by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Newmarket – 30th September 2017

Today’s horse racing preview selections come from Newmarket, with two Group 1’s on the Newmarket card which include the Cheverley and Middle Park Stakes, a possible guidance for next years Guineas.

13.50 Newmarket – Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes (Group 2) (8f)

An opener that is very tricky with some potentially good juveniles on show. Aidan O’Brien will be looking to land his sixth winner of this years renewal when he saddles Nelson. He is one of two Frankel progeny’s in the race and looked smart when landing the Group 3 Willis Towers Watson Champions Juvenile Stakes at Leopardstown three weeks ago, but for me it was not the greatest of contests, and with an official rating of 109 he will have to step up to prove he is a worthy 11/10 shot.

John Gosden won this back in 2015 with Foundation, his representative here is the smart Roaring Lion who is looking to keep his 100% record in tact. Already proven on the surface when winning over course and distance back in August, however it is a maiden that has not been working out that well and looks vulnerable to better bred individuals here.

I was taken with the way Mark Johnston’s Mildenberger fended off Albishr in the Listed Stonehenge Stakes at Salisbury, but once more that form has taken a knock with the runner up very much disappointing in yesterday’s Somerville Stakes, with an official rating of 104 again he is another that will have to improve to win this.

The value of the race I feel is Roger Charlton’s Herculean who represents the genes of the mighty Frankel. His debut was impressive when winning his maiden at Ascot on soft ground. The maiden is still to be developed. However, I feel he beat a few good types that day especially Owen Burrows Wadilsafa who will no doubt be winning on his next visit to a race course. With a Sire who had a rating of 140 and a dam who had a 110, it should be potentially good enough to win a Group 2 of this nature, the rain will definitely help the cause this afternoon.

HERCULEAN : 2pt Win @ 3/1 (BOG)

14.20 Newmarket – Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes (Group 1) (6f)

One horse blew me away in this field when making her debut at Goodwood, Mark Johnston’s Threading could not of been more impressive that day at Goodwood when pulling away from her field literally on the bridle recording an official six lengths win. She followed that up when winning the Group 3 Lowther Stakes at York in again a style that she was a very nice filly going forward. She had Madeline and Special Purpose well cooked in the Lowther and I honestly feel she is going to be a force when she turns three.

I am not convinced Heartache is going to be better stepping up to 6f on this ground, all of her runs have come at the optimum trip and Clive Cox’s daughter of Kyllachy was probably all out when landing the Flying Childers when beating the smart Havana Grey. Even though she was getting on top at the line at Doncaster, Havana Grey was closing her down despite the tabloid opinion feeling Heartache was going away, I have to disagree.

Ballydoyle send over Clemmie who will have the aid of the tongue tie for the first time, she was pulled from this years Moyglare Stakes purely the only reason I can come up with was the ground had come up to heavy for her, she is not going to get a honest run here either with all the rain we have been having, will she be subject of not being declared again? She is the ante-post favourite to land the race, but at 7/4 there are better improved horses in the race. One of interest is Jeremy Noseda’s Betty F who is definitely an unknown quality.

She won a novice’s contest over course and distance last month, now the race is still suspect with a few not really going on to achieve, however she is the daughter of Frankel, out of an un-raced mare Instance, she will have to step up, however Pat Smullen takes the mount.

THREADING : 2pt Win @ 9/2 (BOG)#

14.55 Newmarket – Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes (Group 1) (6f)

The perfect trial for next seasons 2000 Guineas, who will be victorious? I am probably going to get it wrong as these days you can never trust Ballydoyle, but on this occasion they could have it right with US Navy Flag possibly doing the donkey work for Sioux Nation. However, I am away from the Irish raiders here and feel Karl Burke Prix Morny winner, Unfortunately, has far more to offer.

Owned by Cheverley Park Stud who won this back in 2006 with Dutch Art, have a lively contender here and the fact he beat Havana Grey convincingly and had taken the Prix Robert Papin previously when beating Frozen Angel and Heartache who attempts to step up to 6f for the first time when contending the Cheveley Park Stakes. He is a likeable type who is probably for me at the peak of his career as a juvenile, Society Rock progeny’s do get better with age.

Norfolk Stakes winner Sioux Nation is probably his main danger, he went on to take the scalp of Beckford in the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes with US Navy Flag back in fourth, the Irish raiders I feel look up against it here. Richard Fahey’s Sands of Mali who surprised me no end when landing the Gimcrack Stakes in impressive style, with Cardsharp back in third and Invincible Army back in second who was given a terrible ride recently to finish runner up in last weeks Mill Reef Stakes.

Can he show that run was no fluke, there are more likeable types i feel here, and to follow up on a group penalty is not going to be easy at all.

UNFORTUNATELY : 2pt Win @ 9/2 (BOG)

 

Best of Luck, Bet Responsibly

 

by ·Comments Off on Queens Park Rangers v Fulham – Match Preview

Queens Park Rangers v Fulham – Match Preview – QPR host Fulham on Friday night in a West London derby. Both teams will be hoping for three points to push them up the league table.

QPR have struggled for consistency this season, amassing 13 points from their opening ten games. Three wins, four draws and three defeats have proven the Hoops are capable on their day, but also fail to turn up in some matches. Ian Holloway will be looking for a more consistent showing from his side, if QPR are to mount a charge in to the top half.

On Tuesday night they secured a 1-1 draw at Barnsley. In theory, not a terrible result, but those are the sort of games that teams at the top end of the league snatch a win in. This probably underlines the lack of quality available to Holloway, compared to teams in and around the top eight. QPR are currently without a win in four games, but have lost one of their last five. If QPR can turn some of those draws in to wins, they could have a very successful campaign.

So far this season, Fulham have failed to live up to expectations. The London side finished sixth last year, and were favourites to win the play-offs. Despite that tag, they were beaten by Reading, but many tipped them to bounce back and challenge again this year. Thus far, they’ve struggled, collecting only 14 points from their first ten outings.

Contrasting to last year, Fulham have struggled for goals. Last year they were joint top scorers in the league, with 85 goals from 46 games. This season they’ve only managed 12 in ten, which is a key reason as to why they’ve drawn five of their games so far. Fulham have missed Captain Tom Cairney, who has struggled for fitness this campaign, and without him, they’ve looked half the side of last year. That said, when the Scotsman returns, they will improve, and if they can be more clinical, I think they can make the top six again.

QPR will be hoping Conor Washington can provide the goals Photo Credit: skysports.com

Fulham have won 5 of the last eight games against QPR, losing just two of those matches. Slavisa Jokanovic’s side have also only lost one their last four trips to QPR, making it a happy stomping ground for them. In those last eight games, we’ve seen 28 goals, averaging out at just over three per games.

With the away side in the better form, I think they’ll take all three points on Friday night. I think the best bet will be both teams to score, with five of the last eight meetings seeing both sides on the scoresheet.

 

Prediction: QPR 1-2 Fulham

 

SKYBET: CORRECT SCORE 2-1 FULHAM- 8/1

SKYBET: FONTE TO SCORE FIRST AND FULHAM TO WIN 3-1- 45/1

SKYBET: FULHAM TO WIN 1-0, 2-0 OR 2-1- 5/2

SKYBET: BTTS AND OVER 2.5 GOALS- 10/11

SKYBET: FLOYD AYITE TO SCORE A BRACE- 10/1

SKYBET: WASHINGTON TO SCORE FIRST AND QPR TO WIN 2-1- 50/1

by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Newmarket – 29th September 2017

Today’s horse racing preview continues from day two of the Newmarket three day festival with the highlight of day two being the Group 2 Rockfel Stakes.

 

13.50 Newmarket – Muhaarar British EBF Rosemary Stakes (Listed) (8f)

Not many really stand out for me in this renewal and I am looking at just three entries that are likely to be involved. Firstly, Tisbutadream who has been consistent all season. To give her a realistic chance of winning this I have looked at her Listed Coral Distaff win at Sandown. Do I feel it is good enough to win this? Honestly no. Since being raised 13lb when winning a Class 2 handicap at Ascot, she has found life tough around this sphere. The Sandringham run was disappointing to be fair when finishing ninth and probably ran up to a handicap mark of around 95.

She then surprised me when landing the Listed event at Sandown when beating 93 rated Queen of Time by half a length, so in theory she ran up to that mark of 95, should have won in France but blew it in my opinion and then came back to be beaten in the Atalanta Stakes when behind two smart horses in Nathra and Aljazzi, the winner looked smart. So where do we go, back in Listed company, yes it’s down in class, but has not shown me enough that she can win this.

So on to two horses that competed this last year, Willie Haggas’s Muffri’ha and Ralph Beckett’s Desert Haze. Muffri’ha was giving 4lb to Desert Haze last year when finishing a length in front, they meet off level weights this afternoon and this should open the fact that Muffri’ha should be getting a lot closer this year. Finishing behind 110 rated Laugh Aloud last year, Mutthri’ha went on to land the Listed Darley Stakes. I thought she had a good spell in Meydan this year finishing third on three occasions from Group 3 to the top of the tree when third in the Group 1 Jebel Hatta only half a length behind winner and 119 rated Decorated Knight.

She was probably a tad unlucky not to land her first run back when competing in the All Weather Championships when beaten a neck to Realtra who poses a rating of 105. Her 9f Dahlia Stakes run was all wrong, even though is was a trip she had won at last season she had a few runs before hand, this time it came far too quickly. She has a rating of around 104 which is a solid and good foundation to land a Listed event of this nature.

Desert Haze has struggled in three Listed events this year , and with a rating of around 90 from her Goodwood win from last June, she looks up against it off her current mark of 98 to be fair and has a bit to find with Muffri’ha from last year.

MUFFRI’HA : 2pt Win @ 5/1 (BOG)

14.25 Newmarket – Princess Royal Nayef Stakes (Group 3) (12f)

If form goes to plan then Sir Michael Stoute’s Mori should be winning this. Her second to Coronet in this years Ribblesdale Stakes when beaten favourite is the best form on paper. Coronet went on to get within five lengths of Arc favourite Enable in the Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks, she had Apphia back in fifth a further four lengths back and beaten, Coconut Creme back in seventh a further two and a half lengths.

However, she let herself down when beaten in the Listed Galtres Stakes when behind one of her adversaries here in Fleur Forsyte, I am goin gto stick up for her here and give her the benefit of the doubt with the ground coming up soft than stated in the press. She is just one of those horses that has a serious pedigree, by Frankel out of Midday, how can that not be star potential, though she has to show it this afternoon, and if kept in training next season she is going to be a force over these middle distances like her parents were.

One that deserves a big mention is Andrew Balding’s Elbereth, her fourth in this years Coronation Cup would give her a live chance of being involved in this wide open renewal. Since her run at Epsom they have been toiling with her over the best index for her, obviously 12f on good/firm ground is going to pay to her strengths.

She was last seen heading abroad when beaten by two lengths in the Group 3 Bosphorus Cup at Velifendi, beaten in fact by Godolphin’s Secret Number who ran well recently behind Desert Encounter last weekend. However, this is Mori’s race to lose to be honest, if she is good enough and her pedigree can shine through she has the ability to blitz this race in style.

MORI : 2pt Win @ 7/2 (BOG)

15.00 Newmarket – Shadwell Rockfel Stakes (Group 2) (7f)

This looks far too open for my liking this year, with only three winning favourites since 2000 it just goes to show how much of a minefield race this is. On my analysis, and its taken on trust by me that Tom Dascombe’s Capomento could be over priced at 16/1. Her current three runs have been interesting with a Novice win on debut at Ripon, she was given the opportunity to prove herself early and did not disappoint to be fair when finishing runner up in the Listed Star Stakes at Sandown when behind Tajannus who went on to land the Group 3 Sweet Solera Stakes.

Then obviously they thought she was black type potential when sending her to France to compete in the Group 3 Prix Du Calvados finishing seven lengths behind eventual winner Polydream who is apparently well thought of from the Freddie Head yard. The runner up Lauren’s has recently landed the Group 2 May Hill Stakes, the seventh won a maiden in France, so still unknown quality on how good she is considering the form has become solid.

John Gosden does not usually keep many juveniles going this late in the season, Juliet Capulet though equipped herself well when launched into pattern company to finish second in the Group 3 Sweet Solera Stakes, a race that has seen the winner beaten since in the May Hill Stakes, the third has at least franked the form winning the Group 1 Natalma Stakes out in Woodbine last week, the fifth place Poet Charm won a stakes race at Kempton three weeks ago, so some form there, its the Lauren’s form that interests me, considering Capomento was not beaten far by her it shows that both mentioned could actually be very much involved at the business end here.

CAPOMENTO : 1pt each way @ 16/1 (BOG)

15.35 Newmarket – Shadwell Joel Stakes (Group 2) (8f)

I was surprised that Beat The Bank did not turn up in this years Park Hill Stakes, but nevertheless, here will do just fine as on what evidence he has shown this year he is very hard to beat in this. Young Oisin Murphy is re-united with him, who won on him here at Newmarket last year over 7f in a conditions race. With Ryan Moore retained to ride for Balydoyle, this is a nice opportunity for Murphy to get more of the success he has been tasting this year.

I thought he was impressive when landing the Listed Sir Henry Cecil Stakes by three lengths, the runner up has run well again when beaten by his adversary here Mustashry, Ryan Moore rode the selection to success last time when landing his first pattern win in the Grp 3 Bonhams Thorough-bred Stakes at Goodwood, looks to have the class to land a race like this off 114.

Best of the rest looks to come from Zonderland and Mustashry, the former looked to be cruising to an easy success to be beaten in a tight finish by Lightning Spear in the Group 2 Celebration Mile, how much has that effected the horse, considering it was his first run for a year it was very much encouraging, but might find the selection stripping fitter. Mustashry beat Forest Ranger in the Strensall Stakes at York, with Sovereign Debt back in third, both have to be feared.

BEAT THE BANK : 2pt Win @ 9/4 (BOG)

 

Best of Luck, Bet Responsibly

 

by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Newmarket – 28th September 2017

Today’s horse racing preview and the rest of the week, we take on Newmarket and the Cambridgeshire Meeting. With six black type races to be involved in which includes two juvenile Group 1 contests, the Cheveley Park and Middle Park Stakes. And not forgetting the Cambridgeshire Handicap.

 

15.45 Newmarket – Tattersalls Stakes (Somerville) (Group 3) (7f)

What I have seen recently on the results of previous big races the form has been switching to and from and nothing has really been consistent enough, hopefully this is about to change when Roger Teal’s Tip Top Win lands the spoils.

Tip Top Win, who’s Flying Scotsman Stakes win is the best on paper here, looked to have plenty in hand when going away in the closing stages at Doncaster to beat the tough Tigre Du Terre by two lengths. Tip Two Win has not only been surprising people since winning at 20/1 on debut, but he has been transforming his ability to the track which for a forward juvenile is what is required here at HQ.

But there are significant dangers in this and this should come from both of the Hannon pair in Albishr and Tangled, the latter has to be feared off the back of his course and distance win when landing a Nursery. However, his last run was disappointing when only finishing ninth after showing much potential to win at York prior. If he has overcome that he has to be the most over priced entry for Richard Hannon here at around 12/1, especially as the trainer took this race last year with Larchmont Lad.

Albishr, again from Hannon stable who’s juveniles have been showing some improvement once more, showed determination when battling all the way to the line in the Stonehenge Stakes at Salisbury to be just denied by Mildenberger who rates highly in the Johnston camp.

Question is, has he improved enough from his first run over 7f to his second? Looking at the times and splits he has shown slight improvement, the third Tigre Du Gerre has ran well again when finishing runner up to Tip Two Win at Doncaster.

One I have shied away from is Mark Johnston’s Elarqam, now his pedigree speaks for itself, by Frankel (147) out of Attraction (127), and on that evidence we might see another star. The way he went about his business at York was impressive, the ground will be quicker this afternoon, but the third Buckstopper Kit won at Beverley recently, as has the fourth, Fighting Irish who won a 0-80 by five lengths. Obviously big things are expected for this £1.6m purchase, but today looks vulnerable to a proven winner.

Tip Two Win has to be respected from the Listed Doncaster win, the Hannon pair here also come into this well prepared and in form, especially the selection Albishr who I feel can get the run of the race under Ryan Moore now dropping back to 7f, Tangled returns to where he scored over course and distance, but does look second string material here. Elarqam has a big price tag to over come and a big pedigree, wont find things easy here.

TIP TOP WIN : 2pt Win @ 4/1 (BOG)

16.20 Newmarket – Jockey Club Rose Bowl Stakes (Listed) (16f)

Not the biggest fan of long distance flat races, however Amanda Perratt’s Arch Villain comes into this unexposed, his first run back for over a year saw him showing instant form when staying on at Ascot finishing fourth in this years Ebor. Now he might still need another run in him before he is fully wound up, but is very capable of a big run again now with Jim Crowley booked.

The form horse is Roger Varian’s UAE King, who has landed three races this year which included a 16f success at Ascot when landing the John Guest Brown Jack Handicap, has won on good to firm but over shorter trips. The older generation he takes on here look vulnerable I have to say, and could find this an easy task, but I feel confident that Arch Villain can run a good race once more and at a price is back-able each way.

ARCH VILLAIN : 1pt each way @ 9/1 (BOG)

17.30 Newmarket – Molson Coors Handicap (0-95) (8f)

Luca Cumani’s Rigoletto. I put this horse forward at the beginning of the year, a horse to watch out for in highly rated handicaps and has done himself justice.

He is three from six on the level this year which have included taking a 0-85 handicap over course and distance when ridden under Adam Kirby. Then Jamie Spencer took over and the wheels started to fall off, beaten on his next two outings when beaten twice as favourite. I have made it known on many occasions I am not a fan of Jamie Spencer at all, I just feel his laid back attitude when riding from the back to get beaten a short head is poor judgement of a horseman as he has got beaten many a good horse doing it.

However, he got it right when travelling easy into the race at Chepstow, he cruised into the race and pulled clear in the final furlong to record a four and a half length success. Hammered with an 8lb penalty for the success, and now I have doubts taking on better horses this time around. One I do like a lot in this is Amanda Perratt’s The Warrior, there were if’s and but’s when runner up at Kempton last time and is a tricky customer to catch right, however holds ability to be involved in this contest off a mark of 88 if bringing his Goodwood run to the table.

Reach High caught the eye when winning at Ascot, taking the scalp of super sprinter Harry’s Angel and has not been seen since due to injury and training concerns. Comes back to have his first run for over eighteen months and now steps out of sprinting to 8f, be interesting to see where they are at with him, Oisin Murphy a positive booking. Charlie Appleby’s Night Circus disappointed me when last seen, just one pace and has not come on since landing the Wood Ditton.

Sun Lover has a string of runner up spots to his name, again a concern climbing up in the weights and not winning, His Chester run was probably going backwards than forwards, but an excuse that he ran well from a wide draw. We could judge him on his Doncaster run, but that race has started to have flaws, looks vulnerable now in the handicappers grasp.

With so many if and buts about this tight race, Rigoletto could be exploit it despite his 8lb penalty. Reach High is unknown stepping up in trip and a long absence, The Warrior never found a passage last time, could be the dark horse in the race. So really this is another good opportunity for Rigoletto to land the race if everything pans out for him, can Spencer get it right again?

RIGOLETTO : 2pt Win @ 3/1 (BOG)

 

Best of Luck, Bet Responsibly

by ·Comments Off on BATE vs Arsenal – Europa League Preview

BATE vs Arsenal – Europa League Preview – Arsene Wenger says, ‘there is room for us to be different’ as he decides on a much-changed team to face BATE Borisov in matchday 2 of Arsenal’s maiden Europa League campaign.

The Gunners face a daunting 2400-mile return trip to Belarusian BATE Borisov, and with a lunchtime kick-off against Brighton at The Emirates on Sunday, the youthful side will have a stern task on their hands in looking to continue their turnaround in form after a difficult start to the season.

After a sticky start at home in the opening fixture against FC Koln in which Columbian Jhon Cordoba opened the scoring with an exquisite long-range effort, an Alexis Sanchez inspired Arsenal toppled the Germans 3-1 to get back on track.

That is somewhat indicative of the season to date, granted the North-London side ‘just’ crawled over the line with two late strikes to win 4-3 against Leicester in the first match of the season. However, losing to both Stoke and Liverpool 1-0 and 4-0 respectively (the latter of which being a demolition) brought the return of the ‘Wenger Out’ parade in force. Solid performances and results in victories against Koln, Bournemouth, Doncaster and West Brom whilst earning a very good draw at Stamford Bridge have seen a steadied ship – for now.

Finishing 5th, and hence qualifying for the Europa League instead of the Champions League, last season’s Premier League campaign was a massive underachievement and anything less than strolling to 1st in this group and seriously challenging to win the tournament (and automatically qualifying for the UCL in the process) will be seen as failure.

BATE earned a 1-1 draw at Red Star Belgrade last time out, which does once again create an opportunity for The Gunners to already start pulling away at the top of the group. Such away trips to first Belarus and then Serbia will do nothing to help the challenge on the domestic front, however.

Team News 

Vast rotation is expected, with Reiss Nelson, Jack Wilshere and Ainsley Maitland-Niles all coming in as senior players are rested. Mesut Ozil is likely to play a part whilst still fully recovering from a knee injury and David Ospina will again be used as the cup goalkeeper.

Kolasinac has shown his worth to the Arsenal squad Photo Credit: skysports.com

Player to Watch 

Whilst difficult to predict exactly who Arsene Wenger will rest for this clash, after Sead Kolasinac’s wonderful volleyed equaliser and performance in the last matchday, the Bosnian will surely have a large role. The versatile 24-year-old has proven to be an excellent piece of business for Arsenal so far this season since his arrival on a free from Schalke, lining up in both central defence and left wing-back to good effect. Additionally, the 20-times-capped man has added vital goals to the side, with the equaliser on his debut in the 2017 Community Shield against Chelsea and another as previously mentioned v Koln. Watch out for his supreme physical presence and wand of a delivery with his left foot.

 

Suggested Tips:

by ·Comments Off on Atletico Madrid vs Chelsea – Champions League Group C Preview

Atletico Madrid vs Chelsea – Champions League Preview – Chelsea face their toughest test of the season on Wednesday, as they take a trip to the Wanda Metropolitano. Atletico will be hoping for their first win of the Group Stages, to draw level on points with Antonio Conte’s side.

Having romped home to a 6-0 victory against Qarabag last time out, Chelsea couldn’t be facing more contrasting opponents. Atletico have reached three of the last four semi-finals in the Champions League, including two finals. There are few harder tasks than a trip away to Diego Simeone’s men, and Chelsea will have to be at their very best to get a result.

Chelsea fans will be hoping to see Eden Hazard start. The Belgian was only on the bench during their 4-0 win against Stoke, despite starting in midweek against Nottingham Forest. As Hazard builds up his match sharpness, fans will have to remain patient, but it won’t be long before their number ten is back in the starting eleven. If they are to get a positive result from a trip to one of Europe’s elite, they’ll need him fit and firing.

Morata has hit the ground running for Chelsea Photo Credit: skysports.com

Alvaro Morata will be hoping to impress on his first return to Spain since leaving Real Madrid in the summer. The Spaniard has six goals this season already, and bagged a hattrick at the weekend at the Bet365 Stadium. Filling the shoes of Diego Costa was a task that very few would have envied, but if his early season form is anything to go by, Morata is managing the task just fine.

Griezmann has been in good form for Atletico Photo Credit: skysports.com

In La Liga, Atletico have got off to a good start. They currently sit second in the table, with four wins and two draws from their opening six matches. Having won their last three games, Simeone’s men are gathering momentum, and that’s largely thanks to star man Antione Griezmann. The French striker has two goals in his last three games, and has started the season in his usual majestic form. Since returning from suspension after his opening day red card, Griezmann has been influential in Atletico’s serge up the table, if not scoring, then assisting for team mates.

The last time these two sides met was the semi-final of this competition in 2014. Atletico won 3-1 at Stamford Bridge to take them through to the final, where they would be later defeated 4-1 by Real. Having met only five times in Europe, Chelsea have only won once, back in 2009. Since then, two draws have been sandwiched in between Atletico victories, giving them a good record ahead of this game.

I think this will be a very tight game, with both sides renowned for their defensive prowess. With Conte going away from home, I think he will set up to try and snatch a point, and it’ll be down to Atletico to break Chelsea down. As a result, I’m going for a score draw, but don’t be surprised if this one finishes goalless.

 

Prediction: Atletico 1-1 Chelsea

 

SKYBET: 1-1 DRAW- 9/2

SKYBET: MORATA AND GRIEZMANN TO BOTH SCORE- 8/1

SKYBET: CARRASCO TO SCORE FIRST AND ATLETICO TO WIN 1-0- 35/1

SKYBET: DRAW AND UNDER 2.5 MATCH GOALS- 9/4

SKYBET: ATLETICO TO WIN TO NIL- 21/10

SKYBET: TORRES TO SCORE AND FT DRAW- 12/1

 

Suggested Tips:

by ·Comments Off on CSKA Moscow vs Man United – Champions League Group A Preview

CSKA Moscow vs Man United – Champions League Preview – Midweek Champions League action continues as Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United travel to Moscow to face CSKA Moscow in Group A.

Both sides were victorious in their group stage curtain raisers with the hosts seeing off Benfica 2-1 and Manchester United dispatching of Basel, 3-0.

Wednesdays hosts are currently fourth in the Russian Premier League, a position they will be hoping to improve as the season continues. Their most recent outing saw them draw with city rivals Dynamo Moscow 0-0 in a match that they were expected to win. CSKA play in a 3-5-2 quite often which could counter United’s familiar 4-2-3-1 to see an overload in the midfield if United do not stay compact. The three defenders will be looking to keep Romelu Lukaku quiet, who has enjoyed a fruitful beginning to his career at Old Trafford.

Brazilian striker Vitinho has proved to be a handful for defences in the Russian Premier League thus far. The striker has three goals so far domestically and scored the equaliser in their first Champions League match against Benfica from the spot. Moscow are a very organised outfit that will not only be tough to break down, but are capable of causing havoc to the United defence with two strikers.

Skybet Match Result – CSKA Moscow to Win – 9/2

United will look to keep up their good form in all competitions Photo Credit: skysports.com

Manchester United will be looking to make it six points from two matches in their travels to Russia. The Premier League leaders have shown real intent so far, both domestically and in Europe, that they are back from their dip in form of the recent seasons. New arrivals have all fit in rather well with Jose Mourinho’s tactics. In their most recent match, United narrowly beat Southampton, 1-0, in a performance they will be quick to put behind them.

However, the sign of a good team is one that can win even when they don’t play well. They will be hoping the pace in their attack will be too much for the CSKA defence to handle with Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, Henrik Mhkitaryan and Paul Pogba in their armoury just to name a few. Undefeated in their last eight matches, they are proving almost impossible to get past right now and are favourites for this match up.

Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – Manchester United to Win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 6/4

 

Suggested Tips:

by ·Comments Off on Man City vs Shakhtar – Champions League Group F Preview

Man City vs Shakhtar – Champions League Preview – The Champions League resumes on Tuesday night, with Manchester City hosting Shakhtar Donetsk. A win for City would leave them with six points from two games, leaving them in pole position in Group F.

With the Citizens in great form in the league, many are feeling confident about them replicating that success in Europe. City currently sit top of the Premier League and are unbeaten this season in all competitions. Having beaten Liverpool, Watford and Crystal Palace in the last three weeks with an aggregate score line of 16-0, Pep Guardiola’s men are in rampant form.

With Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus taking a lot of the limelight, few have noticed the goal scoring form of Raheem Sterling. The Englishman has started this season in fine fashion, netting five goals and three in his last three games. Last season Sterling started the season in a similar vein of form but his performances dropped off. This year he will be hoping he can consistently produce these displays, and have his best season yet in a City shirt.

Sterling has been in good form for City Photo Credit: skysports.com

 

Another player who has improved from last season is John Stones. City have only conceded two goals in the league, and that is largely down to the Englishman. His early season partnership with Vincent Kompany looked mutually beneficial, with Stones growing and learning from his more experienced Belgian partner. However, even in Kompany’s recent absence, Stones has maintained the same form next to Nicolas Otamendi, which can only be positive for City and England fans. The faith shown by Guardiola to persist and improve Stones is now beginning to show, with City reaping the rewards of Guardiola’s patience.

Whilst City will be clear favourites, Shakhtar have proved to be tough opposition. Having beaten Napoli last time out, they have shown they are clear rivals to win the group. In the Ukrainian Premier League they sit top, having accumulated 25 points from their opening ten matches. They’re currently on a nine game unbeaten run in all competitions, winning eight of those games. With them having the potential to move in to top spot, they may prove to be City’s biggest test yet of the season.

If City want to be successful, they will need to keep Facundo Ferreyra quiet. The Argentinian was the club’s top scorer last year with 14 goals, and has already grabbed himself five this season. If City play to their potential, I think they’ll grab the win. The irrepressible form of Aguero, Jesus and Sterling should be enough for them, and leave them in top spot.

 

Prediction: Manchester City 3-0 Shakhtar Donetsk

 

SKYBET: CITY TO WIN 3-0- 7/1

SKYBET: AGUERO AND JESUS TO BOTH SCORE-6/4

SKYBET: STERLING TO SCORE FIRST AND CITY TO WIN 3-1- 40/1

SKYBET: CITY TO WIN 1-0, 2-0 OR 2-1- 5/2

SKYBET: FERREYRA TO SCORE IN 90 MINS- 9/4

SKYBET: CITY TO WIN AND BTTS- 11/10

by ·Comments Off on Spartak Moscow vs Liverpool – Champions League Group E Preview

Spartak Moscow vs Liverpool – Champions League Preview – UEFA Champions League action returns with Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool taking a trip to Russia to face Spartak Moscow in their second fixture in Group E.

Both sides drew their curtain raisers as Liverpool couldn’t quite see off Sevilla whilst Spartak Moscow were left frustrated with a 1-1 draw with Maribor.

The hosts have not had the fruitful begging to their domestic campaign that they had wished for; sitting 7th in the Russian Premier League after 11 matches. Last year they ran away with the league, finishing seven points ahead of CSKA Moscow to gain automatic qualification to the UEFA Champions’ League group stages.

The Russian outfit will fancy their chances of causing an upset to Liverpool in their own backyard. Russia is a tough place to travel to for any side with hostile atmospheres, time zone difference and the fact that Russian sides are hard to break down.

Luiz Adriano could cause the Liverpool defence problems Photo Credit: skysports.com

Whilst they won’t be expecting to dominate the possession statistics, they will be lining up to try and absorb the Merseyside attack to then catch them on the counter. Striker Luiz Adriano has been tipped as World class by many pundits and could cause the shaky Liverpool defence some serious problems. Can Moscow grab a huge home win?

Skybet Match Result – Spartak to Win – 18/5

Jurgen Klopp will have no time to dwell on the dramatic victory over Leicester City this weekend as he will be preparing for possibly the hardest away fixture of the group stages. With many doubts still surrounding the stability of the Liverpool defence after another inconsistent performance against Leicester City, the Reds must quickly try to scrub out the errors in their play.

Coutinho was in great form over the weekend against Leicester Photo Credit: skysports.com

Whilst the defence dominates the headlines, Liverpool’s attack is continuing to prosper with Coutinho recently returning to the side after his summer transfer window saga. The fluidity and creativeness that Roberto Firmino, Mo Salah and Coutinho possess makes them not only a delight to watch every week, but a big threat to the Moscow defence.

Spartak Moscow have conceded 17 goals in 11 matches so it wouldn’t be surprising to see Liverpool find the back of the net at some point during the match. Can they return to England with a huge European boost?

Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – Liverpool to Win 3-0, 3-1 or 3-2 – 9/2

 

Suggested Tips:

by ·Comments Off on Arsenal vs West Bromwich Albion – Match Preview

Arsenal vs West Bromwich Albion – Match Preview – Monday night football will see Arsenal host West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.

The bright Emirates Stadium lights will be shining in North London as Arsene Wenger’s side will be looking to build on the 0-0 draw with Chelsea in their previous Premier League outing.

Tony Pulis’ side have not been in great form as of late; having failed to win in their last four matches in all competitions.

The Arsene Wenger hate parade continues to dominate the talks around the turnstiles with many still disagreeing with the Frenchman’s tactics after last season’s drama. Fans are becoming greatly frustrated with Wenger’s choice to not start Alexis Sanchez and Alexandre Lacazette together; it’s been either one or the other.

Lacazette and Sanchez are yet to start together for Arsenal Photo Credit: skysports.com

Complaints haven’t just been upon the attack, as many pundits and fans are questioning the stability of Arsenals defence. Wenger has chosen to line up with three at the back most of the season so far but has often chosen full-backs to fill in the centre back roles. West Brom could look to counter this by lining up with two up front. They have been lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation but could look to push the two wide attacking midfielders forward to put pressure and create more 1 on 1 opportunities. Can Arsenal deal with whatever West Brom throw at them?

Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – Arsenal to Win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 6/4

A team struggling for goals, West Brom will be hoping to turn their luck in front of goal around this Monday night. They are currently sitting 10th in the Premier League and an unexpected victory could see them into the top four depending on goal difference.

Rodriguez must do more for West Brom in attack Photo Credit: skysports.com

Jay Rodriguez enjoyed a fruitful start at the Hawthorns but has since become a frustrated figure at the spearhead of the West Brom attack. His unpredictable nature has always been his strong suit, however some defences find him far too easy to mark. Despite struggling to score, West Broms defence has been more than solid since the seasons start having conceded four goals in five games; three of them coming in one poor showing against Brighton and Hove Albion. Pulis has installed a ‘building from the back’ mentality at the Hawthorns which saw great success last season but has seen them struggle to create chances against the bigger clubs such as Arsenal. Can they provide a shock this Monday?

Skybet Match Result – West Brom to Win – 17/2

 

Suggested Tips: