing together to wrestle the title back off Manchester City, from the evergreen Ryan Giggs to 21-year-old Phil Jones, there has certainly been something special forged at Old Trafford this season."

After Manchester United claimed their 20th English title with time to spare, Christian Crowther assesses where this current crop rank...

In his triumphant post-match interview after securing the 13th Premier League of his tenure, Sir Alex Ferguson himself suggested this particular crop of title winners were arguably the best that he'd ever assembled at Old Trafford.

However, many other commentators on the game have been far more conservative in their assessments of this season's United vintage.

So, who is right? An obvious place to start is the facts. As Fergie alluded to in his interview we shouldn't let nostalgia get in the way of judgement.

This squad may not have been challenged rigorously enough by the competition, but they have reached 84 points with four games left to play, something they've never achieved before.

The Red Devils now have a shot at surpassing Chelsea's record Premier League tally of 95 points if they can claim maximum points from their last four fixtures, starting against Arsenal on Sunday.

United's chances of keeping that ambition alive at the Emirates are currently rated at 3.45n/a.

Of course, that match could well see Robin van Persie make his return to north London, his move to Manchester vindicated by a league winners' medal around his neck.

And if you're looking for more evidence of the quality of this side then the Dutchman has to be right up there with the best title-winning strikers that United have fielded.

The second goal of his hat-trick last night had Fergie purring and his 24-goal contribution to this victorious campaign cannot be underestimated. 

The Scot said: "In terms of impact, he has had as big an impact as anyone I can imagine. He's been unbelievable. His early form in the first six months was fantastic."

In light of Luis Suarez's impending suspension, RVP seems to have the Premier League top scorer market wrapped up, now available at 1.031/33 to scoop the honour. 

With virtually three generations of United players clubbing together to wrestle the title back off Manchester City, from the evergreen Ryan Giggs to 21-year-old Phil Jones, there has certainly been something special forged at Old Trafford this season.

In addition, the largely unsung Michael Carrick has finally been recognised for his efforts with a PFA player of the year nomination, which highlights how far he has come this season.

While Ferguson heaped special praise on the aforementioned players, he was particular delighted with the potential of his young players to go on winning in the future.

Whether you still pine for the class of 1999, it's kind of hard to disagree that this side aren't at least as good.

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Manchester United go to Arsenal with a point to make ahead of title defence

"Before the worries of next term, United still have four more games to play this year – with Chelsea’s record points tally of 95 in sight."

With Chelsea's Premier League record in sight, Sir Alex Ferguson won't go on easy on the Gunners - but he's got work to do to keep the pack at bay next season, writes Hannah Duncan.

With Manchester United having sealed their 20th top-flight title last night - and Sir Alex Ferguson's 13th league crown - it might seem daft to ask where the club goes next.

But, although they have won the title at a canter with just four Premier League defeats all season, there is one big question that seems to produce conflicting answers. Is this really one of the strongest United squads in recent times? Or is that everyone else in the league was weaker?

There's no doubting over the summer that Chelsea and Manchester City will bolster their playing staff with big-money acquisitions, with certainly the former - and possibly the latter - also bringing in a fresh manager with fresh ideas (or maybe even an old face).

Rafael Benitez is an enormous outside bet at 34.033/1 to remain at Stamford Bridge next term, and for many Chelsea fans even those odds aren't long enough. 

So with changes afoot elsewhere, Fergie and the United board can't rest on their laurels.

Paul Scholes, having not been seen since January, may well retire for a second time this summer and Ryan Giggs, while being instrumental in their 3-0 win over Aston Villa to clinch the title, isn't getting any younger.

There's also talk that Javier Hernandez could seek pastures new for guaranteed first-team football, while Rio Ferdinand's injuries could finally catch up with him. And there are still question marks over the (admittedly improving) David De Gea.

Radamel Falcao is the latest in a string of names to be linked with a summer move to Old Trafford, which if they pulled it off, would certainly help keep Chelsea at bay.

United have also been linked with a long-anticipated move for Borussia Dortmund hitman Robert Lewandowski, who they tried to sign last summer.

They are two big names which would certainly do no harm in the Old Trafford dressing room. But whether signing either or both would spell the end for Wayne Rooney's United career, or enable him to play more frequently in a deeper role - in which he has flourished - remains to be seen.

While strengthening their attack wouldn't hurt, goalscoring hasn't been a problem for United this season. But their defence, particularly at the start of the season, has looked very shaky at times.

Of course they can blame injuries, with Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans all missing periods of the campaign. But that would be papering over the cracks, and that's not Fergie's style.

The Scot said last night - possibly in a moment clouded by euphoria and champagne - that Phil Jones could be the club's greatest ever player. Well he's good, but he's got some stiff competition.

And with him only really being utilised at centre-back in an emergency, the former Blackburn man isn't about to solve their defensive concerns any time soon.

Centre-half is certainly an area Ferguson will need to address in the summer and it wouldn't be surprising if he plumped for a new goalkeeper too.

As much as De Gea has improved on his turbulent debut season, he still has too many flappy moments - and Ferguson hasn't won 13 league titles by being sentimental.

But before the worries of next term, United still have four more games to play this year - with Chelsea's record points tally of 95 in sight.

They begin their latest challenge with a tough trip to Arsenal on Sunday - where Robin van Persie could be afforded a guard of honour, along with his title-winning team-mates. 

That alone is bound to spur on the Gunners, who are 2.245/4 favourites to beat Manchester United, with the draw looking a good outside bet at 3.65n/a.  

But while Ferguson may not view records in the same manner as a manager such as Jose Mourinho, he'll demand his players carry out a professional job for the rest of the campaign and send out a message to those eyeing up the Premier League title next year.

Recommended Bet
Manchester United to draw with Arsenal @ 3.65n/a

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Against All Odds: PSV 's title hopes to be dented by Roda JC

"The 0-1 loss to Feyenoord ended a run of five unbeaten at Parkstad Limburg Stadion for the club from Kerkrade."

Lay PSV v Roda JC @ 1.422/5 

Title chasing PSV are long odds-on for their trip to Roda JC in the Dutch Eredivisie this morning but Paul Robinson thinks they could suffer a surprise setback.

Roda JC are down in 16th place in the league, which is the final remaining relegation play-off place. This is obviously disappointing for a club who finished 10th last year, but it's quite tight down at the bottom and they are only four points behind PEC Zwolle who are 13th. 

The international break came at a good time for Ruud Brood's men as they had just lost back to back games for the first time since November. In fairness to Roda, both defeats were by a single goal margin and prior to that they hammered Groningen 4-1.

The 0-1 loss to Feyenoord ended a run of five unbeaten at Parkstad Limburg Stadion for the club from Kerkrade. It was also the first time in four that they'd failed to score a goal as before that blank, they had treated their fans to 11 in 360 minutes of home football.

PSV are looking to reclaim the crown that they last won in 2008. They are currently second in the league, just a single point behind leaders Ajax, with a far superior goal difference. They got back to winning ways in their last match by beating RKC Waalwijk 2-0 but they are prone to the odd slip up, as highlighted by the 2-1 defeat at Heerenveen at the beginning of March.

Dick Advocaat's side have struggled on the road of late, and in truth, they haven't been that great away all season for a team in their position. The Peasants have won just six of 13 away from home and they've picked up only one point from a possible nine since the end of January.

A further concern for Advocaat is that Luciano Narsingh remains sidelined through injury and Dries Mertens is suspended, and he's netted 15 goals for PSV this season.

Clearly PSV are the most likely team to win this match and they are the worthy favourites. I just feel their odds of 1.422/5 are just too short though, especially given their recent away form. That's why, at the prices, I have to make them my lay of the day.  

Recommended Bet
Lay PSV v Roda JC @ 1.422/5 

This match is live on ESPN and Betfair Live Video at 11:30

Wagered: 89 pts
Returned: 83.48 pts
P/L – 5.52 pts (after commission)
(2012 P/L: + 9.60 pts)

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WTA Sony Open Betting: Radwanska to edge closer to title defence

''These two have only met once before, with Radwanska coming out on top in straight sets in a Fed Cup meeting back in 2010. She is a strong favourite to produce a repeat performance''

The competition is heating up in Miami as we reach the quarter-finals stage, with defending champion Agnieszka Radwanska eyeing a place in the final four. First up though is world number one Serena Williams, as she comes face-to-face with the relentlessly hard working Na Li...

It was a busy day of action on Monday but with little in the way of upsets as those expected to advance did so. Four of the top five seeds remain in the tournament, with the injured Victoria Azarenka the only absentee.

Williams had looked impervious ahead of her meeting with Dominika Cibulkova in the last round, losing just a handful of games as she breezed through the draw. 

However, an inspired performance from her Slovakian opponent had her on the brink of defeat, before she displayed the kind of mental fortitude that has set her apart from her rivals to battle back from a set and three games down.

Relieved to have passed that test, she faces another difficult day's work on Tuesday, when she faces fifth seed Li. The former French Open winner was also given a scare in the opening stages of her match with wildcard entrant Garbine Muguruza, but came through unscathed and is yet to drop a set in Miami.

It's been a remarkable return to the court for Li, who had been inactive since the Australian Open with a troublesome ankle injury. Any doubts she may have had heading into the tournament have now been dismissed as she continues to dominate her opposition.

History favours Williams as she leads the head-to-head between the two 6-1. Li's only triumph against the American came back in 2008 in Stuttgart, with Serena winning all five of the other meetings on the hard surface.

Li will certainly pose Williams problems despite her poor record in previous meetings, as they have all been close with several heading into tie-breaks. However, after Serena overcame a real scare yesterday she should be more focused and it's difficult to envisage an upset so back Serena to come through at 1.330/100.

Reigning champion Agnieszka Radwanska is also in action, she takes on Kirsten Flipkens. Both these ladies have had grueling three-setters in the last two rounds. Flipkens has impressed so far, the Belgian accounted for Petra Kvitova's early exit and will work Radwanska hard.

However, the Polish world number four has continually found a will to win, and despite dropping the first set to Sloane Stephens on Monday, she only lost two games thereafter en route to a comfortable win.

These two have only met once before, with Radwanska coming out on top in straight sets in a Fed Cup meeting back in 2010. She is a strong favourite to produce a repeat performance, but expect another struggle before she eventually seals the win.

As a result we could see a mouth-watering clash between Williams and Radwanska in the semi-final and the pair will await Wednesday's outcome to see how Maria Sharapova fares in the bottom half of the draw.

Recommended Bets:
Back S. Williams to beat Li @ 1.330/100
Back S. Williams to beat Li 2-1 @ 4.47/2
Back Radwanska to beat Flipkens @ 1.241/4
Back Radwanska vs Flipkens Over 19.5 Games @ 1.8910/11

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Avvia Premiership Betting: Harlequins are best title value

Quins are 4.67/2 to be Grand Final winners, with Leicester 2.021/1 and Saracens 3.052/1 both fancied ahead of them. To finish top of the regular season, Harlequins are anything up to 8.88/1.

Harlequins took the Premiership by storm last season and they produced a brave performance to beat Leicester in the Grand Final. Ralph Ellis reckons the defending champs rate the best value ahead of next weekend's big kick-off...

They are the champions, but they have signed only a couple of youngsters in pre-season. It seems what's good enough for Manchester City has also been the blueprint for Aviva Premiership winners Harlequins this summer. After winning their first title they have added only promising Kiwi fly-half Ben Botica and upgraded Academy prop Darryl Marfo to the senior squad.

The difference is that while Roberto Mancini's side started the new campaign as firm favourites in the betting to retain their title, Quins will kick off with doubts about their potential to do the same. They are 4.67/2 to be Grand Final winners, with Leicester 2.021/1 and Saracens 3.052/1 both fancied ahead of them. To finish top of the regular season, Harlequins are anything up to 8.88/1.

Now maybe it's because I developed a soft spot for the side from the Stoop after backing them to be successful at the start of last season's play-offs(http://betting.betfair.com/rugby/aviva-premiership/aviva-premiership-play-offs-robshaw-determined-to-lead-quins-to-glory-090512-201.html), but it looks to me like another great value bet. All the things that held true in early May are still in place, and while the recruitment might not have been exciting since, the fundamental strengths of the club remain.

As Dean Richards returns to rugby charged with bringing Newcastle back to the Premiership, its hard not to think that his departure from The Stoop was what kick started a major change in fortune. The Bloodgate scandal emphasised a culture that put winning first and the method of getting there second. Since then Conor O'Shea has taken a different tack as director of rugby by putting the method first, in the belief that good habits in training and on match day are what ultimately creates results.

O'Shea has been doing some interesting things in the build up to the opening day fixture at London Wasps next Saturday. They played two friendlies on the same afternoon last weekend, beating first London Scottish and then their Heineken Cup pool rivals Connacht. O'Shea's idea was to give a full pre-season workout to 30 players rather than have everybody only get half a game.

The other big development has been convincing Danny Care to sign a new three year contract, and if anybody can benefit from O'Shea's ethics then it is the England scrum-half. It has taken Care several scrapes with trouble, but he finally caught up to the idea that being an international rugby player would also mean acting like a professional athlete. We saw on the summer tour to South Africa what giving up drink and engrossing himself in Stuart Lancaster's new disciplined England culture could do for him, and the word from The Stoop is that Care has brought those principles back to his club for pre-season.

Leicester will inevitably be strong again, and Saracens continue to invest in their playing and coaching staff as they prepare to move into their new home in Barnet. But Quins proved last season when they led the table at Christmas, and stayed there for the rest of the campaign, that they deserved to be taken seriously - and they are unquestionably the best value bet ahead of a new campaign.

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La Liga Betting: Guardiola admits that the title is slipping away

Spanish Football / Michael Lintorn / 27 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Pep Guardiola expects to miss out on the title for the first time as a coach

"The holders will be desperate to stop Real Madrid from extending the gap. Not out of belief that they can overtake but fear of them being crowned with five fixtures to spare, forcing Barcelona’s record breakers to form a humiliating pasillo (guard of honour)."

Pep Guardiola was forced to concede that he no longer expects to top La Liga, despite an impressive victory away to Atletico Madrid...

Barcelona won only four of their first 11 La Liga away games, and yet held at 1-1 with ten minutes to play at a ground that they often lose at by Atletico Madrid, who were unbeaten in nine under new coach Diego Simeone, they found a way to win.

And what a way to win, as predictably it took something sensational to overcome an Atletico side who had conceded just twice in the first nine matches of their exciting new era, a wonderful Lionel Messi free-kick.

Yet before the Catalan press could begin saluting the kind of victory that usually gets referred to as bearing the mark of champions, Pep Guardiola wrecked the party by admitting that it is very unlikely that they will eradicate Real Madrid's ten-point advantage.

The leaders had a hard time continuing their charge to a first title in four years earlier on Sunday, requiring a second-half stroke of genius from their main man too, as Cristiano Ronaldo broke Rayo Vallecano's resistance with a second-half back-heel.

They got the job done though, prompting a rare yet understandable display of defeatism from Guardiola, who said: "I don't think we will win the league, but we will fight until the end. We have passed a difficult test against a very tough opponent."

That fight was very much in evidence at the Vicente Calderon, however punters agree that it will almost certainly be in vain, with Real Madrid [1.09] to Barcelona's [11.0].

But the holders will be desperate to stop Jose Mourinho's team from extending the gap. Not out of belief that they can overtake but fear of them being crowned with five fixtures to spare, forcing Barcelona's record breakers to form a humiliating pasillo (guard of honour) for their foes at the Camp Nou in the final domestic Clasico of the campaign, as they did at the Bernabeu in 2008.

For Atletico meanwhile, the loss hasn't had too big an impact on their prospects in the remarkable scrap for the final Champions League spot, which they are [2.62] to claim.

Incredibly, having at last been removed from the position after an 18-match occupancy last weekend, Levante [[4.2]] regained it with a first triumph in nine away to the club who replaced them, Espanyol.

Tobias Gourlay can find fewer reasons than usual to doubt Barcelona away from home, but he does have questions about Real Madrid's ability to deal with Rayo Vallecano's burly forwards...

The fourth meeting between the sides this season should be yet another interesting battle between two fine tacticians, says Michael Cox....

The slaughter at the Bernabeu has become ritual. Tobias Gourlay performs a pre-mortem autopsy on Racing Santander, the next victims of Real Madrid....

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Premier League Betting: Tevez can boost City title challenge

Premier League / Hannah Duncan / 22 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Tevez on that fateful night in Munich

"City need a boost to see them through to the end of the campaign – a different option in front of goal - and Carlos Tevez could well be that man."

Carlos Tevez behaved badly in the autumn and he has bridges to build with his manager, team-mates and fans, says Hannah Duncan. However, if the Argentine helps Manchester City win the Premier League then he might be forgiven...

In a month that's seen Mick McCarthy apologise for Wolves' 5-1 drubbing to local rivals West Brom (and promptly get the boot) and big figures at Liverpool frantically offering apologies following Luis Saurez's refusal to shake Patrice Evra's hand, football now has its latest sorry tale.

Trouble seems to have followed Manchester City forward Carlos Tevez around like a bad smell in recent years, with controversial comments and prima donna strops. But his unwillingness to warm-up against Bayern Munich back in September was the final straw for Tevez in restaurant-deprived Manchester - or so it seemed.

After a self-imposed five-month sabbatical, Tevez has finally issued an apology to manager Roberto Mancini and is back in training with the Premier League leaders. But will his return be a timely one in City's bid for the title or will more trouble be on the horizon for the Argentinean?

Despite untimely exits from the Champions League, FA Cup and Carling Cup, Manchester City are in a great position to put their name on some silverware this season. Mancini's side are [1.67] favourites to win the Premier League and [4.2] favourites to clinch the Europa League title.

But their formidable form has dropped somewhat since Christmas, with their free-flowing attack subdued by West Brom, Sunderland and Everton. They are still winning matches but nowhere near as convincingly as earlier in the season. Forwards Mario Balotelli, Sergio Aguero and Edin Dzeko have scored just five goals between them in the league since Christmas, netting one, two and two respectively - with two of those coming from the penalty spot.

City need a boost to see them through to the end of the campaign - a different option in front of goal - and Carlos Tevez could well be that man. He's a prolific goalscorer and a creator and, whatever has gone on in the past, and whatever might go on in the future, Mancini needs to get the best out of Tevez between now and the end of the season.

Despite not netting in the handful of games he's played this campaign, the Argentine scored 24 goals in 44 appearances last season, including six braces and a hat-trick - certainly not a bad return. If he can recapture that form when he's back to full fitness, Manchester United's title challenge could be dead in the water.

Betting on Tevez to still be at City next season may have looked a ridiculous bet a few months ago but, depending on how his return to the Etihad Stadium goes, it might not be a bad shout now. His success at City relies heavily on the bridges he can build, not only with his manager, but with team-mates and fans too.

If City are to keep a lacklustre but always dangerous Manchester United at bay in both the Premier League and Europa League, bygones may have to be bygones where Carlos Tevez is concerned.

There are opportunities to make money on Betfair over the next few months betting on whether or not the likes of Robin van Persie and Carlos Tevez change clubs this summer......

Steve Bruce's chances of landing the Wolves job have seemingly been enhanced by speculation that Alan Curbishley is no longer interested......

Lifelong Man City fan Lee Dixon believes most City players would be prepared to forgive Carlos Tevez if the Argentinian returned to the team in goalscoring form......

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Nick Abou Risk In Hunt For Third UKIPT Title

Poker News / Matthew Pitt / 20 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Nick Abou Risk (Photo: Mickey May)

Abou Risk is a regular on the UKIPT and has had some stellar results in the three seasons it has been running, including two outright wins

The UK & Ireland Poker Tour Galway Main Event has reached the nine-handed final table and the eyes of the media are fixated on one man, despite the fact he is the second shortest stack when play resumes. That man is Nick Abou Risk.

Abou Risk is a regular on the UKIPT and has had some stellar results in the three seasons it has been running, including two outright wins. Back in 2010 Risk outlasted 401 runners in the UKIPT Edinburgh Main Event to get his hands on €50,000 in prize money then he followed that up with another win in December 2010's UKIPT Galway Main Event for a further €67,100. Now he has the chance for an unprecedented third UKIPT title when play resumes this afternoon.

Standing between Risk and that third UKIPT title are eight talented player who will be lead into battle by Ronan Gilligan whose 2,489,000 stack contains an extra 1,000,000 chips than any other player at the final table. Gilligan is a name that has graced these very pages before, not for his runner-up finish in the UKIPT Dublin Main Event back in 2010 but for his third place finish in the recent World Poker Tour Dublin Main Event that was won by Dave "Dubai" Shallow in January.

The final table of UKIPTs are usually played eight-handed but the penultimate day's play took more than 14 hours to complete so when Alan Gilmore was sent to the rail in tenth place during the early hours of the morning the decision was taken to pause the tournament and play down to a winner today instead, much to the delights of the players, the tournament staff and the various media outlets.

When play resumes at 1200 noon in Galway the players will sit down safe in the knowledge they have each locked up €7,800 in prize money but by the time play comes to an end and one player has in his possession each and every one of the 10,470,000 chips in play that player will be crowned champion and will have won a massive €114,900. Who will that be? Check in tomorrow to find that out!

UKIPT Galway Final Table Seat Draw

Seat 1: Emmett Mullin: 1,003,000
Seat 2: Nick Abou Risk: 647,000
Seat 3: Richard Haile: 652,000
Seat 4: Craig Burke: 1,283,000
Seat 5: Joe Roberts: 1,103,000
Seat 6: John Willoughby: 1,382,000
Seat 7: Aleksandras Rusinovas: 1,003,000
Seat 8: Joris Ruijs: 440,000
Seat 9: Ronan Gilligan: 2,489,000

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Home And Away: Title chasing Bastia to add to Monaco's misery

Daily Tipping / Jonno Turner / 13 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Monaco's battle against another relegation looks set to last the season

Jonno Turner is backing Bastia to go top of Ligue 1 with victory at once-great Monaco, while he expects Napoli to recover some momentum against Chievo...

Well the African Cup of Nations 2012 came to an end last night with one of the dullest final 90 minutes ever recorded, followed by a gem of a penalty shootout which led to a Zambian victory.

Stunning and magical were some of the superlatives used to describe it - but enough about Gervinho's hairline.

We're off to France for our first pick of the week and Ligue 2, as struggling Monaco host Bastia at the Stade Louis II.

Monaco have featured a lot in this column over the last few months, and although Marco Simone's side have undergone a mini revival in recent weeks, they still find themselves rooted in the relegation zone, with time running out.

But although Simone seems to have managed to stop the rot of late, his side still can't turn that hard work into wins, and they have not taken three points on their home patch since September.

And this evening they welcome third-placed Bastia, who will jump to the top of the table if they can secure a win in the casino district.

Boss Frederic Hantz has seen his side win five of their last six league games, and that is the kind of form which will take them to the Ligue 2 title come the end of the season.

Two clean sheets in three away games show that Les Bleus are solid away from the Stade Armand Cesari, and the Corsicans have lost only once in their last four league games on the road.

Monaco really need to start winning their home games, and I think that could leave them susceptible at the back, especially against a side with as much quality as their opponents tonight.

Bastia hotshot Toifilu Maoulida has scored in his last two games, and with eight goals smashed so far this season, he is always a danger on the attack.

Bet 1: Bastia (AWAY) to win @ [2.86]

Note to self: Valentine's Day tomorrow. Last year I told my girlfriend I'd give her a ring - but she got really mad when she answered the phone and I was in Tenerife.

Over to Italy now, where Napoli will be looking to continue their excellent home record as they face Chievo at the Stadio San Paolo. The hosts have lost just once in their last dozen home games, and that impressive form has seen them to seventh in Serie A despite some mixed results on the road.

And boss Walter Mazzarri will be desperate for his side to keep their third clean sheet in a row at the San Paolo tonight. His side certainly don't have any problems on the attacking front, and have smashed 11 in their last five on their own patch.

Chievo travel to Naples keen to arrest a slump which has seen them crash to three defeats in four in all competitions - a worrying slide which has knocked them out of the top half.

Domenico Di Carlo's side are now just nine points above the drop zone, with a third of the season left to play, and the Flying Donkeys need a result to lift them from the mire.

Unfortunately, I don't think it will come at the San Paolo, and with five winless games from their last seven away from Stadio Bentegodi, confidence will be low in the visitors' camp.

I fancy the home win here, and with Napoli desperately needing three points in order to cling on to their diminishing hopes of a top-three finish, I think that the home side will oblige.

Bet 2: Napoli (HOME) to win @ [1.55]

The in-form Inside Man once again uses his inside knowledge to pick the best bets from this weekend's over/under 2.5 goals markets....

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Ligue 1: PSG set to continue their match towards the title

French Football / James Eastham / 09 February 2012 / Leave a Comment

Nene (centre) has been Ligue 1's outstanding player this season

"Rennes’ home record is a disappointing W4-D5-L1 and Sochaux’s away record is W1-D5-L5. The fact Rennes have won fewer than half their home games and Sochaux have avoided defeat in more than half their away games indicates the hosts’ price should be nearer to evens."

After three successful bets last weekend James Eastham picks out the smartest selections from France's matchday 23.

Nice v PSG (18th v 1st) Sunday, 16:00 GMT

Nice are Ligue 1's poorest attacking side right now. They could have played for hours without scoring against Montpellier (0-1) a fortnight ago, and it was a similar story when they went out of the French Cup on penalties after two goalless hours against Rennes (21 Jan). Last weekend they grabbed a late equaliser at Ajaccio (1-1) but that goal was the result of the sort of defensive error they won't be handed every week.

PSG are so talented they can score freely without even playing well. That's what happened against Evian last weekend (3-1 win) and has occurred many times this season. The individual brilliance of their multi-faceted squad, and in particular Nene, Ligue 1's player of the season so far, is driving the club towards their first title since 1994.

Nice have a solid home record (W4-D4-L3) but the gulf in class between these sides is so great I expected to find PSG (6/10 away wins) odds-on. Take the evens about an away win.

Valenciennes v Nancy (12th v 14th) Saturday, 14:00 GMT

These two sides are among 10 (Ajaccio, Evian, Brest, Caen, Sochaux, Auxerre, Nice and Dijon being the others) facing a relegation dogfight but are two of the best-equipped to stay out of the bottom three. Valenciennes are becoming more clinical in the penalty area, while Nancy's new signings Sebastien Puygrenier (out this weekend) and Yohan Mollo have added vital quality at either end of the pitch. Nancy players have said training has improved in recent weeks, younger team members are making progress and coach Jean Fernandez is one of the wiliest in the business.

Goals are the order of the day. Nancy will be vulnerable without Puygrenier, while Nancy scored three times at Auxerre (3-1) in their last away game and have three outstanding counter-attacking footballers in Mollo, Daniel Niculae and Lossemy Karaboue.

Back Both Teams to Score at [2.06] or Over 2.5 Goals at [2.36].

Rennes v Sochaux (6th v 20th) Saturday, 20:00 GMT

Looking at the league table, you might wonder why bottom-club Sochaux are worth an investment this weekend. But a closer look at the facts reveals Rennes are much too short to win at [1.50].

Rennes' home record is a disappointing W4-D5-L1 and Sochaux's away record is W1-D5-L5. The fact Rennes have won fewer than half their home games and Sochaux have avoided defeat in more than half their away games indicate the hosts' price should be nearer to evens than it is.

Rennes struggle because of their counter-attacking style: against sides that are well-organised and defend in great numbers the Bretons are often frustrated. And Sochaux's recent away performances suggest they are well-equipped to upset the home side: on January 14 they defended excellently before succumbing to a late set-piece at St Etienne (0-1) before gaining a well-deserved point at Lorient (1-1) a fortnight ago.

Consider backing the draw at [4.2], although I prefer the safety net of Sochaux +1.0 on the Asian handicap. This way, you will win if Sochaux win or the game ends in a draw, get your money back if Sochaux lose by a single goal and lose only if Sochaux lose by two goals or more.

Best Bet: PSG to win at Nice @ [2.00].
Other Recommended Bets: Sochaux +1.0 Asian handicap at Rennes @ [2.05]; Valenciennes v Nancy Over 2.5 Goals @ [2.36].

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Player of the Year Title Caps Off Perfect Year For Sam Trickett

Poker News / Matthew Pitt / 27 January 2012 / Leave a Comment

Sam Trickett Winning The $100,000 Challenge

The selection committee chose six players who they thought were worthy of the title European Player of the Year, those being Jake Cody, Pius Heinz, Andrey Pateychuk, Bertrand 'ElkY' Grospellier, Eugene Katchalov and Sam Trickett

The Aviation Club de France in the heart of Paris was the venue for the 11th edition of the European Poker Awards, which took place on Thursday. In total there were nine awards presented thought the category that everyone had their eye on was the European Player of the Year accolade.

The selection committee chose six players who they thought were worthy of the title European Player of the Year, those being Jake Cody, Pius Heinz, Andrey Pateychuk, Bertrand 'ElkY' Grospellier, Eugene Katchalov and Sam Trickett. Any of the six would have been worthy recipients but when the votes were counted up it was Trickett who had captured the judges imaginations and he was revealed as the 2011 European Player of the Year.

Trickett's achievements during 2011 were nothing short of amazing, notching up close to $4,600,000 in live tournament winnings and a rumoured £1,000,000 cash haul in the Big Game in Macau. His huge winning total was helped by him winning the Aussie Millions $100,000 Challenge, coming second in the $250,000 Super High Roller (again at the Aussie Millions) and taking down the Partouche Poker Tour Main Event. Just these three results alone made Trickett a worthy winner.

The former professional footballer was also nominated for the Best Tournament Performance but that honour was only ever going to one player and that was the aforementioned Heinz for winning the World Series of Poker Main Event. It is difficult to vote against someone who has navigated their way through a field of 6,865 players!

Two of Trickett's fellow Player of the Year nominees also scooped awards. Grospellier bagged himself the Rob Gardner Memorial Award for the Poker Peronality of the Year whilst Pateychuk, who came 15th in the WSOP Main Event before winning the Main Events of EPT San Remo and WPT Prague was crowned the Rookie of the Year.

Ilari "Ziigmund" Sahamies helped himself to the Internet Player of the Year whilst the delectable Natalia Nikitina of Russia picked up the Europe's Leading Lady award. The WSOPE in Cannes won the Best European Event of the year whilst bwinparty's Warren Lush is now the reigning Poker Staff Person of the year. And last, but most certainly not least was the Lifetime Achievement award. This was handed to the legendary Jesse May and there is not a single person in the poker industry who would argue against the judges decision to award the Voice of Poker the prestigious award.

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Premier League Results: Title is now a two-horse race

Premier League / Jamie "The Pacman" Pacheco / 22 January 2012 / Leave a Comment

Cool as you like it. But should Mario Balotelli have still been on the pitch?

"The award of the penalty was a fair one and Balotelli calmly stroked it home to win the match but the Italian international probably shouldn’t have been on the pitch after appearing to catch Scott Parker with a flailing leg whilst already on a booking."

Mario Balotelli scored a last-gasp winner as Manchester City beat Spurs but could well have been sent off earlier. At the Emirates, Manchester United took all three points as Arsenal's troubles continue...

The two Manchesters march on in a Premier League title race that has very much become a two-horse race. Spurs are out to [23.0] for the title after defeat away to City this afternoon whilst Arsenal are at [300.0] with some suggesting they're best chance of being in the Champions League next season is to actually win it this year.

But whereas Arsenal can have few complaints about their 2-1 defeat at home to Manchester United, Spurs have good reason to feel deeply aggrieved about their own defeat. They went 2-0 down to goals from Samir Nasri and Joleon Lescott (matched at 16.5 to score) but came back to draw level with Jermain Defoe making the most of some poor defending to round Joe Hart and score and Gareth Bale curling in a beauty from outside the box.

Having traded at [1.04] to win the match when 2-0 up, they had drifted to [65.0] when deep into injury-time substitute Mario Balotelli was brought down in the box by an uncharacteristically rash challenge from Ledley King. The award of the penalty was a fair one and Balotelli calmly stroked it home to win the match but the Italian international probably shouldn't have been on the pitch after appearing to catch Scott Parker with a flailing leg whilst already on a booking.

A similar thing happened before Christmas when City travelled to Liverpool and on that occasion Balotelli did receive a second booking, again after coming on as a substitute. This time he avoided punishment though and the fact he stayed on the pitch has already had a huge impact on the title race. The final score was matched at [230.0]. City are strong favourites for the title at [1.5], having traded at a season low of [1.4] during Manchester United's match with Arsenal.

There were seven bookings at the Emirates but much less controversy as Manchester United put in a professional performance against an Arsenal side who continue to create enough chances but simply can't keep clean sheets. Antonio Valencia continued his good form by scoring the opener and setting up Danny Wellbeck for the winner. In between those two goals Robin van Persie missed a sitter before scoring with a fine strike from the edge of the box. United had drifted to [6.2] to win before Wekllbeck's strike and the 2-1 United win had traded at [20.0]. Those who were lucky enough to back Valencia to open the scoring and for the match to end in a 2-1 United win were paid out at odds of [190.0]. Sir Alex Ferguson's men are [3.65] to defend their Premier League title.

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League One Betting: Owls to upset title favourites?

English Football League / Alan Dudman / 01 September 2011 / Leave a Comment

Former Bury forward Ryan Lowe has just joined Sheffield Wednesday

"The Owls have finally got their goal-getter in Ryan Lowe, and he should link up well with the big forward Gary Madine, whose hold-up play is good, and is magnificent in the air."

League One takes centre stage during the international break, and Alan Dudman believes Sheffield Wednesday can upset title favourites Charlton in front of the Sky cameras on Monday evening.

Charlton [1.98] v Sheffield Wednesday [3.4]; The Draw [3.5]

(Monday 5th September, Live on Sky Sports One, 19:45)

An intriguing match in front of the cameras, with a case to be made for both. Charlton are now a force to be reckoned with in the division, and trade as title favourites at [5.0], having picked up 13 points from an excellent start to their season. They remain unbeaten.

Sheffield Wednesday have won all three of their home games this term, but haven't been as good on their travels (losing both). However, manager Gary Megson has got them trying to pass the ball, and he's also landed the much needed striker in the transfer window.

Charlton sealed a 2-1 win at Bury on Saturday, but found themselves soaking up lots of pressure from the hosts. The Shakers can be quite a physical side, and the Addicks found themselves sitting far too deep, forcing themselves to go long. Bury's forward Ryan Lowe caused the Londoners lots of problems last weekend, and he's just signed for Sheffield Wednesday.

The Owls have finally got their goal-getter in Lowe, and he should link up well with the big forward Gary Madine, whose hold-up play is good, and is magnificent in the air. Lowe will be the craftier of the two, in a potentially decent strike force.

Wednesday are showing good signs, and Saturday's 3-2 win against Scunthorpe showed some improvement, in particular the ball out from wide. It might be enough to tempt in small wager on the away side, with a cover on the Over 2.5 Goals - as both are capable of scoring.

Back Sheffield Wednesday to beat Charlton @ [3.4]
Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [2.04]
Back Johnnie Jackson First Goalscorer @ [13.0] or bigger

Scunthorpe [2.34] v Colchester [3.2]; The Draw [3.6]

Scunthorpe have not enjoyed the best start to life in League One, although one or two of those games were harsh on the Iron. They have been unlucky yes, but manager Alan Knill is fed up of the 'unlucky' moniker.

Knill's problem has been his side's inability to keep possession, whilst the defence has been making far too many individual errors. On the plus side, Scunthorpe have got goals in them, and they do look dangerous in the opponents half - having showed that in the 3-2 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday.

Those two factors lead me to believe goals will be scored in this game. The fact they are playing Colchester seals the deal.

The Essex outfit have scored 15 goals in the seven league and cup games they've played this season, and have hit the Over 2.5 Goals make-up five times already. Colchester are hugely entertaining, and like to attack especially on their travels. There is no chance manager John Ward will go for a 0-0, as his team are brimming with confidence having blasted away Oldham last weekend.

Colchester's Anthony Wordsworth is playing the best football of his career, whilst Ian Henderson has already bagged four. Hopefully some more entertainment is in store.

Back Over 2.5 Goals @ [1.85]
Back Over 3.5 Goals @ [3.2]
Back 2-2 @ [10.0] & 2-3 @ [22.0]

Notts County [2.18] v Bournemouth [3.8], The Draw [3.4]

Bournemouth look a side struggling at the moment, and Saturday's 2-0 home defeat to Walsall is miles away from last term's exciting play under Eddie Howe. The Cherries can't seem to break teams down at the moment, not surprising considering their best strikers have all been sold.

Manager Lee Bradbury has got his team plugging away, but they lack any kind of goal threat, and worryingly trade at [3.5] in the relegation market.

Notts County look a far more rugged and resilient outfit. Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Preston was harsh, considering both goals were late (and one from the goalkeeper). The Magpies defended really well at Deepdale, and kept out a dangerous side for long periods.

Back Notts County to beat Bournemouth @ [2.18]
Back Under 2.5 Goals @ [2.0]
Back 1-0 Correct Score @ [9.2]
Back Notts County Clean Sheet @ [3.1]

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Lee Dixon: The title stays at Old Trafford

Premier League / Lee Dixon / 05 August 2011 / Leave a Comment

Familiar faces who have been there and done it before

"So it’s Manchester United for me again. The Betfair layers aren’t taking too many chances and have chalked them up as favourites but there’s value in the 2.84 nonetheless and that’s where my money will be going."

In his first-ever column for Betfair, Lee Dixon tells us how he goes about working out the Premier League winner every season and why it's United who will be carrying his money.

When trying to work out who's going to win the Premier League at the start of every season the first question that comes to mind is: can anyone beat Manchester United this year? That may seem like an overly simplistic way of looking at things but such has been their dominance for the best part of two decades that I think that's not the worst approach to take.

Manchester United

Few would argue that Sir Alex Ferguson is one of the greatest managers the game has produced or that he seems to get better with age. The squad at his disposal is clearly world class. Having the background staff who know the football club like the back of their hand helps, as does the fact that Old Trafford is one of the most intimidating venues to come and play at in world football. But the one thing some people overlook is the strength of the dressing room. Big characters like Rio Ferdinand, Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney who have been at the club a long time and seen it all before. Natural winners who instil great self-belief within the squad and teach the younger players and the new signings about the Manchester United way.

They've made some good signings, too. David de Gea may take a little time to find his feet in a new league but he looks a good keeper from what I've seen of him. Ashley Young is very much a typical United player, not afraid to put in the hard yards in training and on the pitch and a guy who seems to possess that winning mentality. The most intriguing signing for me though is Phil Jones. It's easy to assume he's been brought into the squad as cover for Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand as a centre-back but I watched him play quite a few times for Blackburn as a holding midfielder and I was highly impressed with his reading of the game and composure in that more advanced position. Sir Alex may yet spring a surprise and have him pencilled in for a similar role, but we'll have to wait and see.

Chelsea

Chelsea have a good chance of course. Their fans will feel they really should have won the title last year and are still scratching their heads about why exactly they suffered a mid-season lull after starting brightly. Andre Villas-Boas arrives with fantastic credentials and the comparisons with Jose Mourinho are inevitable. But it's a long old season and winning this league at the first time of asking is a very tough task. I'm pretty sure Chelsea will come very close but I'm going to swerve them at their current price.

Manchester City

I've always felt that since the take-over it was always a question of when City would win the title rather than if. They've made good progress every year since the owners came in and the big cheques were signed off and they've already achieved two of their big objectives by winning some silverware in the form of the FA Cup and qualifying for the Champions League. I think they'll close the gap to the eventual champions even further this year but I think the City faithful may have to wait just that little bit longer.

The others

Arsenal and Tottenham can never be completely discounted at the off but they're not my idea of potential winners. Liverpool will improve but I can't see them doing it either.

So it's Manchester United for me again. The Betfair layers aren't taking too many chances and have chalked them up as favourites but there's value in the 2.84 nonetheless and that's where my money will be going.

Recommended Bet: 4 pts Manchester United to win the Premier League @ 2.84

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United and Chelsea set for Sunday title decider

Premier League / Andrew Atherley / 04 May 2011 / Leave a Comment

United prevailed when the teams met in Europe but who will win on Sunday?

"The value goals bet on Sunday has to be over 2.5 goals at [2.12]."

Manchester United v Chelsea is once again the defining showdown of the Premier League season and a couple of key trends are well worth noting for Sunday's clash at Old Trafford, says Andrew Atherley.

The two modern-day giants of English football have shared the past six titles between them and in that time the head-to-heads have been as tight as might be expected. Eight of the 22 meetings have ended all-square (a draw rate of 36%) while Chelsea have won eight and United six.

The first noteworthy factor is the under/over 2.5 goals pattern. Unders might be expected to be well in the ascendancy in light of the overall tightness of the contests, but the split is not that great (55-45 in favour of unders).

And there appears to be a Jose Mourinho factor in the stats. When the master of the suffocating game was in charge at Stamford Bridge, 70% of United-Chelsea clashes had under 2.5 goals, which is in line with the generally more defensive approach that prevailed in the Premier League during Mourinho's time in England (Rafa Benitez at Liverpool also appears to have been an influential factor in the same trend).

Since Mourinho left, matches have swung towards over 2.5 goals (58%) and the past three meetings at Old Trafford have had overs, which indicates a more open approach in recent seasons.

In fact, if the Mourinho years are stripped out of the figures for the past 10 seasons, 58% has been the overall percentage of overs in United-Chelsea matches. If the Mourinho-Benitez era is seen as a blip in the general trend for the Premier League to be entertaining and high-scoring, which the overall league figures for under/over 2.5 goals suggest to be the case, the value goals bet on Sunday has to be over 2.5 goals at [2.12].

The other notable trend for Sunday's match is that the home win has become the dominant result in top-four showdowns, which means Chelsea will have to turn that around to snatch the victory that would blow the title race wide open.

Overall in the past 10 seasons the home team has won 50% of top-four clashes, with an away win rate of 26%, but since the start of last season 16 out of 23 (70%) have gone to the home team.

Prior to the start of last season, the 10-year average for home wins in top-four clashes was 48% and now the 10-year rolling average is 50%, which indicates even-money or just above for a home win is fair value.

With United [2.48] for the win on Sunday they look the team to be with, especially as their 10-year home-win average in top-four clashes is 59%.

Another sign of the trend towards higher goals tallies in the Premier League has been evident in matches between the bottom six teams, who now look to be the only remaining candidates for the drop.

This weekend's big match in that category is West Ham v Blackburn on Saturday (bottom versus fifth-bottom) and the value will be over 2.5 goals if it follows the prevailing trend.

Sixteen of the 27 bottom-six clashes this season (59%) have had over 2.5 goals, which reflects (but outstrips) the current league average of 54% over 2.5 goals. The return to higher-scoring tallies in the Premier League may still not be factored fully into the odds (just four seasons ago the overs average was a lowly 45%) and, with desperation also taking hold at this stage of the season, overs looks the value call in West Ham v Blackburn.

Recommended Bets

Over 2.5 goals in West Ham v Blackburn at [1.83]
Over 2.5 goals in Manchester United v Chelsea at [2.12]
Manchester United to beat Chelsea at [2.48]

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Bundesliga Betting: Dortmund's title march could stutter

German Football / Kevin Hatchard / 22 April 2011 / Leave a Comment

Is Robert Lewandowski and his Dortmund team-mates set for a slip-up?

"Dortmund are misfiring on the road, and the pressure of reaching the finish line in the title race could take its toll."

Kevin Hatchard looks at the comings and goings in the Bundesliga this week and, of course, the best bets from this weekend's matches

As has become the norm of late, this week's column begins with the Bundesliga's latest to-ing and fro-ing on the coaching front. As expected, St Pauli coach Holger Stanislawski has agreed to join Hoffenheim in the summer. Hoffe will be working with a lower budget than in recent seasons as owner Dietmar Hopp looks to cut costs, which sounds like a challenge that's right up Stanislawski's strasse.

Hamburg have given caretaker boss Michael Oenning a contract until the end of next season, which I find as mystifying as the appeal of The Only Way Is Essex.

HSV have won just one of their four games since Armin Veh was sacked, but Oenning's already talking about pushing for the title next season. Equally surprising was Frank Schafer's decision to reject Cologne's offer of a two-year deal. He'll return to coaching the reserves next term, despite lifting the club six points above the dropzone.

Borussia Monchengladbach [5.6] vs Borussia Dortmund [1.67], the draw [4.1]
Last weekend's action took leaders Dortmund to the brink of securing their first Bundesliga title since 2002. Closest challengers Bayer Leverkusen were taken apart 4-1 at Bayern Munich, and BVB went eight points clear by sweeping aside Freiburg 3-0. If Jurgen Klopp's effervescent Dortmund win Saturday's game at rock-bottom Monchengladbach, they'll be crowned champions should Bayer fail to beat Hoffenheim.
Dortmund have the best away record in the league, but lately they have struggled on their travels. A 3-1 win at Bayern Munich has been their only win in four road trips, a period in which they lost at Hoffenheim and needed a stoppage-time equaliser to snatch a draw at Hamburg.
There's no doubt that Monchengladbach look a better team under the stewardship of coach Lucien Favre, but the Foals are still seven points adrift of safety.
Their best chance of survival is attempting to finish third from bottom, and then trying to win the relegation playoff.
Since Favre took over from Michael Frontzeck, Monchengladbach have transformed their home form. They've won three of their last four home games, having not won in front of their own fans before Favre arrived.
Defensively Monchengladbach have tightened up. Under Frontzeck they shipped an eye-watering 56 goals in 22 games, but under Favre they've let in just eight goals in eight games.
Recommended Bets: Dortmund are misfiring on the road, and the pressure of reaching the finish line in the title race could take its toll. Monchengladbach are desperate for points and are much more resilient these days, so lay Dortmund at [1.67] and back under 2.5 goals at [2.5]

St Pauli [3.5] vs Werder Bremen [2.22], the draw [3.65]
Before Holger Stanislawski leaves for Hoffenheim, he must somehow pull his beloved St Pauli out of a tailspin which threatens to return them to Bundesliga Zwei after just one season. The Pirates have lost seven of their last eight matches, although last week they were desperately close to picking up what would have been a vital win at Wolfsburg. St Pauli were 2-1 up in the 89th minute, but they failed to pick up Jan Polak at a corner, and he headed in an equaliser.
The spectre of relegation has hung over Werder for much of what's been a troubling season, but a seven-match unbeaten run has taken them six points clear of the dropzone. Werder haven't kept a clean sheet since December 4, but they've shipped just eight goals in seven games.
Recommended Bets: Werder have drawn five of their last seven, including the last three. St Pauli are playing better than their recent run suggests, so back the draw at [3.65] and under 2.5 goals at [2.4]

Nurnberg [2.22] vs Mainz [3.55], the draw [3.55]
Sixth-placed Nurnberg are two points behind fifth-placed Mainz in the race for a Europa League spot, so this game is crucial. Both teams have been in patchy form - Nurnberg have won just one of their last four games, while Mainz have won just one in five.
Recommended Bet: At home Nurnberg have won nine, drawn one and lost five, an exact match with Mainz's record on the road making an away win attractively overpriced. Back Mainz to win at [3.55]

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Monte Carlo Masters Tips: Nadal can win title after Murray scare

Events / Sean Calvert / 16 April 2011 / Leave a Comment

Sean's backing Rafa for Monte Carlo glory

"The shock of dropping a set on clay will have sharpened Rafa up for Sunday’s championship match."

Fresh from an intense three set victory over Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal has to summon his energy and composure for Sunday's final against David Ferrer. Who is Sean Calvert backing?

Despite Jurgen Melzer's single-handed attempts to derail me this week, we should be still in profit after my original advice of a Nadal v Ferrer final came to fruition on Saturday.

The mercurial Melzer went down in straights to Ferrer in their semi-final and Andy Murray gave it all he had against Rafa, but was ground into submission in the end by the world number one.

So, those who were on my advice to back Nadal at [1.4] and Ferrer at [25.0] at the outset are comfortably in the money. But what of the final itself?

Murray showed that Nadal isn't totally unbeatable on the red dirt by grabbing the second set in their last four clash, but I think the shock of dropping a set on clay will have sharpened Rafa up for Sunday's championship match.

As you would expect, Nadal and Ferrer have quite a history, with Rafa leading 12-4 overall and 8-1 on the red dirt - Ferrer's only win coming way back in 2004 in Stuttgart.

Since then, Ferrer has managed to wrestle just two sets from Nadal in eight meetings and, although Nadal hasn't been at his peak this week in Monte-Carlo, it would take a brave individual to back Ferrer to buck that trend on Sunday.

Ferrer has been impressive here, but it's hard to see what he'll bring to the court that's new or different from their previous encounters. His strength is his consistency, stamina and dogged obstinance on the court, but these are all traits that today's opponent has in abundance and Nadal is better at it.

On these slow clay courts in Monte-Carlo, Ferrer's weight of shot is rarely going to breach Nadal's excellent defences and to expect him to do it time and again over three long sets is too much.

Unless Ferrer brings something significantly different to the table - and I can't think what that would be - Rafa should come through in two sets and that looks the bet at around [price]

Recommended Bet
Nadal to beat Ferrer 2-0

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Premier League Results: Title wide open as Liverpool thump United

Premier League / Maxliu / 06 March 2011 / Leave a Comment

Dirk Kuyt scores Liverpool's opening goal against Manchester United

"United remain title favourites at [1.85] with Arsenal [2.92] and Chelsea [11.0]."

Kuyt hat-trick earns Liverpool key win and condemns United to second consecutive defeat. Meanwhile, Wolves and Spurs slug out six goal thriller...

Manchester United went through three-quarters of a Premier League season without losing but now they've lost two matches in a row. So are they falling apart?

You might have thought so as they went down 3-1 to Liverpool on Sunday afternoon. Kenny Dalglish's men were matched at [3.35] on their way to a famous victory which leaves United three points ahead of Arsenal at the top of the table, having played a game more. United remain title favourites at [1.85] with the Gunners [2.92] and Chelsea [11.0].

Liverpool had Dirk Kuyt to thank for each of their goals and the Dutchman rewarded those who backed the hat-trick to be scored at [30.0]. He got significant help from the United defence, in particular a woeful header from Nani which gave him an easy opportunity for the second. The other two were tap-ins and it's unlikely that Kuyt will ever score an easier treble.

United were uninspired in attack, missed Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand at the back. There were scant celebrations from their players and fans when Javier Hernandez scored a consolation goal late on. This was the first time the Red Devils had lost consectuive league matches since March 2009, when they were beaten by Liverpool and Fulham. That year they recovered and went on to win the title.

For Liverpool, the result lays down a marker for the type of performances they will aim for next season. In the mean time, they are [1.51] to finish in the top six but Kenny Dalglish will have his sights set on a top four finish. That can be backed at [8.2].

Sunday's other match was a cracker as Wolves and Tottenham put on a six goal feast of attacking football at Molineux.

The home side went ahead in the first half through Kevin Doyle before a couple of excellent strikes fom Jermain Defoe handed Spurs the initiative. The sides went in all square at the break though, after Doyle slotted home a penalty following Alan Hutton's foul on Nenad Milijas.

Spurs looked to have it sewn up after the break as Roman Pavlyuchenko fired the ball past Wayne Hennessy from 17 yards out. Wolves kept going though and were rewarded four minutes from time when Matt Jarvis hit the equaliser that rewarded those who backed the draw at [8.4].

The result leaves Wolves 19th in the Premier League and [2.16] for relegation. Spurs, whose attention now turns to Wednesday's Champions League tie against Milan, remain fifth.

Sir Alex is up to his old tricks - lambasting referees in order to divert attention from his team, trying to influence officials and shunning the media - but Richard Aikman wants to know if the powers will stand up...

Kuyt hat-trick earns Liverpool key win and condemns United to second consecutive defeat. Meanwhile, Wolves and Spurs slug out six goal thriller......

Blackpool have pulled off some shock results this season, but with two of their star performers missing, Dan 'The Betting Man' Fitch thinks that Chelsea will prove too strong for The Tangerines. Best Bet: Over 2.5 goals @ [1.54]....

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Premier League Results: Arsenal drop crucial points in title race

Premier League / Maxliu / 05 March 2011 / Leave a Comment

Arsene Wenger shows his frustration as Arsenal waste another chance

"The Gunners' ttile odds are out to [3.6] following the draw, which traded at [5.8], and if they do fail to win the league they may look back on the chances they spurned today and wince."

Wenger left to rue missed chances as Arsenal blow opportunity to close gap. Meanwhile, Hammers happy for second time in a week and Duff leaves Blackburn's safety looking dodgy...

Arsenal missed the chance to make ground on Manchester United at the top of the Premier League as they drew 0-0 with Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners' title odds are out to [3.6] following the draw, which traded at [5.8], and if they do fail to win the league they may look back on the chances they spurned today and wince.

West Ham are out of the relegation zone after they traded at [2.58] on their way to a consecutive win at home ton Stoke. The Hammers were 2-0 at half-time before Thomas Hitzlsperger rewarded over 2.5 goal backers late on to make it 3-0.

Blackburn could soon be replacing the Hammers in the drop zone after they lost again, going down 3-2 away to Fulham. In a lively, hard fought contest, Damien Duff was twice on target for the Cottagers against his old club.

Bolton beat Aston Villa by the same scoreline at the Reebok Stadium where Ashley Young missed a crucial second-hald penalty. Gary Cahill scored twice for Wanderers before Ivan Klasnic came off the bench to get the winner late on. Bolton were backed at 21.0.

Everton picked up a valuable three points away to Newcastle. Leon Best gave the Geordies the lead in the first half but the Toffees hit back through Leon Osman and Phil Jagielka put them ahead. That's how the scores remained and 2-1 was matched at [16.0].

In the day's early kick-off, West Brom stunned Birmingam with a ferocious second half performance. The teams went in 0-0 at half-time but Roy Hodgson rallied his men and the Baggies, who touched [4.5], took the intiative, winning 3-1. James Morrison's 20-yard thunderbolt was the pick of the goals.

The two most successful football teams in England go head-to-head this Sunday lunchtime as Liverpool take on Manchester United at Anfield. Feizal Rahman selects the best bets....

Wenger left to rue missed chances as Arsenal blow opportunity to close gap. Meanwhile, Hammers happy for second time in a week and Duff leaves Blackburn's safety looking dodgy......

With AC Milan looming in the rear-view mirror, Spurs may not have their eye on the ball here - can Wolves profit? Joe Dyer may have the answers...

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