HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE

Not the greatest end to the year, only two of five right, still you have to live and learn and we do, just wanted to wish everyone all the best for 2007 and hope it's a profitable one for you. This blog will be the basis for exciting things so be sure to check back everyday and be the first to get the news. Thanks to everyone who has been bokmarking, coming back and spreading the word.

See you all on the other side.

FIVE STAR

No not a blog about the wonderful eighties band that gives us such classics as Rain or Shine or RSVP, though I'm sure if that was what you were actually looking for you'll find them somewhere.
This is more a nod to the five best value bets out there today, I'm not recommending put them all on an accumulator as not even Nostradamus or Mark Lawrenson could tell you who would win five games, but just a heads up to some real value and double and treble chances.

1: CHAMPIONSHIP: COLCHESTER 2.25 TO BEAT WOLVES AT HOME.

If you look at the table this is seventh v ninth and there is little to seperate these two sides. However there are two key reasons why Colchester are stand-out value here, for me. There home record this season is better than any other side, with ten wins. Bookies are taking the chance because they think Colchester can't last the pace, but there is no reason why they can't. They are well organized side with a great goal threat in Cureton and Iwuelmo.
Wolves for their part are hit and miss, last time they were a big hit winning at Derby, but question marks remain over their consistency and with injuries to key defender Joey Craddock and on form winger Kightly, as well as forward Jay Boothroyd, this could be one of their miss performances. At 2.25 it's a risk worth taking.

2: SUNDERLAND 2.25 TO BEAT PRESTON AT HOME

Although Sunderland nine places behind Preston they make good sense at 2.25, there home form in recent weeks has been very impressive and the crowds are coming back in response. Their is a real buzz around the club with the way Keane and Quinn have transformed the place and although a work in progress, progress is certainly been made. Preston for their part have a poor away record and not the greatest of recent form. Injuries and illness may leave them very short up front and in recent away games they have been leaking goals, this all adds up t a decent value hom at 2.25.

3: HARTLEPOOL 2.0 AT HOME TO PETERBOROUGH

It is still 2.0 at Stan James but get on quick going down across the boards, Hartlepool are on form and firing in goals, Peterborough are stuttering, big price for a home win.

4: SWINDON 1.85 AT HOME TO NOTTS COUNTY
I don't usually go this low, 1.85 though for a Swindon side revitalised under Paul Sturrock against a woefully off form Notts County is great value.

5: STIRLING AWAY 1.71 TO STRANRAER
Stirling have no defeats in eight, stranraer one win in eight, a nice little coupon addition.

GDLUCK everyone.

WHY YOU'D HAVE TO BE BRUMMING MAD TO TAKE 1.44 TONIGHT

Hey there and welcome back to the blog that has recently been as consistent as Man City, but fear not christmas over and new year on the horizon, new plans, new excitement and hopefully some major good tips.
Today were going to be telling you why you need to sit on your money and avoid Birmingham at 1.44 in tonight's game versus Luton, also the first part of the weekend preview will be in place as we tell you the ten games you shouldn't even consider getting invovled in from a betting point of view this weekend.

FRIDAY NIGHT THOUGHTS
Don't get me wrong, Birmingham really are the class act in this league. They possess in Nicolas Bentdner a star of the future, goalscorers in McSheffrey, Jerome, Campbell, Larsson and that's not even mentioning the injured Forsell. At the other end Taylor is a solid keeper backed by a strong back four, midfield is solid enough and most crucially for Birmingham the luck is in. I've lost count of times that I've read that they were the second best team and come out winners, and some occasions by two or three goals. Their form is excellent and the only clouds on the horizon are potential january window losses of David Dunn and Matthew Upson, so why then am I telling you not get involved at 1.4?
Is it because Luton are so good? No not really. Luton are an avaerage championship side(what do you mean aren't they all?) and have a horrendous away record. Last time they got tanked by Colchester 4-1 and their away trips are aout as successful as Checy Chase's in Natinoal Lampoon. Still 1.44 does not compute because of three reasons, One: The pressure of so many games in so little time, it's hard for managers to really do the homework on the opposition and playrs also drop in form and fitness. Two: The pressure of being top, as Brum are keeping winning so to does the pressure a win here adds, mentally you have to still have question marks over the sides ability to handle pressure after the way much of the same squad blew their chance to avoid relegation. They can and still have the chance to make ammends but eight points lead, a tired team, a few eyes may be off the ball and a few might be too tightly on it.
Three most crucially is thta Luton are improving, a 4-1 result was no indication of how the game was at Colchester and if any of Luton's strikers could find the net more regularly they would be much further up the table. For me there is no side in this league playing another side that would make me think 1.44 is value and as such I would take a watch brief, or look at the other markets if you really want to bet.

THE 1.44 QUOTED ON LUTON IS WITH BETFAIR, 1.40 IS THE BEST BOOKMAKER ODDS RIGHT NOW.

TEN GAMES YOU DON'T WANT TO BET ON THIS WEEKEND
1:BLACKBURN(2.0) V BORO (4.0): Two sides are starting to find a degree of form, hard to call and priced well.
2:WEST HAM (2.25) V MAN CITY (3.75): West Ham need to start winning games, Man City are hugely inconsistent.
3:NORWICH(1.91) V QPR (4.5): Norwich have no wins in five, QPR have one win in seven, a real no pick em.
4:BLACKPOOL(2.25) V DONCASTER (3.4): The reverse of Norwich/QPR, 2 sides in amazing form,combined one loss from 12.
5:CREWE (2.5) V YEOVIL (2.95): Two highly inconsistent sides with real Jekyll and Hyde natures.
6:DARLINGTON(2.38) V SHREWSBURY (3.2): Darlington have no win in five, Shrewsbury only two away wins all season.
7:Motherwell (10) Draw (5) Celtic (1.35)
8: Dundee Utd (2.9) Draw (3.4) Aberdeen (2.38)
9: Falkirk (2.2) Draw (3.4) Inverness (3.5)
10 Kilmarnock (3.05) Draw (3.43) Hearts (2.5)
The Scottish Premier is perhaps the most unpredictable league of all right now, look at the form team and back to back results and you will see no side has any real consistency. Certainly it makes Scotland more interesting to watch but a nightmare to bet from.

Well that's it from me today, be back tommorrow be sure to check back, it's all free and costs nothing but a few moments of your time.

WHY YOU'D HAVE TO BE BRUMMING MAD TO TAKE 1.44 TONIGHT

Hey there and welcome back to the blog that has recently been as consistent as Man City, but fear not christmas over and new year on the horizon, new plans, new excitement and hopefully some major good tips.
Today were going to be telling you why you need to sit on your money and avoid Birmingham at 1.44 in tonight's game versus Luton, also the first part of the weekend preview will be in place as we tell you the ten games you shouldn't even consider getting invovled in from a betting point of view this weekend.

FRIDAY NIGHT THOUGHTS
Don't get me wrong, Birmingham really are the class act in this league. They possess in Nicolas Bentdner a star of the future, goalscorers in McSheffrey, Jerome, Campbell, Larsson and that's not even mentioning the injured Forsell. At the other end Taylor is a solid keeper backed by a strong back four, midfield is solid enough and most crucially for Birmingham the luck is in. I've lost count of times that I've read that they were the second best team and come out winners, and some occasions by two or three goals. Their form is excellent and the only clouds on the horizon are potential January window losses of David Dunn and Matthew Upson, so why then am I telling you not get involved at 1.44?
Is it because Luton are so good? No not really. Luton are an average championship side(what do you mean aren't they all?) and have a horrendous away record. Last time they got tanked by Colchester 4-1 and their away trips are about as successful as Chevy Chase's in National Lampoon. Still 1.44 does not compute because of three reasons, One: The pressure of so many games in so little time, it's hard for managers to really do the homework on the opposition and players also drop in form and fitness. Two: The pressure of being top, mentally you have to still have question marks over the sides ability to handle pressure after the way much of the same squad blew their chance to avoid relegation. They can and still have the chance to make ammends but eight points lead, a tired team, a few eyes may be off the ball and a few might be too tightly on it.
Three most crucially is that Luton are improving, a 4-1 result was no indication of how the game was at Colchester and if any of Luton's strikers could find the net more regularly they would be much further up the table. For me there is no side in this league playing another side that would make me think 1.44 is value and as such I would take a watch brief, or look at the other markets if you really want to bet.

THE 1.44 QUOTED ON LUTON IS WITH BETFAIR, 1.40 IS THE BEST BOOKMAKER ODDS RIGHT NOW.

TEN GAMES YOU DON'T WANT TO BET ON THIS WEEKEND
1:BLACKBURN(2.0) V BORO (4.0): Two sides are starting to find a degree of form, hard to call and priced well.
2:WEST HAM (2.25) V MAN CITY (3.75): West Ham need to start winning games, Man City are hugely inconsistent.
3:NORWICH(1.91) V QPR (4.5): Norwich have no wins in five, QPR have one win in seven, a real no pick em.
4:BLACKPOOL(2.25) V DONCASTER (3.4): The reverse of Norwich/QPR, 2 sides in amazing form,combined one loss from 12.
5:CREWE (2.5) V YEOVIL (2.95): Two highly inconsistent sides with real Jekyll and Hyde natures.
6:DARLINGTON(2.38) V SHREWSBURY (3.2): Darlington have no win in five, Shrewsbury only two away wins all season.
7:Motherwell (10) Draw (5) Celtic (1.35)
8: Dundee Utd (2.9) Draw (3.4) Aberdeen (2.38)
9: Falkirk (2.2) Draw (3.4) Inverness (3.5)
10 Kilmarnock (3.05) Draw (3.43) Hearts (2.5)
The Scottish Premier is perhaps the most unpredictable league of all right now, look at the form team and back to back results and you will see no side has any real consistency. Certainly it makes Scotland more interesting to watch but a nightmare to bet from.

Well that's it from me today, be back tommorrow be sure to check back, it's all free and costs nothing but a few moments of your time.

TURKEY SANDWICH ANYONE?

It's that time of year again, where you prop up your couch, open up a left bottle of alcohol, make yourself a turkey sandwich and gorge yourself on a feast of sport, to maker sure your bank account feels bloated to here are some helpful tips and advice.

BEWARE THE SMALL ODDS, INVEST IN THE LARGER ODDS

Strange things happen around Christmas, People seem to think Socks count as good presents, Aunt Mary lets her down (or even off ugh) and football results go strange, Yet understandably were all so keen to get backed involved that we pile in high and often on low odds sides. Then when they hit the pitch you wonder if they too have a few too many brandies with their christmas meal of chicken and pasta.

PREMIER LEAGUE
No doubt the weight of the money today will be on the big four, a ten pound bet will return a tasty 40.33 for you, however we at the mugs are not getting involved in that game. Although all four have winnable games we have to remember this boxing day and the second game in the space of a few days, the results may be somewhat strange, therefore it's advised to keep the stakes low and look for the value or else you'll be needing those credit adverts you see midway through your sport.
There is no value in getting on a Chelsea side at 1.22 who should win, but the last few weeks have caused bettors on them cold sweats and nightmares, one of these days the late late show will backfire. Liverpool for their part have a better price but a trickier away game against an improving Blackburn, Arsenal as ever are a threat to any backers sanity and Man United should beat Wigan easy, but then so should Chelsea.
Elsewhere Tottenham are not as great as bookies would have you believe and the bookies are taking a big chance on their game, for sure Tottenham's home form is great but Villa showed more signs of life last Saturday than a woeful Spurs and their away record is not bad at all.
Other mugs might pile into Everton who have the most winnable home game, but Viduka and Yakubu could cause them problems at the back and 1.85 is poor on an Everton side who tend to struggle in these games against sides they should be expected to break down with ease, see Wigan and Man City home games as examples.

CHAMPIONSHIP
I note the weight of money is on Brum at 1.44, but such short odds for a side who are not exactly Man United or Chelsea, QPR are a strange side who remind me a lot of Crewe in the other league, capable of getting beat by and beating anyone, there is little value here on a Brum side who are riding the luck and the form of on loan striker Bentdner and pre transfer window signing McSheffrey.

SO WHERE IS THE VALUE?
Somewhere out there is a big price for a side who you wouldn't consider getting anyone who will upset all coupons and accumulators, our call is to get on Port Vale. The 9/2 on offer is big value for them, let me explain why. Port Vale are now four games undefeated in the league and have a recent win against Brighton at the weekend. They have rediscovered their goalscoring form with nine in four games, while only shipping in one at the other end. They have already held Forest at their own ground in a match that they ceertainly were not dominated in. In Leon Constantine they have a striker who is bang in form and with a fully fit squad to choose from they look great value.
Forest for their part have lost two straight and are looking jittery at the top, a busy edgy Boxing Day crowd expecting Forest to steamroll the opposition may get to the players and give Vale more confidence to get at their opponents.

ANY OTHER VALUE?
Not quite as big as Vale but the 2.85 on Bury at Accrington Stanley stands out, Bury didn't have a great weekend what with being kicked out of the FA Cup for fielding an ineligible player and losing to Hartlepool. However if they are having a bad christmas period so far, that's nothing compared to an Accrington side who are just having a miserable few months. Losing to Hartlepool is no disgrace and Bury have some good away wins under their belt, Accrington for their part are leaking huge amounts of goals and the bookies might be regretting offering these prices, may a few too many brandies on their part as well.

AND IF YOU HAVE TO KEEP IT SMALL
Bristol City at home to Bournmouth, Blackpool at home to Carlisle, Scunthorpe home to poor travellers Chesterfield
make a league one treble.
Hartlepool at home to Carlisle, Bury at Acc Stanley and Stockport home to Notts County make a league two treble.
Kilmarnock and Falkirk at an injury hit St Mirren make a nice scottish double.
Add the Vale win bet and cover with a draw and that should set you up for a nice little bonus for the sales tommorrow.

HAVE A GREAT DAY AFTER CHRISTMAS DAY DAY AND HOPE IT'S A PROFITABLE ONE FOR YOU ALL, AND REMEMBER IF YOU EAT TOO MANY TURKEY SANDWICHES YOU MIGHT TURN INTO ONE.

RICH:)

IT'S CHRISTMAS

Nope not a betting column dedicated to the wonders of Slade or other festive songs but rather my excuse for going quiet for a few days, there'll be no betting previews until Saturday lunchtime at twelve where there will be an in-depth weekend preview. In the meanwhile have had a good few shopping and betting days.

ALL ABOARD THE ORIENT EXPRESS

Hello fellow mugs it's Tuesday and that can mean just one more thing betting time again. Here are look at the markets for tonight.

FOOTBALL
CARLING CUP
This Carling Cup is a minefield for potential punters, it's hard to know who will play, who will take this seriously,that's why I'm loathe to get involved. Liverpool v Arsenal with either side at 5.1 would seem good investment as their is little in these two teams, but not in the League Cup and especially if Arsenal play the reserve side. However beware of also lumping on Liverpool as they may play the stronger squad but motivation levels may be low amongst key squad members and Arsenal's youngsters will have a point to prove. The odds are highly restrictive in this game.
Charlton v Wycombe is where the value lies as far as I'm concerned, Charlton are as horribly low as 1.33 in some places, which is just awful value on a side woefully short of confidence. The fact that they will play a strong side might be judged as more of a help than a hinderence when you see who they consider their strongest lineup. Which brings us to Wycombe and I could see why some punters would be putting small stakes on the away win, it isn't for me but I can see where there going. The only problem I have is that one win in six isn't great form for Wycombe and Charlton will have a point to prove after some desperate performances.
My value lies in the 4.0 on offer from Totesport for anytime goalscorer for Jermaine Easter and Tommy Mooney, Charlton have the worst defence in the Premier League and Wycombe are certainly capable of scoring tonight, the main goal threats will come from Easter and Mooney who are just 3.25 with Bet365. Their combination of height and pace should cause big problems to Charlton's very shaky defence.

LEAGUE ONE
19:45 Tranmere(1.8) Draw(3.5) Crewe(5): I already wrote about this game in detail on Friday, stating that although Tranmere have a great home record I'm loathe to get against Crewe, especially with Nicky Maynard settling down for another year. Not one to get involved in for me.
19:45 Northampton(2.1) Draw(3.3) Leyton Orient(3.55): This game is of far more interest to me, here's my in-depth preview.
LEAGUE POSITIONS: NORTHAMPTON 18 LEYTON ORIENT 21
RECENT FORM: TWO DRAWS AND A LOSS for Northampton, Orient have won, drew one and lost with both sides having a cup loss in there as well.
SIX GAME FORM: Orient sit 13th, 2 wins, 2 draws, 2 defeats. Northampton sit 20th with just one win, three draws and two defeats.
LAST GAME REPORTS: Leyton Orient had a great away win against table topping Forest, while Northampton produced some desperte defending to gain a point against out of sorts Huddersfield.
TEAM NEWS: Northampton are hopeful cental defender Chris Doig will shake off a groin problem in time to play as Sean Dyche is also struggling with his groin.
Joe Burnell and James Quinn are doubts but keeper Mark Bunn should figure.
Leyton Orient are likely to field an unchanged team with John Mackie keeping his place at the heart of the defence.
Defender Adam Tann has resumed light training following surgery after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, while Efe Echanomi is on the comeback trail.
HOME/AWAY RECORDS: Northampton have a hideous home record, one win, three draws and six defeats. Orient for their part have just one away win, two draws and seven defeats. Though that win came at the weekend.

RECOMMENDATIONS: I find the odds on Orient too big, as these are two very similar sides, neither side has the home away advantage as both have poor home/away records. Then you consider that Orient are playing the better stuff and are to field an unchanged side to the one who beat Forest. That's why I'd advise small stakes on the draw and Orient away win. The odds of 3.57 on betfair, 3.55 with expekt 3.55, or those without either an get 3.4 at Bet365 and Stan James.

SCOTLAND: East Stirling face Berwick in Scotland, at first glance this seems one sided but I'd be advising the no bet here despite Berwick's five match unbeaten run, 1.53 are highly restrictive odds as East Stirling are showing signs of improvement and had a good away win last time out at a Queens Park side just two points off Berwick. East Stirling at 6.0 might appeal but they need to show more convincing signs before getting on them.

EUROPE: Elsewhere we have some cup matches across some of Europe's leagues, but as with Carling Cup not good betting odds, look back tommorrow for some indepth stuff on Italy and Spain.

OTHER SPORTS: The World Darts continues but we will keep a watch brief this early and some more NBA tonight.

Have a good betting day everyone and be sure to check back tommorrow and please tell a friend about the blog, the more hits we get, the more potential investors we can get.

TODAY'S RECOMMENDATION: ORIENT NOT TO LOSE AT 3.57/3.55/3.4 (depending on your bookie) and 3.3 the draw.
Mooney and Easter 4.0 each anytime scorers Wycombe v Charlton.

JUST FOR STARTERS

Sometimes with so many games over the weekend it's easy to forget the Friday night matches, but tonight that would be a mistake, there's a couple of games with investing in toniht, here is a little preview of tonight's three games.

CHAMPIONSHIP
LUTON 1.83 (3.4) SOUTHEND 4.5

A quick glance at the form table might suggest that these are two sides are in poor form coming head to head but actually dig a little deeper and it's not that straight forward. Luton were unlucky in going down to Sunderland at the weekend and then ran out home winners over Preston in the previous week. They are starting to show improved signs the defence, which was let more in than an over generous bouncer, was a big source of problems. While the strikers like Vine are starting to mature, things are long way from sorted, but this is a Luton side who are starting to play the more relaxed cultured game that won them admirers last season.
Southend meanwhile have been god awful since their victory against Man United in the league and are understandable 4.5, however they were very impressive in defeating an in form Southampton, and the return from suspension of captain Kevin Maher is vital. However could you take these odds on a side who have no win away yet, manager Tilson might hope for better times with the return of key players over the next few weeks, but this is a tricky away game. Tricky not just to play in with the crucial points up for grabs, but tricky to predict from a betting pov, a clear no bet.

LEAGUE ONE
19:30 Scunthorpe (2) Draw (3.5) Blackpool (4.3)

The 2.0 for Scunthorpe is very very generous despite the form of the opposition. Blackpool for their part are really motoring now with only one defeat in six games including a one-one draw with Swansea last time out. However I'd still advise the home win, for two key reasons. One is that although Blackpool have shot up the table, none of their recent wins have come over the bigger boys, real promotion contenders like Scunthorpe. They will in my opinion be there and there about's come the playoff race, however I think Scunthorpe are a step up in class. They were magnificent in victory over Carlisle and in the oft mention Keogh and SHarp possess a strikeforce of higher quality than anyone in that league and in many higher teams as well. However Ian Baraclough is often overlooked and is the hub of that team in the middle and returns on Friday. Confidence is high there and the buzz of playing under former assistant Nigel Adkins doesn't seem set to fade. He has taken Laws discipline and organization and given his players an extra touch of freedom and they have responded in part with probably the strongest performance of the season of any league one team. Scunthorpe also have a wonderful home record with only one defeat there this season. The only note of caution may be the draw as Scunthorpe drew last time at home 1-1 and have four this season and Blackpool as stated are no mugs, however at 2.0 you have to bite on the win as a tasty starter.

Tranmere(1.8) Draw(3.5) Crewe(4.5)
Tranmere have a wonderful home record with seven wins, two draws and just the one defeat. Crewe only have two away wins all season, yet don't be caught about by this. Crewe are no mugs and Nicky Maynard's return to match fitness and promise to stay at the club will be massive for Crewe. Biting on Tranmere at 1.8 aganst a Crewe side who are highly unpredictable and with Tranmere no wins in three (including the Cup) means that you could be choking on a few bones if you sink your teeth right into this one.

LEAGUE TWO
Hartlepool(1.7) Draw(3.59) Rochdale(5.5)
This is the second of our weekend starter,Hartlepool at home to Rochdale might seem as an exciting pick as having Soup for starter when they are far more luxurious dishes on offer, however never underestimated a good hearty solid choice and the warming effect it can have.
I'm loathe to get on sides at 1.7, but Hartleppol should be much closer to the 1.57 on offer with Bet365 and Coral. They are on a great run of form four games undefeated, three of them against promotion chasing sides Notts County, Wycombe and Bristol Rovers. Hartlepool's young side are starting to gel under Danny Wilson and they are on this run without five strikers, so imagine what they will be like when they return, young James Brown will be the first one back this Friday. Rochdale should have a fully fit squad to pick from but frankly their as appealing as kebabs are to a sober person. One league win in eight and the knives and no doubt forks are certainly out for Steve Parkin and after another defeat to Hartlepool he might just be done.

RECOMMENDATIONS
FOOD AFTER WRITING THAT I'M VERY HUNGRY
ALSO Hartlepool to beat Rochdale and Scunthrope to beat Blackpool, either on the double, or two singles, depending on your betting style and staking plans.

DEAL OR NO DEAL

Being a gambler is often very much like being a quiz show contests, expect you never get to win a cuddly toy. Sometimes there are games where you are sorted of tempted and sort of not tempted. You know that you could win something good but also know that you could also lose most things good if you keep gambling.
That's why after a whole day going backwards and forwards and more mind bending than a Sudoku I've decided that nothing in tonight's two premier games makes me want to bet, still I'll run you through some things I was considering.

CHELSEA V NEWCASTLE
The result seems very straight forward, but 1.22 is hard to get excited by, the pressure is on Chelsea and though I expect them to come through it the form Given is on means a shock draw could happen, though again that is not worth the backing.
Then you look at the handicap and again Given's form means Chelsea might find it tight to score goals. The correct score becomes tough as Newcastle are capable of scoring, with the form Martins is in, but then as capable of letting in four as keeping a clean sheet.
The win margin goes out the window, the over/under is tough to call and the score anytime market scorer is under valued on the Chelsea game, Martins to score Newcastle's first at 7.5 or Siberski at 10.00 with bet365 to score Newcastle's first are the bet I'd probably take if I was forced to, that's the key of betting though, no-one is forcing you to bet.
WIGAN V ARSENAL
Hard to call Arsenal, have they turned a corner or will they get another flat tyre at the result odds it's hard to get involved. Arsenal become so unpredictable that the score could be anything from a 4-0 win to the Gunners, to a 3-1 wigan win. Both teams to score appealed at 1.82 and Heskey and Camara at 4.4 and 4.0 to score anytime also appealed, especially considering the Gunners defence.

But in the end I'm going to no deal on tonight's fixtures and I don't even care what the last box shows because I'm happier with what I have than what I could have had.

RECOMMENDATIONS: NO BET
POSSIBLE WINNERS I MIGHT REGRET: SIBERSKI AND MARTINS NEWCASTLE'S FIRST GOALSCORERS: 10.0 AND 7.5
ANYTIME GOALSCORER WIGAN V ARSENAL HESKEY AND CAMARA 4.4 AND 4.0
BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE WIGAN V ARSENAL 1.82.

Good luck everyone tonight.

ONCE BITTEN, LETS GIVE TWICE A TRY

REAGULAR READERS OF THIS BLOG (Hello Mum and Dad) will know that last week I got badly done by Forest and Bournmouth last week, which had more strange movements than an ETON Road song.
Still that aside I'm prepared to get involved in both these sides again, here is what I'm considering and my thoughts on all tonight's FA CUP Second round replays.

BASINGSTOKE V ALDERSHOT 3.5 3.25 2.2
In terms of League places these two sides are a million miles apart, but Basingstoke ran Aldershot close last time out and they won't fancy the trip out there. I would think ldershot would come through and the 2.16 on betfair could be worth taking when you find out what and how many players are actually going to be out. Sit on your money until then and maybe even after then.
BOURNMOUTH V BRISTOL ROVERS 1.91 3.3 4.3
Last week Bournmouth had a victory over Forest that had conspiracy theorists everywhere going ahem excuse me one moment. Still Bournmouth returned to normal busines son Saturday by getting tanked 4-0 at home to Port Vale and Bristol Rovers could be the side to spring a shock tonight. 4.3 with Betfred and Ladbrokes is a very generous price when you consider there was little between these two sides last time out. Bristol Rovers lost as well at the weekend, but there is no disgrace in losing to Hartlepool and Rovers look overpriced here, especially with key Bournmouth player James Hayter out.
Take small stakes on the Away win at 4.3 and the draw on 3.3.
CHESTER (2.25) Draw (3.26) Bury (3.2)
Nothing to really split these teams, Chester sit fourteenth, Bury eleventh, Chester have won their last two, Bury have one win and a defeat although that was against Wallsall so hard to count it. Hard to seperate them, Chester should win with home advantage though not one to get involved in.

19:45 Doncaster (1.53) Draw (3.75) Mansfield (7)
Hard to see anything but a home win here, Doncaster are finally finding their feet under new manager Driscoll who inherted a good young side from current Darlo boss Dave Penney. Donny are nine games unbeaten in all competitions, Mansfield meanwhile are not only a league below but have only one win in six and are struggling in League two.
Doncaster seem more than probable home winners, but 1.53 is too tight for me to get involved.

19:45 Leyton Orient (1.62) Draw (3.5) Torquay (6
Leyton Orient may be in the higher lague which is reflected in their price but you'd have to be crazy to take the 1.62 on a side with four wins all season, Torquay they also have four wins all seasons, it'll give you more headaches than a messy office christmas party.

19:45 Millwall (2.2) Draw (3.25) Bradford (3.25)
Millwall won in the league 2-0 last time which might tempt a lot of people, however Dean Windass will be back for Bradford and Millwall will miss influential winger Hackett, clear no bet.

19:45 Nottm Forest (1.17) Draw (7) Salisbury (18.5)
Check the team news first but if as expected Forest name an unchanged side then this could be the week to be on them, they were very impressive in defeating Crewe at the weekend and Tyson could cause havoc in the Salisbury defence. Worth taking a small interest on Forest to overcome a two goal handicap at 2.1 with stan james they have the firepower to win this one easy.

BETS BRISTOL ROVERS AWAY TO BOURNMOUTH 4.3
BRISTOL ROVERS DRAW BOURNMOUTH 3.3
FOREST TO COVER -2 HANDICAP V SALISBURY 2.1

WEEKEND THOUGHTS

PREMIER LEAGUE

MAN UNITED V MAN CITY
United should win but hard to get involved at 1.36 on a local derby, if you really want to get involved the man united win margin should be between 1 and 3.
LIVERPOOL V FULHAM
hard to bring myself to get on Liverpool at 1.44 especially when you consider that home game against Pompey. If you must bet then Agger at 9.0 and Riise at 5.0 to score anytime would be the only other thing, especially if Niemi is out.
CHELSEA V ARSENAL
Have to disagree on the under, Arsenal defence looks vulnerable and drogba will cause them problems, but don't dismiss Arsenal's goal threat. In fact don't dismiss Arsenal period if Chelsea go into this game nine points down they will feel immense pressure, and Arsenal can live with anyone on their day. Clear no match bet for me, drogba anytime is pick of the other markets, if you must bet, his pace and strength will cause Arsenal a wealth of problems.
WATFORD V READING
No bet for me, Watford are trickier at home and will certainly be up for this one, Reading for their part need the bounce back after defeat to Newcastle. Watford struggle to score but they must take hope from Reading's defencive lapses in midweek, both sides will know each other and as such seems a tight one to call.
Pick of the other markets doyle at 2.88 with coral as an anytime scorer.
BOLTON V WEST HAM
Tipsters will tell you to get on Bolton and true west ham are rubbish right now but Bolton are not much better and have lost some home games you wouldn't expect Bolton too. Wigan damaged the Hammers in the air mdweek and they need to address that, probable Bolton will but the way Bolton struggle to score is a no bet for me.
Pick of the other markets, if you must, is Bolton to keep the clean sheet at 2.1.
SPURS V CHARLTON
Not for me, Spurs should win but this is a local derby, Spurs have keane out and jol having a go at defoe won't help, if Charlton match their commitment of midweek they have a chance in midfield, andy reid especially will cause a few problems.
One to avoid, pick of the other markets if you must, andy reid at 6.0 to score against his old club.
POMPEY V EVERTON
YOU would marginally lean to pompey because of their home advantage and everton's injuries, though not enough to get involved for me. Arteta's blow is a huge blow for Everton's creativity and pick of the other bets might be under.
BLACKBURN V NEWCASTLE
No bet again for me, newcastle have the form, blackburn have the home advantage, game even. Pick of the other bets, close game take three small bets on 4 blackburn to win by one,5, score draw 5.5, newcastle one to win by one.
BORO V WIGAN
NO BET FOR me, boro are playing poor, heskey will be a miss for wigan, maybe the odds on wigan are slightly generous bearing in mind they have some good away wins, but no result bet for me.
Cotterill pick of the other bets if you mst, he is 6.5 to add to his midweek goal.

CHAMPIONSHIP
ONE LINERS
BRUM V PRESTON: Depends on which striker hits form Bentdner or Nugent.
CARDIFF V IPSWICH: Cardiff stuttering bad, Ipswich hit and miss.
COVENTRY V BURNELY: Coventry won't lose, Burnley might snatch a draw.
PALACE V COLCHESTER: Palace playing better, but Colchester are no mugs.
LEEDS V DERBY: Beware the manager of the month curse, surprise draw.
NORWICH V SHEFF WED: Sheff wed playing so well, Norwich at home,draw.
PLYMOUTH V HULL: Poor home record, caretaker manager, impossible.
SOUTHEND V SOUTHAMPTON: Pick of the week, away win.
STOKE V QPR: Hot meet Cold, Home coupon winner.
SUNDERLAND V LUTON: Sunderland to win, but not at 1.65
WOLVES V LEICESTER: Tight local derby, no bet.
BARNSLEY V WEST BROM(SUNDAY): None of three results would stun me.

LEAGUE ONE
STANDOUT BETS
OLDHAM NOT TO LOSE AT CHESTERFIELD 2.8 WIN AND 3.5 THE DRAW.
DONCASTER NOT TO LOSE AT NORTHAMPTON 2.85 THE WIN, 3.3 THE DRAW.

LEAGUE TWO STANDOUT BETS
MK DONS AWAY TO ACCRINGTON AT 2.5 WIN AND 3.3 THE DRAW.
WALLSALL HOME SWINDON 2.0, Great home record, meets poor away record.
HEREFORD HOME TO TORQUAY 1.7.

SCOTLAND
DUNDEE UNITED HOME TO INVERNESS CALEY THISTLE 2.3
HIBS NOT LOSE 5.5,3.6 VERSUS RANGERS.
CELTIC TO WIN BY 2,3 OR 4PLUS GOALS AT 3.75, 5.0 AND 5.0

AVOID LIKE JORDAN AND PETER ANDRE'S NEW ALBUM

That's how bad these things are, you'll find yourself feeling sicker than that proverbial parrot if you fall for these bookie traps, here are the ten games bookies they want you to invest in and why not to get involved.

PREMIER LEAGUE
I could probably argue with justifcation that the whole premier league is a minefield but that won't stop some of you getting involved, it's very rare to find a price in the Premier League that doesn't fit so remember to be very careful. However they are a few that just don't work at all.
1. BLACKBURN V NEWCASTLE
Both these sides had differing midweeks, Blackburn poor defeat at Charlton, while Newcastle were impressive going forward against Reading. Mark Hughes' Blackburn have struggled to just two wins from their last 10 games, a run which includes six defeats in the Premiership, Newcastle are unbeaten in seven. However Newcastle have only one win away all season, while Blackburn can ammend many of their problems if Hughes returns Tugay to the middle and Bentley out wide. Newcastle will always give teams chances and Nonda and McCarthy look a lot more comfortable and gain a lot more support at home. This game is just a minefield and certainly worth the swerve.
2: TOTTENHAM V CHARLTON
I can see why Tottenham appeal, Charlton are hideous away, Spurs are great at home,however 1.57 for Spurs is not a price worth getting involved in. Spurs have Robbie Keane and Jenas out(though some may argue Jenas out is a plus), but mood can't be helped by the story that Jol has no faith in Defoe. Charlton showed a lot of fight in midweek and Andy Reid was looking great and will no doubt have a point to prove against Spurs. This is a London derby and though Spurs should win these are not the odds to get involved in.
3: LIVERPOOL V FULHAM
Liverpool should all in win but backing them at 1.44 doesn't appeal especially after what happened last time at home to Portsmouth. Liverpool should have enough to break down Fulham's rearguard but they are numerous games this season where they have dominated and struggled to break down tight defences. At 1.44 it doesn't pay to get caught out here.
CHAMPIONSHIP
4: BIRMINGHAM V PRESTON
This is a big headache from a betting point of view one that no amount of painkiller can solve. These two sides sit first and second in the table with just two points seperating, Preston have gone off the boil a little of late but will no doubt be motivated for this one, Birmingham sit top of the table, but there is little between the two sides. If Bendtner has an off day then Birmingham struggle, it's rare that he does mind but he is Birmingham's key.
5: LEEDS V DERBY
No doubt the punters are piling into Derby and who can blame they were on a great run of form before that last minute defeat to West Brom. Leeds for their part are just awful, however Leeds are a funny team they are largely poor but every now and again one of their big strikers will have a breakout game and Healy could well be the man this weekend. In addition Billy Davies has just picked up the manager of the month award, although OPTA no doubt don't do official stats on this, it is often the catalyst for a suprise defeat.
6: PLYMOUTH V HULL
This might seem like a home banker, but Plymouth only have one win in seven while Hull have just replaced the manager, it reamins to be seen how this affects the players, all in to many variables to get involved.
LEAGUE ONE
7: CREWE V FOREST
You probably think I'm still bitter about Forest in midweek (and you would be right) but that's not the reason not to get involved, Crewe in general are a very funny side and can beat and lose to anyone. Forest meanwhile have doubts over a few key players upfront, from that point of view stay clear.
8: ROTHERHAM V BRISTOL CITY
This may seem a good away bet, but Rotherham's ten point deduction and then its a battle between two top six sides, throw in Rotherham's home record and Bristol City's less than stellar away record, make this one to watch and not bet on.
LEAGUE TWO
9:NOTTS COUNTY V MACCLESFIELD
Notts County might be many points ahead of Macclesfield but they have suffered two recent defeats while Macclesfield are unbeaten in four league games under Paul Ince.
10: HEARTS V MOTHERWELL
Hearts may well get their win but can you take 1.67 on a sde with no wins since October 1, Motherwell actually have two back to back wins, but these came against Caley and Falkirk and they still are a very poor side.

THE EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM

CHANCES ARE YOU HAVE TO BE QUICK BUT IF YOU GET ON THEM QUITE SOON YOU CAN GET THREE NICE LITTLE BARGAINS FOR THE WEEKEND.

SOUTHEND V SOUTHAMPTON

This is the bet of the weekend, the away side are 2.1 with premier bet and totesport. This is compared to ladbrokes who are down at 1.73 and frankly those chaps at ladbrokes are no mugs.
Southampton are unbeaten in seven, have won the last four games and have scored thirteen goals, in rasiak, wright phillips and midfielders like skacel they are not short of goals, George Burley is probably the best manager in the league and the side are playing with huge confidence.
On the flip side you have southend with only two wins all season and both of them came back in August. Southend are deep in the relegation mire and can't find the net, never a win in fact last game things were so bad they barely registered a shot.
Bet365 have already shortened their odds recently so I'd recommend getting on board before the other bookies do the same.
In addition with extrabet you can put a quid on southampton to win by two, three or four goals at odds of 12, 11.5 and 27, rembarkably generous considering southampton's goal threat and southend's lack of goals.

CHESTERFIELD V OLDHAM
Oldham are on a great run with five wins from five and only goal conceded in these games. Chesterfield meanwhile drew a blank in midweek, and rarely looked like threatening to break down Northampton. If they can't create against Northampton, then you have to wonder how they'll do against an Oldham defence that is just red hot, and in addition caleb folan scorer of ten goals this season for chesterfield went off midweek early and might not be back for the weekend.
This makes the odds of the Oldham away win at 2.8 massive, the draw stands at 3.25 and offers that extra protection.

DUNDEE UNITED V INVERNESS C-T
Dundee United to win at home to Inverness Caley at 2.3 with Tote and Premier again is the bet of the day north of the border. Dundee United were unlucky in going down to Hibs last week and have won their last three home games, including a win over Rangers. Caley have no wins in six including a horrible home defeat against Motherwell last week, and a previous dour draw with Hearts.

Thta's all for now, be back tommorrow with a few more things to look for, that should be up from twelve and then check out the forums at bettingadvice and punterslounge from early friday evening when I put all my weekend thoughts. Please spread the word to everyone and hopefully we can all have a great weekend.

DIRE PREDICTIONS AND DIRE CIRCUMSTANCES

Pretty hideous night last, but still like falling off a bike you get back up and get on with it, oh and you study the mysterious movements on asian handicaps in the Bournmouth v Forest game in advance.

TONIGHT'S PREDICTIONS
READING V NEWCASTLE

I'm going to advise small stakes on reading away win, draw double. Here is why, Kieron Dyer, let me explain. Reading play with a 4-4-2 with two solid wingers, in fact seol is a pretty classy winger on his day, newcastle full backs are very vulnerable, especially if carr plays. Doyle's height will cause problems at the back for a shaky defence, given as ever will be given and keep newcastle in games. Up front Newcastle looked at their best with pompey when dyer played with nzogbia as pacy wingers in a 4-4-2, dyer's injury makes a big difference in terms of attacking threat.
People talk about st james as being a fortress but this season reading have more away wins than newcastle do in front of their own fans, reading are just as good, if not a better side than newcastle. This game should not be priced as it is in my opinion.

WEST HAM V WIGAN
No bet, West Ham should win, especially if Tevez continues to be up for it, however they have one goal in four and as such are hard to get behind.

CHESTERFIELD V NORTHAMPTON
CHESTERFIELD V NORTHAMPTON
league position: 17th and 18th.
Form: Chesterfield one win, two draws, three defeats seventeeth in form.
Northampton are fifteenth with one win, four draws, one defeat.
recent form: Chesterfield had the weekend off after a cup loss, but return to the league where they have recent draws with crewe and a home win over cheltenham.
Northampton Went out of the cup to boston 4-1 at the weekend, but for various reasons haven't played in the league since november 18 where they lost to scunthorpe.
home/away records: chesterfield have four wins,t wo draws, three defeats at home, northampton have th league's third best away record with four wins,four draws and one loss.
key match news: chesterfield have a couple of injuries at the back, while northampton have no fresh injury worries.
verdict: tough one to call this one, as there is little to split them. You could make a case for chesterfield with their good home run recently but then are they that much better than northampton at 3.45. I won't be getting involved in the match result as it's variable, I would advise a small stake on caleb folan in the anytime goalscorer market. He has ten this season (and would have more if not for injuries) and is a player destined for bigger things, northampton defence shipped four at the weekend to boston and folan at 2.75 to score anytime(as long as fit) looks good value.

Thanks to everyone who checks us out and copes with the infrequent format changes, posts and post times, promise things will get to a routine soon but this December is proving to be a crazy run.

Hope tonight is a good night.

Advice: Reading away/draw double and Folan score anytime.

TONIGHT'S PREVIEW

CHARLTON V BLACKBURN
I have to disagree and say that the value here lies with blackburn, there certainly worth a play on the draw away win double.
Here is my logic, if you say there is little in these sides then the odds compilers should not be offering blackburn 2.8 and 3.1 the draw with bet 365. Charlton have no wins in their last four premiership games while blackburn have four points from their last six games. The reason BET365 and others are taking on blackburn are a much better home side than away, with two wins and two draws from their last four home games, blackburn lost to both villa and west ham away.
However here is why it's worth taking these odds, not just because there's little in those sides, though that's a big play. But tactically blackburn are strongest in the middle of the park especially with tugay's return, while charlton have problems across the middle of the park, I expect blackburn to get a firm stranglehold in the middle here. Also they have goals in their side in Nonda and McCarthy, if charlton perist with their 4-5-1 it will make it easier for blackburn to keep it tight and hit them on the counter, using the strikers and the pace of players like pedersen and bentley.
Cover with the draw as blackburn have managed to get two away draws, including at liverpool, so they have it in them.
SPURS V BORO
Spurs should win they have a great home record, boro are poor on their travels, woodgate might be missing. I'm not going to get involved though at odds of 1.73, especially as spurs have some injuries question marks, though it's upto you if you think losing jenas is a low or not. Boro played not to badly against man united this weekend and keep thngs tight on their travels so all in not worth getting involved in.
What interests me is the odds on 4.3 for berbatov to score either first and last for spurs at bet365. You'd have to put two seperate stakes on but say 1.00 first and 1.00 last, brings you two pound stakes and you could win 4.3 if berbatov scores first or last. Spurs tend to score two or three when they score at home, and it seems unlikely to me that if fit and playing berbatov won't be involved in the goal action.


Interesting lot of league one fixtures this week, would advise not to much investment as some teams have rested and some played cup at the weekend, while also this league is known for being highly unpredictable.

SCUNTHORPE V TRANMERE: Second versus third makes for an interesting clash, a few weeks ago I could have easily called this a home win, but not now, much more difficult. Brian Laws left Scunthorpe for Sheff Wed and has been replaced by surely the only manager/assistant/physio in league football, Nigel Adkins. The results haven't been affected two much as Laws has left a very good side with goals in keogh and sharp, Tranmere for their part are having a very good turnaround season under ronnie moore. Both these side lost in the cup this weekend but not too much should be read into that.
In the league scunthorpe haven't lost since october 14, while tranmere have gone four games unbeaten, this should be a good one but I just go for scunthorpe as when you get better than 2.00 for a side with a home record like there's it is hard to ignore, Tranmere are on a good run but their are a little weaker away from home and this might just be one game too far, narrow home win.

BLACKPOOL V CHELTENHAM: Blackpool are on a very good run of form with only defeat in their last six, away to Tranmere which is a difficult place to travel. Cheltenham for their part sit 20th and have just six wins at nineteen, they also struggle to hit the back of the net. The only slight doubts are that two of those wins are away at yeovil and swansea and this is league one with some strange happenings. I would think blackpool would win, but at 1.7 and with four home draws,I'd be looking elsewhere for value.

BOURNMOUTH V NOTTINGHAM: Not sure I understand the odds here, Bournmouth have no league wins in twelve and forest have no defeats in their last six, they also have no away defeats this season. Bournmouth have slightly picked up with a draw in the league and cup in their lastt wo games, loan signings have been helping, however forest are a different level and nathan tyson's pace should case a slow backline massive problems, for me the odds of 2.05 are excellent from bet365, when others have forest at 1.8. Sure Forest played Sunday but they have enough depth in their squad to cope with this.

BRENTFORD V DONCASTER: This one seems another no brainer, brentford are on a horrendous run, with no league one win in 13 games. Meanwhile Doncaster are on a good run, three wins, two draws and just the one defeat from their last six games.
However I'd advise a bit of caution here, doncaster have a massive nine draws this season and brentford had a weekend rest, I can't see doncaster losing them but they need covering with the away win, draw double result.

BRIGHTON V SWANSEA: Both of these team have few key players out injured, Lee Trundle will be a big miss for swansea, however I do feel they have enough to avoid getting beat. Brighton have not won any of their last three home games, swansea meanwhile sit third in the six game form table, fallon knows where the net is and they have two clean sheets in their two league games. This could be tight but the away side are good value on the away draw double.

BRISTOL CITY V CARLISLE: This should probably be hled up as ablatant home, you have a bristl city side here with only one home defeat in nine, while carlisle have only one away win in nine. I'm not going to get involved though, Bristol city had a greulling cup tie just 48 hours earlier that stretched them all the way. It's a tough ask to get them up again so soon and they had a few knocks to key players at the weekend, carlisle one win came the other week and they on their day can play with any side. For me not a bet to get involved in.

LEYTON ORIENT V BRADFORD: ORIENT may sit bottom of the table, but only have one defeat in their last six matches, though they need to start converting draws into wins to get out of the danger zone. Bradford have no league win in seven and a poor away record. It is possible this could be orient's big win but I'll stay clear at those prices.

MILLWALL V HUDDERSFIELD: Neither of these sides are on a great run and this is a real pick em game in terms of result, both sides have leaky defences so goals could be an option, rather than the under, over market, I'd advise a small stake on hackett to score anytime at 5.5 with bet365. Huddersfield have one of the league's worst defences and will present millwall with opps, hackett is join top milwall scorer with 4 this season and has to be worth a small interest.

OLDHAM V CREWE: If someone said to you could get a side at evens who sit second in the form table, fifth in the league and only one home defeat in nine you'd be interested, however crewe are bizarre side, capable of beating anyone and then losing to anyone. The under/over market could be where to go, crewe have been over 2.5 goals in their last nine games, while oldham certainly know where the net is.
If you put a pound on at betdirect you can get three, four and five goals plus to be scored at odds that will all make a profit on one pound stakes.

PORT VALE V GILLINGHAM: Gillingham may only have one away win this season, but they may never have a better time, they were gutsy in coming back 4-3 against bristol city, they are playing some decent stuff and have only defeat in their last five league games, away to bristol city. Gillingham are as much as 3.05 at expekt and that's hard to ignore. There is little in these sides, in fact gillingham it higher in the league and port vale have no league win in eight games. The away win, draw double bet could come into effect here with gillingham's weak way record.

I've named a few and hope this is of help to people, my top three though are.
THREE:Hackett anytime scorer for millall and the total goals for the crewe and oldham game.
TWO: Win, draw double results on SCUNTHORPE, GILLINGHAM AND DONASTER.
ONE:FOREST AT 2.05 you'll not get a bigger price on them away this season.

good luck everyone

MONEY DOESN'T GROW ON TREES

Nor or bets so obvious, before you think about coming down heavily on Man City tonight , remember this is man city and there back to back record is generally hideous, they rarely get on a run, so be a little bit careful about getting too deeply involved you could get bitten here. Those prices give little away, maybe try to keep stakes small or look for another market here.
I'm interested in the score anytime market, they have joey barton at 4/! at coral to score anytime, he has four goals this season and if watford defend deep as I imagine they will, the goals might come from outside the area. Barton has a pure strike and also as an added bonus takes pens which if watford are reeling from boothroyd's words might mean they are a little morephysical this time out and run greater risk of conceding pens and dangerous free kicks.
All in all sems worth a small punt at those prices.

Be back tommorrow for a more indepth preview, be sure t tell a friend.

SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND

Apologies to everyone haven't exactly been blessed with time this week but here's some stuff for the weekend, I'll return to a proper format next week.

SCOTLAND

Celtic Glasgow - Aberdeen FC 1.24 5.00 9.46
Hibernian - Dundee Utd. 1.58 3.61 5.03
Caledonian Thistle - Motherwell FC 36 1.87 3.29 3.68
Kilmarnock FC - Dunfermline 1.57 3.59 5.12
St. Mirren - Hearts of Midlothian 3.22 3.22 2.04
Falkirk FC - Glasgow Rangers 5.97 3.79 1.47

CELTIC V ABERDEEN: Although Celtic have an out of the world home record, iI'd be loathe to get involved here at 1.24, they understandably have take their foot off the gas with that huge lead and can afford a few draws. Aberdeen come to celtic on a great run of form, six games unbeaten, five of which they have won, confidence is high and will not be undermined by the glasgow clubs attempts to unsettle key player russell anderson before the game.
If anyone bets wilth mansion and that can't be many they offer Aberdeen on a 1.25 asian handicap, at 2.02 which could be plauisble for a small stakes, as Aberdeen might lose but will not got hammered.
HIBS V DUNDEE UNITED: Both sides have really picked up under their new managers, Hibs finally finding some subsistence to their great football, dundee united have three wins out of four, but still have a poor away record and that one loss was away to dunfermilne. This might be closer than the bookies think, but with hibs short price and dundee united's unproven away form I'd not get involved here.
INVERNESS V MOTHERWELL: Inverness haven't won in five, motherwell's home win last week was their first for seven games, seems a tricky one to call, marginal better chance of home win but not reflected in the odds.
KILMARNOCK V DUNFERMILNE: Kilmanrock should be expcted to win this one but are a very hit and miss side, the odds are short and Dunfermilne are just to poor to lump onto at 5.12.
ST MIRREN V HEARTS: Both these sides have really gone off the boil, Hearts make get the bounce from the return of the coach, but seeing as last time they won we were thinking if it was possible to put men on the moon you wouldn't take 2.04.
FALKIRK V RANGERS: In terms of form both sides are heading opposite ways, Falkirk have no wins in three, Rangers three from three, and Le Guen might just be finding his feet. Rangers should win here but not value in odds, the experts are recommending rangers to win t nil as well, because falkirk will hugely miss stokes presence. However they can still find the net and russell lapaty will be leading the line instead of stokes, with two goals in three and falkirk capable of finding the net extrabet's 6.4 for him to score anytime is wonderful, almost double what stan james offer.

PREMIER LEAGUE THOUGHTS
ARSENAL V SPURS: Arsenal are so offer the boil at the moment but you just know they could hammer someone. Interesting to note the game last season were spurs should have won and went onto the champions league instead they stuttered and allowed arsenal in the back door, be interesting to see how this affects them. Spurs also have a woeful away record and this game is just so awful to call. Both sides have goals in them but then strikers who can missifire, which one of spurs four strikers will play. More questions than an episode of Who wants to be a millionaire, best to leave well alone and enjoy it as a footballing feast.
BLACKBURN V FULHAM: Blackburn need the home win and have the added bonus of the rest, but Fulham will be buoyed by the result against Arsenal, Blackburn without tugay makes me not bet, but they will benefit from the extra rest and are a lot more physical than arsenal, Boa Morte looks like he's firing though and reprsent the threat to me. At 1.91 this is a no bet to me.
I'm gong to back villa on the away win, draw double, despite the loss to man city, I think that was more man city on fire than anything else.
POMPEY V VILLA
I think they have a great away record, they know how to get the draws, pompey aren't exactly firing in front of goal and agbonlahor's pace will cause a threat, pompey would be my marginal pick to win this, but the odds seem to misreprsent two sides not a million miles apart. James is on fire so keep stakes low.
READING V BOLTON: Reading just shade this one in terms of match result but not one I'd be betting on.
SHEFF UNITED V CHARLTON: Tough six pointer, no bet.
WIGAN V LIVERPOOL: Wigan are a tricky home side, value in the home side to win or draw double result, especially with Liverpool's away form and well documented striking problems.
BORO V MAN UNITED: Be wary of ferguson's team selection, they might just take their eye off this game, noone would advise backing Boro but then they have it in them, one to avoid.


Got to be quick with this I'm against a tight deadline,

So one liners
12:00 Leeds (1.91) Draw (3.3) Barnsley (4.4)
Barnsley might spring a surprise here, leeds have the firepower, they have the tight defence. Would have liked slightly bigger away odds to bite.
15:00 Birmingham (1.62) Draw (3.5) Plymouth (6)
Lots of people will put brum on the coupon which is fine for me but Plymouth can cause betting nightmares and they like to bloody the noses of the big boys, they're are much better 1.62 shots than this.
15:00 Cardiff (1.7) Draw (3.75) Colchester (6)
Colchester beat cardiff last time at 3-1 but don't travel well, cardiff for their part are complelty off their game, they need to stand up and be counted, advise not getting involved here.
15:00 Coventry (2.45) Draw (3.3) Stoke (2.88)
Like the chocolates on your advent calendar stoke seem an exciting entice, you want to load up on them but be wary you might run this risk of being sick. Coventry are difficult at home and are getting some decent results themselves, stoke are the form team of the league and we might live to regret passing up 2.88 but I'm going to.
15:00 Crystal Palace (2.2) Draw (3.4) QPR (3.7
Two highly unpredictable sides, Palace might be improving but things are far from rosy, QPR lost two winnable home games but win some very unwinnable away games, clear no bet.
15:00 Hull (2.88) Draw (3.3) Southampton (2.55)
Hull may have got hammered in midweek but expect a reaction from Parkinson and his men, Southampton are playing some nice stuff, and seem capable of the draw, not to lose double.
15:00 Ipswich (2.38) Draw (3.3) Burnley (3.2)
Ipswich are a much better home side, but Burnely are no mugs, no bet.
15:00 Leicester (2.3) Draw (3.3) Sheff Wed (3.3)
Sheff wed also look good value not to lose, Laws has toughed them up while leicester look vulnerable.
15:00 Luton (3.3) Draw (3.3) Preston (2.38)
Preston might seem huge but they are struggling to find the net and luton still possess an attacking threat, again like stoke I'd advoid but you may live to regret it.
15:00 Southend (2.88) Draw (3.3) Wolves (2.6)
Wolves don't travel, southend just aren't playing at all, avoid.
15:00 Sunderland (2.2) Draw (3.4) Norwich (3.9)
Sunderland seem good value but I'm loathe to back against my own team.
15:00 West Brom (2.2) Draw (3.4) Derby (3.75)
Derby are a very difficult side and could be good value not to lose, though west brom are much better than they are playing, I would advise a no bet.

Have a good weekend everyone