by ·Comments Off on Fed Up Arsenal Board Draw up Shortlist

Arsenal capitulated under the Wembley arch during the League Cup final, and for the Gunners board, it may have been the last straw. Wenger’s men were completely outplayed and outfought by City in what turned out to be a disastrous afternoon in the nation’s capital. The severity of the beating prompted a furious Gary Neville rant, with the former Manchester United player describing some of the Arsenal players as an “absolute disgrace”.

Neville didn’t stop there and referred to a selection of the players as “spineless”. It was a passionate outburst from the Sky Sports pundit that was justified at the time. During Neville’s time at the Red Devils, he came up against Arsenal each season during his 19-year career.

Neville’s strong criticism of the current set of Arsenal players should be listened to. If anyone knows how high the standards of Arsenal Football Club should be, it is him. There is a lack of fight in the Arsenal ranks. The latest murmurings from North London suggest the board have noticed, too. The Wenger-out brigade look set to finally get their wish. Whatever way you look at it, Arsenal are going backwards. With 11 games to go, they are shameful 1000/1 to win the league. A proud and prestigious club like Arsenal deserves better.

Names like Leonardo Jardim and Mikel Arteta are being spoken about as replacements. If any change at Arsenal were to take place then it would be at the end of the season. Winning the Europa League may still not be enough to keep the Frenchman in the hot seat. At 6/1 the Gunners are not the current favourites but should progress past the round of 16. AC Milan will be the next test for Arsenal. Both of these teams are no longer at the same table as Europe’s elite. As poorly as Wenger’s charges are doing domestically, they are tipped to go through at 8/13.

A poor result at the San Siro could force the board’s hand. Change at Arsenal is inevitable but seemed some way off. This was even before kickoff of the Carabao Cup final. A week is an eternity in football. Another Cup failure and it could be over for Wenger.

There is more discontent in the Arsenal boardroom than once thought. Still, the Frenchman is only the sixth-favourite Premier League manager to be sacked next at 25/1. It’s unlikely the Arsenal boss will win the current sack race. The patience within the Arsenal boardroom is, however, wavering, and punters who think change at the Emirates is nigh can access the latest free bets 2018. If the 68-year-old does leave, it’s hard to see him going back into management again.

This long and drawn out saga involving Wenger has gone on for far too long. When change occurs, it’s easy to see how the fanbase will pull together and make the Emirates a more tolerant place. It’s always said that one should be careful about what they wish for. The Arsenal fans don’t have much to worry about in that sense. If Arsenal aren’t winning trophies or playing Champions League football. How much worse can things get? A top-four finish at 20/1 is highly unlikely now.

As bad as things get at Arsenal it takes a great deal of imagination to see the Gunners being relegated. A different direction is needed even if it means another year without a trophy or Champions League football.

As a club Arsenal have all the foundations in place to dominate English football. At the very least, do a whole lot better than how they are doing now. Once a new manager arrives the board will be under greater scrutiny as to why they had not done it sooner Success and happier times will follow once Wenger has been put out to pasture.

by ·Comments Off on Arsenal vs Manchester City – Match Preview
Arsenal vs Manchester City. Betting Match Preview, Sunday 25th February, 2018, League Cup Final, Wembley Stadium, Live on Sky Sports – Kick-Off 16:30 GMT.

Arsenal vs Manchester City
Sunday 25th February, 2018
League Cup Final, Wembley Stadium

Sky Sports – Kick-Off 16:30 GMT

After blowing the Quadruple, Treble, and Double, in one crazy night at League One Wigan, Manchester City bid this Sunday to restore the perceived order at the summit of English football – and secure a first trophy on these shores for their Spanish super-coach Pep Guardiola.

Rocked, rattled and ultimately rolled over by the Latics in the FA Cup shock of this century (well, City were reduced to ten men late in the first half), recovering their poise and purpose in time for the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal will be a significant examination of everyone’s character at the Etihad.

Or, at least, it should be, because if the Premier League leaders’ fifth-round FA Cup humiliation on Monday was a major setback, the Gunners’ lucky escape in the Europa League three days later, losing 2-1 at home to Swedish minnows Ostersunds (winning 4-2 aggregate) was little better.

Thanks to their own premature exit from the FA Cup, Arsene Wenger’s side have had plenty of time of late to rest and recharge for the crunch games.

Trouble is, these extra breaks are not doing much good. Two weeks ago they were comprehensively outplayed in a 1-0 derby defeat to Tottenham – their eighth away loss in the league this season.

Ten days on a shuffled line-up crash to Ostersunds at the Emirates. That is no way to boost the belief Wenger is about to make it third time lucky in a League Cup final.

The record-breaking FA Cup winning boss still needs this piece of silverware to complete the set, domestically speaking. He lost to Chelsea in the 2007 final and Birmingham in 2011. The Gunners have lost a record four League Cup finals, winning two (1987 and 1992).

Away from the FA Cup, the Frenchman’s record in major finals as Arsenal manager is lost four, won none.

Wenger’s side did take outsmart Pep Guardiola’s City at Wembley in April, with the north Londoners coming from behind to earn a 2-1 win in the FA Cup semi-final.

Much has changed since then. City are way better, Arsenal not as good, especially now their match-winner that day, Alexis Sanchez, is gone.

Manchester City always score. Unless it is against lower league opposition or, Crystal Palace. Only Wolves, Wigan and the Eagles have stopped City finding the net this term.

Arsenal pretty much always concede. They have kept only three clean sheets in the last 15 games in all competitions – all in cups, all when David Opsina is in goal.  The Colombian keeper has kept six in his 12 appearances in 2017-18.

Wenger rarely loses at Wembley. Not in the cups, at least. He is looking to make it ten wins on the spin in knockout games there. However, Arsenal did lose at the national stadium earlier this month – in the league against Spurs.

Referee/VAR: You would imagine VAR might help eradicate potential errors from referee Craig Pawson and assistants…but then again his use of it in Liverpool’s FA Cup defeat to West Brom in the fourth round was ridiculed. Pawson has shown 85 yellow cards and four reds in 25 games this season.

The Match will be shown live on Sky Sports, 4.30pm Kick-Off.

Prediction: Arsenal 1-3 Manchester City

Suggested tips – Arsenal vs Manchester City – (BET365):

  • Correct score, Manchester City to win 3-1 – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Arsenal vs Manchester City – (SKYBET):

  • Popular RequestABets – Manchester City to score 1+ goals, 8+ Manchester City corners and 20+ Arsenal booking pts – 5/2.
  • RequestABets 80/1 and and above – Arsenal vs. Manchester City –  Sane, Aguero & Sterling to score and Manchester City 3-1 – 125/1.
  • Popular RequestABets – De Bruyne & Xhaka both to score from outside the area – 200/1.
  • RequestABets 80/1 and above – Arsenal vs. Manchester City – Ozil to score first & Fernandinho – 125/1.
  • Popular RequestABets – Aguero to score a hat trick and Manchester City 3-0  – 300/1.
  • RequestABets up to 10/1 – Arsenal vs Manchester City – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 7/2 (NAP).
  • RequestABets 80/1 and above – Arsenal vs. Manchester City – Arsenal to win, BTTS, 9+ Manchester City corners and 30+ booking points each team – 80/1.
  • RequestABets 11/1 to 28/1 – Aubameyang to score and Draw 2-2 – 18/1.
  • RequestABets 80/1 and above – Arsenal vs. Manchester City – Arsenal – Aguero & Sane to score, MNC to win, 4+ corners each team, Xhaka & Fernandinho to be carded & 30+ ARS booking pts – 80/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABets -Arsenal vs Manchester City – Aubameyang & Sane to score, 4+ corners each team and Wilshere & Otamendi to be carded – 100/1.
  • RequestABets up to 10/1 – Arsenal vs Manchester City – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and 10+ booking points each team – 4/5 (NAP).

Odds and markets last updated on February 25 February 2018 @16:20 GMT.

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off today. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for this weeks upcoming premier league fixtures including another bout of Arsenal vs Manchester City on Thursday Night.

by ·Comments Off on Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match Preview
Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur. Betting Match Preview, Sunday 25th February, 2018, FA Premier League, Selhurst Park, Live on Sky Sports – Kick-Off 12:00PM GMT

Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur
Sunday 25th February, 2018
FA Premier League, Selhurst Park

Sky Sports – Kick-Off 12:00 GMT

Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur – Crystal Palace host Tottenham’s Hotspur on Sunday in Premier League action. The two clubs are fairing rather differently this season; the hosts are in the midst of a huge relegation scrap whilst the visitors have their eyes set on the top four.

Crystal Palace are currently 15th in the Premier League having accumulated 27 points from 27 matches. Roy Hodgson has turned Crystal Palace around in very impressive fashion however recently things have gone rather stale. The club is very reliant on their few star players such as Wilfried Zaha and Luka Milivojevic.

Without their key men, Palace would be deep in the relegation zone, if their recent poor form wasn’t already enough to worry the fans. Palace have scored two or more goals in 33% of their Premier League matches this season which means they have often been in tight encounters. Their speed on the counter attack is probably their most dangerous asset, which has led to them being awarded an average of 5.9 corners this season in the Premier League. 

Their visitors have also faired well on the corner betting markets this season, having averaged 6.7 corners per match this season in the league. Spurs are currently fifth in the league standings, with 52 points from 27 games. Mauricio Pochettino will be happy with Tottenham’s season as they have made a good account of themselves on the European stage. Their recent comeback from a two goal deficit over in Turin was a very impressive feat.

Talisman Harry Kane has been – yet again – the catalyst to Spurs recent success. The Englishman has spearheaded a spurs attack that has scored two or more goals in 48% of their league matches. He has also grabbed 23 goals with 1 assist; leading the race for the golden boot. 

Kevin Friend will be the man with the whistle on Sunday. The Premier League official has averaged a total of 25 booking points in his 14 matches this season. He shouldn’t have too many issues to deal with as these two sides have illustrated that they very often see the referees pockets. Crystal Palace average 18.1 booking points per match in the league whilst Spurs have averaged 14.4 booking points per match.

Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur will be televised on Sky Sports Football HD and will kick off at 12:00 on Sunday 25th February.

Prediction: Crystal Palace 0 – Tottenham Hotspur 2

Suggested tips – Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur – (BET365):

  • Correct score, Tottenham Hotspur to win 2-0 – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur – (SKYBET):

  • Player to score a brace – Harry Kane – 11/4
  • RequestABet Specials up to 10/1 – Tottenham to score 2+ goals, 5+ Tottenham corners and 20+ Crystal Palace booking pts – 5/2
  • Popular RequestABets – Benteke to score a header and Tottenham to score a penalty – 66/1
  • Scorecast Boost (Double Chance) – Andros Townsend to score first and either Crystal Palace to win 2-0 or Crystal Palace to win 2-1 – 125/1
  • Populat RequestABets – Kane & Eriksen to score and McArthur & Dier to be carded – 100/1
  • Match Stat Boost – Harry Kane and Christian Eriksen 2+ shots on target each – 7/2
  • Popular RequestABets – Eriksen to score from outside the area and Crystal Palace to miss a penalty – 200/1

Odds and markets last updated on February 25 February 2018 @11:20 GMT.

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off on Sunday. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for this weekend’s fixtures.

by ·Comments Off on Manchester United vs Chelsea – Match Preview
Manchester United vs Chelsea. Betting Match Preview, Sunday 25th February, 2018 - FA Premier League, Old Trafford. Live on Sky Sports – Kick-Off 14:05 GMT.

Manchester United vs Chelsea
Sunday 25th February, 2018
FA Premier League, Old Trafford

Sky Sports – Kick-Off 14:05 GMT

Manchester United vs Chelsea – Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte go toe to toe as they face off at Old Trafford, with both teams looking to move clear in the race for the top four.

Manchester United will be hoping to close the gap at the top of the Premier League to 13 points with victory at Old Trafford. After losing their last top four contest to Tottenham a few weeks ago, this game provides the perfect opportunity to bounce back. United are four points clear of fifth-placed Spurs and need another win to avoid being dragged into a top-four battle.

United’s progression into the FA Cup quarter-finals will have pleased supporters. Having collected the Carabao Cup in his first season in charge, Mourinho will be desperate add more silverware to his collection. With the Premier League gone, the FA Cup and Champions League will be vital for them. At home, United are unbeaten in five games. They have lost just once at home this campaign, to Manchester City. United have conceded just five goals at home this season, whilst they’ve scored 29. Alexis Sanchez scored just once against Chelsea in his days at Arsenal and the Chilean will be hoping to equal that tally in Sunday’s crunch clash

Chelsea come into this game off the back of an impressive performance against Barcelona. Despite the result, Antonio Conte’s side looked back to their best, with Willian and Kante particularly impressing. The Champions looked like their old selves as they made things tough for one of Europe’s most deadly attacks. Both Alvaro Morata and Oliver Giroud were left on the bench for that game, which leads me to believe one of the two will start on Sunday. The former Arsenal striker scored a late equaliser for the Gunners on his last trip to Old Trafford.

United have won just one of their last 14 meetings with Chelsea. Chelsea’s last victory at Old Trafford came in May 2013 but they’ve only lost on one of their last six visits. Martin Atkinson has been appointed as the referee for this crucial match. Atkinson has an average booking points total of 39.5, which is amongst the highest in the league. He has also brandished four red cards this season, the fourth highest in the division. As a result, booking points may be something to look into for this fixture.

Whilst I think this will be a very right game, I do think we will have a winner. I’m tipping United to take the points. With Chelsea just coming off the back of a really mentally and physically draining match against Barcelona I think the hosts will capitalise.

Manchester United vs Chelsea will be televised live on Sky Sports Football HD with kick-off at 14:05 GMT.

Prediction: Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea

Suggested tips – Manchester United vs Chelsea – (BET365):

  • Correct score, United to win 2-1 – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Manchester United vs Chelsea – (SKYBET):

  • BTTS and United to win – 7/2.
  • Sanchez and Giroud to both score – 8/1.
  • Hazard to score and win – 5/1.
  • Lukaku to score first and draw 1-1 – 22/1.
  • BTTS, 4+ Corners Each Team, 20+ Booking Points Each Team – 7/4.

Odds and markets last updated on February 23 February 2018 @17:00 GMT.

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off on Sunday. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for this weekend’s fixtures.

 

by ·Comments Off on Fulham vs Wolves – Match Preview
Fulham vs Wolves. Match Betting Preview - Saturday 24th February, Sky Bet Championship, Craven Cottage, Live on Sky Sports 1 - Kick-Off 17:30 GMT

Fulham vs Wolves
Saturday 24th February,
Sky Bet Championship, Craven Cottage

Sky Sports 1 – Kick-Off 17:30 GMT

The Championship clash of the weekend sees league leaders Wolves travel to on-fire promotion hopefuls Fulham.

In Championship terms, it is the immovable object versus the unstoppable force here. Fulham are undefeated in their last eight home games, and ten in total. Wolves are also unbeaten in their previous nine away matches, so excitingly, something has got to give.

After a late surge at the end of last season, Slavisa Jokanovic’s side forced their way into the play-off positions. This year has been similar, as Fulham are one of the form sides in the league heading into the run-in.

The form of players such as teenage sensation Ryan Sessengnon has been key. The 17-year-old (yes 17) has scored 12 league goals and consistently produced quality down the left-hand side. Aleksandar Mitrovic getting off the mark in the 1-1 draw with Bristol City last time out will be pleasing too. The Serbian international – on loan from Newcastle – could be a real asset up front if he finds his form.

Wolves have been runaway leaders in the Championship for most of the season and seem destined for the Premier League. Their signings, including manager Nuno Santo Esprito, have just had too much quality and blown the opposition away.

Despite drawing their last two games, Wolves are still nine points clear with the end of the road coming closer. There are now just 13 matches left for the 13-point gap between themselves and third place (Villa) to be breached.

Seemingly like a foregone conclusion, now we can start enjoying the prospect of players such as Ruben Neves and Ivan Cavaleiro in the Premier League. One can be sure they will spend even more money to attempt to not just survive but thrive.

This fixture sees the two best attacking sides in the league go head-to-head. Wolves have (surprisingly) scored the most with 59, but Fulham have just four less (55) themselves. In fact, Wolves have scored 2+ in 18/33 games, with The Cottagers once again just four behind on that count.

What makes Wolves a superior side on top of their fearsome attack, is their defensive capabilities. No Championship team has more than the 18 clean sheets secured by Nuno’s side this year. By comparison, Fulham, despite their lofty league position, only have more league clean sheets than eight sides, with eight.

Craven Cottage will surely be rapturous in what is a fantastic opportunity for Fulham to showcase their promotion credentials. Cardiff have taken a foothold with recent form but the race for second place is still very much alive. Jokanovic’s side are eight points adrift of The Bluebirds so a victory here is vital to not lose touch.

Peter Bankes has been chosen to take charge of this vital match. The Englishman has given 70 yellow cards and two reds in his 20 Championship matches so far this term. This results in Bankes dishing out 41.8 average booking points per game.
However, both Fulham and Wolves haven’t drawn too much action from referees this season. The two clubs are 15th and 20th (18.9 and 16.9 respectively) in terms of average booking points received per game.

Surely this means the real action will be happening on the pitch and what a fire-cracker of a game is in store for Saturday evening. One that means so much to the top of the Championship in the race for the Premier League.

Prediction – Fulham 2-1 Wolves

Fulham’s home form will help them capitalise on recent stutters by Wolves and be enough to claim a huge win.

Suggested tips– Fulham vs Wolves – (BET365):

  • Correct score,  Fulham to win 2-1 – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Fulham vs Wolves – (SKYBET):

  • RequestABet Specials upto 10/1 – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 8/1

Odds and markets last updated on February 23 February 2018 @17:00 GMT.

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off tomorrow. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for this weekend’s fixtures.

 

by ·Comments Off on Watford vs Everton – Match Preview
Watford vs Everton. Match Betting Preview - Saturday 24th February, 2018, FA Premier League, Vicarage Road, Live on T Sport – Kick-Off 17:30 GMT

Watford vs Everton
Saturday 24th February, 2018
FA Premier League, Vicarage Road

BT Sport – Kick-Off 17:30 GMT

Watford vs Everton – Watford will host Everton in Premier League action at Vicarage Road this Saturday in the late kick off. Both sides in mid-table positions however are watching over their shoulders, rather than what’s going on higher up in the table.

Watford are currently 11th in the Premier League however that means very little this season. Incredibly, they are only four points from the relegation zone which means they are fully involved in this massive Premier League relegation scrap. The Hornet’s have managed to accumulate 30 points from their 27 matches. Whilst at times their football hasn’t been extremely attractive or appealing, it has been efficient. Watford have scored two or more goals in 51% of their Premier League matches – striker Abdoulaye Doucoure leading the line with 7 goals and 2 assists. Their discipline however has not been too fruitful for the club, who have averaged 20 booking points this season.

The man in charge is Anthony Taylor, who is renowned for being a no-nonsense official in the Premier League. He has brandished an average of 37.2 booking points in his 18 Premier League matches.

Everton are currently ninth in the Premier League standings, with a little more breathing space than their opponents this Saturday. All in all, given the money spent over summer, Everton fans have been disappointed with the little progress the team has made. Veteran striker, Wayne Rooney has rolled back the years as he has proven to be the Toffees biggest goal threat with 10 league goals with two assists. Goals have been hard fought for Sam Allardyce’s men – especially on the road. They have only scored two or more goals in 7% of their away league matches this season.

Another betting market that Everton have not been too exciting on is the awarding of corners. Despite their physical and aerial threats, Everton have only been awarded an average of 3.6 corners per league match. Their hosts haven’t faired much better, with an average of 4.8 corners per match.

The game will be tight to call, with both sides sharing similar recent form. There is no doubt that Everton possess a stronger squad that could pop up with a moment of magic; with Icelandic midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson springing to mind. Watford have tightened up at the back following Marco Silva’s departure, with their 4-1 win over Chelsea being the most memorable moment of their recent fixtures.

Watford vs Everton will be televised on  BT Sport 1 with kick-off at 17:30 GMT.

Prediction: Watford 1- Everton 1

Suggested Tips – Watford vs Everton (BET 365)

  • Correct Score – 1-1 – (link no longer available)
  • Anytime Goalscorer – Gylfi Sigurdsson – (link no longer available)
  • Anytime Goalscorer – Abdoulaye Doucoure – (link no longer available)

Suggested Tips – Watford vs Everton (SKYBET)

  • Both Players to Score – Gylfi Sigurdsson & Gerard Deulofeu – 11/1
  • RequestABet Specials upto 10/1 – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 6/1

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off tomorrow evening. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for this weekend’s fixtures.

 

by ·Comments Off on Leicester City vs Stoke City – Match Preview
Leicester City vs Stoke City, Saturday 24th February 2018, FA Premier League, King Power Stadium, Live on Sky Sports – Kick-Off 12:30 GMT.

Leicester City vs Stoke City
Saturday 24th February, 2018
FA Premier League, King Power Stadium

Sky Sports – Kick-Off 12:30 GMT

Leicester City vs Stoke City – Leicester host Stoke at the King Power Stadium looking for their first league win in three matches.

The Foxes have won only one of their last five games but did progress into the FA Cup quarter-finals last weekend. Jamie Vardy’s header secured their place in the last eight as they saw off Sheffield United. Riyad Mahrez also made his first start since his failed deadline day move to Manchester City. The Algerian winger provided the cross for Vardy’s winner and looked in fine form with the rest of the season to follow.

Leicester haven’t lost at home since last year, a run stretching seven games. Claude Puel has turned the King Power into a fortress, which, as a result, has seen Leicester move to eight in the league. With Mahrez back on side, there is a real belief the club can secure a Europa League place. They currently sit one point and place behind Burnley, meaning their hopes of European football are firmly alive.

Stoke have collected just one win in Paul Lambert’s first four matches. The Potters are winless in three games and haven’t won away from home since October last year. No win in nine games on the road has seen them drop to 19th, two points adrift of safety. Huddersfield’s win last week has further increased the pressure on Lambert as he hopes to steer the club clear of the drop zone. Conceding goals has been their major problem; they have the league’s leakiest defence. 53 goals in 27 games averages at just under two a game, which is an alarming statistic.

Michael Oliver has been chosen to officiate this match. Oliver has refereed the most Premier League this season, averaging 38.6 booking points per game. This is the league’s fifth-highest total, although he is one of only two refs to officiate over 20 games. Stoke haven’t won against Leicester since 2015. The Foxes have won two of the last five meetings, with the other three ending in draws.

Whilst Stoke appear to have improved under Lambert, their form away from the Bet 365 Stadium has been woeful. Given the host’s impressive home form, I think they’ll take all three points on Saturday which will therefore plunge Stoke into deeper trouble.

Leicester City vs Stoke City will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports with kick-off at 12:30PM GMT.

Prediction: Leicester 2-0 Stoke

Suggested tips– Leicester City vs Stoke City –(BET365):

  • Correct score, Leicester to win 2-0 – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Leicester City vs Stoke City – (SKYBET):

  • Vardy to score and win – 13/8.
  • Price Boost: Shaqiri and Mahrez to both score in 90 mins – 12/1.
  • BTTS and FT draw – 7/2.
  • Leicester to win and over 3.5 goals – 7/2.
  • Popular Request A Bets – Shaqiri and Mahrez to both score outside the area – 250/1.

Odds and markets last updated on February 24 February 2018 @11:45 GMT.

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off tomorrow. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews for this weekend’s fixtures.

 

by ·Comments Off on Hull City vs Sheffield United – Match Preview
Hull City vs Sheffield United. Betting Match Preview, Friday 23rd February Sky Bet Championship Live on Sky Sports 1 - Kick off: 19:45 GMT

Hull City vs Sheffield United
Friday 23rd February
Sky Bet Championship

Sky Sports 1, Kick-Off: 19:45 GMT

Hull City vs Sheffield United – Sheffield United travel to KCOM Stadium to face relegation-threatened Hull City in an all Yorkshire affair.

The Tigers moved out of the relegation zone last week following their 2-0 victory at Nottingham Forest. Defeat to Middlesbrough, however, in midweek halted any momentum as they lost 3-1. That league win was the clubs first in nine games, a run stretching over two and a half months. Nigel Adkins’ side currently sit one place above the drop zone as they bid to avoid successive relegations. The Hull boss will be hoping that the win can be the catalyst to spark them into life ahead of a run of crucial fixtures. With only two points separating 23rd and 20th, the relegation battle looks to be heading down to the wire.

Hull have the best goal difference of anyone in the bottom eight, which indicates that fine margins have dictated their campaign so far. Goals haven’t been hard to come by, it’s keeping them out that is the problem. Nobody in the bottom half of the table has scored as many goals the Adkins’ men, but only four have conceded more.  Hull have drawn their last four home games, with their last victory coming against Brentford almost three months ago.

Sheffield United got back to winning ways last week with their victory over Leeds United. They followed that result up in midweek with a win against QPR as they came out 2-1 victors. Back to back league wins has seen the Blades move up to seventh in the table, one point off the play-offs. A favourable run of fixtures could see the Blades move back into the top six. Chris Wilder seems to have got his side doing the basics well again, which has coincided with their upturn in form.

Hull have won only one of the clubs last 15 league meetings, with United winning nine. Their last victory at the KCOM came back in 2010, the last season these two teams were in the same division. Simon Hooper is the referee for Friday night’s Yorkshire clash. He has an average booking points total of 41.4 this season and is one of the division’s most experienced referees. He has shown an average of 3.7 yellow cards a game, and 0.2 red cards across 22 games.

I think that United will win this game. It should be a tight affair, with both teams needing the points for very different reasons. My safest bet would be United or draw, with BTTS and United to win a good bet at longer odds.

Hull City vs Sheffield United will be televised live on Sky Sports Football tonight with kick off at 7:45PM GMT.

Prediction: Hull 1-2 Sheffield United

Suggested tips – Hull vs Sheffield United (BET365):

  • Correct score, United to win 2-1 – (link no longer available)
  • Billy Sharp to score first – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Hull vs Sheffield United (SKYBET):

  • BTTS and United to win – 4/1.
  • Clarke and Bowen to both score – 5/1.
  • Double chance, Sheffield United or draw – 4/9.

RequestABet tips – Hull vs Sheffield United (SKYBET):

  • @FootyAccums RequestABets – Hull City vs Sheffield Utd – Sharp to score, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 12/1
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Hull City vs Sheffield United – Sharp to score 2+ goals, 5+ corners each team and 30+ Hull booking pts – 125/1

  • Popular RequestABets – Hull City vs Sheffield United – BTTS, 2+ corners each team in each half and 10+ booking points each team – 10/1

Odds and markets last updated on February 23 February 2018 @19:05 GMT.

More markets will be added later today prior to the game kicking off on tonight. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and previews for the remainder of this weekends fixtures.

by ·Comments Off on Arsenal vs Ostersunds – Match Preview
Arsenal vs Ostersunds. Betting Match Preview, Thursday 22nd February 2018. Europa League, Round of 32 - 2nd Leg. Emirates Stadium, BT Sport 1 - 20:05 GMT.

Arsenal vs Ostersunds
Thursday 22nd February 2018
Europa League, Round of 32 – 2nd Leg

Emirates Stadium, BT Sport 1 – 20:05 GMT

Arsenal vs Ostersunds – Arsenal will host Swedish side Ostersunds in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 tie. The first leg saw the North Londoners run out 3-0 victors in their travels to Sweden in which their efforts have all but booked them a place in the next round.

Last week’s first leg would have been pleasing for any Arsenal fan to watch, as their side ran a rampant display and sent a message to the rest of the competition that they are not to be taken lightly. Mesut Ozil and Nacho Monreal were amongst the goals as well as an own goal from Ostersunds defender Sotiris Papagiannopoulos that helped Arsene Wenger sit comfortably in his seat with the rest of the Arsenal coaching staff.

Their Swedish opponents however did make an account for themselves despite the heavy scoreline. With the less possession during the match of 44%, they managed to get 10 shots on goal with five on target however none were good enough to trouble David Ospina in the Arsenal net. In recent months, due to the Swedish League calendar, Ostersunds have been filling their weeks with friendlies. These have been against the likes of Dynamo Kyiv and Lokomotiv Moscow; in which they were able to draw both. Backtracking to their league campaign that ended in November 2017, striker Saman Ghoddos highlighted his importance to the Swedish outfit. He bagged 8 goals and 4 assists over the season; more than any other Ostersunds player. 

The hosts have been fairing rather averagely this season in the Premier League. They are currently sixth in the standings 7 points behind their North London rivals Tottenham in fifth. At the Emirates they have not found scoring hard to come by as they have scored two or more goals in 84% of their home Premier League matches. Summer signing Alexander Lacazette hasn’t had a fruitful spell at the Emirates after starting his Arsenal career in such bright fashion. The Frenchman has scored nine goals with three assists in the league and the new signing of Pierre Aubameyang has also got fans excited for the Gunners frontline.

Despite their efforts at one end of the pitch, Arsenal’s disciplinary record is far from perfect. They have average just under 2 yellow cards per match; a fitting correlation given the shared feelings of frustration for much of this season. The man in charge of giving the cards is Slovakian referee Ivan Kruzliak. The match will be televised on BT Sport 1 and kicks off at 8:05pm.

Prediction: Arsenal 2 – Ostersunds 0.

Suggested Tips – Arsenal vs Ostersunds – (BET365)

  • Correct Score – Arsenal 2-0 – (link no longer available)
  • Over 2.5 goals & Both Teams to Score – No – (link no longer available)
  • Arsenal to win by Nil – (link no longer available)
  • To score in both halves – Arsenal – (link no longer available)

Suggested Tips & RequestABets – Arsenal vs Ostersunds – (SKYBET)

  • Price Boost -Danny Welbeck and Henrikh Mkhitaryan both to score in 90 mins – 7/2
  • Price Boost – Danny Welbeck to score first – 7/2
  • Popular RequestABets – Holding to score a header and Arsenal to score a penalty – 66/1
  • RequestABet Specials 80/1 and above – Welbeck to score a hat trick and Arsenal 3-0 – 125/1

 

by ·Comments Off on Leeds vs Derby – Match Preview
Leeds vs Derby. Betting match preview - Wednesday 21st February, Elland Road, Sky Bet Championship, Live on Sky Sports 1 - 19:45 Kick-Off.

Leeds vs Derby
Wednesday 21st February, Elland Road
Sky Bet Championship

Sky Sports 1 – 19:45 Kick-Off

 

Leeds vs Derby – new Leeds manager Paul Heckingbottom is searching for his first win against promotion-chasing Derby County at Elland Road.

The Whites’ troubles have taken them completely away from the play-off race. Now in 11th, Leeds are eight points away from their last opponents, Bristol City, in 6th.

A winless run stretching back all the way to Boxing Day (nine games) saw the end of Thomas Christiansen’s spell in charge. Six defeats in those nine games see Leeds needing somewhat of a dramatic turnaround to salvage what was a seemingly promising campaign.

Derby’s fantastic unbeaten streak of 12 games finally came to an end against Sheffield Wednesday last time out. The criticism that can be had is that Gary Rowett’s side pick up way too many draws. They’ve drawn three of the last five and dropped out of the coveted automatic promotion spots. The Rams are now in 4th, one point behind Aston Villa and three points behind Cardiff City.

This leaves the match will plenty to play for, as Leeds are still within an outside chance of making the play-offs. Derby meanwhile will hope to put the disappointment of defeat against Wednesday behind them and make a real charge for the top two in the final stages of the season.

The game is likely to be tense and tight as a result of this. Looking at the two team’s defensive records it would suggest the same. Derby’s 16 clean sheets can only be bettered by league leaders Wolves, whilst Leeds themselves have kept 12.

The Championship’s leading scorer Matej Vydra could once again be the difference. The Czech forward has 17 goals in 28 appearances and has seemed to once again find the form that helped Watford get promoted a couple of seasons ago.

The referee for this one is Keith Stroud and he could have his work cut out for him. Of the 32 officials to take charge of a Championship game this year the Englishman gives out the joint-fifth highest average booking points (with 47.2).

Leeds have picked up an astonishing six red cards so far this term. In addition to their 60 yellow cards this gives Leeds the division’s second-highest average booking points per game with 23.4. By contrast, Derby have the third-best disciplinary record in the league. The Rams have not been awarded a single red card, and with their 50 yellows have an average of just 15.4 booking points per match.

Prediction: Leeds 1-1 Derby County

An expectant atmosphere at Elland Road will be difficult for Derby to manoeuvre but their resilience will see them come away from Yorkshire with a point.

Leeds vs Derby County will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports from 19:30PM.

Suggested tips – Leeds vs Derby – (BET365):

  • Correct Score 1-1 – (link no longer available)
  • Anytime Goalscorer – Matej Vydra – (link no longer available)
  • BTTS – Yes – (link no longer available)

Suggested tips – Leeds vs Derby – (SKYBET):

  • RequestABets Specials up to 10/1 – Leeds vs Derby – BTTS, 4+ Corners Each Team and 20+ Booking Points Each Team – 15/2
  • Popular RequestABets – Michel Lasogga to score a header and Vydra to score from outside the area – 125/1
  • Both Players to Score – Lasogga and Vydra – 6/1
  • RequestABet 33/1 to 66/1 – Derby to win, BTTS, 12+ match corners and 30+ Derby booking points – 33/1
  • RequestABet 33/1 to 66/1 – Saiz to score, Draw, 8+ match corners, Johnson to be carded and 40+ match booking points – 40/1

Odds and markets last updated on February 21 February 2018 @18:50 GMT.

More markets will be added over the weekend prior to the game kicking off this evening. Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and previews for the remainder of this weeks fixtures.