Horse Racing Preview - Bath - 2nd October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from 2 meetings, with selections from Glorious Goodwood & Newmarket.

Yesterday finally got the blog off  to a good start for August with two winners and one placed advised. The most impressive for me was Beat The Bank who has a Celebration Mile entry along with a Park Stakes entry, the latter race is the interesting ante-post bet for me.

 

14.40 Newmarket – British EBF Fillies Nursery Handicap (6f)

I would like to think that Michael Bell’s team are still on the upward curve and their entry here First Drive can grind out another win here. Her win over 6.1f at Nottingham was a useful time and that was her first win. However she looks to have improved from when she finished runner up on her debut at Yarmouth when again clocking the best time on this ground.

With quiet a few of these either dropping back in trip or tackling the trip for the first time, First Drive has proven she has some potential, best of the rest could come from Mark Johnston’s Faithful Promise who got her second career win at Carlisle last month in a reasonable time, but concerns if she will run if the heavens once more open.

FIRST DRIVE : 2pt Win @ 9/2 (BOG)

15.50 Newmarket – Malcolm Roxburgh Retirement Handicap (0-90) (7f)

Bottom of the card Stuart Williams Derek Duval would have a live chance in what looks a very open contest. He looked to adapt better to the easing ground at York last time when finishing runner up to Kevin Ryan’s well punted Lualiwa who was coming off the back of a win at Chester off 82. He looks ground dependable for me and with the ground easing here, he has a lively chance getting weight all round.

Mojito will have his followers, James Doyle turns up to ride the Haggas three year old who won with plenty in hand at Sandown when landing a 0-90 handicap, however he has been beaten when the ground has some cut on both occasions and at 5/6 he is worth taking on with the selection.

DEREK DUVAL : 1pt each way @ 6/1 (BOG)

15.35 Goodwood Qatar Stewards Cup (Heritage Handicap) (6f)

With the ground coming up soft to heavy and rain forecast over night I am swaying to the high draw bias in this. So this gives me a possible dutch in the race with David Elsworth’s Sir Dancealot and Michael Appleby’s Danzeno.

The latter is not overly exposed around this sphere and was last seen when landing the Totescoop6 Heritage Handicap at Ascot last month when beating an old adversary in Polybius. They both meet once more and Danzeno will have to concede another 6lb to his rival. Silvestre De Sousa must feel there is more to come from the six year old and takes the ride once more.

The second selection comes in the way of David Elsworth’s Sir Dancealot. Three year olds have won the last two renewals of this race and have been at the head of the market, After Ryan Moore’s three timer yesterday which included winning on Master The World for Elsworth, they team up again and are likely to go close coming from stall 24.

Projection and Polybius should be on the premises also from their good draws; the former ran a cracking third in this year’s Wokingham, a neck in front of a Polybius that day. He will have to concede another 1lb to Polybius this time around, however this horse has not won since Ryan Moore guided him to success at Salisbury last year and with the genius riding another this just could be a tip in itself, Kieran Shoemark wont be claiming his 3lb here.

You cannot fault David Simcock’s Polybius maximum efforts this year, but his losing streak now goes back two years when winning the Listed Hopeful Stakes when trained by David Lanigan, I think he will run well once more, but looked better suited at Ascot so a return there in the near future he could gain a well deserved seasonal success.

 

SIR DANCEALOT : 2pts each way @ 12/1 (BOG)

Danzeno : 1pt each way @ 12/1 (BOG)

 

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Horse Racing Preview - Windsor - 23rd October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from Day 4 of Glorious Goodwood, with 6 selections from the meeting.

 

13.50 Goodwood – Betfred Glorious Stakes (Group 3)  (11.9f)

Last year’s winning combination team up again with Poet’s Word, the son of Poet’s Voice will step up into new distance territory this afternoon when he tackles the mile and a half for the first time. His first run in pattern company saw him finish runner up to Deauville in the Group 3 Huxley Stakes when beaten by a neck. With only one run on this type of ground saw him defeated at Epsom in a 0-105 handicap, concerns for me is distance and ground.

Fighting for favouritism will be Charlie Appleby’s Frontiersman who has been beaten twice since landing a valuable 0-105 handicap at Newmarket back in May. His only run on soft ground also resulted in a defeat when finishing sixth in the OCSL Stakes at Newbury, once more he could be vulnerable off his current mark.

Hugo Palmer’s Crimean Tatar and the inform Lord Yeats of Jedd O’Keeffe’s also come into the reckoning. The latter has been in great form this year notching up both starts at York when landing the Jorvik Handicap by six lengths over this index on good to soft ground and improved even further when taking the Fred Archer Stakes at Newmarket when defeating Second Step by a neck when in receipt of 3lb. Having to concede that 3lb back this afternoon could make it difficult of landing the hattrick, however he is in the form of his life and will relish the trip and ground.

Hugo Palmer is 0-8 this month and looks to have fallen by the way side at the end of July with winners after the yard were firing, their representative here is Crimean Tatar who would not be out of this very open contest. He has had two attempts at pattern company and has not shown the ability from his first two runs which resulted wins. The last run, there looked something amiss when trailing in last over the index in the Yorkshire Cup, excuses could have been made as he did not seem to get the distance. He drops back to 12f this afternoon and has only half a length to find with Second Step from the John Porter Stakes.

Second Step was conceding just a 1lb that day, and now they meet off level weights and with Second Step getting the weight back you would have to think that form will be upheld. Roger Charlton’s charge is the only runner in the field that has solid course form when winning the Tapster Stakes here over course and distance back in May. On that merit, I am willing to give him another chance of winning this under Jamie Spencer.

SECOND STEP : 2pt Win @ 13/2 (BOG)

14.25 Goodwood – Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes (Group 3) (8f)

I was very impressed with the way Make Time won his race at Sandown two weeks ago when thrashing his field by six lengths. His only run on soft ground came in maiden company when again thrashing his field by five lengths, the third Anythingtoday, has recently franked that form at Newmarket when landing a 0-95 handicap. he is the son of 2000gns wining sire Makfi who relished the soft conditions, another step up is required, however can be on the premises.

Andrew Balding’s Beat The Bank has seen only one defeat in his career when finishing midfield in the Jersey Stakes. He improved well when stepping up to 8f when landing the Listed Henry Cecil Stakes at Sandown, beating Forest Ranger by three lengths. That form took a huge boost when D’Bai landed the Porshe Handicap last week at Newmarket when beating a subsequent winner in Pealer. He looks the one to beat for me as his entry in the Park Stakes in September is significant enough that they feel he is worthy of landing this race under Ryan Moore.

BEAT THE BANK : 2pt Win @ 4/1 (BOG)

15.00 Goodwood – Betfred Mile Handicap (8f)

One I like very much in this is the fast improving Charlie Appleby’s colt Blair House. The four-year-old looked in need of the run when runner up from the Royal Hunt Cup when splitting winner Zhui Feng and Tashweeq. The fourth Ballet Concerto franked the form at York recently when taking the John Smith’s Cup. Getting an extra 1lb from Zhui Feng this time around for a half a length defeat should see him go close once more.

Soft ground should not inconvenience him with a win last year at Pontefract on good to soft ground and he equipped himself well again when runner up on soft ground in a 0-105 handicap, I feel he is the one to beat here.

One I will Dutch here is David Elsworth’s Master The World who ran a cracking second at Newmarket on soft ground in a 0-105 handicap two weeks ago and eighth in the Royal Hunt Cup when behind the likes of Zhui Feng and Blair House, he gets an 8lb turnaround from Zhui Feng for just over a three length defeat and is getting 7lb back from Blair House so deserves to be on the premises once more.

BLAIR HOUSE : 2pt Win @ 6/1 (BOG)

Master of World : 1pt each way @ 11/1 (BOG)

15.35 Goodwood – Qatar King George Stakes (Group 2) (5f)

Two against the field here is the consistent Marsha and Clive Cox’s Priceless. First the latter, who is one of two representatives for Clive Cox. Despite winning the Group 2 Temple Stakes at Haydock, I feel she is better suited to soft ground and was impressive when landing the Listed Scarbrough Stakes at Doncaster last year in a quick time. Since then she has won twice at Bath and Haydock, this is another step up, however she is very capable.

The other is Marsha of Sir Mark Prescott’s. This ultra-consistent filly has been rewarded with a big win this year when landing the Palace House Stakes on Guineas weekend. Since then she has been overhauled by Lady Aurelia in the King Stand Stakes and was just denied when turning up in the Group 2 Sapphire Stakes at the Curragh.

Her form on ground that has come up good or less has been impressive showing a return stat of 1211, the ground has been probably too quick on her recent two runs for her to make a blow, back on this easing ground she has a chance to redeem herself.

PRICELESS : 1pt each way @ 9/1 (BOG)

Marsha : 1pt each way @ 7/1 (BOG)

 

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Aston Villa vs Hull City - Match Preview

Aston Villa vs Hull City – Match Preview – Steve Bruce faces his former club as Aston Villa host recently relegated Hull City. Bruce left the club at the beginning of last season, and comes up against them for the first time. The match also sees the debut of new Hull manager Leonid Stlutsky. He is tasked with trying to secure another promotion for the Tigers, starting with a win at Villa Park.

Aston Villa are amongst the bookmakers’ favourites for promotion, and they know anything less than a return to the top-flight will be a failure.

After a hugely disappointing season last year, Steve Bruce is under pressure to return Villa to the Premier League. The club have backed him in the transfer market, making five additions to an already impressive squad. With a number of options now available to him, it is Bruce’s job to fit the pieces together to find his best team.

John Terry signed for Aston Villa this summer Photo Credit: skysports.com

Summer signings John Terry, Glenn Whelan, Ahmed Elmohamady and Chris Samba are experienced heads, who know how to win titles. Couple this with the attacking threat of Jonathan Kodjia, Scott Hogan and Albert Adomah, and there is no reason why they shouldn’t be challenging for automatic promotion.

After one season back in the top-flight Hull were relegated and now return to the Championship. After a turbulent year, which saw them have three managers, they now have another new face at the helm.

Stlutsky succeeds Mark Silva, who left to join Watford. The former CSKA Moscow boss is looking to gain promotion, which would fulfil a life-long goal of being the first Russian to manage in the Premier League. He won three league titles in his four years at Moscow, and lead Russia to the finals of Euro 2016, before stepping down as manager.

Frazier Campbell returns to his former club Photo Crdit: hulldailymail.co.uk

The Tigers have made six new signings this summer. Fan favourite Fraizer Campbell returns to the club, alongside Liverpool midfielder Kevin Stewart. They have also signed Chelsea defenders Ola Aina and Michael Hector on season long loans.

Villa have lost only one of their last 12 meetings against Hull, winning 11 of them. The two club’s last meeting however saw Hull defeat Villa 2-0 in 2015, when they were managed by Steve Bruce.

Hull’s last victory at Villa Park came back in 1967, a record that has lasted 50 years. This underlines the huge task that Slutsky has on his hands, if he is to record a win in his first game. There has been a total of 28 goals in the last 12 meetings, with only one draw coming in that time. The stats would suggest a home win is on the cards, and that is what I predict will happen as well.

 

SKBET: VILLA TO WIN 2-0- 15/2

SKYBET: KODJIA TO SCORE FIRST AND VILLA TO WIN- 9/4

SKYBET: BOTH TEAMS TO SCORE AND HULL CITY TO WIN- 15/2

SKYBET: CAMPBELL TO SCORE AND HULL TO WIN- 11/2

SKYBET: BOTH GABRIEL AGBONLAHOR AND ROSS MCCORMACK TO SCORE – 8/1

Sunderland vs Derby County - Match Preview

Sunderland vs Derby County – Match Preview – The Football League is back! This weekend marks the return of the Championship, alongside League One and Two. The opening game of the football league season comes from the Stadium of Light, as recently relegated Sunderland take on Derby County. The game will be live on Sky Sports this Friday night as both teams look to bounce back from last season’s disappointments.

Sunderland make their return to the second tier for the first time in ten years, as they face off against Gary Rowett’s new look Derby side. The match will see the debut of new Black Cats boss Simon Grayson, as he enters his new home dug out for the first time.

Sunderland are a club in turmoil. After finishing bottom of the Premier League last season, David Moyes resigned from his role as manager. The club were then turned down by Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes, before they eventually appointed Grayson as manager. The club are short of funds, with chairman Ellis Short trying to sell the club.

James Vaughan signs from Bury Photo Credit: chroniclelive.co.uk

In the transfer market, they have brought in six new additions. Winger Aiden McGeady, who impressed on loan at Preston last season, has been re-united with his former manager Grayson as they picked him up from Everton. They have also bolstered their attacking options by bringing in James Vaughan and Lewis Grabban, after Jermain Defoe left to join Bournemouth.

Tom Huddlestone signs for Derby Photo Credit: derbytelegraph.co.uk

Derby’s side is very much a work in progress. Gary Rowett’s first window has seen huge changes for the Rams’, with star men Will Hughes and Tom Ince leaving the club. Rowett appears to be looking to build a tighter knit, experienced group, and has added Hull City duo Curtis Davies and Tom Huddlestone to their ranks.

The club have also had a 7 million pound bid for Leicester City playmaker Tom Lawrence rejected. The Welshman impressed on loan at Ipswich last year, and would fill the void left by Ince’s departure.

These two clubs meet for the first time since 2008. Sunderland haven’t lost against Derby since 2001, remaining unbeaten in their last 10 outings. In those ten games, they have won six and drawn four. Derby haven’t won at the Stadium of Light since 1990, a record that stretches back 27 years.

Games between these two sides have always been tight. The last 13 fixtures have been separated by no more than a one goal margin, with only 23 goals coming in that time. In what is bound to be a cagey opener, I think a draw might very well be on the cards.

 

SKYBET: Winning margin (Sunderland by one goal)- 3/1

SKYBET: Correct Score Group Betting – 1-1, 2-2 or 3-3 Draw – 100/30

SKYBET: McGeady to score first and Sunderland to win 1-0- 40/1

SKYBET: Both teams to score and Sunderland to win- 7/2

Daily Horse Racing Pro Tips - 26th October 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from Day 3 of Glorious Goodwood.

 

14.25 Goodwood – Markel Insurance Fillies Stakes (Lilly Langtry) (Group 3)

Not many in this renewal have been proven winners at this index, two that stand out though are Ralph Beckett’s Alyssa and Ballydoyle’s interesting three-year-old Wild White Rose. Ralph Beckett won this back in 2015 with Simple Verse, this year he has 30% of the field which does give us all a dilemma as to whether to go on jockey bookings.

Alyssa has won over this trip twice with the last win coming in the Noel Murless Stakes at Ascot last September, that was on good to firm ground and set a good time, but Aidan O’Brien’s Wild White Rose was equally impressive when landing the Listed Stanerra Stakes at Leopardstown two weeks ago when put in as the 7/4fav to do so. Seamie Heffernan keeps the ride and on paper he is the only realistic entry that is proven over the trip and ground.

WILD WHITE ROSE : 1pt each way @ 12/1 (BOG)

15.00 Goodwood – Qatar Richmond Stakes (Group 2) (6f)

Unless something has really improved at home then this looks a certain matchup between the front two that finished 1-2 in the July Stakes. Runner up that day was Ballydoyle’s US Army Flag who tried to make all under Ryan Moore to be gunned down in impressive fashion by the selection and NAP of the meeting Cardsharp.

Mark Johnston’s juvenile has been ultra-consistent this season, but I do have reservations that he will train on to three with success so it’s best to jump on the bandwagon now. Cardsharp had already shown potential when third in the Norfolk Stakes, the fourth Frozen Angel has run well again in France in the Prix Robert Papin. The selection gave the Ascot run a big boost when he showed a blistering turn of foot to land the July Stake, there is definitely more to come from the son of Lonhro.

Best of the rest could be Richard Hannon’s Etefaaq who represents a yard who has won this on six occasions which included last year’s winner Mehmas. He finished behind Nebo at Newmarket in the Superlative Stakes, the trip was all wrong and with already being a winner over the index on this ground he has to be feared dropping back in trip despite his 33/1 price tag.

CARDSHARP : 3pt Win @ 3/1 (BOG)

15.35 Goodwood – Qatar Nassau Stakes (Group 1) (9.9f)

Winter will probably be crowned top filly regardless of what happens this afternoon, at 7/4, I am sure the big punters will be out once more but I feel she is beatable, already we have seen one big banker get beaten on day one in Big Orange.

I am going to take her on here with Shutter Speed. John Gosden had won this on three occasions until the past two years with the race going back to Ireland. He is represented here with two strong fillies in So Di Mar and the selection Shutter Speed. The former is the choice of Dettori and with the ground coming up soft she has to be respected with the last two renewals being one by the cheeky Italian. Gosden’s other runner is Shutter Speed, who finished a creditable fourth in the Prix de Diane, but I thought excuses could be made that day on the ground coming up too fast.

Shutter Speed has always shown her potential on ground that has come up really soft, as she showed when landing the Musidora Stakes in excellent fashion at York back in May, ridden by Frankie that day who looks to be on the wrong one here.

SHUTTER SPEED : 1pt each way @ 13/2 (BOG)

 

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Netherlands vs England - Match Preview

Netherlands vs England – Match Preview – England face hosts Netherlands in the semi-final stage of the UEFA Women’s EURO 2017. Both sides have won all their matches so far in the tournament, with two good crowd followings behind them at their matches.

 Netherlands won all three of their group stage games; overcoming Norway, Denmark and Belgium. The host nation has continued to impress past that stage, beating a strong Swedish side in front of a sell out crowd in Doetinchem.

 Mark Sampson’s England side cruised through Group D, topping the standings above Scotland, Spain and Portugal. The ‘Lionesses’ then went on to beat France in the quarter-final in a tight and tense affair. Striker Jodie Taylor’s goal was the difference as she has added yet another to her tally in a promising bid to win the tournament’s golden boot award.

 Netherlands have given the home crowd much to cheer about since the first whistle was blown. The creative attacking three of Martens, Miedema and van de Sanden have been fantastic for the hosts, and can cause the English defence a lot of problems.

Lieke Martens will be a threat to the England defence with her pace and creativity Photo Credit: skysports.com

 Left sided attacker, Lieke Martens, has been one of the most dangerous attackers at the tournament. Her sheer pace and danger when she cuts in on her right foot has seen plenty of full-backs left for dead, whilst Vivienne Miedema of Arsenal has been the physical, clinical presence that has been required up front. With the backing of a home crowd, can Netherlands continue their perfect summer?

Skybet Match Result – Netherlands to Win in 90 mins – 2/1

Egland captain Steph Hughton will hope she can lead her team to the finals Photo Credit: skysports.com

 England have been one of, if not the most impressive team at this tournament so far. Mark Sampson’s tactics have seen his defence concede once in four showings; the same as their semi-final opponents. Captain, Steph Houghton, has been a leader on the pitch commanding the best from her defenders whilst producing a solid base for England at the back.

 Striker, Jodie Taylor, is in the form of her life so far at the tournament having netted five goals in three appearances. One to never miss the target, Netherlands will have to keep her on lock down if they are to have any chance of keeping a clean sheet.

 Can the ‘Lionesses’ continue an already incredible summer for English national sides by qualifying to the final?

Skybet Match Result – England to Win in 90 mins – 7/5

 

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Skybet Championship 2017/2018 - EFL Opening Day Preview

Opening Day Preview – The EFL Skybet Championship kicks off this Friday as 24 teams compete for the coveted prize of promotion into the Premier League. With only 2 automatic promotion places, 4 other teams will battle it out for a place in the Play Off Finals at Wembley come the end of the season.

Here we look at the clubs that trailed the three promoted sides and to their opening day fixtures for the season ahead. Can they compete for the title and promotion once again?

 

QPR vs Reading

Reading reached the Play Off Final last season and will hope to go one better this year Photo Credit: skysports.com

Reading reached the Play Off Final last season and were beaten by Huddersfield on penalties after a 0-0 stalemate. Jaap Stam has done a fantastic job at the Madejski Stadium after just one season in charge. Stam won his first game of the season defeating Preston North End 1-0 at home but their form on the opening day has not been the best, though only losing one in their last 5.

QPR: Last 5 Opening day results – 2 Wins, 3 Losses

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Loss, 1 Win ( Charlton 2-0, Leeds Utd 3-0)

Reading: Last 5 Opening Day results – 2 Wins, 1 Loss, 2 Draws

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Loss, 1 Win (Birmingham City 2-1, Preston NE 1-0)

Prediction Both Teams to Score – Reading look the stronger on form but do concede goals and QPR seem to concede and go onto lose games. Reading a tentative vote for a win but BTTS is the safer option.

 

Preston NE vs Sheffield Wednesday

Sheffield Wednesday after their defeat in the Play Offs last season Photo Credit: skysports.com

Preston NE: Last 5 Opening Day results – 4 Draws, 1 Loss

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Draw, 1 Loss (Middlesbrough 0-0, Reading 1-0)

Sheffield Wednesday: Last 5 Opening Day results – 3 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw

Last 2 Opening Day results – 2 Wins (Bristol City 2-0, Aston Villa 1-0)

Prediction Sheffield Wednesday Win, Over 2.5 goals – Preston drew 4 of the 5 opening day games in the last 5 years with all 4 draws coming at home and only one being a score draw. Sheffield Wednesday haven’t won when away from home on the opening game of the season but have hit the back of the net on both occasions. Sheffield Wednesday look to be the stronger of the two and I believe they will challenge for promotion once again.

 

Fulham vs Norwich City

Fulham finished 2 places above Norwich last season Photo Credit: skysports.com

Fulham: Last 4 Opening Day results – 3 Wins, 1 Loss, 1 Draw

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Draw, 1 Win (Cardiff 1-1, Newcastle 1-0)

Norwich City: Last 5 Opening Day results – 1 Win, 3 Losses, 1 Draw

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Loss, 1 Win ( Crystal Palace 3-1, Blackburn 4-1)

Prediction Fulham Win – Fulham beat Norwich comfortably in their opening game of the 2012/2013 season in the Premier League 5-0 at home and though it was a few years back, Norwich do not look as though they have progressed as much as Fulham. Norwich have not won away from home in the last 5 opening day games whereas Fulham have won both home games from the last 5 opening games.The West London side should have the better of the Canaries and win convincingly.

 

Bolton Wanderers vs Leeds United

Leeds Utd will be hoping to gain promotion with last season’s topscorer Chris Wood Photo Credit: skysports.com

Bolton Wanderers: Last 5 Opening results – 1 Win, 2 Losses, 2 Draws

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Draw, 1 Win Derby 0-0, Sheffield United 1-0)

Leeds United: Last 5 Opening Day results – 2 Wins, 2 Losses, 1 Draw

Last 2 Opening Day results – 1 Draw, 1 Loss ( Burnley 1-1, QPR 3-0)

Prediction – Bolton Win – Bolton are undefeated at home in the last 5 opening day games whereas Leeds United have lost twice when away from home in the last 5 opening games. Neither side boast great form on opening day so a safer bet could be a draw or under 2.5 goals.

 

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Horse Racing Preview - Newcastle - 30th November 2017

Today’s horse racing preview comes from the 2nd day at Glorious Goodwood.

15.00 Goodwood – Bombay Sapphire Molecomb Stakes (Group 3) (5f)

It was frustrating to watch Happy Like A Fool get beaten in the Queen Mary as it cost me a few bob in a double that day, his conqueror was Heartache who should have really won the Prix Robert Papin in France last weekend in a very rare misjudged ride by Gerard Mosse, the ground is a concern for the Wesley Ward runner, but a decent draw to ease the pain, big chance under Mike Smith.

For me though, I will be in Havana Grey’s corner, despite running no sort of a race in the Norfolk Stakes he bounced back with authority when landing the Listed Dragon Stakes at Sandown. I do not think the change in conditions will inconvenience him as the sire was useful on good ground. There would be no shock to see James Tate’s Invisible Army run well again, a good fourth behind Cardsharp in the July Stakes at Newmarket three weeks ago puts him bang there, he also ran a good second on debut over 6f here at Goodwood and will be on the premises once more, however the nod goes to Havana Grey to gain another big success.

HAVANA GREY : 2pt Win @ 4/1 (BOG)

15.35 Goodwood – Qatar Sussex Stakes (Group 1) (8f)

This looks probably one of the best renewals we are going to see with the strong match up between Churchill and Ribchester. Churchill suffered a shock defeat when only managing fourth in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Ascot, but he will have to come in good fettle to over turn the mighty Ribchester who was impressive when landing the Queen Mary.

Soft ground should not be a concern for the pair, however Ribchester looks the real deal and is once more nailed on to land another big race of the year. One that could run well at a price is Clive Cox’s Zonderland who comes here off the back of a good second in the Celebration Mile here at Goodwood last year, this is his first run of the campaign and probably will be in need of the run this afternoon.

RIBCHESTER : 4pt Win @ 11/10 (BOG)

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FA Premier League 2017/2018 – Potential Manager Casualties – The Premier League is becoming more and more competitive every year and with the finances involved, clubs are trying to keep their heads above water and remain in the top-flight league in Britain.

The Premier League receives the most revenue of all football leagues and as clubs are run like businesses, managers must use all resources provided to ensure a successful and ambitious club.

This season, Newcastle United, champions of the Skybet Championship, Brighton, runners up to Newcastle, and Huddersfield, have been propelled into the highest tier of British football.

As far as casualties go, the managers of the three promoted sides will be favourites to part ways with their club’s due to inexperience and even their handlings in the transfer markets. As the season progresses, and clubs do not, the likelihood of a departure could occur after 3 games of the season or even with 3 games to go of the season.

Other circumstances could come into play in regard to a ‘casualty’, as Sam Allardyce learned when manager of England for just one competitive match. The FA and Allardyce himself, mutually agreed a termination of his contract due to alleged claims of ‘bending the rules’ which the FA deemed ‘inappropriate’.

Here is our shortlist of 6 managers who could potentially be the first casualties in the Premier League this season.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Potential Manager Casualties

Photo Credit: skysports.com

West Ham United – Slaven Bilic – 6/1

Former Croatia manager Slaven Bilic has had a tough time at West Ham since arriving at the club in June 2015. Admittedly, his first season was a success, as he led the Hammers to wins against Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City, all away from home. The season ended with the Hammers placed into the Europa League due to Manchester United winning the FA Cup that season. Since then, West Ham and Slaven Bilic have tried to acquire the right players to propel their league status but have failed to make their new home, the Olympic Stadium a fortress, something that must change this season.

If Bilic endures a tough start to the season, Co – owners David Sullivan and David Gold will not hesitate to remove the Croatian.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Potential Manager Casualties

Photo Credit: skysports.com

West Bromwich Albion – Tony Pulis – 12/1

Tony Pulis arrived at West Brom in January 2015 and he has had mixed fortunes since arriving at the Hawthorns. In the 2015/2016 season, Pulis led WBA to a 14th place position, keeping them out of relegation.

The 2016/2017 season, WBA finished 10th, though losing their last three games of the season.

Pulis has been at the front of controversy in previous years as when he left Crystal Palace after just a season, which led to the move to the Hawthorns at the beginning of January 2015.

Pulis has stated that he doesn’t receive the backing from the board at all times and thus hindering their progression to challenge consistently for a top ten place, and though the side has kept their head above water, whether Pulis is the man to progress the side is another question.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Potential Manager Casualties

Photo Credit: skysports.com

Stoke City – Mark Hughes – 4/1

Mark Hughes and Stoke have also been inconsistent in the league. Hughes has been at the Britannia Stadium since 2013 and looked to be making progress with the side, finishing 9th 3 years in a row but then failing to enter the top 10 last season when finishing 13th.

Stoke have solid players but lack creativity which could cause Hughes problems this season as one of their most creative players, Marko Arnautovic, joined West Ham this summer. Many experienced players left the club as Glenn Whelan and Jon Walters moved on this summer. Kurt Zouma, Chelsea defender, has signed on a season long loan but Hughes is yet to bolster in key areas such as the midfield and upfront.

This could be a difficult season for Hughes and if the club do not begin the season well, it is likely Hughes and Stoke will depart ways.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Potential Manager Casualties

Photo Credit: skysports.com

Newcastle United – Rafael Benitez – 4/1

Rafa Benitez has done wonders with Newcastle and he will be hoping his squad will be good enough to stay in the league. Many of the players have experience of the Premier League and should be capable of challenging but Benitez himself could be courted to a higher level if pursued by clubs in England or Europe. Benitez also was at the heart of speculation regarding transfers in the summer, and rumours of him wanting to leave due to not receiving the transfer funds he wanted were circulating.

All seems fine now but with owner Mike Ashley, if things do not go right, he too will not hesitate in removing the manager.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Potential Manager Casualties

Photo Credit: skysports.com

Manchester City – Pep Guardiola – 40/1

Pep Guardiola is regarded as one of the best managers in the world and his move from Barcelona last season to Manchester City excited all football fans. Guardiola spent over £168 million on 9 players and finished 3rd to Chelsea, a huge 15 points away from the champions.

Many were critical of his style of play and manner towards players; removing Joe Hart from the squad and loaning him to Roma, switching both full backs to play on opposite sides, and during the season, dropping world class striker Sergio Aguero for 18-year-old, Gabriel Jesus.

With the amount of money spent and changes to the squad’s style, Guardiola looked to concede the title as he tried to gel his team together. Though it seems refutable that a manager of Guardiola’s stature could be sacked, as Jimmy Greaves said, ‘(Football) It’s a funny old game’ and anything could happen.

Guardiola must challenge for a trophy this season or he will be sent packing, especially if rivals Manchester United are able to achieve more this season.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Potential Manager Casualties

Photo Credit: skysports.com

Huddersfield Town – David Wagner – 14/1

David Wagner did a great job last season to bring Huddersfield through the Play Offs and secure promotion into the Premier League. However, the German and his side could struggle in the league without enough experience.

The signings of Tom Ince from Derby and Steve Mounie from Montpellier will help Huddersfield to find the net but they did struggle to break teams down last season in the Championship and were inconsistent, something that Huddersfield cannot afford to do.

And as being one of the 3 clubs to be promoted, Huddersfield will be one of the favourites to be relegated back to the Championship.

FA Premier League 2017/2018 - Top Goalscorer - Preview

Premier League 2017/2018 – Top Goalscorer – Preview – The FA Premier League 2016/2017 season saw England forward, Harry Kane top the goal scoring charts with 29 goals for his club, Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs finished the season 2nd in the league scoring 86 goals, the most goals for any side in the PL last season. Teammate Dele Alli managed an impressive 18 goals, a great feat for an attacking midfielder.

Kane, along with England and Spurs teammate, Deli Alli, scored a combined 47 goals for the North London side, half of the total goals scored by Spurs. A huge reason why Spurs managed to gain a runner up spot to champions Chelsea. Though Spurs have not delved into the transfer market yet, the current team is in great shape and they have not lost any players that would hinder the team.

Champions Chelsea scored one less than Spurs last season, with Spaniard Diego Costa providing the bulk of goals for the West London side with 20, being the 5th highest goal scorer with teammate Eden Hazard contributing 16 goals. Hazard was the 8th highest goal scorer last season, a great feat for an attacking midfielder. Hazard was attracting interest from Real Madrid but the Belgian will be staying at Chelsea, at least for one more season.

Alvaro Morata Photo Credit: skysports.com

Costa though has been rumoured to want to leave Stamford Bridge and return to former club, Atletico Madrid. The club have signed Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid this summer and Antonio Conte will be hoping the striker can adapt as quickly as possible to provide in similar fashion as Costa.

Another player who has been rumoured to leave all summer is Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean scored an impressive 24 goals last season from both an attacking midfield role and as a striker. Frenchman Oliver Giroud scored 12 goals last season and his future at the club could end as Arsenal signed Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon.

Alexandre Lacazette Photo Credit: skysports.com

Lacazette has been prolific in Ligue 1 but can he hit the ground running and adapt to the league quick enough for Arsenal to muster up a proper challenge this season?

Arsenal finished the season in 5th position, missing out on Champions League football and with Sanchez’s future still up in the air, Wenger must do all he can to keep the Chilean and create a formidable partnership with Lacazette in order to avoid another disappointing year.

Manchester City ended last season in 3rd position with Sergio Aguero leading the goal scoring charts for the Citizens.

Aguero scored 20 goals with Brazilian Gabriel Jesus finding the net 7 times last season, the closest to the Argentine striker. Aguero has been one of the best strikers in the Premier League and he too has been rumoured to be leaving the Etihad this season. Though manager Pep Guardiola has stated that Aguero will not be going anywhere, the striker didn’t look to be happy come the end of the season, losing his place to Jesus on occasions.

Sergio Aguero Photo Credit: skysports.com

If Aguero is to remain at Manchester City, the Argentine will undoubtedly score goals and so will Jesus. Both players could hit the 20-goal mark, especially with the likes of Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva assisting.

Manchester United’s top scorer last season was Zlatan Ibrahimovic, scoring 17 goals. Ibrahimovic suffered an injury at the end of last season and has left the club with Utd securing a deal with Everton for Belgian striker, Romelu Lukaku, Everton’s top scorer and the 2nd highest goalscorer in the PL last season, behind Harry Kane, with 25 goals.

Romelu Lukaku Photo Credit: skysports.com

Lukaku will spearhead the attack and if provided the chances, will be a major factor to Manchester United’s final positioning in the league.

 

With that in mind, here is my Top 5 goalscorers for the 2017/2018 Premier League campaign and it may not be much of a surprise but I believe Kane will once again top the goal scoring charts with Lukaku a close 2nd.

  1. Harry Kane – Tottenham – 3/1
  2. Romelu Lukaku – Manchester United – 4/1
  3. Sergio Aguero/Gabriel Jesus – Manchester City – 13/2 / 9/1
  4. Alexandre Lacazette – Arsenal – 12/1
  5. Alvaro Morata – Chelsea – 10/1