by ·Comments Off on Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton – Match Preview

Saturday’s evening kick off comes from Wembley Stadium with Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton. The Toffee’s are looking for their first win in 5 games.

Spurs come into this game with four wins from their last five games, having secured their place in the FA Cup fourth-round last time out. Mauricio Pochettino’s side find themselves three points outside the top four in fifth place, with Liverpool just ahead of them. With the Reds facing Manchester City on Sunday, it’s vital that Tottenham take advantage of any dropped points as they look to close the gap.

Kane has looked unstoppable in the past few games for Spurs Photo Credit: skysports.com

With games against Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal all to come at the beginning of February, Spurs need to make sure they take points of the teams they’re expected to beat. After Everton, they face trips to Southampton and then Newport in the FA Cup, two games they must win. If Pochettino wants to secure a third consecutive top-four finish, making sure they don’t lose against surrounding teams is vital. Spurs have only taken three points in games against ‘the big five’ having lost four of those. That record needs to improve.

After a fantastic start to life under Sam Allardyce, Everton have stalled in recent weeks. Without a win in five games, the Toffees have lost their last three. Last week’s 2-1 defeat to Liverpool in the Merseyside derby also means they’re out of the FA Cup. With Premier League consolidation the target, it’s important Allardyce uses this time to suss out his squad to prepare for next summer.

This game could also see the debut of new signing Cenk Tosun. The Turkish international has signed from Besiktas for a reported fee of 25 million pounds. Evertonians will be hoping their new striker can provide much-needed support for youngster Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as they look to replace the goals of Romelu Lukaku.

Everton’s new signing, Cenk Tosun, could feature against Spurs this Saturday Photo Credit: skysports.com

Tottenham are unbeaten in their last ten meetings with Everton, winning five and drawing five. The Toffees haven’t won away against Spurs since 2008. Craig Pawson will be the man in the middle at Wembley, with the Englishman holding the highest average booking points in the league. Having shown an average of 3.8 yellow cards and 0.2 red cards in his 16 games, Pawson finds himself top with an average of 44.4.

With Spurs in good form recently and with big games to follow, I think they’ll get the three points here. Everton don’t travel particularly well, having only won on the road once this season. I think over 2.5 goals is a good bet, with Spurs knocking in 16 goals in their last five home games.

 

Prediction: Tottenham 3-1 Everton

Suggested Tips

(SKYBET)

CORRECT SCORE – SPURS TO WIN 3-1- 10/1

KANE TO SCORE A BRACE- 9/4

ROONEY AND ALLI TO SCORE- 10/1

BTTS AND SPURS TO WIN- 21/10

TOTTENHAM TO WIN BY EXACTLY TWO GOALS- 11/4

(BET365)

OVER 2.5 GOALS – (link no longer available)

HALF TIME/ FULL TIME – DRAW/TOTTENHAM – (link no longer available)

ANYTIME GOALSCORER – GYLFI SIGURDSSON – (link no longer available)

FIRST GOALSCORER – HARRY KANE – (link no longer available)

 

by ·Comments Off on Sheffield Utd vs Sheffield Wednesday – Match Preview

The Steel City derby takes place this Friday with Sheffield Utd vs Sheffield Wednesday in the Skybet Championship. New Wednesday manager Jos Luhukay faces a tough test in his first game in charge against their city rivals.

The Dutch manager has managed in Germany all his career, with teams in both the Bundesliga and 2.Bundesliga. He is known as ‘the Bundesliga promotion expert’ in Germany, having guided Borussia Monchengladbach, Augsburg and Hertha Berlin into the top flight of German football. He has achieved promotion with every club he’s been at; a record that is unmatched in Germany.

Jos Luhukay is the new Sheffield Wednesday manager, taking over from Carlos Carvalhal Photo Credit: skysports.com

With Hertha Berlin, he steered the club back to the top flight at the first time of asking, achieving the record number of points in the division’s history with 76 points from 34 games. Luhukay’s sole focus is to get Wednesday back into the Premier League, as soon as possible. With the Owls currently sitting in 16th place, 13 points off the play-offs, it’s unlikely that it will be this season. Luhukay will be able to use the rest of the campaign to assess his squad before the summer transfer window.

Wednesday come into this game with more than 10 first-team absentees. Injuries to Wednesday has been a factor in their lowly league position. They will be without a number of key players at Bramall Lane with Barry Bannan, Sam Hutchinson, Tom Lees, Kieran Lee, Gary Hooper and Fernando Forestieri just a few of the big names missing.

After their memorable 4-2 win at Hillsborough earlier in the season, Sheffield United will be hoping to do the double over their arch-rivals. A win would also move the Blades back into the play-off places and up to fifth. Chris Wilder could give a debut to new signing Ryan Leonard after the former Southend playmaker completed his move last week. Lee Evans looks to be on his way to Bramall Lane from Wolves but a deal has not been completed yet.

Clarke scored a brace in the reverse fixture when Sheff Utd won 4-2 at Hillsborough Photo Credit: skysports.com

Despite only winning two of their last ten games in all competitions, United coming into this game in the best form. Of those ten games, Chris Wilder’s side also drew three of them, including points against promotion rivals, Aston Villa and Derby County. Wednesday, by contrast, have collected just seven points from their last ten league games, with only one win in that time.

David Coote will be in charge of the Steel City derby. Coote has just the one red card to his name, to John Fleck of Sheff Utd and has shown an average of 3.9 yellow cards a game, with his average booking points total at 41.1.

Whilst I think this will be a much tighter affair than some have predicted, I think Sheffield United will get the win. It is, however, certainly the platform for Luhukay to make a name for himself.

 

Prediction: Sheffield United 2-1 Sheffield Wednesday

 

Suggested Tips

(SkyBet)

CORRECT SCORE UNITED TO WIN 2-1- 15/2

CLARKE TO SCORE FIRST AND DRAW 1-1- 18/1

RHODES TO SCORE AND WIN- 11/1  

DONALDSON AND REACH TO BOTH SCORE- 14/1

BTTS IN BOTH HALVES- 20/1– (Happened last time)

BTTS AND WEDNESDAY TO WIN- 8/1

(BET365)

 TOTAL GOALS/BTTS – OVER 2.5 AND YES – (link no longer available)

 HALF TIME/FULL TIME – SHEFF UTD/DRAW – (link no longer available)

 FULL TIME RESULT – DRAW – (link no longer available)

by ·Comments Off on NFL – Divisional Playoff Round Preview

The road to the Super Bowl continues as the divisional playoff round takes place this weekend after last week’s wildcard round. The top eight teams from the AFC and the NFC compete to reach the conference championships ahead of Super Bowl LII.

Divisional Playoff – Saturday

Falcons at Eagles ( NFC)

The Falcons have been hot these past 5 weeks and the defending NFC champs are looking to defend their crown. Meanwhile, the number 1 seed, the Eagles, are coming off their bye week which not only helps gain familiarity with their backup QB, but also gave them a chance to nurse injuries. The falcons are favored slightly and seemed to have figured things out on both sides of the ball. With the injury to their MVP candidate starting QB Carson Wentz, the Eagles haven’t looked the same therefore, in this one I expect them to compete but ultimately fall short.

Falcons to Win –  27-17

Ryan: 315 YDS, 3 TDs
Freeman: 105 Total YDS, 1 Rushing TD
Jones: 95 YDS, 1 REC TD

Skybet Handicap and Total Points – Atlanta Falcons -2.5 and Under 45.5 Total Match Points – 6/4

 

Titans at Patriots (AFC)

The Titans upset the Chiefs last week in their epic comeback win, they are on the road against the number 1 seed and defending SB champs in a game where weather will most likely play a role. Playing outdoors in sub 0 degree weather will limit big passing plays and time of possession will be key. While the Titans’ run game in the 2nd half last week was good, I don’t expect that momentum to carry over.

Patriots to Win – 24-14

Brady: 245 YDS, 2 TDs
Lewis: 88 YDS, 1 Rushing TD
Gronkowski: 85 YDS, 1 TD

Skybet Home Points – New England Patriots 0-25 Points – 2/1

Divisional Playoff – Sunday

Jaguars at Steelers (AFC)

When these two teams met earlier in the season the Jags dominated with their defense forcing 5 turnovers. The top rated pass defense will be facing a Steelers team off a bye, and a much better team than back in the early month of the season. The Jags offense hasn’t been consistent all year and on the road they will look towards their run game for any hope. In the end the Steelers are hungry, getting healthy and in revenge mode and as a result will be too much for the jags to handle.

Steelers to Win –  24-10

Roethlisberger:
265 YDS, 2 TDs
Bell: 140 YDS, 2 Rushing TDs
Brown: 115 YDS, 1 REC TD

Skybet Handicap and Total Points – Pittsburgh Steelers -7.5 and Under 42.5 Total Match Points – 9/4

Saints at Vikings ( NFC)

These two teams met in the first game of the season in which the Vikings won, however a whole lot has changed since. The number 2 seed Vikings coming off a bye are favored slightly and are looking to be the first team in NFL history to have a home Super Bowl game. Their top 3 rated defense has lead the way though will have a big task at hand facing the hot Saints offense. The Saints won a thriller last week and will be leaning on their veteran QB Drew Brees to lead them to victory. This will be the game of the weekend in my eyes. In a down to the wire game, I have the Saints on the road edging it out.

Saints to Win –  21-20

Brees: 255 YDS, 2 TDs
Kumara: 88 YDS
Ingram: 75 YDS, 1 Rush TD

Skybet Match Result – Saints to Win – 13/8

 

**4 Fold Win Accumulator – Falcons, Patriots, Steelers and the Saints ALL to WIN @ 5/1 (SkyBet)**

 

by ·Comments Off on Celebrity Big Brother 2018 – Betting Preview

Another year goes by and to kick things off, Channel 5 bring us Celebrity Big Brother 2018, with 16 contestants all living together for a month. A whole host of personalities will be ready to clash and give the public something to talk about.

This year, the house began with bringing in the female contestants first, to mark the centenary of the female vote in 1918. The likes of ex Tory MP, Ann Widdecombe, glamour model, Jess Impiazzi, Boris Johnson’s sister, Rachel, and 5 more female contestants have all been entered into the house since last Tuesday.

On Friday, 8 men were added to the house, with ex footballer, John Barnes, former Boyzone member, Shane Lynch, Australian drag queen, Courtney Act and 5 others to currently complete the house with 16 contestants.

 

Here are our top 5 contenders to make it to the final stage of the show:

Courtney Act

Photo Credit: twitter.com/courtneyact

Courtney Act – Real name Shane Gilberto Jenek –  is an Australian drag queen, singer and TV personality. She was on Australian Pop Idol in 2003 and has released a single. Courtney was also the foreign correspondent for the 2016 US elections for a Australian pop website. She is 9/4 to win CBB 2018.

Shane Lynch

Photo Credit: twitter.com/shanelynchlife

Shane Lynch is a former member of boyband, Boyzone. He is a singer/songwriter and an actor. This is not his first time on a reality show as Shane was on The Games in 2004 and Love Island in 2006. Shane is 8/1 to win CBB 2018.

Jess Impiazzi

Photo Credit: twitter.com/jess_impiazzi

Jess Impiazzi is an actress and businesswoman who has also been a glamour model in the UK. She has a fashion line called HD Female. Jess also does her bit for good causes as she has lobbied for equal rights for those discriminated against using guide dogs. She has featured on TV shows such as The Only Way Is Essex and Ex on the Beach. Most recently, in 2016, she was linked romantically to Hollywood actor, Charlie Sheen. Jess is 11/1 to Win CBB 2018.

Amanda Barrie

Photo Credit: tv.bt.com

Amanda Barrie is best known for her time on Coronation Street, as the character, Alma Sedgewick. She has featured on the show for 23 years. She has also been an actress on two Carry On films and the TV series, Benidorm. Amanda is 16/1 to win CBB 2018.

John Barnes

Photo Credit: twitter.com/officialbarnesy

 

John Barnes is a former Liverpool and England footballer. He has also played for Watford, Newcastle and Charlton. Barnes had a stint as head coach of Scottish side, Celtic, but was sacked after a year. He is now a pundit and commentator for ESPN. John Barnes is 16/1 to win CBB 2018.

 

Another 11 contestants are in the house and they are: Andrew Brady (5/1), Daniel O’Reilly (6/1), Maggie Oliver (10/1), Malika Haqq (16/1), Ann Widdicombe (20/1), Rachel Johnson (22/1), Ashley James (33/1), Ginuwine (40/1), Wayne Sleep (40/1), India Willoughby (50/1) and Jonny Mitchell (50/1).

 

All Odds are from SkyBet and correct as of 12pm, 09/01/2018.

by ·Comments Off on Carabao Cup – Man City vs Bristol City – Semi Final 1st Leg Preview

The Carabao Cup Semi Final begins with the 1st leg from the Etihad Stadium with Man City vs Bristol City. Can the Championship side produce a stunning result to take back to Ashton Gate?

 The Robins gave Ashton Gate one of its greatest ever day by beating Manchester United 2-1 in the quarter-finals. Korey Smith scored deep into injury time to secure passage into the final four and his own name in Bristol City folklore.

 An even greater challenge is impending for Lee Johnson’s men, drawing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.

 Bristol City have surpassed all expectations this season. Despite losing their last two league matches, are still 4th in The Championship. Only two points adrift of Derby County in the automatic promotion places.

Sterling and Sane could both start and will be a huge threat to the Bristol City defence Photo Credit: skysports.com

 

Manchester City are too having an incredible season because a record-breaking 18 consecutive victories has soared The Sky Blues to an unassailable 15-point lead in the league. With thoughts now cast to matching Arsenal’s ‘Invincibles’ achievement of 2003/04.

 Guardiola’s men are still fighting on all four fronts, winning their Champions League group rewarded them with a tie against FC Basel in the last 16. Coming from behind to beat Burnley 4-1 saw them through to the 4th round of the FA Cup, and are also favourites to make it to the FA Cup final.

 The beautiful style of football and the relentless, single-minded nature of this team could set them apart from English predecessors. Guardiola said of this competition: “So important, a win helps to win more.”

Korey Smith grabbed the all important winner against Man Utd in the Quarter Finals Photo Credit: skysports.com

It would be a huge underdog story of the highest order should Bristol City topple their Goliath counterparts. After defeating four Premier League teams to get here, they will be full of belief and raring to go.

Stats

Manchester City have not been afraid to get stuck in and as a result, they have received 38 yellow cards and two reds in the Premier League this season. An average of 18.6 booking points per game, 7th on our club card stats table.

 Bristol City have racked up two reds alongside their 47 yellows for a total of 20 booking points per match.

 It would take a brave person to bet on a Bristol City clean sheet. Manchester City have only failed to score once all season (against Crystal Palace). They have been smashing them in from all angles. They also have an excellent clean sheet record, only Manchester United can best their 11 shutouts this term.

The Robins have been potent in front of goal. Their 40 strikes in The Championship only bettered by Derby’s 41 and leaders Wolves’ 50. They have kept eight clean sheets in the league, which is a decent amount. But you would expect it to be a very difficult night for Bristol City at the home of the Champions-to-be.

Suggested Tips (SkyBet)

  • Correct Score Group Betting – Man City to Win 3-0, 3-1 or 3-2 – 11/4
  • Price Boost – Sergio Aguero to Score a Brace – 11/4
  • Price Boost – Aden Flint to score a header – 22/1
  • Pundits RequestAbet – Charlie’s RAB: Gundogan & Bernardo Silva to score, Man City to win to nil and 11+ match corners – 25/1
  • Featured RequestAbet – Reid to score and Mangala to be carded – 14/1
  • RequestAbet Up to 10/1 – Manchester City to score 3+ goals, 6+ Manchester City corners and 20+ Bristol City booking pts – 7/2
  • RequestAbet 11/1 to 28/1 – Sane to score, over 2.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and Toure to be carded – 28/1
  • To Score from Outside the Area – Jamie Paterson – 33/1
  • Total Goals, Corners Taken & Booking Pts – Over 2.5 Goals, Over 10.5 Corners, Over 35 Booking Points – 15/2

by ·Comments Off on Carabao Cup – Chelsea vs Arsenal – Semi Final 1st Leg Preview

One week on from their thrilling 2-2 draw at the Emirates, the London derby between Chelsea vs Arsenal takes place again in the semi-final 1st leg of the Carabao Cup.

After stuttering to a 0-0 draw against Norwich at the weekend, Conte will expect a better display against the Gunners. Having picked up the league title in his first year, Conte will be desperate to gain silverware again this year. With retaining the Premier League becoming an unrealistic target, Conte must turn his full attention to the cup competitions. Having rested a number of key players in Saturday’s draw at Carrow Road, Chelsea should be fresh as they look to earn themselves a strong lead ahead of the second-leg.

Luiz saw red in the last game at the Bridge which finished 0-0 Photo Credit: skysports.com

Despite playing weakened sides in the previous round, I expect Chelsea to be full strength on Wednesday. Now in the last four of the competition, Chelsea have a really good chance to secure their first League Cup since 2015. Then, under Mourinho, Chelsea went on to secure the double as they beat Tottenham in the final at Wembley.

Against Arsenal last week, Conte opted for a 3-5-2 formation, a system he has used more regularly this season. With Arsenal’s defensive frailties there for all to see, I wonder if he might opt for a 3-4-3, the formation that he used so successfully last year as Chelsea became Champions. This would likely see Cesc Fabregas replaced by Willian or Pedro, as they join Eden Hazard and Alvaro Morata in attack.

Giroud scored Arsenal’s only goal in the 3-1 loss last season at Stamford Bridge Photo Credit: skysports.com

An embarrassing FA Cup loss to Nottingham Forest means Arsenal will be determined to make amends. Wenger fielded an inexperienced and inferior team as they were dumped out by Gary Brazil’s side. Arsenal will look towards the Europa League and this competition as they search to add to their trophy cabinet.

Stats

Chelsea are without a win in their last four meetings against Arsenal. They have lost only one of those games, with that defeat coming last May in the FA Cup final. In the league though, it’s a different story, with Arsenal winning only once in the clubs last 14 fixtures. Their last win at Stamford Bridge also came back in 2011, which was their last league victory against the Blues. With the cup contests seeming to be Arsenal’s best avenue against Chelsea, they’ll hope for a similar result tonight.

The last six meetings between the pair have seen 16 goals, averaging at almost three a game.  BTTS and Chelsea to win is a good bet, with Arsenal not winning on their last six visits to the Bridge.

 

Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Arsenal

Suggested Tips (SkyBet)

 CORRECT SCORE- CHELSEA TO WIN 2-1- 7/1

 BTTS AND CHELSEA TO WIN- 9/4

 MORATA TO SCORE FIRST AND CHELSEA TO WIN 3-1- 33/1

 SANCHEZ AND HAZARD BOTH TO SCORE- 7/1

 LACAZETTE TO SCORE AND WIN- 5/1

 ARSENAL TO WIN AND OVER 2.5 GOALS- 11/2

by ·Comments Off on FA Cup – Brighton vs Crystal Palace – Match Preview

Brighton vs Crystal Palace in FA Cup action this Monday night as the two Premier League sides face off for a chance to progress into the 4th round at the Community Stadium.

Both sides are enjoying decent domestic campaigns and as a result, a cup run would definitely encourage both clubs and sets of fans. Brighton and Hove Albion have had a solid run of form entering this fixture, but it seems like some changes will occur.

After such a busy Premier League festive period, certain key players could have a well deserved rest. Above all, one standout performer for Brighton this season has been striker Glenn Murray who has scored six league goals this campaign so far. Winger Anthony Knockaert has also caught the attention of many pundits because of his non stop work ethic and ability to find the back of the net. Currently sitting at a comfortable 12th position in the league standings, a nice cup victory would be something else for the fans to be proud of.

Murray has been in good form for Brighton, with great support from his team mates Photo Credit: skysports.com

Skybet Match Result – Brighton to Win – 13/8

Like a Phoenix from the ashes, Crystal Palace’s turn in form in recent times has been admirable. Roy Hodgson has done a stellar job thus far, therefore seeing his side climb from rock bottom to 14th. They are getting the reputation for being a giant slayer, because of the many upsets against the top sides already this year.

Palace fans have shown their delight with the improvement in performances and no more than Luka Milivojevic who has bossed games from the entirety of the park. Palace often don’t do fantastically in cup competitions but it would be a good idea to back them in an away win with the odds as high as they are. Can Hodgson continue the momentum?

Luka Milivojevic has been at the heart of Palace’s fine form, holding the midfield together Photo Credit: skysports.com

Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – Palace to Win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 5/2

Stats

The Seagulls have scored two or more goals at home in 27% of their Premier League fixtures this season. Palace have only scored two or more in 18% of their away league matches this year.

 The hosts have received an average of 3.4 corners in their Premier League matches this year. Crystal Palace have received an average of 6 corners.

 Andre Marriner will take charge of this fixture. He’s awarded an average of 27.6 booking points this season.

 Brighton vs Crystal Palace will also see VAR (Video Assistant Referee) to help the referees in their decision making for the first time in a competitive game in English football.

 

Score Prediction- Brighton 1 – 2 Crystal Palace – Palace’s speed on the counter with Wilfried Zaha will cause an away upset.

 

Suggested Tips

  • Skybet Correct Score – Palace to Win 2-1 – 11/1
  • Skybet Price Boost – Christian Benteke to Score a Header – 15/2
  • Skybet Price Boost – Brighton to Win 3-1 – 33/1
  • Skybet Featured RequestAbet – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 20+ booking points each team – 11/1
  • Skybet RequestAbet Up to 10/1 – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ Brighton corners, 5+ Crystal Palace corners and 10+ booking points each team – 11/4
  • Skybet RequestAbet 11/1 to 28/1 – BTTS, 2+ corners each team in each half and 20+ booking points each team – 18/1
  • Skybet Penalty Specials – A Penalty Awarded – 5/2
  • Skybet Both Players to Assist a Goal – Jose Izquierdo & Wilfried Zaha – 28/1
  • Skybet Player Carded Accumulators – Dale Stephens and Luka Milivojevic both to be carded – 16/1

by ·Comments Off on FA Cup – Norwich City vs Chelsea – Match Preview

FA Cup – Norwich City vs Chelsea – Match Preview – Championship strugglers Norwich welcome Chelsea to Carrow Road as they look to deny the Champions a place in the FA Cup fourth-round.

After closing the gap on Manchester United to just one point, Chelsea have started to look more like the team that lifted the Premier League title last year. A run of no defeats in seven games has built some confidence and they’re now looking close to the side they were last year.

Andreas Christensen has shown his quality for Chelsea in defence Photo Credit: skysports.com

Chelsea have re-found their defensive stability again, conceding just four goals in their last seven games. With Antonio Conte finding consistency in his new-look back three, Chelsea are reaping the rewards. With Andreas Christiansen now cemented at the heart of the Chelsea rear-guard, the young Danish international has established himself as one of the most promising centre-backs in the world. With that in mind, it’s hard to see David Luiz finding a way back into the team. After falling out with Conte, I’d be surprised to see the Brazilian still at Stamford Bridge come the summer.

Norwich have struggled in the Championship this year, with the Canaries currently sat in 13th place. New boss Daniel Farke has struggled in his season in England. After changes to the squad in the summer, Norwich have struggled for consistency and are nine points off the top six. With many City fans expecting a promotion push, unrest has grown around the club, with many fans now wanting owner Delia Smith to leave the club. After sacking Alex Neil last year, Smith has come under criticism with Neil now excelling at Preston. Now it’ll be interesting to see if the owners back their man next season or whether they decide to go for another approach.

Murphy looks to lead the line against Chelsea this weekend Photo Credit: Skysports.con

Away from home this season, Chelsea have scored more than two goals in six of their 11 games. Norwich, by contrast, have only managed that same feat three times at home this season, the fourth lowest in the division. Only Bolton, Burton and Birmingham have scored fewer goals in the Championship, with goals being a major issue for Norwich this season. The Canaries also have a horrendous record against Chelsea having not beaten them since 1994. They’ve collected just two points from their last 33 against Chelsea, losing nine of their last 11 league meetings.

Whilst there will be a number of shocks this weekend, I don’t think one will be at Carrow Road. I think the champions will continue their good record in the FA Cup and seal their passage into round four with minimal fuss.

 

Prediction: Norwich 0-3 Chelsea

 

SKYBET: CHELSEA TO WIN 3-0- 9/1

SKYBET: BATSHUAYI TO SCORE FIRST AND CHELSEA TO WIN 4-0- 40/1

SKYBET: CHELSEA TO WIN TO NIL- 6/4

SKYBET: PEDRO TO SCORE FIRST- 13/2

SKYBET: MURPHY TO SCORE FIRST- 18/1

SKYBET: WILLIAN TO SCORE FROM OUTSIDE THE AREA- 7/1

by ·Comments Off on FA Cup – Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal – Match Preview

FA Cup – Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal – Match Preview – The most successful team in FA Cup history and current holders Arsenal begin the defence of their crown against manager-less Championship side Nottingham Forest.

The most successful manager in FA Cup history, Arsene Wenger, has built an incredibly legacy in the competition with a remarkable seven tournament wins – bolstered by Arsenal’s recent dominance of three victories in the past four seasons.

Walcott could start against Forest and could also be on his way out of Arsenal this transfer window Photo Credit: skysports.com

With Wenger’s time inevitably coming to a close, and with Arsenal’s current league standing – 6th position, an unfathomable 23 points adrift of leaders Manchester City – cup competitions could well be the only opportunity for the legendary French manager to add to his trophy haul before departing.

Two-time winners of the FA Cup, The Reds last made the final of the competition in 1990/91 – losing 2-1 to Tottenham Hostpur – but the current state of affairs at the club is a far cry from the iconic Brian Clough era.

Now 14th in the Championship, Forest have sacked Mark Warburton and are looking for their 14th different manager since the summer of 2011. Their record of losing 14 games in the league this season is dismal – only 23rd place Birmingham City have lost more.

The cup, as always, offers a chance for fans to get behind the team and possibly rejuvenate a team that, in recent history, is in dire need of some positivity. What better opportunity is there than to beat the FA Cup winners Arsenal at the City Ground?

Can Murphy strike his side into the next round against the Gunners Photo Credit: skysports.com

Forest will have their work massively cut out for them, not only have Arsenal only lost once to The Reds since 1991 in 13 attempts, but The Gunners haven’t been knocked out of the FA Cup at the first time of asking (3rd round) since the 1995/96 season. It would take something remarkable to change that here.

Stats 

Whilst only four sides in the Premier League have picked up more clean sheets than Arsenal’s nine this season, they have conceded in each of their past four matches (a total of eight goals) and the defence is always vulnerable or prone to make a mistake. Forest should not fear attacking the Arsenal back-line.

Realistically, the real danger will be Arsenal’s potent attack against a Forest defence that has only kept five clean sheets in the Championship all season – the teams joint-bottom of the clean sheet table in the division have kept four.

Neither side has been evoked too much response from referees this season, Forest have been awarded 43 yellow cards to Arsenal’s 31 and neither side have picked up a red in the league this year. However, in a heated FA Cup tie with the possibility of a giant killing at hand, the potential for things to flare up is there for all to see.

 

Prediction – Nottingham Forest 1-3 Arsenal

 

Suggested Tips

  • Skybet Correct Score Group Betting – Notts Forest to Win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 13/2
  • Skybet Penalty Specials – A Penalty Awarded – 2/1
  • Skybet Total Goals, Corners Taken and Booking Points – Over 2.5 Goals, Over 10.5 Corners and Over 35 Booking Points – 13/2
  • Skybet Both Players to Score – Daryl Murphy and Danny Welbeck – 11/2
  • Skybet Correct Score – Arsenal to Win 3-1 – 10/1

by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Pro Tips – 4th January 2018

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