Berbatov goal was Man Utd's Macheda moment
The lack of a midweek game to look forward to gives us an ideal opportunity to assess some season-long bets.
The Reds' return to winning ways last Saturday may come to be regarded as a turning point in the title race. Dimitar Berbatov's 88th-minute goal lacked the finesse and drama of Federico Macheda's famous winner against Aston Villa at this stage two years ago but it may prove equally pivotal.
United trade at [1.62] to reclaim their title, with Arsenal out to [4.3] following their draw with West Brom. With the Gunners apparently undergoing their annual March collapse, Chelsea, who are in to [6.8] after an impressive win over Manchester City, may turn out to be the Reds' strongest challengers. But we suspect you might have known that all along.
There's no doubt that the Blues are playing well again, despite the ongoing struggles of Fernando Torres. However, while Sir Alex understands that teams can win titles from a long way back - remember 1997? - Chelsea are probably a better bet for a top-two finish at [2.2].
Speaking of Carlo Ancelotti's lot, it's worth noting that United are [2.12] to qualify from their Champions League with the Blues.
The Premier League winner isn't the only market which Berba's strike could have a big impact on. He's [1.91] favourite to finish as the division's top goalscorer - which is great when you consider that we backed him at [40.0] at the outset - and, with Didier Drogba relegated to the Stamford Bridge subs bench, that looks a fair bet. The Bulgarian only leads Carlos Tevez by two though and, at [2.4], the Argentine is hot on his heels.
Moving away from Old Trafford, at the other end of the table there is still everything to play for. With 20th and tenth place separated by only ten points, it's clear that, as well as the title race, the relegation battle is a big reason why the Prem remains the most exciting league in Europe. And that makes for some intriguing betting opportunities.
Current bottom club Wigan are [1.43] to go down but even they managed a weekend win and with another they could climb out of the drop zone. Wolves are 18th and yet they remain as long as [3.45] while second-from-bottom Birmingham are [2.88].
If you want value, consider a wager on a team that you'd be surprised to see in the Championship; the type of "they're too good/big to go down" club that somehow find themselves struggling to cut a massive wage bill while contemplating away trips to the likes of Doncaster.
Step forward Aston Villa. They're mired in that sinking narrative, one of a clutch of clubs on 33 points but managed by the wilfully one-dimensional Gerard Houllier. They're in real trouble. The Villans trade at [7.6] for relegation and something tell us that price will be narrowing in the weeks to come.
Published: 23 Mar 2011
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