February 2009

Premier League Round-up: Liverpool challenge over and Stoke earn big-priced draw

Maxliu / 28 February 2009 / Leave a comment

United in commanding position after Benitez's men suffer post-Bernabeu hangover and late Stoke rally rewards draw backers......Read more »

Premier League Sunday Betting Preview: Villa to march on

Mike Norman / 28 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Mike Norman is backing Martin O'Neill's men to pick up the points in their bid for a top four finish. Meanwhile, a draw is predicted in an intriguing relegation match-up. Best Bet: Back Aston Villa/Aston Villa @ [2.18]....Read more »

Premier League Betting Preview: Bolton v Newcastle

Richard Walker / 28 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Richard Walker believes that Gary Megson's men will take a big step towards Premier League survival on Sunday. Best Bet: Back Bolton to win @ [2.08]....Read more »

Scottish Football Bets: Back the Rangers/Celtic double

Editor / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The Scottish Clydesdale Bank Premier is wide open with the two usual suspects fighting for the title. And this could just be the weekend to back them both to win, says John Girvan....Read more »

Championship Betting: Shaky Birmingham may come unstuck again at Bramall Lane

Andrew French / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew French knows the formbook can't be trusted in The Championship but when the leading trio are struggling to win, you have to oppose them. Best Bet: Back Sheffield United to beat Birmingham at [2.46]....Read more »

Saturday 3pm Kick-Offs Betting: 'Pool to struggle at the River

Mike Norman / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Three of the so-called Big Four are in action in the Saturday 3pm kick-offs and though "Mystical" Mike Norman doesn't expect an easy ride for Arsenal, it's Liverpool who may struggle even more at Boro. Best bet: Lay Liverpool agianst...Read more »

Non-League Betting: There must be something in the soil

Gary Boswell / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The Boz expands on his theme of sides struggling to win their home games - that led to a 100% advice last weekend - in this week's non-league round up.Best bet: BACK HAMPTON & RICHMOND at [2.12] or greater to...Read more »

Carling Cup Betting: The Betfair Contrarian on why Spurs will win the Carling Cup

The Betfair Contrarian / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

On paper it looks a real case of David v Goliath with Man Utd expected to complete the first leg of a potential unprecedented quadruple. But the Betfair Contrarian doesn't believe in nailed-on wins for anyone. Here's why Spurs will...Read more »

Premier League Betting: Everton v West Brom

Richard Walker / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

In-form Everton host free-falling West Brom and this match is only ever going one way and that's Everton's way, says Richard Walker. Best bet: Back Everton/Everton HT/FT @ [2.34]....Read more »

Football Stats: Bolton v Newcastle

Bettorlogic / 27 February 2009 / Leave a comment

They're not exciting, they're not glamorous but Bolton do get the job done at home against bottom-half finishers, or so the stats say. Bettorlogic talk us through this one. Best bet: Back Bolton to win @ 2.1....Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Friday February 27

The Joker / 27 February 2009 / 1 Comments

A joke and a tip from the Joker to get your betting day under way.........Read more »

UEFA Cup on Betfair: Joy for City, pain for Villa, Spurs and AC Milan

Joe Dyer / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

And pain too for some short-price takers on a dramatic night of UEFA Cup action....Read more »

Ben Herd: Nolan's tackle was an absolute shocker and I think credit has to go to the ref for spotting it

Ben Herd / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Shrewsbury's right-back Ben Herd talks personal targets, Matt Prior's own "Hobson's choice", going to the Carling Cup final and "that tackle" by Kevin Nolan....Read more »

League 1 Betting Preview: Back Leicester in top of the table clash

Alan Dudman / 26 February 2009 / 12 Comments

In the brilliant Letters From My Windmill, Alphonse Daudet describes a man as 'three-parts idiot'. He might have used those words to describe Dudders here and his feeble attempts at assaulting last week's games... Will this weekend see an upturn...Read more »

Premier League Betting: Champions League qualification is no more than good guy O'Neill deserves

Frank Gregan / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Frank Gregan talks us through the life and times of Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill, one of the good and proper men of footbal,l as the Villains chase a top four Premier League spot....Read more »

Carling Cup Final Betting: Man Utd v Tottenham

Nik Wardle / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

As Manchester United go looking for their first trophy of the season, Tottenham go looking for a UEFA Cup spot. The London side are after all the defending champions and will be giving it their all, says Nik Wardle. Best...Read more »

League Two Betting Preview: Hungry Dale can see of frail Grimsby

Ian Lamont / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Ian Lamont believes that Brentford v Bury is a more even match-up than the markets suggest. Meanwhile, can Rochdale keep up the momentum in their promotion push? And will John Coleman be donning a kilt? Best Bet: Rochdale to beat...Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Thursday February 26

The Joker / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from the Joker to get your betting day under way.........Read more »

UEFA Cup Betting: CSKA Moscow v Aston Villa

Mike Norman / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

After Wagner Love lit up the first leg this tie is set for more explosive drama on Thursday night. However, Martin O'Neill's priorities lie elsewhere and that makes the hosts hot favourites, says Mike Norman. Best Bet: Back CSKA/CSKA @...Read more »

UEFA Cup Betting Preview: Tottenham Hotspur v Shakhtar Donetsk

Mike Norman / 26 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Mike Norman is dissappointed by Harry Redknapp's plans to field a weakened team against Shakhtar Donetsk and wonders why clubs place such emphasis on European qualification if they are prepared to surrender it so meekly. Best Bet: Lay Tottenham @...Read more »

Champions League Betting: Real problems for Madrid as Liverpool touch odds of 11

Jamie "The Pacman" Pacheco / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

It's looking good for the English teams in the Champions League once again after Chelsea defeated Juventus at home to take a one goal lead into the second leg but the big upset of the night came as Liverpool beat...Read more »

Champions League Betting: Chelsea v Juventus

Richard Aikman / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Had this match been played two weeks ago, Juventus would have been the stable, in-form team. But a slight dip in form and the arrival of Guus Hiddink at Stamford Bridge may well have changed all that, says Richard Aikman....Read more »

Football Stats: Everton v West Brom

Bettorlogic / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

West Brom's woes on the road have been well-documented whilst Everton are one of the in-form teams in the division, though they will of course be without the injured Mikel Arteta. Bettorlogic talk us through all the stats for this...Read more »

The Over/Under 2.5 Goals Column: Go low on goals at Stamford Bridge this weekend

Ed Nicholson / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Ed Nicholson knows all about new brooms and an upturn in results as per Chelsea's win over Aston Villa in Guus Hiddink's first game in charge. But that doesn't mean the floodgates will open against Wigan, who have frustrated many...Read more »

UEFA Cup Betting Preview: Manchester City v FC Kobenhavn

Mike Norman / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Mike Norman believes it will be a big surprise if Manchester City do not progress to the last 16 of the UEFA Cup. Best Bet: Back Man City/Man City @ 2.42 (Half Time/Full Time)....Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Wednesday 25th February

The Joker / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from the Joker to get your betting day under way......Read more »

Champions League Betting Preview: Chelsea v Juventus

Dave Farrar / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Probably the hardest Champions League game to call this week is the one at Stamford Bridge, says Dave Farrar. Best Bet: 0-0 correct score @ [9.6]....Read more »

The Championship Winner Betting: Side with the team with momentum, side with Reading

Andrew Atherley / 25 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew Atherley uses his trusted stats to explain why Wolves may well be worth siding with when it comes to promotion but not when it comes to winning the league. Going purely on price, that honour, say the stats, falls...Read more »

Champions League Betting: United in strong position after draw

Maxliu / 24 February 2009 / 1 Comments

Advantage United after San Siro stalemate, Van Persie makes Roma pay the penalty, Henry saves Barca with vital strike and honours even in Spanish capital thriller....Read more »

Champions League: What price another all-English final?

Alsy / 24 February 2009 / Leave a comment

After Chelsea and Manchester United contested last year's final of European football's blue-ribband event, Alister Morgan discusses the chances of lightning striking again....Read more »

I'm backing Man Utd and Chelsea to go through in the Champions League, says Steve Bruce

Editor / 24 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Wigan manager Steve Bruce knows a thing or two about playing under Sir Alex Ferguson in big European ties. Betting.betfair.com caught up with him to talk about Cristiano Ronaldo, the one they call the "Special One", Fernando Torres' hamstring and...Read more »

Champions League Betting: Arsenal v Roma

Dave Farrar / 24 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Dave Farrar on Tuesday night's clash between the schizophrenic side of Italian football and an injury-ravaged Arsenal team badly struggling for goals. Best bet: Roma to qualify @ [2.0]....Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Tuesday Februry 24

The Joker / 24 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from "The Joker" to get your betting day under way.........Read more »

Champions League Betting: Over/Under 2.5 goals

Ed Nicholson / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Ed Nicholson rates the likelihood of goals in two Champions League ties which feature English sides. Best Bet: 2pts Under 2.5 goals Inter v Man Utd @ [1.61]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Hull City v Tottenham Hotspur

Richard Walker / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Both managers will see this as one to win, so expect plenty of goals says Richard Walker. Best Bet: Back Over 2.5 goals @ [2.04]....Read more »

Football Betting: Stats play their role in betting but they're not the "be all and end all"

Tareq Quiroz / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Tareq Quiroz on why stats such as head-to-heads and records on a particular ground should be used as one of many tools for researching football bets rather as a definitive source of truth....Read more »

Champions League Betting Preview: Inter Milan v Manchester United

Dave Farrar / 23 February 2009 / 3 Comments

A tantalising array of Champions League betting opportunities await punters this week and chief among them is Tuesday night's renewal of rivalries between Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson, says Dave Farrar. Best Bet: Manchester United to qualify @ [1.69]....Read more »

Manchester United: Brothers in arms and Fergie's masterplan

Dan Fitch / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Dan Fitch reveals Fergie's master plan that should it work, would rival any achievements Ferguson has already accomplished in terms of trophies....Read more »

Champions League Betting: Real Madrid v Liverpool

Tobias Gourlay / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

We all know about Rafael Benitez's Champions League credentials and Liverpool's ability to turn it on for the big European nights. But we also know about Real's recent dramatic change in fortunes, writes Tobias Gourlay. Best bet: Real Madrid to...Read more »

Premier League Betting: Results on the pitch are so often dictated by events off it

Ralph Ellis / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

From Benitez's unsigned contract at Liverpool to Gareth Southgate's cost-cutting exercise at Boro, Ralph Ellis tells us why events off the pitch and in the board room often have a direct effect on what happens on the pitch. Just ask...Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Monday February 23

The Joker / 23 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from "The Joker" to get your betting day under way......Read more »

Sunday's Premier League Highlights on Betfair: Anfield stalemate makes Liverpool's title chase a little bit harder

Joe Dyer / 22 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Craig Bellamy's goal helps Manchester City deny the [1.45] Reds....Read more »

Football Betting Briefing February 23-26: The Champions League returns...

James Eastham / 22 February 2009 / Leave a comment

James Eastham has cast his eye across a dizzying array of fixtures to bring you the week's highlights in the beautiful game....Read more »

Champions League Betting: Domestic rivals challenge has been meek so it's over to the Special One to put one over Manchester United

Feizal Rahman / 22 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Sir Alex Ferguson's charges have been imperious in the Premier League but the rest of the Big Four have disappointed. Things, however, could be different for Tuesday night's Champions League clash says Feizal Rahman....Read more »

Saturday's Premier League Highlights on Betfair: Mini classic at the Britannia Stadium where 1.1 Stoke are denied

Joe Dyer / 21 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Arsenal miss out on three points too while Chelsea leave Villa Park with a valuable win. Joe Dyer reports on Saturday in the Premier League....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Newcastle v Everton

Richard Walker / 21 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Everton are ravaged by injuries while Newcastle are, well, Newcastle. Stalemate! Cries Richard Walker. Best Bets: Back The Draw @ [3.3]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Fulham v West Brom

Richard Walker / 21 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Fulham have one of the finest home records in the Premier League so it's no wonder Richard Walker thinks they'll overcome West Brom. Best Bet: Back 1-0 to Fulham @ [7.6]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: The weekend's non-televised matches

Mike Norman / 20 February 2009 / 1 Comments

"Mystical" Mike Norman looks into his crystal ball to predict the outcome of this weekend's matches not beemed live into our living rooms, including that Manchester City motley crew away at Anfield. Best bet: Stoke to beat Portsmouth @ [2.72]....Read more »

SPL Betting Preview: Butcher builds from the back

John Girvan / 20 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Despite last weekend's bore draw, John Girvan is convinced that the SPL is heading for a thrilling climax... What will this weekend's fixtures add to the mix?...Read more »

Championship Betting: Show faith in buzzing Hornets

Andrew French / 20 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew French admits to some bias but does think Watford are over-priced as they travel to Blackpool this Saturday, one of three good bets in The Championship this weekend. Best bet: Watford to beat Blackpool @ [3.2]....Read more »

Premier League Bets: Manchester United v Blackburn

Richard Walker / 20 February 2009 / Leave a comment

It doesn't take a betting genius to tip up a Man Utd home win at [1.24] so Richard Walker won't be doing that. He will however be looking at other value betting options from Betfair's array of markets. Best bet:...Read more »

Premier League Betting: Aston Villa v Chelsea

Richard Walker / 20 February 2009 / 1 Comments

Richard Walker makes no bones about the fact that this is a very tricky match to call and anything could happen on the day. But football, and Betfair for that matter, are all about opinions and here's his: best bet...Read more »

Non-League Betting: Three to one the Trinity!

Gary Boswell / 20 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Gary Boswell dons ecclesiastical garb to explore the religious significance of betting the Blue Square Leagues this weekend. Best bet: BACK GAINSBOROUGH TRINITY at [4.1] or greater against Stalybridge Celtic...Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Friday 20 February

The Joker / 20 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from "The Joker" to get your betting day under way.............Read more »

Premier League Stats: Newcastle United v Everton

Bettorlogic / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Everton are in great form at the moment but Newcastle have a decent record at home. Bettorlogic provide the pointers for Sunday's televised game. Best Bet: Back the draw @ [3.35]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: More sackings this season?

Frank Gregan / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Tony Adams failure at Portsmouth was of no surprise to Frank Gregan and he believes that, while 16 games may not seem like a long time for a manager to prove his worth, the opportunity must be seized....Read more »

League One Betting: Falling victim to man flu and backing Carlisle to beat Stockport

Alan Dudman / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Alan Dudman battles shivers and cold sweats in a bid to not disappoint his loyal readers and tell us about Russell Slade's sacking and the value bets in League One this weekend. Best bet: Back Carlisle to beat Stockport @...Read more »

Premier League Stats: Aston Villa v Chelsea

Bettorlogic / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Guus Hiddink is in charge of his first-ever Premiership match for Chelsea but there are few places he'd rather have to go than Villa Park. Master number-crunchers bettorlogic talk us through this one. Best bet: Lay Chelsea @ [2.34]....Read more »

Over/Under 2.5 Goals Betting: Back overs in top four tussle

Ed Nicholson / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

With the battle for Champions League spots intensifying this weekend, a tight game can probably be expected at Villa Park. But Ed Nicholson reckons we should buck the trend and back the overs. Best Bet: 2pts Aston Villa v Chelsea...Read more »

League Two Betting: Cherries close down quickly in bid to beat drop

Ian Lamont / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Well calculated gambles are aiding Bournemouth's bid for survival and in-form Bury should be taken even at a short price. Ian Lamont recommends the weekend's best League Two bets. Best Bet: Lay Chesterfield @ [2.1] at home to Bournemouth...Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Thursday 19 Februray

The Joker / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from "The Joker" to get your betting day under way..........Read more »

Ben Herd: A start, a win and a man-of-the-match performance from me to boot

Ben Herd / 19 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Part-time betting.betfair.com columnist and full-time Shrewsbury defender Ben Herd tells us about his return to action, feeling the heat of the dreaded ice bath and giving "divers" something to really dive about....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Cut 'the Ginger Mourinho' some slack

Nik Wardle / 18 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Gary Megson may have been booed by his own fans recently but Bolton's big price to go down shows that the Trotters' boss is doing a good job, says Nik Wardle....Read more »

UEFA Cup Betting: Hughes eyes glory and security

Dan Fitch / 17 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Dan Fitch reckons Harry Redknapp has bigger fish to fry at the moment than a UEFA Cup tie against Shakhtar Donetsk, whilst Mark Hughes no doubt realises that claiming the UEFA Cup is the surest route to ensure that he...Read more »

Next Portsmouth Manager Betting: Ramon Vega the footballer, Ramon Vega the businessman

Dan Fitch / 17 February 2009 / 1 Comments

Spurs fans all remember Ramon Vega as the error-prone defensive liability that cost them clean sheets and points. But did you know that Ramon Vega is now an extremely successful businessman and potential buyer of Portsmouth Football Club? Dan Fitch...Read more »

Premier League Betting Preview: Manchester United v Fulham

Mike Norman / 17 February 2009 / 1 Comments

They may have turned the Cottage into a fortress but Fulham remain abject on the road. With Manchester United firing on all cylinders, Mike Norman can see only one outcome when the sides meet at Old Trafford on Wednesday night....Read more »

Championship Betting Preview: Back Clarets to climb back into play-offs

Andrew French / 17 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Success on three fronts is beginning to take its toll on Burnley as their fixtures pile up. But Andrew French thinks the Clarets will have the measure of Coventry City at Turf Moor tonight. Best bet: Back Burnley to beat...Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Tuesday 17 February

The Joker / 17 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from "The Joker" to get your betting day under way.......Read more »

FA Cup home tie gives 7.2 Everton a real chance

Jamie "The Pacman" Pacheco / 17 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Everton and Manchester United are both through to the last eight of the FA Cup. Here's how they did it plus the draw for the quarter-finals......Read more »

Football Betting: The caretakers

Tareq Quiroz / 16 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Tareq Quiroz believes Luiz Felipe Scolari and Tony Adams would have found their former sides' improved performances galling to watch at the weekend. Could the men in temporary charge take the jobs full time?...Read more »

The Joker's Bet Of The Day: Monday 16 February

The Joker / 16 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A joke and a tip from "The Joker" to get your betting day under way....Read more »

Football Betting: Get on evergreen Giggs before it's too late

Ralph Ellis / 16 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Ralph Ellis reflects on a weekend of FA Cup football and looks ahead to the return of the UEFA Cup as well as a Premier League clash which could prove pivotal in the race for Champions League qualification....Read more »

David Beckham: Why England can't live with him and can't live without him

Feizal Rahman / 15 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Feizal Rahman tells us why David Beckham's part in England's friendly against Spain in midweek epitomised the fact that very little has changed for the national side over the last few years, such as the inability to play creative football...Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Arsenal v Cardiff

Mike Norman / 15 February 2009 / Leave a comment

After a 0-0 draw and a postponed replay it should be a case of third time lucky as Arsenal and Cardiff play for the right to stay in the FA Cup. "Mystical" Mike Norman talks us through the nuts and...Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Only Chelsea avoid a replay

Jamie "The Pacman" Pacheco / 15 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The first four matches of the day all ended in draws and only Chelsea have their name in the hat for the next round already......Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Derby v Man Utd

Richard Walker / 14 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Despite playing in different leagues, Man Utd and Derby County clash for the third time this season and the favourites should take this one in a high-scoring encounter, says Richard Walker. Best bet: over 2.5 goals @ [2.06]....Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Everton v Aston Villa

Richard Walker / 14 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Richard Walker tells us why this is the most intriguing of the weekend's FA Cup ties and how despite a draw and subsequent replay being the last thing either manager wants, it's actually the most likely outcome. Best bet: back...Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Watford v Chelsea

Richard Walker / 13 February 2009 / Leave a comment

After a week of turmoil at Stamford Bridge can Chelsea get their season back on track with a win in Hertfordshire? With a heavy heart, Richard Walker thinks so. Best Bet: Back Draw/Chelsea HT/FT @ [4.9]....Read more »

SPL Betting Preview: Does anyone want to win this championship?

John Girvan / 13 February 2009 / Leave a comment

A topsy-turvy few weeks in the SPL have seen Celtic hand the intiative to Rangers only for Walter Smith's men to spurn their chances. John Girvan looks ahead to a weekend when there are no easy games for anyone......Read more »

Premier League Betting: Portsmouth v Man City

Mike Norman / 13 February 2009 / Leave a comment

In the only Premier League match to be played this weekend, managerless Portsmouth host a Man City side boosted by superb midweek performances for Brazil by Robinho and Elano. Best bet: Back Man City/Man City @ [4.7]...Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Saturday's non-televised matches

Mike Norman / 13 February 2009 / Leave a comment

"Mystical" Mike Norman looks into his crystal ball and sees a win for Sheffield United over Premier League opponents Hull City but what of the other Saturday matches involving the likes of West Ham and Blackburn? Best bet - Back...Read more »

Non-League Betting: A weekend for the outsiders

Gary Boswell / 13 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Gary Boswell has bad news for fans of the so-called "home bankers" and good news for those happy to put their faith in outsiders away from home. Best bet: LAY CAMBRIDGE at [2.08] or less against Mansfield....Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Swansea City v Fulham

Richard Walker / 13 February 2009 / 1 Comments

Richard Walker believes that the combination of Swansea's imperious home record, passing style and Fulham's poor away form makes backing the hosts a must. Best Bet: Back Swansea to win @ [2.72]....Read more »

Football Betting: Why the FA Cup is about glory - not value

Frank Gregan / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The realists may be backing the big boys but Frank Gregan is a true dreamer and that's why he will be putting his money on the underdogs in this weekend's FA Cup Fifth Round ties....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Bruce deserves great credit for assembling his Wigan motley crew

Nik Wardle / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

"Knowledgeable" Nik Wardle tells us why as traditional Premier League teams such as Blackburn and Newcastle are fighting for survival, Wigan's team of little-known players assembled from all around the globe are in no such danger....Read more »

League One Betting Preview: Goals and incidents galore for Yorkshire derby

Alan Dudman / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Alan Dudman picks from the plusher reaches of League One and anticipates an incident packed match in Yorkshire as rock solid Huddersfiled try to contain a certain class act. Best Bet: Back Under 2.5 goals Walsall v Colchester....Read more »

The Championship Betting: Away trip to Burnely is no laughing matter for Wolves fans

Andrew French / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew French tells us who's hot and who's not in the world of The Championship betting this weekend. Best bet: back Burnley to beat Wolves @ [2.74]...Read more »

Special FA Cup over/under 2.5 goals column: Go with goals at Goodison

Ed Nicholson / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Ed Nicholson turns his attentions to the FA Cup this weekend where he's changed his stance on Fulham and thinks there's a big value bet as Villa travel to Goodison. Best bet: over 2.5 goals in the Everton v Aston...Read more »

Ben Herd: A spell on the sidelines has made me think about a career in management

Ben Herd / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Shrewsbury's right back on Tony Adams' sacking, the merits of "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" and why Danny Murphy isn't done just yet....Read more »

League Two Betting Preview: Steady Eddie's great escape

Ian Lamont / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

In the face of adversity, Eddie Howe has worked wonders at Bouremouth and is a candidate for manager of the year. Can he keep up the good work? Ian Lamont previews this weekend's League Two action. Best Bet: Back Bournemouth...Read more »

Betfair Big FA Cup Interview: Watford Assistant Coach Frank Lampard Senior

Ralph Ellis / 12 February 2009 / Leave a comment

It's just like Star Wars in the FA Cup this weekend with a big father v son clash at Vicarage Road when Watford face Chelsea. But who will use the force to make the quarter-finals, we caught up with Frank...Read more »

Football Betting: Bad karma and good old boys

Dave Farrar / 11 February 2009 / Leave a comment

English football doesn't like odd-balls and the sacking of Tony Adams is a reminder of the game's resistance to those who don't conform to its narrow expectations. With two Premier League jobs up for grabs, Dave Farrar proposes a candidate...Read more »

FA Cup Betting: 'Let's get this out of the way quickly'

Andrew Atherley / 11 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Sir Alex and co will be desperate not to add to their workloads and will be telling their sides to settle their FA Cup ties at the first attempt. But do the stats suggests they will get their way? Andrew...Read more »

Next Portsmouth Manager Betting: Struggling Sven should be odds-on - just listen to the tabloid talk

Ralph Ellis / 11 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Experienced newsman Ralph Ellis cuts through the paper chat and can't believe we aren't all piling into Sven at a chunky price......Read more »

Football Betting: England face real test against Spanish dream team

Razhan Miran / 10 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Fabio Capello faces his toughest test yet as England manager on Wednesday night, when he returns to Spain for the first time since clinching the La Liga title in 2007, writes Razhan Miran. Best Bet: 1-0 Correct Score [7.6]...Read more »

International Football Betting: Three points a must for Irish World Cup dream

Mike Norman / 10 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Giovanni Trapattoni's men will have too much for Georgia and Northern Ireland's task is simple against San Marino but should you back the minnows to get on the scoresheet? Best Bet: Back Paterson to Score Anytime @ [2.5]...Read more »

Premier League Review: The Irish Angle

Paul Byrne / 10 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Paul Byrne looks at how the Irish players fared in last weekend's Premier League fixtures before passing on his recommendations to Signor Trapattoni....Read more »

Premiership Betting: Diary entries from a week in the life of Rafa Benitez

Dan Fitch / 10 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The sale of Robbie Keane, late heartbreak in the FA Cup Merseyside Derby tie, an injury to Gerrard and the "resting" of Fernando Torres. Dan Fitch gives us a week in the life of Rafa Benitez....Read more »

Tottenham players: New strikers, returning strikers, same old problems

Robert Hughes / 10 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Robert Hughes discusses how despite Spurs now having a tasty choice of strikers to pick from with Robbie Keane, Jermain Defoe, Roman Pavlyuchenko, Darren Bent, Frazier Campbell and Giovani Dos Santos in the squad, Harry Redknapp isn't actual spolit for...Read more »

Chelsea Next Manager Betting: Hiddink the early favourite after Big Phil gets the chop

Joe Dyer / 09 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Former Chelsea boss Avram Grant is the market leader for Portsmouth job after Adams is sacked in a busy 24 hours for the Premier League....Read more »

Premiership Managers: Do managers or players determine success?

Tareq Quiroz / 09 February 2009 / Leave a comment

On a day when both Tony Adams and Phil Scolari collected their P45s, TQ questions whether managers make successful teams or whether the quality and subsequent performances of players make the manager successful....Read more »

Premiership Betting: Randomness plays more of a part in football than genius

Ralph Ellis / 09 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Leaving Torres unmarked, Joe Kinnear's illness and the failed signing of David Bently by Villa are just a few "random" events that have all played a major part in this weekend's Premiership results. And they play a biggger part in...Read more »

Football Betting Briefing February 8 -14: Spain will be Capello's toughest test yet

James Eastham / 09 February 2009 / Leave a comment

James Eastham looks ahead to a week which includes a flurry of international football around the globe....Read more »

Premiership Betting: Given sale and Owen injury no small beer to Newcastle's relegation prospects

Andrew Atherley / 09 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The last thing you need when looking to avoid the drop is having to sell your classy goalkeeper and seeing your star striker ruled out for six weeks. Andrew Atherley explains how Newcastle's stats without these two suggest on the...Read more »

Premier League Betting: Why the window should go

Feizal Rahman / 08 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The rich get richer and the poor are preyed upon... Feizal Rahman adds his voice to those calling for the abolition of the transfer window....Read more »

Premier League Round-up: Brilliant Giggs fires United to the summit

Maxliu / 07 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Champions win at Upton Park for first time in three years, Torres header completes dramatic comeback and Chelsea drop points at home......Read more »

Premier League Preview: West Ham v Manchester United

Richard Walker / 07 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Upton Park has not been a happy hunting ground for Manchester United in recent seasons and Gianfranco Zola's men are unbeaten in eight. Can they halt Manchester United on Sunday? Best Bet: Back Draw/Man Utd HT/FT @ [4.8]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal

Richard Walker / 07 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Richard Walker believes that Sunday's North London derby will be determined by the team who wants it most. And, while Spurs haven't beaten Arsenal at White Hart Lane for nearly a decade, all trends must end somewhere... Best Bet: Back...Read more »

Premier League Betting: Portsmouth v Liverpool

Richard Walker / 07 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Tony Adams began his career as Portsmouth manager against Liverpool. Will it end against them today? Perhaps not, says Richard Walker. Best Bet: back Liverpool Clean Sheet @ [2.32]....Read more »

Premiership Betting: If you're not happy when your team are English and European champions when will you be?

Tareq Quiroz / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Tareq Quiroz tells us why he's fed up of reading about every last detail of David Beckham's footballing life and of fans that are never content with their team's performances or success....Read more »

Homecoming Scottish Cup Betting: Celtic and Rangers can overcome big handicaps

John Girvan / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

John Girvan talks us through the best bets this weekend in the Homecoming Scottish Cup where plenty of top flight teams are stil involved. Best bet: Rangers -2.5 goals against Forfar at around [1.8]....Read more »

Premier League Saturday 3pm kick-offs: It will snow goals as Villa visit Blackburn

Mike Norman / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

"Mystical" Mike Norman looks into his crystal ball to predict the best bets from six big Saturday 3pm Premier League matches. Best bet: Over 3.5 Goals @ [3.9] in Blackburn v Villa....Read more »

The Over/Under 2.5 goals column: North London derby has goals written all over it

Ed Nicholson / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Ed Nicholson tells us why this weekend's North London derby is unlikely to be any different to recent ones and goals are on the cards plus the other over/under bets. Best bet: over 2.5 goals in Spurs v Arsenal @...Read more »

Non-League Betting: Greatest challenge in this weekend's betting is predicting which matches are on!

Gary Boswell / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Gary Boswell tries to predict which matches will actually be played this weekend. After that, he's on a mission to find the best bets from the matches that do go ahead. Best bet: Gateshead to beat Fleetwood at [1.61] or...Read more »

Premier League Stats: Portsmouth v Liverpool

Bettorlogic / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Both teams are badly in need of a win for very different reasons but the stats involving Portsmouth against the Big 4 don't make good reading for the home side. Bettorlogic talk us through it all. Best bet: Liverpool to...Read more »

Championship Betting: Wager on the Welsh this weekend

Andrew French / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew French is showing faith in the two Welsh Championship sides this weekend and even greater faith in the current favourites to win The Championship, Reading. Best bet: Reading to beat Preston at [1.68]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Man City v Middlesbrough

Richard Walker / 06 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Underachievers, inconsistent and a motley crue they may be but Manchester City do have world-beaters in their team and they are after all only up against Middlesbrough, says Richard Walker. Best bet: Man City to win at ht/ft @ [2.54]....Read more »

Premier League Betting: Panic on the streets of Humberside?

Frank Gregan / 05 February 2009 / Leave a comment

With just one win in 15 Premier League games and eight vital fixtures looming, Phil Brown must keep his players believing in their ability, says Frank Gregan....Read more »

Premier League Stats: Tottenham v Arsenal

Bettorlogic / 05 February 2009 / Leave a comment

You have to go back over ten years for the last time that Spurs kept a clean sheet against Arsenal in the league. More stats from Bettorlogic here and their best bet: Back the draw @ [3.4]....Read more »

League One Betting Preview: Hold onto your stars

Alan Dudman / 05 February 2009 / Leave a comment

League One clubs have held onto their stars during the transfer window and that bodes well for the second half of the season, says Alan Dudman. Best bet: Lay Stockport @ [2.92] away at Colchester....Read more »

League Two Betting: Back the enigma

Ian Lamont / 05 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Don't be fooled by Tuesday night's defeat - Brentford ready to mount a serious title challenge, says Ian Lamont. Best bet: Back Brentford to win at [1.6]...Read more »

FA Cup Betting: Everton v Liverpool

Alsy / 04 February 2009 / Leave a comment

It's the final part of the Merseyside Derby trilogy and not much has changed since the first meeting: Everton still don't have any strikers and Liverpool appear to be the better side on paper. But Alister Morgan thinks this time...Read more »

I'm jumping out of a plane, skiing and bungee jumping as soon as I retire from football, says Ben Herd

Ben Herd / 04 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Shrewsbury's no-nonsense defender on the January transfer window, Kevin Nolan's move to Newcastle, going crazy on the radical sports on retirement and peppering the physio's house with snowballs....Read more »

Football Betting: Arshavin deal echoes Tevez saga

Ralph Ellis / 04 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrei Arshavin's arrival adds an extra dimension to Arsene Wenger's squad but why should Arsenal be granted more time to get their paperwork to the FA? And will Premier League clubs really be consulting their lawyers every time the Russian...Read more »

FA Cup Replays Betting: Sunderland can show Blackburn they're no Cisses when it comes to replays

Jaymes Monte / 03 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Jaymes Monte talks us through Wednesday's non-televised FA Cup replays with an all-Premiership clash between Blackburn and Sunderland and a tricky tie for Villa at home to Doncaster. Best bet: Under 2.5 goals @ [1.84] in Blackburn v Sunderland....Read more »

Transfer Window: Betfair Punters were Keane on Robbie staying at Liverpool

Tony Calvin / 03 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The Republic of Ireland captain was backed as low as [1.03] to remain a Liverpool player and was still odds-on to remain a red on Monday morning....Read more »

Championship Betting: Sheffield to show some steel and Wolves to whistle past Norwich

Andrew French / 03 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew French talks us through the midweek Championship action where Wolves at odds-on and Sheffield United at odds-against look good things. Best bet: Sheff utd to beat Southampton @ [2.36] away from home....Read more »

January Transfer Window: N'Zogbia's insomnia and the striker who went on strike

Dan Fitch / 03 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Dan "The Betting Man" Fitch on player power that has seen Charles N'Zogbia get the transfer he wanted just because his manager mispronounced his name and Craig Bellamy unashamedly walk out on his club. If Only Alf Ramsey and Brian...Read more »

January Transfer Window: Manchester City and Spurs spend big to avoid the drop

Robert Hughes / 03 February 2009 / Leave a comment

After weeks of some comings, some goings and a lot of speculation the January transfer window is now shut. Heskey, Defoe, Bellamy, Bridge and Keane all moved within the Premiership and Arshavin, Quaresma and De Jong came in from outside...Read more »

Premiership Betting: To say goals win you matches is obvious but very true

Ralph Ellis / 02 February 2009 / 1 Comments

As the top eight in the Premiership played each other this weekend, only three goals were scored amongst two players. Ralph Ellis tells us which Premiership teams have the goalscorers to be successful and which don't....Read more »

Sunday's Premier League Highlights on Betfair: Torres' late intervention fires Liverpool back into title race

Joe Dyer / 01 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Chelsea look like holding on to a 10-man draw at Anfield until Spanish star breaks deadlock at the death....Read more »

Betting on Manchester United: Brilliant Bulgarian has the edge to lift United ever further

Andrew Atherley / 01 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Andrew Atherley has crunched the numbers on Manchester United this season and they suggest that Dimitar Berbatov is growing in importance as the Old Trafford club advance on four fronts....Read more »

A footballer with a conscience is a rare thing, so let's not gag them all

Feizal Rahman / 01 February 2009 / Leave a comment

Salomon Kalou says he was pretending to be a wrestler rather than showing solidarity for an Ivorian political activist with his 'handcuffs' celebration in midweek. Shame on you says Feizal Rahman, and shame on the authorities for continually clamping down...Read more »

Premier League Betting Preview: Liverpool v Chelsea

Richard Walker / 01 February 2009 / Leave a comment

The layers know it's tight when the Big Four face off and though the prices are skinny, Richard Walker agrees with them....Read more »