The in-play guide to Bolton vs Stoke City
The Manchester derby is attracting the greater attention of the two FA Cup semi-finals but Sunday's is more open according to the Betfair market. We've looked at three ways to make money as the action unfolds...
Stoke's first-half record is dire
If the final whistle for every Premier League match this season had blown at half-time then Stoke would not only be heading for the Championship, they'd be right at the bottom and seven points from safety, such has been their inability to set a strong pace in the opening stages of games. They've led at the break in just four of their 32 encounters, yet are the fifth finest in the division after the interval, so don't be afraid to pile on the Potters at half-time.
The opening goal time is significant
The last seven Bolton games that have been goalless a quarter of the way through have all gone on to register under 2.5 goals, so in-play backers can glean from that trend that over 2.5 goals isn't a safe enough bet prior to kick-off, yet is worth considering if there is an early opener, while if the clash gets to the 22 or 23-minute mark at 0-0 then a heavy punt on under 2.5 goals is advisable.
If Stoke score first, they won't lose
You shouldn't be put off backing Tony Pulis' side if they fall behind, such is their tendency to improve after half-time, but if they do score the first goal, the outlook is even gloomier for Bolton, as Stoke haven't lost in 90 minutes after grabbing the opener once in this campaign. Of the 11 Premier League fixtures in which they have broken the deadlock, they have gone on to win eight and draw three, not being beaten once.
Click here for a pre-match punt, or to suss out how the markets are shaping up...
Published: 16 Apr 2011
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