by ·Comments Off on WC Qualifiers – Portugal vs Switzerland – Match Preview
WC Qualifiers - Portugal vs Switzerland - Match Preview

Portugal vs Switzerland – Match Preview – Group B reaches its nail-biting climax as leaders Switzerland travel to European Champions Portugal in a winner takes all clash in the race for Russia 2018.

This game is the definition of all to play for, La Nati have won every single one of their matches so far – including a 2-0 victory over Portugal in the reverse fixture – and lead the Selecao by three points entering the final matchday, albeit with a worse goal difference.

The permutations are as follows; a draw will see Vladimir Petkovic’s side qualify automatically as Group winners and Portugal into the play-offs.

However, a win for Portugal will see Cristiano Ronaldo and co into the 2018 World Cup and Switzerland fall into the play-offs instead, bizarrely despite winning nine of their ten games.

The only time Portugal have faltered in this qualification campaign has been the opening game against Switzerland, not many expected the Swiss to maintain their perfect form throughout but they have given themselves every opportunity to see the job through here.

It would be somewhat disconcerting for the reigning European Champions to fail to automatically qualify from their group, but Fernando Santos’s team have been convincing too. They outclassed both Faroe Islands and Andorra 6-0 and beating the other strongest opponents Hungary 3-0 and 1-0 with relative ease – and Portugal will strongly fancy their chances of breaking Switzerland hearts at the intimidating Estadio da Luz.

Team News
The main man Cristiano Ronaldo started the previous game against Andorra on the bench, despite coming on to make a huge impact and score when needed, to preserve his energy specifically for this crucial fixture – so is almost guaranteed to return to the starting line-up.
Santos will be without left-sided players Fabio Coentrao and Dortmund’s Raphael Guerriro.

Switzerland are facing this crunch tie without midfielders Edimilson Ferandes and the key Gelson Fernandes due to injury.

Shaqiri has the ability to win the game single handedly Photo Credit: skysports.com

Player to Watch
Whilst most will be expecting Portugal to take the initiative and attack Switzerland in search of the win they so desperately need, they will have to be wary of the threat facing their defence, and in particular from Xherdan Shaqiri. Plying his trade for Stoke City, British football fans know how dangerous the winger can be, possessing the ability to create a moment of magic from nothingness – precisely the type of unpredictable quality that could be the difference on a night like this. The ex-Bayern Munich and Inter Milan man has a wand of a left-foot, sparking a threat from anywhere within 30 yards or from free-kicks there may be a specific plan in place to nullify his threat. Hopefully a Shaqiri on the top of his game turns out in, for a 25-year-old extremely impressively, his 65th cap – hoping to add to his already stellar tally of 20 international goals.

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by ·Comments Off on World Cup Qualifiers – Wales vs Ireland – Match Preview
World Cup Qualifiers - Wales vs Ireland - Match Preview

Wales vs Ireland – Match Preview – It simply doesn’t get any bigger than this. Shoulder to shoulder they stand in Group D, just one point separating the two home nations of Wales and Ireland.

There are many possible outcomes for both nations once the final whistle is blown, depending on other results. Serbia’s recent loss to Austria means that 1st in the group is still up for grabs if Serbia fail to win yet again this Monday.

The streets of Cardiff will have a party atmosphere Monday evening with the most probable outcome meaning the winner will advance whilst the losers World Cup dream will be over.

The hosts most recent outing saw them grind out a 1-0 victory away to Georgia with a professional performance given the absence of their global superstar, Gareth Bale. The Real Madrid forward will also be missing the crunch match this Monday, a huge blow for the Welsh. Players such as Aaron Ramsey, Sam Vokes and Hal Robson-Kanu will have to leave everything out on the field to ensure that the £80 million man’s absence isn’t a great factor.

A great Lawrence strike gave Wales a much needed victory over Georgia Photo Credit: skysports.com

Chris Coleman will have a few big decisions to make regarding both personnel and tactics. Wales are most comfortable lining up in a 5-3-2 formation which has made them the hardest defence to break down in the group and allows the attacking creativity of Bale to lead the attack. However, out in Tsibilli it was switched up to four at the back with Tom Lawrence becoming the biggest threat for the Dragons. With many unsure on how the Welsh will line up, can they withstand the pressure from the Irish who need no less than a victory?

Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – Wales to Win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 15/8

Ireland will be annoyed to find themselves in the position they are in, needing nothing more than three points in Cardiff to stand a chance of advancing. Together they have stood tall and made their fans proud thus far in their qualification bid and will feel confident they can finish the job after their comfortable victory at home against Moldova. An early goal from Daryl Murphy allowed the nerves to settle, however nerves will be at an all-time high this Monday night.

Murphy’s brace in the win over Moldova sets up a huge encounter between Wales and Ireland Photo Credit: skysports.com

Martin O’Neill will have to implement an attacking style of play to his side given the circumstances. Shane Long could be a nuisance to the Welsh defence with his pace in behind being a huge factor to his game.  The Irish should dominate the possession statistics, as many do when playing Wales however they are facing a team that haven’t lost since that famous semi-final at the 2016 UEFA Euros against Portugal. A tough ask, but the fighting Irish will feel confident in their abilities.

Skybet Match Result – Ireland to Win – 13/5

 

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Leicester – 10th October 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Leicester - 10th October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview has four selections over three meetings which come from Leicester, Catterick & Brighton.

 

14.10 Brighton – Gary Atkins Birthday Handicap (0-65) (5.1f)

Taajub (73)
Little Miss Daisy (69)
Something Lucky (65)

Peter Crate’s ten year old Taajub was seen winning a 0-75 over course and distance back in May and has been struggling ever since in the mid seventies, however he drops back down to a mark of 67 this afternoon, and with the rating I have, he definitely looks to have a chance to record another win this season. Little Miss Daisy looked out of her depth when competing in a 0-75 at Sandown last month, it’s her run prior at Ffos Las that would give a cracking chance here.

She was second that day behind Gnaad who went on to win a 0-75 and probably ran up to a 72 mark, he has since competed in a 0-95 running up to a status of around 85, so in theory Little Miss Daisy would have to be considered. One that could outrun her odds is Something Lucky who gets into this off just 8st 6lb under claiming pilot David Egan.

He does have something to find with Everkyllachy, but does get 12lb more this time around, and I would not be surprised at all if the each way thieves have a cracking bet on her, overall this should for me go to Taajub, he has been keeping a solid level this season, the main danger comes from Little Miss Daisy.

TAAJUB : 1pt Win @ SP (BOG)

14.35 Catterick – Bet At Racinguk.com Nursery Handicap (0-95) (7.1f)

El Chapo (84)
Ventura Knight (76)
Star of Zaam (72)

Just the five runners and you could make an account for all of them, but the tentative vote goes to Richard Fahey’s El Chapo. The trainer is looking for success four in six renewals and won this last year with In First Place. He has improved with every run since turning to handicaps and got his just reward when landing a 0-85 over course and distance two weeks ago. Obviously by looking at it, the handicapper has still given him a chance off 76 to win again.

Mark Johnston’s Ventura Knight won two low graded handicaps and even attempted a crack at Listed class which failed miserably finishing a wayward last, back to Doncaster when running over a mile she never seemed happy at the trip, back to 7f this afternoon is going to suit, but having to give too much weight and the fact that he has not been running up to his current mark makes him very vulnerable for me.

Star of Zaam has not been beaten that far in a couple of 0-80 handicaps this season, but he will have to step up more than most to get his head in front here, its a tough one as I do fear Ventura Knight on what he has achieved to date, and with De Sousa booked. But Paul Hanagan is back with the old firm here on El Chapo and with now getting his head in front he can build on it .

EL CHAPO : 2pt Win @ SP (BOG)

15.55 Leicester – Squirrel Handicap (11.9f) (0-110)

Sumbal (105)
Soldier In Action (103)
Blakeney Point (102)

A tight race this one. I was taken with the way David Simcock’s Sumbal ran last time out when third at Doncaster in a competitive conditions race which was won by Mount Logan. It’s been over two years since he landed the Group 2 Prix Greffulhe and was unlucky not to add the Group 3 Prix du Prince d’Orange to his resume in the same season. Its hard to figure out his best index as his best runs have come at 9.9f, with one completion over today’s index when finishing down the field in the Group 2 Grand Prix de Chantilly, however there was encouragement last time to feel he can run well again here.

Soldier in Action last win came over 14f when winning the Qatar Summer Handicap at this years Goodwood festival, On paper his best run this year has come in the Old Newton Cup when just denied by Marco Botti’s Dylan Mouth, Blakeney Point was back in fourth on that occasion to four lengths when getting 9lb at the weights. Only 8lb this time around so its hard to see realistically that form being reversed here.

I would like to think that there are many flaws in the form of many here, so the tentative vote goes to Sumbal to improve on what he showed last time out at Doncaster, Blakeney Point and Soldier in Action have their own private battle with the latter looking to come out on top once more.

SUMBAL : 2pt Win @ SP (BOG)

17.00 Leicester – Red Deer Handicap (0-70) (6f)

Borough Boy (84)
Desperados Destiny (79)
Whitecrest (76)

Derek Shaw’s Borough Boy does not win that often, in fact his last recorded win came on the all weather when landing a 0-65 handicap at Southwell back in April. The last time he won on turf came at Haydock in a 0-70 handicap over 6f on soft ground in 2015, these days he is more seen around the all weather, but on his day he can be competitive.

One of serious interest is Michael Dods Desperados Destiny who was seen finishing runner up at Carlisle in a 0-65 handicap on heavy ground. Staying around this sphere and class he has to be feared the most under 3lb claimer Callum Rodriguez. Last one to look at is Whitecrest who ran very creditable in a 0-80 two runs back going behind by one and a half lengths to 82 rated Marie of Lyon, that is useful form, even though Marie of Lyon showed no attitude over last weekend when given a very tame ride by Ryan Moore.

Overall Desperados Destiny and Whitecrest have to be given strong consideration, but the vote goes for an each way bet on Borough Boy who is capable of landing a weak race like this.

BOROUGH BOY : 1pt each way @ SP(BOG)

 

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Pontefract – 9th October 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Pontefract - 9th October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview has three selections over three meetings, from Pontefract, Musselburgh & Salisbury. Sunday was a disappointing day, not because the results placed, but the fact the highest ratings had run well and I did not play the obvious, fault in my part.

 

14.55 Pontefract – Leslie Burton (Fisher) Handicap (0-95) (8f)

The Grape Escape (97)
Me Too Nagasaki (89)
Shamrokh (85)

Richard Hannon’s three year old was last seen winning at Sandown when taking a 0-95 handicap when fending off Sharja Bridge of Roger Varian’s who was coming into the race after winning a good looking maiden at Nottingham. His only run on soft ground came as a juvenile when finishing mid field in the Group 3 Horris Hill Stakes. To be fair his Esher Cup run this year would be enough to land this race with ease, he has I think a few pounds on his rivals here despite having to give weight all round.

Luca Cumani’s Me Too Nagasaki ran well over 10f recently when finishing third in a 0-85 hcp at Goodwood, a head back in fourth that day was George Scott’s Road To Dubai who won a 0-80 race at Redcar over the weekend, but for me his Doncaster run would have to come into consideration here when winning a 0-95 on heavy ground when beating 89 rated Wahash by a head, the fact he is rated just 86, there could still be a reasonable run in him this afternoon.

Last but certainly not least, Shamrokh, who to be fair has a lot of weight to play with here, and is definitely rated for me higher than his current 74 suggests. Fair enough he finished last of nine at Ascot in what now looks a competitive 0-90 handicap with the likes of the winner Addeyebb now posting a rating of around 99 after landing the Silver Cambridgeshire. Shamkokh was eight lengths off the winner that day when running off 83. However, a return to the all weather I think if not showing anything here could land him his second career success as he has won over the mile but as I said on the all weather, but off 74 and I have him rated 11lb higher there is a surely a big run there on the cards.

THE GRAPE ESCAPE : 2pt Win @ 2/1 (BOG)

15.05 Salisbury – Bathwick Tyres Handicap (0-60) (6.9f)

Vixen (72)
Mulsanne Chase (69)
Intimately (65)

There looks some very well handicapped horses in this race on what they have achieved over this distance on previous runs especially the top rated here Vixen who represents Eve Johnson-Houghton this afternoon. The daughter of Kodiac was last seen when beaten a nose when under Josephine Gordon over course and distance, that was over 6f, she has run over 7f as a juvenile when finishing fifth in a maiden at Newbury when eight lengths off a now 75 rated horse. She steps back up in trip and the ground looks to have suited her in the past, off 57 she should be exploiting the current mark.

Mulsanne Chase posted a 68 when finishing last in a 0-75 handicap at Newbury back in July when having an official rating of 72, this is a big drop in class and off 59 she has been given a big reprieve by the handicapper, but her odds reflect otherwise being 40/1 here. Intimately is one that definitely does not deserve to be a double figure price, the John Portman four year old was last seen over this trip when finishing fourth when off a mark of 58 at Yamouth, posting an actual run off around 65, her mark of 59 here she can be involved under claimer George Wood.

This is a strong opportunity for Vixen to go one better now stepping back up in trip, I would not be surprised at all to see Intimately run well off her current mark of 59, Mulsanne Chase would have to step up a lot, but on this ground anything is possible.

VIXEN : 2pt Win @ 5/1 (BOG)

15.40 Musselburgh – Wise Betting At Racinguk.com Handicap (0-65) (5f)

Pavers Pride (67)
Luv u Always (64)
Reckless Serenade (64)

This is a very trappy affair, Pavers Pride gets the top rating purely off the back of his fourth last time out at Redcar in a 0-70 handicap, he won a maiden around Thirsk back in August and the fact the winner has posted a win since off 66 he has to be considered and looks way over priced at 10/1 for Noel Wilson.

The best handicapped horse in the race is Luv u Always who posted a run of 64 last time when off an official mark of 64, gets into this off just 46 which is a stone and a half out of what he has achieved this year. Reckless Serenade ran well when winning a 0-75 handicap at Hamilton around this time last year, however has not really shown that form since, but he drops back to the dead 5f from what he has been competing over recently of 6f.

An each way bet here on Pavers Pride who has been running well and really not being beaten that far on past two runs, Luv u Always is definitely the main danger running off this mark of 46, and Reckless Serenade could outrun his double figure price.

PAVERS PRIDE : 1pt each way @ 10/1 (BOG)

 

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Kelso – 8th October 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Doncaster - 28th October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview has four selections coming from two jump meetings in Uttoxeter and Kelso.

 

13.35 Kelso – Newcastle Arms Coldstream Handicap Hurdle (0-120) (16.2f)

Prince Khurram (129)
Martila (122)
Desert Island Duck (121)

Donald McCain has a 24.8% strike rate around Kelso over the past five seasons, which does reflect consistency around this sphere, he saddles here my top rated Prince Khurram who was last seen when finishing third behind Mirsaale in a 0-145 handicap over course and distance last month. He was also seen last year around the spring when finishing fourth in this company but on heavy ground which he equipped himself quiet well going down by only six lengths, he still has much to offer

Desert Island Dusk market price of 28/1 is over looking the fact that Maurice Barnes trained the 2015 winner of this race, and today’s jockey Dale Irving rode the 2014 winner, both team up here with an entry that won over this trip on good ground at Hexham back in the summer in a 0-130 handicap when off a mark of 106. He is another that has been beaten by Mirsaale this season to over forty lengths, but that day he was taking on horses that was rated 15lb his superior, I would expect him to outrun those odd this afternoon.

Pauline Robeson’s Martila has not been seen for almost a year, however her second at Ayr when behind Space Ship in a 0-150 handicap looks a little average considering the highest entrant was rating 137. Now if we go back to last years course and distance run when competing in a 0-145 she was seventeen lengths behind the smart Wisty who is now rated 143 as a chaser and ended up as a 138 hurdler.

Overall Prince Khurram has 6lb at the weights due to the claim of Lorcan Murtagh, however Martila gets the services of Brian Hughes who rides the mare for the first time this afternoon, the ground should have no concerns being sired by Marteline, Desert Island Dusk could outrun his double figure price on his old form.

MARTILA : 1pt each way @ SP (BOG)

14.05 Kelso – Newcastle Arms Coldstream Handicap Hurdle (0-120) (16.2f)

Weapon Of Choice (120)
Bohornagore (114)
Danceintothelight (104)

I have Weapon of Choice highly rated here, Dianne Sayer’s nine year old looked to have plenty in hand when scoring at Perth in this company back in July under Brian Hughes. He was given a spin around Carlisle on the flat over 9f for what apparent reason I have no idea, but failed and finished tailed off. With three attempts around Kelso at this trip he has not been beaten by far on all occasions, in fact a combined four and three quarter lengths. He obviously seems to find one too good around here, however 107 is a very leanient mark and should go close again.

At the bottom of the weights we have Philip Kirby’s Bohornagore who was last seen when competing a much weaker race than this over two furlongs further last month. He will definitely have to show some of that old form, but steps into better class, Adam Nicol’s takes the ride. Last but not least last time Sedgfield winner Danceintothelight who was seen winning over much further than this that day. He ran well here last year, not on this card but over 20f, but again in much weaker company, does look vulnerable under a 5lb penalty.

WEAPON OF CHOICE : 1pt each way @ SP (BOG)

16.00 Uttoxeter – Holdcroft Renault Handicap Hurdle (0-130) (23.2f)

Sporting Boy (113)
Royale Knight (106)
Muthabir (105)

Today’s NAP comes from Johnny Farrelly’s Sporting Boy, he has been quiet consistent around both codes. His run last time at Sedgefield was over three furlongs more which in hindsight is going to put him spot on again despite dropping back in trip. The ground seems to be the key for him to get off the mark for the first time since June last year when taking a 0-135 Chase at Newton Abbott, his last hurdle win came of a mark of 124 at Taunton two seasons ago and dropping into this off 122 looks a big chance of taking this race under Noel Fehily who has a very good record with the horse.

Main dangers has to come from Dr Richard Newland’s Royale Knight who has not won over hurdles since 2012, but did have a good run at Chepstow over 24f when finishing runner up two years ago when off this relevant mark of 119 and will handle the underfoot conditions. Muthabir won at Taunton this year off 115 and despite only raised 3lb it has seemed to of stopped him in his tracks significantly.

Sporting Boy would have to be the choice purely on bookings, but you cannot overlook Royale Knight who has slipped back to a win-able mark despite being five years since his last hurdle win.

SPORTING BOY : 4pt Win @ SP (BOG)

16.20 Kelso – NSPCC School Service Handicap Chase (17.1f)

Forest Bihan (161) – Novice Ranks
Simply Ned (143)
Wisty (142)

The vast improving Wisty will be a tough nut to crack off his current mark of 143, he has taken to chasing like water off a ducks back notching up all three wins over the larger obstacles. With all of his wins coming at Cartmel, he was a winner around here as a hurdler when taking a 0-145 when beating Martila (Selection in the opener) by seventeen lengths.

The fact he has not been troubled at all in all three chase runs proves he is still on an upward curve, but once more has to deal with a 13lb rise, but has to be feared never-less. Forest Bihan has been competing around the novice Graded rank running behind the likes of Altior, San Benedeto. This will be his first real test around handicap chasers, a 140 rated hurdler which saw him fail on all of his hurdle runs in this country, he has to be feared getting into this off a mark of 154 if showing his recent novice form, but a tough race to start your career around this sphere.

Simply Ned returns for a third crack at this race, twice winner of this race off a mark of 157, he returns this time around 3lb lower mark, however Wisty is a serious improving type and all will have to be on their A Game to take away his unbeaten chase record.

On the overview and ratings, Forest Bihan has to be feared, but his current mark I have given him is based around novice company, Simpy Ned is ten years young, but if returning in good heart he would have to go close, but the 11lb having to give away to Wisty is a big ask. Wisty has to be the selection here, not because the fact he has won all his chases, the fact that off 143 it is very much exploitable mark to win again. a Small mention to last years winner Theflyingportrait who is 3lb lower than when winning this last year could find the ground a bit to testing this time around.

WISTY : 3pt Win @ SP (BOG)

 

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by ·Comments Off on World Cup Qualifiers – Slovenia vs Scotland – Match Preview
Slovenia vs Scotland - Match Preview

Slovenia vs Scotland – Match Preview – With one round of games left, Scotland are in pole position to secure second spot in Group F. On Sunday, they know a win will guarantee them a play-off spot for a place in the World Cup 2018!

After their dramatic late win over Slovakia on Thursday night, Scotland have now moved in to second spot in the group. England’s late winner against Slovenia means Scotland are two point clear of Slovakia, and three clear of their next opponents. If Scotland can match the result of Slovakia and avoid defeat against Slovenia, it would secure them second place, and a two-legged chance of making the World Cup.

Thursday’s win came courtesy of an own goal from former Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel. Whilst the Slovakian was credited with the unfortunate own goal, much credit was given to Chris Martin for his influence in the goal. The Derby County striker, who spent last season on loan at Fulham, has struggled this season, but this could be the catalyst to revive his campaign. With Leigh Griffiths Gordon Strachan’s first choice striker, it’ll be interesting to see who he chooses up front in Slovenia after Martin’s telling impact. Whilst Griffiths has more goals this qualifying campaign, Martin is the better hold up striker, which could be key away from home.

Chris Martin was influential in the win over Slovakia Photo Credit: skysports.com

Harry Kane’s 93rd minute winner at Wembley snatched what would have been an invaluable point from Slovenia. After frustrating England for large portions of the game, the England striker’s stoppage time goal will have been a sickening blow. With just one game left and them trailing three points behind Scotland, this game is a must win. Even with a victory against Scotland, they’d also be reliant on Slovakia not beating Malta in order to clinch second place.

The last time these two sides met was at Hampden Park, where Scotland snuck a 1-0 win. That victory was the start of their impressive five game unbeaten run, which has seen four clean sheets, and four wins in that time. Scotland’s new found defensive resilience has been key, and with Slovenia struggling to find the net, it could be only one goal that settles this game.

With that in mind, I think a double chance, Scotland or draw would be a good bet. Although Slovenia are at home, they struggle to score goals and create chances, and that’s why this one will be a low-scoring game. With them needing a win however, they may have to open up and go for the game, which will leave Scotland space to counter-attack.

 

Prediction: Slovenia 0-1 Scotland

 

SKYBET: SCOTLAND TO WIN 1-0- 11/2

SKYBET: DOUBLE CHANCE- SCOTLAND OR DRAW- 4/9

SKYBET: GRIFFITHS TO SCORE A BRACE- 13/2

SKYBET: MARTIN TO SCORE AND SCOTLAND TO DRAW- 10/1

SKYBET: SCOTLAND TO WIN TO NIL- 3/1

SKYBET: SLOVENIA TO WIN 2-1- 9/1

by ·Comments Off on World Cup Qualifiers – Lithuania vs England – Match Preview
Lithuania vs England - Match Preview

Lithuania vs England – Match Preview – After England’s dramatic last-gasp victory over Slovenia last time out, The Three Lions have secured their place at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Can they finish the qualification campaign in style with a dominant performance over Lithuania?

Lithuania have only picked up the one victory so far, against group whipping boys Malta, so expectations will be understandably high as Gareth Southgate will look for a better showing than the sluggish 2-0 win in the reverse fixture. There are places at the World Cup at stake.

Slovakia, Slovenia and more notably Scotland all have a potential play-off spot to battle for but once again, England have qualified for the World Cup with relative ease, despite not being wholly convincing in the process.

There have been positives, however, the scintillating form of Harry Kane – with yet another crucial late goal on Thursday night – alongside the team’s general resilience makes for good reading. England have scored three injury time goals to claim points in this qualification campaign, and battled to gain something from the match against Scotland, Slovakia twice and now Slovenia.

An impressive defensive record is another highlight of the group; no European team has conceded less than the three England have let in. The solidity at the back has been paramount in the side, once again, not losing a single match in the entirety of the group to date.

With Southgate saying that many of the current squad selected have not earned their place or do not deserve to be there, an extensive absentee list is highlighted. This means that places are surely still up for grabs on the plane so an outstanding performance could give the ex-England u21 boss a much-welcomed headache moving forward.

There is no reason to suggest this match will be anything other than a classic England game, the opposing side will sit deep and attempt to frustrate The Three Lions, but, even if not exhilarating, England will eventually break Lithuania down and do enough to claim the win. A clean sheet and three points should be extremely likely.

Team News
Even with players missing, there is still quality throughout the England squad, and undoubtedly enough to see off the challenge of a team like Lithuania. Dele Alli is set to return following his suspension for a rude gesture. Three strikers in the form of Jermain Defoe, Daniel Sturridge and Jamie Vardy all sat on the bench without an opportunity to come on against Slovenia, so some change may take place up front to rotate. Michael Keane may also look to start as Southgate looks towards nailing down a central defensive partnership in time for the World Cup.

Marcus Rashford can become an England great in the future Photo credit: skysports.com

Player to Watch
Marcus Rashford seems to be completely unflustered, regardless of the increasing pressure of the stage he is performing. A meteoric rise to superstardom has been clutched with both hands and the 19-year-old has not looked back, seizing his place in both the England and Manchester United teams. One of the high points of the qualification campaign was the forward’s wonderful 20-yard strike to complete a comeback against Slovakia. More moments of magic are sure to come in an England shirt as he helps shoulder the hopes of an underperforming nation at the next World Cup and beyond.

 

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by ·Comments Off on World Cup Qualifiers – Bulgaria vs France – Match Preview
World Cup Qualifiers - Bulgaria vs France - Match Preview

Bulgaria vs France – Match Preview – Bulgaria host France in Group A of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

There’s still a lot to play for in the Group with no team securing a spot at the summer tournament just yet. The visitors are currently leading the Group, closely followed by Sweden who are one point behind the French.  Bulgaria still have it all to play for despite being fourth in the standings, a surprise win over France could leave it all to the last day to decide who reaches the greatest tournament in football.

Bulgaria have been in very mixed form the past year or so, struggling to get a run of good results but have proved to scalp a few improbable results. Their recent 3-2 victory over Sweden was a huge boost to their qualifying bid, however they were not able to gain momentum as they then lost away to Netherlands, 3-1.

Often lining up in a 4-4-2 formation, the Bulgarians have illustrated they are a tough team to break down. Despite their rigidness at the back, their attack has struggled to flourish at times of need hence why they are on the backfoot in the race for qualification. Striker Ivelin Popov is the biggest threat for the Bulgarians as he often plays striker, although is a midfielder for Spartak Moscow. His slender frame means he is an aerial threat, however will rely on good service. Will Bulgaria cause a dramatic final day in Group A?

Skybet Match Result – Bulgaria to Win – 12/1

Lemar and Mbappe are two rising stars for France Photo Credit: skysports.com

The French have a very, very good squad of players. Their attack is no lower than World Class and their defence is a force to be reckoned with; having only conceded 5 goals in 8 qualifying matches. Currently top of the group, France will be hoping victory can all but secure their place in next summer’s World Cup following their frustrating 0-0 draw with Luxembourg.

The firepower of Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe, Thomas Lemar, Kingsley Coman and Alexandre Lacazette, just to name a few, should have no issue creating chances this weekend. They have already proved they are very capable of scoring goals with 18 scored in their qualifying campaign thus far, can they up the tally more but most importantly, gain three points?

Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – France to Win 3-0, 3-1 or 3-2 – 3/1

 

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Ascot & Redcar – 7th October 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Haydock & Ascot - 8th September 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from Ascot and Redcar, with three selections across both meetings.

 

13.50 Ascot – Hope and Homes For Children Rous Stakes (Listed) (5f)

I actually feel this race gets weaker and weaker every year it’s run, in seven runners of this race we are still awaiting for a favourite to take the lead and win, once more this comes on the shoulders of John Gosden’s Waady. He is definitely ground dependable and this showed when he won at Leicester over turning the favourite Kachy by a comfortable one and a half lengths. He ran well enough in the World Trophy Stakes at Newbury which was won with authority by Take Cover, back in fifth was Mirza just half a length and returns for another crack at this race after finishing a close third last year and as we saw with Take Cover 10 years old is no reflection if you still have the desire, but will have it all to do from Stall 1.

Waady for me is very hit and miss, that was his first recorded win for over two years and even though he does get his ground,, the 6/4 market check is worth taking on. Now there has never been a filly to win this race, a handful have tried but this has been a race competed by mares, not many fillies have taken their chances and one here that could change all that is Clive Cox’s improving filly Razzmatazz who won nicely at Kempton at odds of 50/1, showed that was no fluke when taking a big hike up in class and was just denied again by a length in the Listed Scarborough Stakes.

That was her first try at 5f after dropping back from 6f, she adapted herself well and showed plenty of speed in the early stages on this ground, I feel she will run her race again and at 10/1, I do not think she will be far away from what looks a very open renewal here at Ascot.

Mirza returns to try and go two places better, but the voodoo has shown that horses returning have failed to win this second time around, Waady gets stall 8 which is a good place to be, he loves the ground, gets Jim Crowley on board who has a knack of riding well on tv on a Saturday, and then we have this little filly Razzmatazz, I put her up when she ran second in the Doncaster Listed race and I cannot desert her now, she still looks open to improvement and running a 61.24 on only her fourth in this ground is surely an each way bet to nothing.

RAZZMATAZZ : 1pt each way @ 10/1 (BOG)

14.25 Ascot – Gigaset Cumberland Lodge Stakes (Group 3) (11.9f)

Now Andre Fabre would not send over Waldgeist just for a day trip here at Ascot, this colt thrives in the autumn and once more should be too good for these exposed pattern contenders. His second in the Prix du Jockey Club is far superior than anything in this race has achieved this season, That Chantilly race is working out well, War Decree came out and won the Koffy Diamond Stakes in style, the fourth and sixth ran well in the Hampton Court Stakes thereafter.

Fourth in the Irish Derby behind St Leger winner Capri, Cracksman came out and won the Prix Niel, Taj Mahal finished fifth in the Irish Champion Stakes The form has stacked up in his favour, now all he has to do is show he is the best here, jockey bookings is mysterious as Maxim Guyon must have bigger fish to fry elsewhere. Can he be troubled in this? Realistically no, but stranger results have been coming in over the past few weeks, if there was one it would be Godolphin’s Secret Number, who’s third to Desert Encounter last week would be enough to go close under Gerard Mosse, however having to give 11lb to the filly is a tough ask.

WALDGEIST : 2pt Win @ 11/10 (BOG)

15.20 Redcar – Totepool Two Year Old Trophy (Listed) (6f)

Consistency is the key here and the fact Paul Hanagan has elected Crownthorpe could be a tip in itself. He gets into this with no weight what so ever, just 8st 3lb and they have kept him busy over 7f on soft ground this season. Goes well in soft conditions, drops back to 6f for the very first time in his career, gets a good draw in stall 19, has to be there on the premises.

Dangers, I do not have that many really, Foxtrot Lady’s second to the smart Beshaayir recently has to warrant respect, Willie Haggas’s Green Fortune could return to form who looked totally out of his depth in the Group 3 Serenia Stakes, Richard Hannon’s Billy Dylan handles soft ground but again will have to improve to win this. There’s twenty three runners still declared, its a minefield to be honest, but I will stick with Crownthorpe at the bottom of the weights here to go close.

CROWNTHORPE : 1pt each way @ 8/1 (BOG)

 

Best of Luck, Bet Responsibly

 

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by ·Comments Off on World Cup Qualifiers – Bosnia vs Belgium – Match Preview
World Cup Qualifiers - Bosnia vs Belgium - Match Preview

Bosnia vs Belgium – Match Preview – With Belgium already qualified as winners of Group H, all eyes are on Bosnia as the top two meet in a crucial game.

With two games to spare, Belgium have booked their place in Russia next summer. Dropping only two points all campaign, they have romped to the top of the group, and have placed themselves as one of the favourites for next year’s competition. With 32 goals scored and only three conceded in eight matches, they’re averaging four goals a game, which is largely down to the form of Romelu Lukaku.

The Manchester United man has ten goals so far in qualifying, sitting him third in the leader board. The Belgium striker has averaged a goal every 61 minutes, which is again the third best record in the qualifying rankings. Lukaku has also been producing this form at club level as well, netting seven goals in seven games for his new employers. Whilst Roberto Martinez may opt to rest his star striker, Lukaku will be chomping at the bit to add more goals to his impressive tally.

Lukaku has been in great form and may be on the bench as Belgium have already qualified Photo Credit: skysports.com

For Bosnia, this is a huge match. They currently occupy second place, which would earn them a play off spot. With only two games left to play, they have Greece breathing down their necks, who are just a point behind them. Cyprus, who are also in the running, and four points adrift of Bosnia, play Greece at the same time as this game. With one of those two teams guaranteed to drop points, a win for them could be huge. If Bosnia and Cyprus were both to win, it would secure second spot for them with a game still left to play. Their fate is certainly in their own hands, but facing an unbeaten Belgium side will not be easy, even if they’re already through.

When these two met last October, the Belgians ran riot, slotting four past a helpless Bosnian defence. That day Lukaku grabbed one of the goals as they comfortably dispatched their opposition, but this match is a totally different game. Bosnia’s main threat is offensively, with 19 goals so far, averaging at nearly 2.5 a game. At the back however, they are weaker. They’ve shipped eight goals so far, which is the same amount as Belgium and Cyprus together.

If Bosnia are going to get anything from this match, they’re going to have tighten up defensively. I think the starting eleven Martinez picks will be key, but Belgium should still get the job done and come away with a win.

 

Prediction: Bosnia 1-2 Belgium

SKYBET: CORRECT SCORE 2-1 BELGIUM- 17/2
SKYBET: LUKAKU TO SCORE A BRACE- 5/1
SKYBET: HAZARD TO SCORE FIRST AND BELGIUM TO WIN 3-0- 120/1
SKYBET: BELGIUM TO WIN FROM BEHIND- 12/1
SKYBET: DZEKO AND LUKAKU TO BOTH SCORE- 7/2
SKYBET: BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE AND DRAW- 3/1