by ·Comments Off on New Zealand vs British & Irish Lions – 2nd Test – Match Preview
New Zealand vs British & Irish Lions - 2nd Test - Match Preview
2nd Test, Westpac Stadium, Wellington 8.35am

New Zealand vs British & Irish Lions – 2nd Test – Match Preview – It is truly all to play for as Wellington plays host to the crucial 2nd test where New Zealand can wrap up the series and The Lions simply must win to keep it alive.

Warren Gatland’s Lions must drastically improve from the disappointing 30-15 defeat in the first test if they are to beat the double World Champions on their own patch. The All Blacks were comfortable and dominant against The Lions’ kicking-based strategy and were clinical when the chances were presented, in particular Reiko Ioane who scored twice on his first test start.

The midweek match separating the two tests saw a much-changed Lions team face Hurricanes, and blow a 14-point lead after Iain Henderson’s sinbin to draw the match 31-31. Before the collapse Gatland’s side performed amicably and the performances of CJ Stander, Courtney Lawes and Jack Nowell have earned the trio a place on the replacements bench.

Coming back from a test down to win the series seems an extremely unlikely task to achieve against a relentless All Blacks side. New Zealand have a phenomenal record at home, currently standing at a massive 81.93% win percent.
Additionally, the Lions will be desperate not to suffer a first series whitewash since 2005.

Stranger things have happened though, the squad is full of depth, options and ability. Elements of the performance in the 1st test displayed a Lions side capable of containing The All Blacks so there is hope of a turnaround yet.

Sam Warburton returns to the Lions’ side Photo Credit: skysports.com

Team News
Warren Gatland has named Johnny Sexton at fly-half and Owen Farrell at inside centre, the first time the combination have started on the entire tour, Ben Te’o is the man to miss out. Another change is Sam Warburton at blind-side, replacing Peter O’Mahony both in the team and as captain. Saracens powerhouse Maro Itoje comes into the side in place of club teammate George Kruis. Alun Wyn Jones keeps his spot.
Robbie Henshaw and George North have been ruled out for the rest of the tour after sustaining pectoral and hamstring injuries respectively in the draw against Hurricanes.

The All Blacks have been forced to make two changes due to injuries, Ben Smith (concussion) is replaced by Waisake Naholo and Anton Lienert-Brown takes the spot of Ryan Crotty (hamstring).

Beauden Barrett is one of the best Fly Halves in Rugby Photo Credit: skysports.com

Player to Watch
2016 World Player of the Year Beauden Barrett is a fantastic athlete, and his brilliance doesn’t just lie with his deceptive pace and magical hands. Simply put, there is no fly-half in world rugby who does the basics better than the Hurricanes 10. He rarely misses a tackle or gets caught out of position, his passing his excellent and his in-game kicking is flawless, displaying intelligent game management at every opportunity. Barrett, like most New Zealanders, has the mentality of a champion and has nerves of steel in front of the posts. It was never going to be easy filling the cataclysmic void left by one of the all-time greats in Dan Carter but after trialling with Aaron Cruden and Colin Slade, Barrett has done as good a job as possible in filling the legendary boots. Along with his two brothers Scott and Jordie, the Barrett’s hold the record for the first time in history that three brothers have been named in the same All Blacks squad. Another brilliant record held by Barrett is the most consecutive wins since his first test (19).  The 26-year-old will be pivotal in getting his side over the line to win the test and claim the whole series.

New Zealand XV: I Dagg; W Naholo, A Lienert-Brown, SB Williams, R Ioane; B Barrett, A Smith; J Moody, C Taylor, O Franks, B Retallick, S Whitelock, J Kaino, S Cane, K Read.

Replacements: N Harris, W Crockett, C Faumuina, S Barrett, A Savea, TJ Perenara, A Cruden, N Laumape.
Lions XV: L Williams, A Watson, J Davies, O Farrell, E Daly, J Sexton, C Murray; M Vunipola, J George, T Furlong, M Itoje, AW Jones, S Warburton, S O’Brien, T Faletau.

Replacements: K Owens, J McGrath, K Sinckler, C Lawes, CJ Stander, R Webb, B Te’o, J Nowell.

 

by ·Comments Off on Germany U21’s vs Spain U21’s – Match Preview
UEFA European Championships, Marszałek Piłsudski Stadium Poland 7.45pm

Germany U21’s vs Spain U21’s – Match Preview – The tournament’s two strongest teams in Spain and Germany compete for the highly coveted U21 European Championship crown in Friday’s final in Krakow. Both sides have been extremely impressive in getting to this stage and will deservedly contest for the grand prize.

4-times winners Spain (1986, 1998, 2011, 2013) have a star-studded squad and have been dominant in every fixture so far, firstly demolishing Macedonia 5-0 courtesy of a Marco Asensio hat-trick before outclassing Portugal 3-1 and finally proving too much for Serbia in a comfortable 1-0 victory – consequently winning Group A with maximum points.
That left a match up with Italy in the semi-final. Saul Niguez displayed a masterclass in clinical finishing as the central midfielder scored the second Spanish hat-trick of the tournament in a convincing performance that finished 3-1 to reach the final.

The defence has been almost impenetrable, conceding just 2 goals all tournament. Combined with outstanding attacking play, Spain are yet to be truly threatened so far. A mixture of class and elegance in the middle between Saul and Asensio is balanced perfectly with unpredictable wizardry on the wings from the likes of record-cap holder and goal-scorer Gerard Deulofeu (35 and 17) and Real Betis’ Dani Cabellos, resulting in fluid play which is a constant danger to opposition defences.

In contrast, Germany are perennial underachievers in the U21 European Championships, only managing victory the one, solitary time in 2009 – the only final that the European powerhouses have made in 35 years.

These days the landscape is vastly different and the Germans are always a name to be reckoned with in youth football; Bundesliga clubs are consistently producing fantastic talent and providing the platform for those players to develop by playing them consistently.

Stefan Kuntz’s side also has excellent players, particularly in midfield, where the talents of Dortmund’s new acquisition Mahmoud Dahoud, captain Maximillian Arnold and highly rated Schalke playmaker Max Meyer can all be witnessed flourishing.

The German’s path to Krakow has also been relatively straightforward, beating Czech Republic and Denmark 2-0 and 3-0 respectively in their opening two matches and securing qualification. A 1-0 loss in the final group match to a strong Italy outfit after fielding a weakened side didn’t detract from Germany’s concentration.
England found that out the hard and heart-breaking way, losing on penalties to their old European rivals at the semi-final stage (where have we heard that before?).

A mouth-watering final awaits, between two exceptional footballing institutions displaying all the attributes of ingrained success.

Marco Ascensio and Saul Niguez celebrate scoring against Italy Photo Credit: skysports.com

Players to Watch 
Marco Asensio is truly a wonderkid in every sense of the word. The Real Madrid playmaker’s abilities have been conveyed to the world this season after performing brilliantly when called upon under Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane. He won the Golden Ball at the U19 European Championships in 2015 and Asensio’s performance levels in tournaments have not dropped since – scoring a hat-trick in Spain’s opening game against Macedonia.

The 21-year-old has wonderful vision and delivers a perfect weight of pass, a dream for a fluid team like Spain. On the ball, he is just as capable too, using exceptional balance and quick dribbling to beat opposition defenders. Asensio is atypical of the level of player too good for this level but still keen to learn from international tournament experience, winning this tournament will no doubt prove to be valuable later in his career.

Tireless midfielder Maximillian Arnold has the ability to open the Spanish defence Photo Credit: sportschau.de

Germany captain Maximillian Arnold has been a driving force behind the team’s journey to the final, controlling the tempo of most matches with a vast range of passing and great technical ability. Add to that Wolfsburg midfielder’s insatiable work-rate and he is a real asset to any team. The 23-year-old has vast experience for a player at this level and has represented the U21s 22 times, scoring 5 goals. He has also been capped by the national team, highlighting his potential for the future. Furthermore, he has made 126 league appearances for Wolfsburg and has established himself as a key player in the Die Wolfe team. Arnold’s experience and tactical nous will be pivotal in Germany being crowned U21 European Championship victors.

 

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by ·Comments Off on UK / Ireland Horse Racing Preview – 30th June 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Ayr - 12th October 2017

Horse Racing Preview

Here is our horse racing preview for Friday 30th June 2017 across UK and Ireland Horse Racing today, unit stakes advised upon each selection.

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 30th June 2017 -Yarmouth 3.10pm -Racing Welfare Handicap

Chunkyfunkymonkey – 5/1 – 1pt stake (EW)

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 30th June 2017 – Yarmouth 3.40pm – Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park Of Lowestoft Handicap

Brigliadoro – 2/1 – 2pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 30th June 2017 – Newmarket 5.50pm – Fly London Southend Airport To Perpignan Handicap

Trulee Scrumptious – 11/8 – 3pt stake

 Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 30th June 2017 -Newcastle 8.05pm – Betfred Mobile/EBF Hoppings Stakes (Fillies’ Listed)

Chain Of Daisies – 11/10 – 2pt stake

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Doncaster, Yarmouth & The Curragh – 30th June 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Chelmsford City & Ascot - 6th October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from three meetings with selections coming from Doncaster, Yarmouth and The Curragh. Again, the run of the mill is certainly not going my way at present, I have witnessed two maidens in Ireland over the past two days and both horses have been backed into favouritism and finished last, maybe a different approach towards these maidens is required.

 

15.30 Doncaster – 188bet.co.uk Handicap (8f) (0-95)

Richard Hannon saddled the 2013 winner of this race Intrigo who is now trained by Charlie Appleby, the trainer saddles Mustaarid who was just beaten here at Doncaster two runs back when a head behind City of Joy who went on to finish midfield in this year’s Brittania Stakes, the third place Bless Him actually won the Brittania stakes so a good line of form.

He finished fifth in the Silver Bowl at Haydock in which has also produced winners such as Fire Brigade, the runner up Indian Dandy also ran a creditable fourth at Ascot in the same corresponding race.

Being sired by Australian sprinter Elzaam you would have thought this index was too far, but the dam Symbol of Peace is where the stamina comes from who won over 9.5f in her career., The sire never won on ground this soft nor did the dam who done most of her racing on the all-weather, for that reason I am willing to overlook him. Bryan Smart’s yard has been among the winners in recent weeks and looks to have a nice gelding in Helovaplan. He has won off marks of 68 & 74 which included a win over course and distance two weeks ago.

Now I am very confused in what Timeform have stated in their analysis of this race that Helovaplan is not effective on soft ground, considering the sire Helmet won three times on soft to heavy ground, so I am summarising that Helovaplan’s one defeat on soft ground has made them dismiss him out of hand, he is  still one on the upgrade and won well here.

Marco Botti’s Moolazim a winner on this blog just over two weeks ago will have to defy a 7lb penalty for his impressive win at Yarmouth, but gets the services of Ryan Moore once more, this is a stiff test though making this hike up the graded ladder.

With this being a really tight knit handicap, the horse I was taken with despite still looking for his first transition win is Simon Crisford’s Century Dream. His fourth in a competitive handicap at Newbury has to put him in with a cracking chance of recording his second career win. Doncaster is a good front running course and will play into Crisford’s colt advantages, William Buick takes over from Harry Bentley this afternoon and my first confident selection.

Century Dream : 2pt Win @ 5/2 (BOG)

16.00 Doncaster – Read Silvestre De Sousa at 188bet Maiden Fillies Stakes  (10.1f)

Sir Michael Stoute won this corresponding race last year with Ruscombe and are once more well represented here with Superioritycomplex. After finishing last on debut at Newbury she was very significantly stepped up to 9f when just denied at Salisbury to a neck under Pat Dobbs. She is the daughter of Hard Spun who was more effective on quick ground, but his last career run came on a slow surface on the all-weather when finishing runner up in the Breeders Cup Classic.

The dam Justlookdonttouch has not got that many progeny’s in training in fact just the selection and Abingdon who won her fourth career race last week, so the two filly off springs are most definitely equipping themselves over middle distances and on that evidence the selection here.

What A Home ran a good third on debut for Willie Haggas at Newbury with three lengths back in fifth was Shimmering Light. Ben Curtis takes over from James Doyle this afternoon, is that a plus we will see, but she looked like a step up in trip was needed sooner than later. Others to focus on is Luca Cumani’s Kitty Boo who finished second on her turf debut at Nottingham, her short head defeat to what can only be described an average participant from the Mick Channon yard, she will have to show more this time around.

Superioritycomplex : 2pts Win @ 3/1 (BOG)

16.10 Yarmouth – Grosvenor Casino Of Great Yarmouth Handicap (8f)  (0-105)

I think the penny has definitely dropped with Michael Bell’s Fire Brigade, I tipped him up here when he won at Haydock just holding on by the shortest of margins. With William Buick at Doncaster this a good opportunity for Luke Morris to pick up a spare winning ride.

De Sousa rode Fire Brigade to success at Newmarket two runs back, but prefers To Dibba of Roger Varian’s, another winner tipped up on this blog five weeks ago. He went about his business in good style putting two and a half lengths between him and his nearest rival. The step up in trip should not inconvenience this son of Dubawi, and already a winner on soft ground so more to come.

Now it’s hard when two blog winners go head to head, but I am hoping Fire Brigade can use his experience over the lightly raced To Dibba, who has the advantage also of winning over the index on soft ground.

Fire Brigade : 2pt Win @ 4/1 (BOG)

19.15 Curragh – Hackett Apprentice Derby  (12f)

Two I am drawn to in this is Joseph O’Brien’s Thomas O’Malley and Johnny Murtagh’s Full Court Press. Both trainers have won this race, young Joseph last year with Arya Tara and Johnny back in 2015 with Jocular, both had significantly booked the same jockeys.

Firstly, Thomas O’Malley who should have finished a lot closer at Gowran Park last week under today’s pilot Anna O’Brien. She has no claim this time around however they have scrapped into the race with a nice light weight. Despite being 0-10 he has run some solid races and is only having his third campaign run of 2017, one for the shortlist for sure now stepping up in trip.

On to an outsider for Johnny Murtagh who won this back in 2015 with a 20/1 shot who was also coming into the race with a career record of 0-8 as was last year’s winner who was 0-5. It seems to be a race for horses that have been running well without winning. The last time we saw Full Court Press was when he finished fifth in last year’s Shergar Cup Classic running off a rating of 86. With trips that have not been suiting him, this step back up to 12f I think could see a much more positive run from the four year old.

Thomas O’Malley : 1pt each way @ 7/1 (BOG)

Full Court Press : 1pt each way @ 33/1 (BOG)

 

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by ·Comments Off on Germany vs Mexico – Match Preview
Germany vs Mexico - Match Preview

Confederations Cup, Semi Final

Olimpiyskiy Stadium, Russia 7pm

Germany vs Mexico – Match Preview – World Champions Germany have the obstacle of Gold Cup winners Mexico in their path to reach the Confederations Cup Final against Chile and achieve further international success.

The prize of victory is a mouth-watering final against international football’s form team and back-to-back Copa America Champions – Chile – after La Roja deservedly dispatched Portugal on penalties in the other semi-final following a tense 0-0 draw after extra time. Both sides will be desperate to appear in the showcase event at the Krestovsky Stadium in St Petersburg.

Germany undoubtedly are strong favourites and many expect the World Cup 2014 victors to emerge with the Confederations Cup trophy on 2nd July, despite naming and fielding a squad devoid of even a handful of regular first-choice names, but with players desperate to stake a claim to be in the squad defending the World Cup next year. By doing so and lifting the trophy a strong message will be sent out to the rest of the world – Germany’s strength in depth is frightening.

Joachim Low’s men have been in typically efficient form so far in this tournament, having enough power to see off Australia 3-2 in their first match, a 1-1 draw with Chile was quickly forgotten about after an accomplished 3-1 victory over Cameroon to top Group B and set up this clash.

Mexico will be no pushovers though, Juan Carlos Osario’s side have scored 2 in each of their three group matches so far and more than deserved their late equaliser against European Champions and fallen semi-finalists Portugal in the opening game. A fairly comfortable 2-1 victory over OFC Nations Cup Winners New Zealand before coming from a goal down to win by the same score-line against hosts Russia showcased promising, resilient attributes moving forward. Mexico finished 2nd in Group A on account of goal difference and more specifically Portugal beating New Zealand 4-0.

Ranked 17th in the World, El Tri possess star power in the squad; record goal-scorer Javier Hernandez, ex-Arsenal Carlos Vela and Hector Herrera and Miguel Layun of Porto are just some of the names plying their trade in some of European football’s elite divisions and will by no means be taken lightly by the World Champions.

This encounter entices goals, as mentioned above Mexico have netted 2 in every game so far, pair that with Germany being unable to attain a clean sheet all tournament and is set up to be quite the exciting prospect.

Team News  
Low has been without both Leroy Sane and Diego Demme due to pre-tournament injuries but chose to not call any replacements, leaving the manager with a squad of 21 to choose from.
The Germans play with just one up front which could cause a selection dilemma, with Lars Stindl scoring in each of the first two games but RB Leipzig striker Tino Werner securing a brace against Cameroon last time out.

Juan Carlos Osario has several selection concerns; Carlos Salcedo has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after sustaining a shoulder injury and the experienced Andres Guardado is suspended after picking up two yellow cards. Key players Javier Hernandez and Hector Moreno are also a doubt, alongside Diego Reyes who has not fully trained.

Germany will look to Draxler to provide goals and creativity Photo Credit: espnfc.com

Players to Watch 
Julian Draxler is a wonderful footballer to watch; with excellent technical ability and elusive movement the 23-year-old will be a consistent nuisance to the Mexican backline. Often deployed on the left, Draxler cuts inside and is blessed with the ability to strike a ball from distance with either foot and is a threat from anywhere in the final third. Already with 33 international caps to his name; Draxler’s performances for Schalke incited Wolsburg to first pay roughly £35m for his services, before PSG then also acquired the established midfielder for a similar fee and he hasn’t disappointed in the French capital. He is one of the few who regularly play for the full-strength German side and is likely to have a huge influence should Germany pave a way to yet another international final.

Lozano has shown his potential in the Confederations Cup Photo Credit: espnfc.com

Hirving Lozano is a name many may not have previously heard of, but the explosive winger has been excellent in this tournament, illustrated by scoring the winning goal against hosts Russia. Despite his tender age, the 21-year-old has already made 149 senior appearances and scored a very respectable 43 goals in that period. PSV Eindhoven have conducted excellent business by purchasing the 17-times capped attacker for as little as approximately £6m early in the summer and plenty of specatators will be keen to see what he can bring to the European stage. On the international stage, however, Germany will be wary of the wide-man’s threat, Lozano holds the ability to drift past players at ease and where many contemporaries of his age lack in the final third he does not, highlighting danger signs whenever he has possession.

 

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by ·Comments Off on UK / Ireland Horse Racing Preview – 29th June 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Hereford - 29th November 2017

Horse Racing Preview

Here is our horse racing preview for Thursday 29th June 2017 across UK and Ireland Horse Racing today, unit stakes advised upon each selection.

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 29th June 2017 -Nottingham 3.25pm -10 Free Bet At 32red.com Maiden Stakes

Cape To Cuba – 10/11 – 2pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 29th June 2017 – Nottingham 4pm – Play Jurassic World At 32Red Handicap

Hellamoto – 7/1 – 1pt stake (EW)

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 29th June 2017 – Nottingham 5.10pm – 32red.com Handicap

Bonjour Steve – 7/2 – 1.5pt stake (EW)

 Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 29th June 2017 -Newmarket 5.35pm – Free Spins At 188bet Casino Handicap

Poets Society – 13/8 – 2pt stake

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Hamilton, Newmarket & Tipperary – 29th June 2017
Daily Horse Racing Pro Tips - 15th September 2017

Today’s horse racing preview has selections from Hamilton, Newmarket and Tipperary. Well the weather has certainly got into the ground around the country and probably the wettest June on record, the heavy conditions are going to bring up erratic results for sure, so small stakes and ground dependable entrants.

 

15:15 NEWMARKET – 188BET HANDICAP (4)   (0-80)  (6f)

With the weather advertised as cloudy and overcast the ground has come up officially good to firm which has swayed my decision on the selection, with the rain hitting hard in the North of England i wanted to put forward Paul Cole’s Mutoondresdashorse who was just denied on sole run here as a juvenile when beaten a short head over course and distance on good ground.

It’s a race that has not thrown up too many winners, his transition went smoothly when winning at Newbury over 7f on soft ground, the runner up has gone on to run second to the smart Alwahsh, never adapted to the all-weather at Kempton when finishing eighth in a competitive 0-85 handicap, the top finisher’s went on to run at Royal Ascot finishing below par in both races. The sire Harbour Watch was far better on good to soft ground, but was unbeaten in his career 3-3 which included the Richmond Stakes, the drop down to 6f will benefit his chances.

Silvestre De Sousa has a current 50% strike rate for Ivan Furtado, the trainer is in fair form over the past couple of weeks especially when De Sousa is up. Sword Exceed purely on jockey bookings plus the fact his two and three-quarter lengths fourth at Leicester in this grade was a big step going forward, with the right jockey on board he could be on borderline striking distance.

Michael Bell is another trainer that has been in excellent form, but has been more successful when using his claiming jockey’s, Louis Steward lands the ride here on Hart Stopper who was seen winning a 0-70 handicap at Windsor, the runner up finished second once more at Chepstow and is booked to run in the 17.50 at Newbury tonight.

Hart Stopper will have to improve again off his 6lb penalty and career highest mark, but his run last time is far better on paper than most of this field as he would have probably won by further if Jamie Spencer did not do his last to first tactic’s as he is re-known for.

HART STOPPER : 2pt Win @ 3.75 (BOG)

17.40 TIPPERARY – IRISH STALLION FARMS EUROPEAN BREEDERS FUND MEDIAN AUCTION MAIDEN (7.6)

Paul Deegan’s Live Twice was unlucky in running when hampered at a crucial time at Naas, despite being 0-11, the eye catching jockey booking of inform Connor O’Donoghue for the first time could see her long awaited success, but she is vulnerable to a newcomer if once more unable to bring anything to the floor and this could come in Dermot Weld’s Brevard.

The son of Bated Breath was more re-known as a 5-6f sprinter and never raced beyond 6f in his career, the dam was a moderate one race performer, so if he has managed to pick up the genes from the dam-sire Empire Maker this trip could be on the sharp side. Another one here and the selection is Marc Halford’s Spanish Dawn.

Now I am going to cautiously predict that the ground will ease at Tipperary, with heavy rain on the agenda I am hoping we get Good to soft conditions which gives Spanish Dawn a big chance of getting off at the first attempt. Being sired by Helmet who relished heavy conditions and with the bloodline through Bright Morning who also genuinely preferred easing ground, she could be a talented filly considering she never raced as a juvenile.

SPANISH DAWN : 2pt Win @ 4/1 (BOG)

18.30 HAMILTON – BB FOODSERVICE MAIDEN STAKES (Qualifier) (4)  (6f)

Kevin Ryan’s Savalas sets the standard here after a good debut when finishing fifth to Santry who was just denied in the Norfolk Stakes, the second and fourth could not cut it in the Norfolk stakes finishing fifth and ninth respectably.

Last year’s winning trainer Mark Johnston saddles a new comer here in Arch Gold, the son of Arch has stuck to maiden over a novice entry in the next few days, however he could  be vulnerable on debut to entrants that have already gained significance experience,

Richard Fahey sends just the two to Hamilton this evening with Quayside being one, he improved on turf debut when finishing third at Chester on soft ground. Jack Garrity goes up for two rides for the trainer, the jockey is currently 1-13 for the trainer in last month and has been used mainly by Ruth Carr, he’s a jockey on the cold list.

Graham Lee is another jockey that has not been riding too many winners, in fact 2-26 does not show positive stats, he rides here Keith Dagliesh’s Here in the Dark who will probably relish the conditions more than some of these. Third on debut at Ayr when a 40/1 shot, probably out ran his odds that day and switches from Novice ranks into maiden company, will have to step up even more this time around.

SAVALAS : 2pt win @ 2.75 (BOG)

19.35 HAMILTON – THISTLE BLOODSTOCK MAIDEN STAKES (5)  (9f)

John Shanahan loves to visit Scotland with his horses and he saddles two here in Unite the Clans & Set in Stone. Royston Ffrench rides what I think is the second string and possible pacemaker, did not produce the prospects of debut run when finishing fifth at Chester, but the winner ran a creditable seventh in the King George V Handicap at the Royal meeting, The runner up Bristol Missile won a below average maiden at Sandown.

The last winner Tadgh O’Shea had was when he visited Hamilton when riding for this trainer and gets the leg up on Set in Stone. One of the most experienced in the field this filly by Famous Name should be seen in better light dropping back to 9.2f. Never got home at York over 12f when seventh in a 0-90 handicap and to be honest what she has been running against is above anything at this level.

Tread Lightly drops back also in to maiden company after some poor runs around the 0-70 handicaps and will have to step up to overturn better opposition. Somnambulist finished third over a mile here at Hamilton last time out, will probably need this step up in trip and is pencilled in to return here in about a weeks’ time over 11.1f which could be the race he wins.

With John Shanahan winning this back in 2014 with Maid of the Glens, it makes you wonder if Unite the Clans is the horse to be on here. It just might be too much of a coincidence that is staring me in the face, so I am going to give Unite the Clans the nod here as is over double the price around 8/1, knowing my luck I pick the wrong one, but a chance worth taking each way.

UNITE THE CLANS : 1.5pt each way @ 8/1 (BOG)

 

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by ·Comments Off on Portugal vs Chile – Match Preview
Portugal vs Chile - Match Preview

Confederations Cup, Semi Final

Kazan Arena, Russia 7pm

Portugal vs Chile – Match Preview – The Confederations Cup has been whittled down to the final four and the first semi-final pits European Champions Portugal against South American Champions Chile in Kazan.

The tournament has proceeded pretty much as expected for the Euro 2016 winners, a last-minute equaliser for fellow semi-finalists Mexico in an even 2-2 draw the only real setback to date for Fernando Santos’ men.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner in a solid 1-0 victory over hosts Russia before yet another man-of-the-match performance for the Real Madrid star in a 4-0 demolishing of OFC champions New Zealand. Consequentially, Portugal topped Group A on goal difference and as a reward face second place in Group B, Chile.

Chile’s ride to the semi-finals hasn’t been so convincing, it took two late goals to see off African Cup of Nations victors Cameroon in their opening game, before a good draw against tournament favourites Germany. Then, a weak performance in a limp 1-1 draw with Australia resulted in a second-place finish in the group and instead of playing Mexico, now must beat Portugal.

Underestimate Chile at your own peril though, the back-to-back Copa America champions are currently ranked 4th in the world (compared to Portugal’s 8th) and have been solid defensively while always providing a dangerous threat going forward for the last few years (think back to Chile beating England 2-0 at Wembley in 2013).

Portugal would much rather face Chile than World Cup 2014 winners Germany, however, but a great match is promised here with plenty of potential in attack, spearheaded by star players Cristiano Ronaldo and Alexis Sanchez respectively. A place in the final against the victors of Mexico and Germany awaits.

Both sides have only recently acquired their first ever taste of international silverware in the past few years (Chile 2015 Copa America victory and Portugal Euro 2016) so will be ravenous to continue that feast of winning.

Team News
Dortmund left-back Raphel Guerreiro has been ruled out with a suspected broken leg from the victory over Russia so Eliseu is set to continue his covering role on the left side of defence. Andre Silva and Bernardo Silva’s excellent form will give headaches to coach Fernando Santos, with Andre Gomes and William Carvalho at risk of losing their starting positions.

Chile have much less squad depth than their counterparts but Juan Antonio Pizzi will have a full squad to choose from, including key men Mauricio Isla, Arturo Vidal, and Alexis Sanchez.

Sanchez became Chile’s all time record goalscorer with a goal against Germany in the Confederations Cup Photo Credit: skysports.com

Players to Watch
As mentioned above, Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez is absolutely crucial to Chile’s success. The ex-Barcelona man recently became his country’s all-time record goal-scorer, overtaking Marcelo Salas’ previous record of 37 with his 38th in the draw against Germany. This match also saw the dynamic forward extend his (and Claudio Bravo) record as his country’s joint-leading appearance maker too, with 112. Sanchez is one of the world’s best footballers with phenomenal ability on the ball, he’s equally capable of delicately splitting a defence or bulldozing his way through with sheer force of nature. Pair that with a deadly eye for goal and it is easy to see how he racked up an amazing 30 goals and 13 assists for Arsenal in all competitions last season; his best ever return. If Portugal keep Sanchez quiet, a big if, their chances of winning will increase tenfold.

Andre Silva has scored 8 goals in 11 International appearances Photo Credit: skysports.com

With all the talk surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo and his ever-excellent form, Andre Silva’s brilliant performances have gone somewhat under the radar. With 8 goals in 11 senior Portugal appearances, and set to keep his place due to a wonderful performance capped with a goal against New Zealand in the last game, the Porto striker adds a different element to the Portuguese attack with his willingness to go in behind the defence, wonderful for players such as Bernardo Silva to link with. The 21-year-old’s destructive form last campaign (16 goals in 32 apps in Liga Nos and 4 goals in 8 in the Champions League) has earned the forward a lucrative £32m transfer to Italian sleeping giants AC Milan, who will be keen to see if this level of performance can be sustained on the international stage.

 

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by ·Comments Off on UK / Ireland Horse Racing Preview – 28th June 2017
Daily Horse Racing Pro Tips - 26th October 2017

Horse Racing Preview

Here is our horse racing preview for Wednesday 28th June 2017 across UK and Ireland Horse Racing today, unit stakes advised upon each selection.

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 28th June 2017 -Worcester 2.20pm – Crs Scrap Metals Malvern 578081 Novices’ Chase

Forever Field – 13/8 – 2pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 28th June 2017 – Worcester 2.50pm – Shakespeare Stone Handicap Chase

A Good Skin – 3/1 – 2pt stake

Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 28th June 2017 – Carlisle 4pm – ebfstallions.com ‘Eternal’ Stakes (Fillies’ Listed)

Elusive Beauty – 5/1 – 1.5pt stake (EW)

 Horse Racing – UK / Ireland – 28th June 2017 -Carlisle 4.30pm – Ebf Stallions Breeding Winners Fillies’ Handicap

Favourite Royal – 10/3 – 1.5pt stake (EW)

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by ·Comments Off on Horse Racing Preview – Carlisle, Salisbury & Naas – 28th June 2017
Horse Racing Preview - Ayr & Southwell - 3rd October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from three meetings, coming from Carlisle, Salisbury and a Listed race at Naas. What can we do with the likes of Springforth? I am not trainer but this horse is now 1-11 with 5 placed runs, very exposed however if turning up at Redcar in the future, I think he needs to be put in trackers when he does, running well without winning.

 

14.00 CARLISLE – EDMUNDSON CABLETECH CARLISLE NOVICE AUCTION STAKES (5f)

This is actually fairly competitive for a run of the mill auction stakes race, three trainers that have won this corresponding race in the past are Bryan Smart, Kevin Ryan and Karl Burke. Let’s start with last year’s winning trainer Bryan Smart who is represented with his newcomer Weeton.

This son of Society Rock has a good sprint pedigree background being related to Namid, however I am going to overlook him on debut this time around but keep close quarters on him for future races around this sphere. Next, I move on to Kevin Ryan’s contender here in Falabelle. She is another new comer form a yard that has won this on three occasions with the last won winner being Fast Act back in 2014 who went on to have a winning rating of 81.

Finally, the selection, I have not come to this decision lightly, firstly I do feel Weeton is the horse to beat, but I am very drawn to Karl Burke’s filly Element’s Quest. She is the daughter of Coventry Stakes runner up Elzaam out of the middle distance mare Sweet Chilli, my reservations even though the juveniles have known to run well on debut, this trip just might be on the sharp side, in time she should be stretching out to 8f.

ELEMENT’S QUEST : 1pt each way @ 11/1(BOG)

14.30 CARLISLE – totepoolliveinfo.com EBF NOVICE STAKES (5)  (5.8f)

I would be very disappointed to not see Mark Johnston’s Birdette open her account at the first time of asking. The daughter of Australian Golden Stakes Winner Epaulette will get further than this, a good run here could definitely set her up for 7-8f races as a juvenile, trainer has won this race twice in the past four renewals.

Richard Fahey’s Our Kid made a pleasing debut when winning on the all-weather at Wolverhampton, but it’s turning out to be a weak race with majority of his beaten field failing to impress next time. Move it Move it, I put up last time out which could be a good thing now I am not tipping him this time around.

Third to John Kirkup last time over course and distance, and pending how the latter runs on this corresponding card in an earlier race could see form franked.

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

15.10 SALISBURY – NEW FOREST FARM MACHINERY/JOHN DEERE AUCTION STAKES (3)  (6f)

Running Cloud made quiet an impression on me when winning with plenty in hand on the all-weather at Wolverhampton, back in third that day was Richard Hannon’s Wildnightinvegas which was ridden by Tom Marquand, the jockey has deserted the latter for the selection which must speak volumes.

Now any other day I would probably be backing Three Little Birds of Sylvester Kirk’s, but she has had four reasonable chances to get off the mark and despite having big entries in the forthcoming months she will have to really step up if she is to make that grade. Onefootinparadise and Kimifive have run well enough on debut, the former finished behind Viscount Loftus who was pitched in way too far when competing at the Royal meeting finishing at the back of the field in the Norfolk Stakes.

Kimifive ran well as expected on debut when fourth over course and distance, just two lengths off the winner, Fran Berry takes over from Oisin Murphy, and I am guessing that if they were having a good stab of winning this Oisin would have got the recall.

RUNNING CLOUD : 3pt Win @ 13/8 (BOG)

19.50 NAAS – QUEALLY GROUP NAAS IRISH EUROPEAN BREEDERS FUND NAAS OAKS TRIAL (Listed)  (10f)

Very impressed in the way Jessica Harrington’s Black Ruby went about her business when winning her maiden at Fairyhouse. She had Frima three parts of a length back in second that day and I thought she did it a shade cosily. She is by Dansili who never raced beyond  9f in his career, she goes in to the Oaks later and could face Frima who is going to improve a lot off the back of that run last time.

As for dangers, obviously Frima once more will no doubt be involved, but does have a bit to find with a potential black type winner. Best of the rest, Marc Halford’s Petitcoat won well last time out at Leopardstown, it was a maiden that is going to produce more winners for sure.

BLACK RUBY : 3pt each way @ 9/1 (BOG)

 

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