by ·Comments Off on 2018 PDC World Cup of Darts – The Outrights
2018 PDC World Cup of Darts - The Outrights - Betting Preview

The 2018 PDC World Cup of Darts is returning for the eighth time in its history. The Dutch darting dynasty of Raymond van Barneveld and Michael van Gerwen looking to defend their title; after defeating the surprise package of the tournament, Wales, 3-1 in the 2017 final.

The tournament is a straight knockout structure, with no groups involved. Of the 32 competing nations, the top eight have been seeded and will not take part in the first round. Those seeded nations will then join in the second round and normal knockout rules will apply from there.

SkyBet are offering plenty of betting markets from now through to the final dart of the tournament, with some tempting price boosts to wet your palate.

Netherlands – (link no longer available).

The defending champions are favourites to repeat their triumphs of last year and understandably so. Their talisman, van Gerwen, is entering the tournament off the back-end of a routine Premier League victory and is showing no signs of slowing down. Raymond van Barneveld’s ruthless checkout nature is slowly deteriating however has still proven on many occasions he is a tricky customer for any opponent.

During the PDC Premier League, van Gerwen accumulated a staggering 103.56 three-dart average, 56 180’s and a checkout percentage of 45.37%. His partner, van Barneveld attained a three-dart average of 95.01, 42 180’s and a 38.28% checkout rate.

Expect 180’s, high checkouts and liquid darts from these two.

Scotland – (link no longer available).

The patriotic pairing of Gary Anderson and Peter Wright have faired rather differently in their recent Premier League campaigns. Anderson reached finals night whereas his whacky haired companion scrapped through judgement night by the skin of his teeth. Wright must improve if they are to lift the World Cup.

Anderson ended the Premier League season with a three-dart average of 99.11, 57 180’s and three of the competitions top 5 three-dart averages this season. Although Wright’s average was of an acceptable standard (96.17), his uncharacteristically low 180 count (31) and subpar checkout rate (39.78%) made it a season to forget.

Anderson could be carrying Wright through this.

England – (link no longer available).

England’s best chance of lifting a World Cup this summer falls in the hands of Rob Cross and Dave Chisnall.

You always have a chance with a World Champion in your corner however the decision to choose Dave Chisnall has turned a few heads after his time on the side-lines after not being chosen for the 2018 Premier League.

Cross enjoyed a fruitful first spell in the Premier League, reaching the semi-finals. He achieved a three-dart average of 97.33 and showed what he’s all about with 54 180’s. Chisnall has continued his rounds on the PDC circuit during 2018 but is yet to impress. His most noticeable mark of recent is reaching the quarter-finals of the Dutch Darts Grand Prix. Expect 180’s from Chisnall, but don’t expect much on the checkouts.

Two power scorers, the ‘make or break’ element for these two will come with the checkout.

Wales – (link no longer available).

Wales have a slightly different looking line-up to the one that reached the final last year. Gerwyn Price will be hoping to turn his fortunes around after a disastrous Premier League campaign. He teams up with Jonny Clayton, who replaces former BDO World Champion Mark Webster.

Price managed less than 90 in the Premier League on his three-dart average and only 11 180’s. Clayton is yet to prove himself on the big stage with only 2 non-televised PDC titles to his name.

Do not expect anything spectacular from these.

Australia – (link no longer available).

The reliable pairing of Simon Whitlock and Kyle Anderson represent the Aussies yet again. Anderson is still a developing player on the PDC circuit but is showing improvements every time, he plays in a televised event. His most recent efforts saw him reach the quarter finals of the Dutch Grand Prix.

He will be relying on Whitlock to do a lot of the grafting, a role he has proven he is capable of in recent months. Whitlock managed 43 180’s in the Premier League, expect a few more from him.

One of the tournaments dark horses. Very capable of reaching the 2018 PDC World Cup final.

Austria – (link no longer available).

Mensur Suljovic is proving to be one of the worlds best darts players, as he proved with his three-dart average of 99.06 over his Premier League campaign. He teams up with Zoran Lerchbacher, who is ranked 55th in the world.

Suljovic is a real threat but could be held back by the ineffective tournament player that Lerchbacher is.

Belgium – (link no longer available).

Down with the Ronny Huybrechts and in with Dimitri Van den Bergh. The PDC World Youth Champion is rising up the ranks and is becoming a hot prospect in the darting world. He only lost out to Austrian, Mensur Suljovic, a few days ago in the German Masters final.

Kim Huybrechts has only reached one semi-final in recent months at the Dutch Masters, other than that he is yet to reboot his system to bring back the Huybrechts of the past.

Northern Ireland – (link no longer available)

A fantastic price at 40/1 for Daryl Gurney and Brendan Dolan. Gurney has proven, despite his at times ill mannered presence, that he deserves a place in on the Premier League stage. He hit a gobsmacking 67 180’s this season and had a three-dart average of 96.77. His checkout’s need improving however if he leads his country to glory.

He teams up with Brendan Dolan, a player who needs a confidence boost. Playing alongside Gurney could do exactly that.

A great longshot bet to reach the final at 16/1 (SKYBET).

Prediction:

  • Netherlands to win – (link no longer available).
  • Australia to reach the final – 9/2. (SKYBET)

All odds provided by BET365 unless specified otherwise. 

by ·Comments Off on Rotherham vs Shrewsbury – Match Preview
Rotherham vs Shrewsbury, Sunday 27th May 2018, League One Play-Off Final,  Wembley Stadium. Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 15:00.

Rotherham vs Shrewsbury – Rotherham United and Shrewsbury head to Wembley in the SkyBet League One play-off final. Both sides had to fence off tough opponents in the semi-finals with Rotherham seeing off Scunthorpe and Shrewsbury eliminating Charlton Athletic.

Rotherham United have a very strong season in League One with the third highest goal tally in the league. Kieffer Roofe has led the line with great aplomb, netting 13 league goals along the way. SkyBet are fancying them to lift the trophy at the price of 3 / 4. The Millers have made the New York Stadium a fortress in recent months and were the second strongest home side all campaign however difficulties have arose on the road. They accumulated a total of 48 points at home and 31 away from home. It is a possibility that Wembley prove too much for the homesick Rotherham.

Paul Warne’s side have averaged two or more goals in 41% of their League One matches this year. SkyBet are offering odds of 11/8 for this to once again occur, but this time under the Wembley arch. A downside to Rotherhams fast-paced, clinical approach is their sensitivity at the back. They shipped 53 goals during the regular season; the most in the top six.

Also, they haven’t been shy with the referee’s pocket with an average of 17.4 booking points and a play-off final often sees sparks fly. SkyBet seem to be offering a banker with Rotherham to get 20+ booking points at a very reasonable 4/5.

Shrewsbury have exceeded many expectations this season with a third place finish in the standings. They then continued that impressive run by defeating Charlton Athletic in both semi-final legs to earn their Wembley place. SkyBet are fancying them to go all the way and reach the Championship with a price of 5/4.

Their attack has been slightly less provocative than their Sunday opponents’, however effective nonetheless. ‘The Blues’ netted 60 goals over the season with Stefan Payne enjoying the limelight with 11 crucial goals. Shrewsbury also have shown a lot more bottle away from home with 41 points earnt and 28 goals scored. They have averaged two or more goals per game in 36% of their league outings and SkyBet are offering a price of 21/10 for them to do it once more.

Defensively Shrewsbury have been role-models for the rest of the league. They conceded only 39 goals in their 46 campaign matches; the second best tally in the league. Their defensive efforts have not come at much of a price either having averaged 15.1 booking points throughout the season. SkyBet are pricing them to receive 20+ booking points at 4/7. Not bad for a RequestABet.

The referee for this encounter will be Robert Jones. Jones has officiated in League One ten times this season and hasn’t been shy with his cards. He has averaged a total of 37.5 booking points.

Rotherham vs Shrewsbury will be televised in the UK on Sky Sports Football HD with kick off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: 1-1 Draw after 90 minutes.

Suggested Tips – Rotherham vs Shrewsbury – (BET365): 

  • Correct score: Draw 1-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Rotherham vs Shrewsbury – (SKYBET):

  • RequestABet Specials Up to 10/1 – Rotherham v Shrewsbury – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 15/8. (NAP).
  • @FootyAccums RequestABet – Smith & Carlton Morris to score and Wood & Beckles to be carded– 150/1.
  • Price Boost: Correct Score – Shrewsbury Win – 2-1 – 14/1.
  • Head-to-Head Winning RequestABets – Rotherham v Shrewsbury  – Wood to score, 9+ match corners and 30+ match booking pts – 16/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 27 May 2018 @13:40 GMT. Markets will be not be updated prior to kick off.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around tomorrow’s play-off finals.

 

by ·Comments Off on Real Madrid vs Liverpool – Match Preview
Real Madrid vs Liverpool. Saturday 26th May 2018, UEFA Champions League 2018 Final, Olympic Stadium, Kiev, Ukraine. Live on BT Sports 1 – Kick-Off: 19:45.

Real Madrid vs Liverpool
Saturday 26th May 2018
UEFA Champions League 2018 Final, Olympic Stadium, Kiev, Ukraine

Live on BT Sports 1 – Kick-Off: 19:45

Real Madrid vs Liverpool – Real Madrid will be looking for a third consecutive Champions League title when they face Liverpool in Kiev on Saturday night.

After becoming the first team to ever retain the Champions League last year, Zinedine Zidane has his eyes firmly set on another trophy. With Real finishing third in La Liga speculation over the Frenchman’s future is mounting. Many have suggested Saturday’s match could make or break his career, due to their poor domestic performance. The future of Gareth Bale also remains unclear with the Welshman continuously missing out on a starting spot for the biggest games. With Real rumoured to be looking at bringing in a new ‘galactico’ this summer, Bale could find himself on his way out of the Bernabeu. I expect Karim Benzema to partner Cristiano Ronaldo up top, with Zidane then faced with picked one from Bale, Isco, Lucas Vasquez or Marco Asensio.

Liverpool have no fresh injury concerns coming into this game. Mohamad Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane are all expected to start. The real interesting battle within this game will be in midfield. Will Liverpool’s trio of James Milner, Jordan Henderson and Gini Wijnaldum be able to outfox Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Casemiro? Madrid’s superstars are all far better technically, but given the lack of dynamism in that three, Liverpool could overrun (quite literally) Madrid in the centre of the park. When Liverpool have the ball, they must keep it. If they give the ball away cheaply their biggest weapon (their front three) will have no service and will be unable to affect the game.

Milorad Mažić will be the referee on Saturday. The Serbian has taken charge of four UEFA Champions League matches, as well as two UEFA Europa League encounters this season. He also refereed last year’s FIFA Confederations Cup final between Chile and Germany, as well as the 2016 UEFA Super Cup involving Real Madrid and Sevilla.

With the two teams on display here, you would expect goals. The two teams’ semi-final games contained a combined 20 goals in just four games. I think Madrid will have too much for the Reds, with Ronaldo likely to step up to the plate once again. My bet would be Madrid to win and BTTS to score with Ronaldo to score anytime, or first at longer odds.

Real Madrid vs Liverpool will be televised live in the UK on BT Sport but is also available on YouTube with kick off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Liverpool.

Suggested Tips – Real Madrid vs Liverpool – (BET365): 

  • Correct score: Madrid 3-1 – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Real Madrid vs Liverpool – (SKYBET):

  • Ronaldo to score and win – 13/8.
  • Salah and Ronaldo to both score – 2/1.
  • BTTS and Madrid to win – 9/4.
  • Benzema to score first – 7/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 26 May 2018 @12:40 GMT. Markets will be updated prior to kick off so keep checking back – we will update the time for when the tips were last updated when doing so.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around this week-ends play-off finals.

by ·Comments Off on Aston Villa vs Fulham – Match Preview
Aston Villa vs Fulham, Saturday 26th May 2018, The Championship Play-Off Final,  Wembley Stadium. Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 17:00.

Aston Villa vs Fulham
Saturday 26th May 2018
The Championship Play-Off Final,  Wembley Stadium

Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 17:00

Aston Villa vs Fulham – The pair meet at Wembley with both sides desperate to secure their place in next season’s Premier League.

One of these two sides will return to England’s top flight, come Saturday evening. Branded the ‘£170 million’ game, this is bound to be a tense and nervy affair. The money riding on this game is huge, whilst there could be catastrophic financial implications for the loser – especially if it’s Aston Villa. Having spent the best part of £100M since their relegation from the Premier League two years ago, Villa are on the cusp of breaking financial fair play. Another season in the Championship would force a massive clear out as they would need to balance their extremely high wage budget.

However, Villa come into this game as favourites, in my eyes. Steve Bruce has been here and seen it all before. He has three Championship promotions to his name and was promoted through the play-offs with Hull City in 2016. On that day, his Hull side bested a relatively inexperienced Sheffield Wednesday side. It’s for that reason I make Villa favourites. They’ve got the experience of players such as John Terry, Glenn Whelan, Mile Jedinak and Robert Snodgrass. These players have played hundreds of game in the Premier League; they know how to handle a big occasion. 

Fulham have gone one step closer to promotion this year, having reached the play-off final. On their day, they play the best football in the division and can beat anybody. They do, however, have a soft centre, that can be exposed. The big Wembley pitch should suit the likes of Tom Cairney, Stefan Johansen and Ryan Sessegnon. Their possession-based game can sometimes lead to keeping the ball for the sake of it, rather than passing with any purpose to their play. The real test for Fulham is to play with the same pace and intensity as they did in their second-leg win against Derby. 

Anthony Taylor is the referee for this match. The Englishman has only officiated one Championship games this season, having predominantly refereed in the Premier League this season. In 27 games Taylor has an average booking points total of 35, which is around mid-table in respect to his colleagues. I don’t think this will be a great game for booking points, so I would advise a maximum of 50+. 

My gut feeling says that Aston Villa will win. They have been my tip since the play-offs began, so I’m going to stick with them. Fulham could freeze on the big day, with less experienced players. Equally, they could play Villa off the park. It’s going to be a tight game, that much is for sure.

Aston Villa vs Fulham will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Football with kick-off at 17:00 GMT.

Prediction: Aston Villa 2-1 Fulham

Suggested tips – Aston Villa vs Fulham:

  • Correct score, Villa 2-1 – 12/1.
  • Grabban and Mitrovic to both score – 10/1.
  • Snodgrass to score from outside the area – 22/1.
  • Greenish to score and win – 12/1.
  • Villa to win and BTTS – 6/1.
  • @FootyAccums RequestABets – Grabbon & Mitrovic to both score and Snodgrass & Johansen to be carded – 125/1.
  • RequestABet Specials – Over 1.5 goals, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 5/4. (NAP).

Odds and markets last updated on 26 May 2018 @12:40 GMT. Markets will be updated prior to kick off so keep checking back – we will update the time for when the tips were last updated when doing so.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around this week-ends play-off finals.

by ·Comments Off on Chelsea vs Manchester United – Match Preview
Betting Match Preview - Chelsea vs Manchester United. Saturday 19th May 2018, FA Cup Final,  Wembley Stadium. Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 17:15.

Chelsea vs Manchester United
Saturday 19th May 2018
FA Cup Final,  Wembley Stadium

Live on BBC 1 – Kick-Off: 17:15

Chelsea vs Manchester United – Chelsea and Manchester United meet in this year’s FA Cup final, with both sides looking to pick up their first piece of silverware this season.

Many are predicting that this could be Antonio Conte’s last game in charge of Chelsea. After failing to qualify for the Champions League, the Italian looks set to move on this summer. They finished their league campaign with a whimper; losing 3-0 to Newcastle on the final of the season. After selling the spine of his title-winning team, Chelsea have never recovered and now risk losing more key players. Their hold on stars such as Eden Hazard has undoubtedly weakened, with no Champions League football to offer their Belgian star.

It will take yet another rebuilding process at Stamford Bridge, with a lack of much-needed firepower the main cause for concern. Alvaro Morata and Olivier Giroud are good strikers but have yet to show they are capable of leading a team to a Premier League title.  Morata has again been linked with a return to Juventus, after a disappointing debut campaign.

Manchester United said farewell to Michael Carrick as he retired on Sunday. The Englishman will join their coaching staff next season. Despite finishing second, few in Old Trafford will be pleased with their season’s work. Watching City stroll to their third league title in seven years – breaking every record in the process – will not have been pleasant viewing. An FA Cup trophy would improve thing but not cover up an underwhelming campaign. United still lack someone who can dictate the tempo of games, in the same fashion the retiring Carrick has in years gone by. They also lack world class defenders, with a new left and centre back high on Joe Mourinho’s shopping list. United are expected to welcome back Romelu Lukaku to face his former side. The Belgian striker has missed their last three matches through injury.

Michael Oliver is the referee for Saturday’s season finale. The Englishman has officiated the most game in the Premier League this season (30), accumulating an average booking points total of 36.5. Despite being regarded as England’s best referee, Oliver will be disappointed to not be attending this summer’s World Cup.

Chelsea looked woeful against Newcastle. A side without any fight, hunger or spirit; the exact opposite to Conte’s side that won the league last year. Manchester United haven’t been free-flowing in recent weeks either, but I still think they will win on Saturday.

Some statistic for this years Chelsea vs Manchester United final courtesy of Opta:

  • Jose Mourinho – winner with Chelsea in 2007 – could become only the third manager to win the FA Cup with two different clubs, after Herbert Chapman (Huddersfield and Arsenal) and Billy Walker (Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest).
  • Mourinho has won 12 of his 14 previous major European and domestic finals as manager (excluding Super Cup games), winning all six with English clubs (4 x League Cup, 1 x FA Cup, 1x Europa League).
  • Antonio Conte could become the first manager to lose consecutive FA Cup finals since Howard Kendall in 1985 and 1986.
  • Conte has lost both of his previous domestic cup finals as manager, with Juventus vs Napoli in the 2012 Coppa Italia, and the 2017 FA Cup with Chelsea against Arsenal.
  • Alexis Sanchez scored in last season’s final with Arsenal, and could become the first player to score in consecutive cup finals with different clubs.
  • The last player to play in consecutive FA Cup finals but for different clubs was Brian Talbot (Ipswich 1978,Arsenal 1979). Both Sanchez and Giroud could do so in this game.
  • Sanchez has scored eight goals in his eight games at Wembley Stadium for club and country, including six in five FA Cup appearances at the ground.
  • Giroud has been directly involved in 22 goals in his 26 FA Cup appearances (15 goals, 7 assists), more than any other player in the competition since his debut.
  • The Frenchman has either scored or assisted a goal in all three of his FA Cup final appearances – he assisted the winning goals in both the 2014 and 2017 finals, and scored as a late substitute in 2015.
  • Romelu Lukaku has scored 12 goals in his last 12 FA Cup appearances, including five in five for Manchester United.

Chelsea vs Manchester United will be televised live in the UK on BBC 1 and BT Sport with kick off at 17:15 GMT.

You can also watch the match live via your mobile or PC on BET365. They will be streaming the game via their app and website which can be watched pretty much anywhere in the world, except for the USA and Singapore. Click here to sign up for an account if you don’t already have one.

Prediction: Chelsea 1-2 Manchester United.

Suggested Tips – Chelsea vs Manchester United (SKYBET)

  • Correct score, Manchester United to win 2-1 – (link no longer available).
  • BTTS and over 2.5 goals – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Chelsea vs Manchester United (SKYBET)

  • Lukaku to score and win – 7/2.
  • Giroud and Sanchez to both score – 9/1.
  • United to win by exactly one goal – 3/1.
  • RequestABet upto 10/1 – Giroud 2+ shots on target & Lingard 1+ shots on target, 3+ corners each team and 30+ match booking points – 8/1. 
  • Goalscorer Treble – Oliver Giroud, Romelu Lukaku & Alexis Sanchez All to Score – 33/1.
  • RequestABet Specials upto 10/1 – Over 1.5 Goals, 3+ Corners each team, 30+ Match Booking points – 11/8. (NAP).
  • RequestABet Specials 11/1 to 28/1 – Sanchez & Lingard to score, Manchester United to win and BTTS – 22/1.

Odds and markets last updated on 19 May 2018 @15:25 GMT. Markets will be updated prior to kick off so keep checking back – we will update the time for when the tips were last updated when doing so.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around next weeks Champions League final preview between Real Madrid and Liverpool.

by ·Comments Off on Marseille vs Atletico Madrid – Match Preview
Match Betting Preview - Marseille vs Atletico Madrid.Wednesday 16th May 2018, Europa League Final, Parc Olympique Lyonnais, Live on BT Sport 1 – Kick-Off: 19:45.

Marseille vs Atletico Madrid
Wednesday 16th May 2018
Europa League Final, Parc Olympique Lyonnais

Live on BT Sport 1 – Kick-Off: 19:45

Marseille vs Atletico Madrid: The Europa League final sees Atletico Madrid face off against Marseille with both sides looking to earn their first silverware of the season.

Marseille come into this game as underdogs, despite knocking out both Lyon and Salzburg on route to the final. Most of their fine campaign has been thanks to French winger Florian Thauvin. The former Newcastle winger has been in sensational form, scoring 25 goals and grabbing nine assists in all competitions. It was their defender, however, Rolando who secured Le Olympiens place in the final as he scored a crucial header in extra-time away at Salzburg. With only three Ligue 1 places awarding Champions League football, Marseille need to win the Europa League. They currently occupy fourth, level on points with Monaco but having played an extra game. If they were to win on Wednesday night they would join Monaco, Lyon and PSG in next year’s competition. In the league, Marseille are unbeaten in seven games, winning four.

Atletico come into this game having defeated Arsenal in the last round. A 2-1 aggregate win over the Gunners took them to the final, with Diego Costa and Antoine Griezmann inflicting the damage. The Frenchman looks set to join Barcelona in the summer, with rumours circulating over a 100m euros move to the Nou Camp. Unlike their French counterparts, Atletico will feature in next season’s Champions League regardless of Wednesday’s result. In La Liga, they have been terrific and look set to finish runners-up to Barcelona. They lead third-placed Real Madrid by three points with just two matchdays remaining. Atletico haven’t been in the greatest form of late, however. They have won just two of their last six matches, in all competitions.

Bjorn Kuipers is the referee for Wednesday’s showpiece. The match will the Dutch official’s second Europa League final; having officiated Chelsea’s win over Benfica in 2013. He plies his trade in the Eredivisie, accumulating an average of 4.33 card per game, the league’s highest. This has included 61 yellow cards in 15 games.

Whilst Marseille have proven they are a top side, I can’t see pass Atletico in this game. The quality of Griezmann, Costa, Godin and Oblak is far superior to many sides in Europe and should see them lift the Europa League trophy.

Marseille vs Atletico Madrid will be televised live in the UK on BT Sport 1 with kick-off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Marseille 0-2 Atletico

Suggested Tips – Marseille vs Atletico Madrid  – (BET365):

  • Correct score, Atletico 2-0 – 11/2.
  • Atletico to win to nil – .

Suggested Tips – Marseille vs Atletico Madrid  – (SKYBET):

  • Griezmann to score first – 9/4.
  • Costa to score and win – 9/4.
  • Thauvin and Gamiero both to score – 7/1.

NAPs – Marseille vs Atletico Madrid  – (SKYBET):

These are picks we’ve personally backed that are quite short in terms of the odds. Th majority of the picks below can be found in SkyBet’s RequestABet Specials up to 10/1 market for the game.

  • Atletico to win or draw, over 1.5 goals, Payet & Griezmann 1+ shot on target each & 10 booking points each team – 5/1.
  • Atletico to score 2+ goals & 20+ Marseille booking points – 15/8. (NAP).
  • Over 1.5 Goals, 3+ corners each team & 30+ Match Booking Points – 13/8.
  • Greizmann & Payet to have 2+ shots each on target – 20/1 (found in popular RequestABets within the game).
  • Come to Me to Win (Punchesdown 19:15) & Antoine Greizmann to Score in 90 mins – 7/1 (found in horse racing > specials > cross sport specials).

Odds and markets last updated on 16 May 2018 @18:32 GMT. Markets will b updated prior to kick off so keep checking back – we will update the time for when the tips were last updated when doing so.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around this weekend FA Cup Final preview.

by ·Comments Off on Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough – Match Preview
Match Betting Preview - Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough. Tuesday 15th May 2018, Sky Bet Championship, Play Off Semi-Final, 2nd Leg, Villa Park. Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 19:45.

Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough
Tuesday 15th May 2018
Sky Bet Championship, Play Off Semi-Final, 2nd Leg, Villa Park

Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 19:45

Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough : Aston Villa hold a slender one-goal lead ahead of their second-leg play-off semi-final with Middlesbrough.

Mile Jedinak’s decisive header secured the win for Aston Villa when the two sides met at the Riverside on Saturday. In the second half, they put in a valiant defensive display with Middlesbrough unable to break down their opponents. John Terry and James Chester again proved why they are one of the best centre-back partnerships in the League; Chester has played every single minute for Villa this season. Alan Hutton also stood out. The Scotsman was tasked with man-marking Spanish winger Adama Traore, who has been a revelation since Tony Pulis’ arrival. If he swapped wings, so would Hutton and he marked Boro’s main man out of the game for 90 minutes.

If Middlesbrough want to find a way back into this tie, they’re going to have to be a bit more offensive. Despite losing the game, Pulis opted to take off Britt Asomblaonga for Patrick Bamford, rather than try the two together. I’m sure, from the start at least, they will maintain their 4-3-3 shape but they have to be open to using two forwards as they chase the game. It’s imperative Boro also find a way to stop Jack Grealish. Just like Traore, the Englishman is Villa’s main creative threat. If they again start with three midfielders, I’d recommend tasking Muhamed Besic or Adam Clayton to mark Grealish out of the match.

Mike Dean is the referee at Villa Park on Tuesday. Dean has predominately officiated in the top flight this season. The Englishman has accumulated an average booking points total of 40.2, the second highest in the league. With so much on the line, I’d advise a maximum of 50+ match booking points for this game.

Both these teams are potentially 90 minutes from Wembley. Middlesbrough have got to come out and play on the front-foot if they want to find a way back in this tie. However, I think Villa have too much experience to throw this position away.

Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event with Kick Off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Aston Villa 2-1 Middlesbrough

Suggested Tips – Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough – (BET365):

  • First Goalscorer – Lewis Grabban – (link no longer available).
  • Correct Score – Aston Vill win 2-1 in 90 mins – (link no longer available).

Suggested Tips – Aston Villa vs Middlesbrough – (SKYBET):

  • Grealish to score and win – 7/2.
  • BTTS and Villa to win – 4/1.
  • Popular RequestABets – Aston Villa v Middlesbrough – BTTS, 4+ corners each team and 30+ match booking pts – 5/2. (NB 2).
  • Grabban and Assombalonga to both score – 7/1.
  • RequestABet Specials 33/1 to 66/1 – Aston Villa v Middlesbrough – Jedinak 1+ shots on target & Terry 1+ shots on target, 5+ Aston Villa corners and 20+ Middlesbrough booking pts – 40/1. (NB).
  • Popular RequestABet – Over 1.5 goals, 5+ Aston Villa corners, 3+ Middlesbrough corners and 10+ booking points each team – 2/1. (NAP).

Odds and markets last updated on 15 May 2018 @16:22 GMT. Markets maybe updated prior to kick off so keep checking back – we will update the time for when the tips were last updated when doing so.

Keep visiting the tips and preview area for further updates and betting previews around this weeks Europa League & FA Cup Finals.

by ·Comments Off on Fulham vs Derby County – Match Preview
Match Betting Preview - Fulham vs Derby County. Monday 14th May 2018, Sky Bet Championship, Play Off Semi-Final, 2nd Leg, Craven Cottage. Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 19:45.

Fulham vs Derby County
Monday 14th May 2018
Sky Bet Championship, Play Off Semi-Final, 2nd Leg, Craven Cottage

Live on Sky Sports Football – Kick-Off: 19:45

Fulham vs Derby: Fulham will be looking to overturn a one-goal deficit when they host Derby in the second-leg of their Championship play-off semi-final.

The Rams’ 1-0 win on Friday night has given them a slender advantage heading into the second-leg. Cameron Jerome’s 34th-minute header was enough to seal the win, with Derby defending magnificently to preserve their lead. Fulham recycled possession well as always but just didn’t penetrate in behind the Derby rear-guard often enough. Alexandar Mitrovic was well marshalled by the impressive Curtis Davies, whilst Tom Cairney and Ryan Sessegnon remained elusive throughout. If Fulham want to edge their way back into this tie, they need to find a way to move the ball quicker. There wasn’t enough tempo to the Cottagers possession play; making it easy for Derby to repel their attacks.

After falling short at the final hurdle, there are huge questions hanging over Fulham. Will missing out on automatic promotion derail their promotion push all together? With their 24-match unbeaten run coming to an abrupt end, can they get back to winning ways? Brighton never recovered from missing out on promotion on the final day two years ago and we could be seeing the same from Fulham. The Cottagers have, however, won 12 of their last 14 home league games, with their last defeat at Craven Cottage coming in November last year. Fulham fell at this stage last season; losing 2-1 to Reading over two legs. Whether they can end their play-off curse remains to be seen.

Chris Kavanagh is the referee for this crucial game. The Englishman has only officiated seven games this season in the Championship, with most of his appearances coming in the top-flight. Kavanagh has accumulated an average booking points total of 38.7 from 15 Premier League matches, which is one of the highest in the league.

I’m really not sure how this will play out. Fulham could easily produce a similar display as on Friday night, or come out the trams and blow the Rams away. I’m going to edge with Fulham to win in 90 minutes, although it could be anyone’s game after that.

Fulham vs Derby County will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Football with kick-off at 19:45 GMT.

Prediction: Fulham 1-0 Derby

Suggested tips – Fulham vs Derby County – (BET365):

  • To win to Nil – Fulham to Win to Nil – (link no longer available).

Suggested tips – Fulham vs Derby County – (SKYBET):

  • Jerome and Sessegnon to both score – 15/2.
  • Correct score, Fulham 1-0 – 11/2.
  • Mitrovic to score and win – 6/4.
  • Either team to win in extra time – 6/1.
  • Popular Bet – Over 1.5 goals, 5+ Fulham corners, 3+ Derby corners and 10+ booking points each team – 2/1.

by ·Comments Off on Liverpool vs Brighton – Match Preview
Match Betting Preview - Liverpool vs Brighton, Sunday 13th May 2018, FA Premier League, Anfield. Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 15:00.

Liverpool vs Brighton
Sunday 13th May 2018
FA Premier League, Anfield

Live on Sky Sports Main Event – Kick-Off: 15:00 

Liverpool vs Brighton: Liverpool need just a point against Brighton to secure their place in the top four and ensure Champions League football next season.

The Reds are within touching distance of a second consecutive top-four finish. Chelsea’s draw in midweek against Huddersfield means Jurgen Klopp’s side hold a two-point cushion and a superior goal difference over Antonio Conte’s team. Had the Blues won in midweek, Liverpool would have entered the final weekend of the season level on point and needing a win. Their Premier League form has dipped in recent weeks, with the Champions League seemingly taking priority. They are without a win in their last three games and have won just once in their last five matches in all competitions. Still, with just one game remaining Klopp’s men should have enough to see the season through, before casting their minds to Kiev and Real Madrid.

Chris Hughton has worked wonders at Brighton. After leading the Seagulls into the Premier League for the first team he has now secure them a second consecutive season in the top flight. In truth, their Premier League status has looked secure for some time, following wins against Manchester United, Arsenal and Swansea. Adding a little more flair to match their resilient and hard-working back-line will be the priority in the summer. They have the best defence in the bottom half of the league but are also the third-lowest scorers in the division. Lewis Dunk and Shane Duffy have enjoyed fruitful debut campaigns in the Premier League. The pair formed a formidable partnership in the Championship and have continued that in the top flight.

Kevin Friend is the referee for Sunday’s clash. The Englishman has officiated 20 top-flight matches this season, accumulating an average booking points total of 23. This is the second-lowest in the league, with only Lee Probert proving more lenient. Consequently, I would advise steering clear of any bets with booking points for this match.

Liverpool haven’t been there best recently but should take all three points in this game. They’ll want to end the season with a victory and also maintain their unbeaten league run at home this season.

Liverpool vs Brighton will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event with kick-off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: Liverpool 3-0 Brighton

Suggested tips – Liverpool vs Brighton (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, Liverpool to win 3-0 – 6/1.
  • Liverpool to win to nil – 10/11.
  • Firmino to score first – 7/2.
  • Salah to score a brace – 13/8.
  • Mane and Ings to both score – 9/2.

by ·Comments Off on Newcastle United vs Chelsea – Match Preview
Match Betting Preview - Newcastle United vs Chelsea, Sunday 13th May 2018, FA Premier League, St James Park. Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 15:00.

Newcastle United vs Chelsea
Sunday 13th May 2018
FA Premier League, St James Park

Live on Sky Sports Premier League – Kick-Off: 15:00 

Newcastle vs Chelsea – Chelsea will be hoping to keep their faint top-four hopes alive with a win against Newcastle on Sunday.

Chelsea’s 1-1 draw against Huddersfield in midweek left them two points behind fourth-placed Liverpool ahead of the final day of the season. Victory would have lifted Antonio Conte’s men level on points with the Reds, although they do possess an inferior goal difference. The scenario is simple now; Chelsea must win and hope Liverpool lose at home to Brighton. Otherwise, it is Europa League football for the Blues. It’s been a disappointing season for Chelsea, which was summed up in their draw at on Wednesday. They have one of the league’s lowest conversion rates, which has been the main downfall of their season. Without Diego Costa, Chelsea have lacked goals and a ruthless edge in front of goal. With this likely to be Conte’s last game in charge, the new man coming in has a rebuilding job on his hands.

Rafa Benitez has done a remarkable job; leading to Newcastle to safety in the Premier League. Despite being one of the league’s biggest clubs, they have arguably the worse squad. In the summer, they need some real investment to push the club forward. If not, they risk losing Benitez, which would be a massive loss. A goal-scorer must be high on the club list of summer targets. Ayoze Perez is the club’s leading marksman, but he only has eight goals to his name. After four consecutive wins, Newcastle have lost their last three matches. A run symptomatic of their up and down season.

Martin Atkinson is the referee for Sunday’s match. The Englishman has an average booking points total of 42, the highest in the league. He has officiated the third highest numbers of games at 27, with only Michael Oliver and John Moss exceeding his tally.

Newcastle have little to play for, with their Premier League status already secured. You never know which version of them will show up, making it hard to predict this game. Chelsea, by contrast, must ensure they win to keep alive any chance of Champions League football.

Newcastle United vs Chelsea will be televised live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League with kick off at 15:00 GMT.

Prediction: Newcastle United 1-2 Chelsea

Suggested Tips – Newcastle United vs Chelsea – (SKYBET):

  • Correct score, Chelsea to win 2-1 – 7/1.
  • Hazard to score and win – 9/4.
  • Giroud to score a brace – 15/2.
  • Chelsea to win 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1 – 13/8.
  • Ritchie to score first and Newcastle to win 1-0 – 130/1.