Due to wishing to focus on my final year of University Study I will be taking a break from writing this blog. 

Kean Resigns As Blackburn Manager

Kean out of time in the Rovers hot-seat

Steve Kean was in his own words forced to resign last night after his position at the club had become 'untenable'. 

The news has no doubt been welcomed by many Rovers fans who have been calling for the removal of Steve Kean for over 18 months. Since he was appointed by the new Indian owners the Venky's 21 months ago, fans at Edwood Park have been unhappy. Kean leaves Blackburn third in the Championship after seven games where he endured only 1 defeat. Eric Black had taken over first-team duties. 

Fans poking fun at owners

Kean's record at Blackburn does not make great reading as he won 21, drew 16 and lost 37 of his 74 matches in charge as well as over seeing Blackburn's relegation from the Premiership after 11 years in the top flight. Unfortunately his treatment and tenure will be remembered as a farce. The chicken (left) on the field during the Wigan game at the end of last year summed up the Rovers fans feeling towards the clubs owners who have not covered themselves in glory throughout their tenure either.

It did seem as if Kean was to leave earlier in the week however then it appeared it had survived for another week at least after describing talks as 'constructive and positive' with the Indian owners of Blackburn Rovers only for him to resign last night.  

Rovers fans were constant in their protest 

Despite what you think of the man, you have to be impressed by the way that he had handled himself. Considering the abuse that he has received over the past 18 months he has stayed calm and in control which many may have found hard to do. Everyday must have been a battle as Rovers fans shouted for his removal. I have never seen before such negativity towards one manager over such a prolonged period of time. 

Kean's statement read: "For reasons that I cannot discuss on legal advice, it is with deep regret, given my hard work and service for the club for a number of years, that I have been forced to resign as manager of Blackburn Rovers Football Club with immediate effect, due to my position as team manager becoming untenable. I wish to thank all the players and coaching staff for their great support and the majority of the fans, who now see their club heading towards an automatic promotion position back to the Premiership. I wish the club all the very best for the future." 

For Blackburn to move forward Kean did need to go however it is the owners who also need to go. The Venky do not seem to understand how to run a football club and they are damaging Blackburn Rovers as a result.

In terms of a new manager. It is a very nice job. The squad that they have has great quality for the Championship and they sit third in the league. Players such as Jordan Rhodes will mean that Blackburn should be near the top come the end of the season. Also whoever the new manager is he will surely have more of the fans support then Steve Kean ever did. The new man is in a no-lose situation. 

Former favourite Sherwood early favourite

Early candidates for the position include many formers players. Tim Sherwood (right) currently on Tottenham coaching team and Match of the Day pundit and legendary goal scorer Alan Shearer, Craig Short, Colin Hendry, Gary Flitcroft, Tim Flowers, Henning Berg, Chris Sutton, Paul Dickov and even Robbie Saavge are are all linked with the position. Former managers Paul Ince, Greame Souness and Kenny Dalglish are also linked. Even Harry Redknapp is linked however this one will not happen for me.

Selected List of betting :

Tim Sherwood 11/8

Alan Shearer 2/1  

Harry Redknapp 7/1

Mick McCarthy 10/1

Colin Hendry 16/1

Eric Black 16/1 

Alex McLeish 20/1

Gary Flitcroift 20/1 

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank 20/1

Rafa Benitez 20/1

Paul Ince 20/1  

Roy Keane 25/1

Graeme Souness 33/1

Kenny Dalglish 33/1

Robbie Savage 40/1

Henning Berg 40/1 

Chris Sutton 40/1

Personally I am surprised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's name has not been mentioned. He would be a good choice if they can persuade him to leave Molde.

Who is the best choice?

Weekend Tips

Plenty of action this week as we have a full set of football fixtures, Horse Racing from Chester,Newmarket,Haydock and Market Rasen, Rugby League Play-off semi-finals and the Ryder Cup. It promises to be a very exciting weekend of sport. 

Football:

This week I am looking towards a treble as the way to go. Everton have been playing really well of late and despite their defeat in mid-week to Leeds they still go into this one as favourites. For me Everton are going to have a terrific season and will challenge for top 4. David Moyes has done a wonderful job and I believe a top 6 finish I think is a cert. Players such as Marouane Fellani, Steven Pienaar, Nikica  Jelavic, Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka have been immense. On the other hand Nigel Adkins's Southampton have struggled. Last weeks victory over Aston Villa was crucial. It was one that they simply had to win. However for me as I regularly express Aston Villa are poor and were there for the taking. I think the win with have done the confidence of the team the world of good although I just think Everton will be too strong. As ever with Southampton defensively they are very weak and they will be tormented by Everton whose movement and power will be too much. Skybet go 4/11 the Everton win.

Cisse is back on the goal trail

The second team in the treble is Newcastle. It is very rare that I back my own team however in this instance at 11/8 (SkyBet) that are just too tempting not to back. The Toon travel to Reading whose form of late has been awful. Their performance against Tottenham recently was so poor as similar to Southampton it was defensively that they were so susptical. The marking was poor and they gave far to much time and space to the Tottenham players. Despite their win in midweek I expect a side as strong as Newcastle to put them away. Papiss Cisse (left) scoring in midweek is great news for the Toon and will relive the tension of the striker waiting for his first goal. This too with Demba Ba already on terrific form  should provide nothing but nightmares for an already shaky Reading backline. 

The third and final team is that of Stoke (10/11-SkyBet). Stoke take on a Swansea side who bubble is bursting. Despite a great start to the season Swansea have lost their last two and an away trip to Stoke is always a physical and tough task as all the top teams have found out, with both Arsenal and Manchester City only managing draws at the Britannia. It will be interesting to see how Michael Laudrup's Swansea cope and if they are up for the fight or they will just crumble. 

Elsewhere I am tipping Arsenal to win the early game against Chelsea. The 6/5 (SkyBet) is a nice price and one worth going with. In their current form and at home, Arsenal have a great chance. Despite Chelsea being top of the League for me they have not been playing that well and today is their first real test this season. Lukas Podolski to score at any time 11/2 (SkyBet) is a wonderful bet. 

Other Premier League games that are intriguing is Fulham/Manchster City and Norwich/Liverpool. Fulham at home are very good and I think Manchester City could be in for a tough time. On the other hand Norwich/Liverpool is two teams who have started slowly. Both without a win however the pressure in on Brendan Rodgers here as Liverpool will still be expected to win this one. 

Bet of the day : Everton/Newcastle/Stoke treble @ 5/1 (SkyBet) . 

Lower League win Accumulator: Brighton/Bolton/Gillingham and Huddersfield @8/1 (SkyBet)

Long shot of the day: Fulham to beat Manchester City @7/2 (SkyBet)

Horse-Racing:

Having looked at the cards Newmarket is where the bets are. The main attraction is that of the The Cambridgeshire is at 3.40 and I am tipping Frankie Dettori's mount for Saeed Bin Suroor.

Win Bets:  Newmarket: 1.55 Excess Knowledge @ 8/1 (SkyBet) 

                 Newmarket: 3.00 Chachamaidee @11/2 (SkyBet)

EachWay: Newmarket: 3.40 Man of Action @16/1 (SkyBet)  

Rugby League: 

I am tipping St Helens to defeat Warrington is a thriller tonight to join Leeds in next weeks showcase.  They are 11/10 (SkyBet) to do just that and this is a nice price. 

Golf:

So Europe trail 5-3 after Day 1, a deficit which can be easily rectified. Europe are now out 5/2 to win the Ryder Cup. This is very tempting, as things can change very quickly. Todays foursomes are crucial as Europe must win a minimum of 2 in the morning session and in the afternoon session. Going into the afternoon at 9-7 down I would still fancy Europe but behind by more then 2 will be very tough indeed,  Looking at the quality of European golfer I am amazed that USA are as short as 2/5 after Day 1. This is far too short. 

Good Luck with all your bets this weekend. 

Weekend Tips

Another Weekend, another chance for more betting. Last week I thought Sunderland would have hung on. I was disappointed with the performance and think Adam Johnson was missed. This week there is another full set of fixtures as well as Rugby League play-offs and Horse-Racing from Newbury,Newmarket,Ayr and Catterick.

Football:

For me the best value for money bet in the Premier League is  Wigan to beat Fulham at home. Fulham are notorious for their form on the road. They really are a totally different side. I was impressed with them last week and in Dimitar Berbatov's performance. He is a very good signing for them that is for sure. Although I expect Wigan who have been playing well themselves to bag the points in this one. They collapsed last week at Old Trafford however Fulham are not of that standard. SkyBet go a generous 7/5 for the Wigan win which are very tempting odds.

There are some odds-on home-win that are looking good as well. Home win double for Chelsea/West Brom @ 11/10 (SkyBet) also looks a good punt. Stoke, like Fulham, are a different side away from home and Chelsea despite playing in mid-week should have too much. Reading will have to play a lot better then they did against Tottenham if they are to get anything at West Brom. A performance I can not see coming of the level needed to worry West Brom. West Brom getting back to winning ways a great shout.

Elsewhere the most interesting clash is at St Mary's. Southampton need a result and today is a great chance. Aston Villa are a poor side and are there for the taking. The reason I would not back Saints is the defence. They have been so poor of late I would not want to put my money on them. I am leaning towards a Saints victory and they are 7/5 (SkyBet) to do that but I will leave this one alone.

Tomorrow's games are very tough to call as it really is a Super Sunday. Manchester United must be favourites to beat Liverpool and I would call a United win @13/8 (SkyBet). SkyBet go 8/5 Liverpool and 23/10 the draw. Arsenal vs Manchester City is too close to call. I think that this is the first real test for this Arsenal side who have been very impressive at the start of the season. Being at home City should pick up the points however I am not too sure. SkyBet go 8/11 City and 7/2 Arsenal although I think 14/5 draw is great odds. I will be leaving both of these alone in terms of betting however it does promies to be quite a sunday.

Best Value bet : Wigan to beat Fulham @7 /5 (SkyBet)
                          West Brom/Chelsea double @ 11/10  (SkyBet)

Long-shot of the day: 3 draws: West Ham/Sunderland, Crystal Palace/Cardiff and Ipswich/Charlton @37/1 (SkyBet)

Both teams to score: Crewe/Leyton Orient, Yeovil/Sheffield Utd, Port Vale/Gillingham and York/Cheltenham @7/1 (SkyBet)

Win Accumulator: Leeds, Crawley Town, Notts County, Southend and Wycombe @37/1 (SkyBet)

Horse-Racing:

Win bets: 2.05 Newbury --- Lay Time @11/4 (SkyBet)
                2.35 Newbury --- Master of War @4/1 (SkyBet)

Each way 2.45 Newmarket --- Wellingrove @25/1 (SkyBet)
                 3.55 Newmarket --- Bernie the Bolt @10/1 (SkyBet)


Good luck with your bets.

Weekend Tips

What a week it has been. Andy Murray has won his first Grand Slam, the first Brit to do so for 76 years and England have started World Cup qualifying with 4 points from 6. However this is still a disappointment. Also the terrible findings of the Hillsborough disaster were released proving that football fans were not to blame, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool raise their game today.

Top flight football is back this week and so a full fixture list to chose from as well as Rugby League and horse-racing from Newcastle,Bath,Chester and Doncaster where Camelot goes for history. Last weeks' bet of the day came through despite Serena Williams giving me a scare. However my prediction of Djokovic would have changed after I knew about the delay, although can take nothing away from Murray he deserved it.

Football: 

Three points for O'Neill today

This week there is one game that for me stands out above the rest. It is the tea-time saturday match between Sunderland and Liverpool. Sunderland under the management of Martin O'Neill (left) are a very difficult team to play against. They have started the season solidly drawing away at Arsenal and home against an in-form Swansea side however their first win will surely happen today. The thing I like about Sunderland is the front three, in James McClean, Steven Fletcher and Adam Johnson they pose a very direct threat that will cause many teams problems throughout the season. For me this is a top-half front three. As a result I think Sunderland have goals in them, now when I compare this to Liverpool it is easy to see why the common sense must be a Sunderland win. Liverpool have struggled in their opening three games losing against West Brom (A) and Arsenal (H) and getting a draw against Manchester City (H). They won many plaudits for their performance against City however for me they were playing the best they could and City were at half-pace and used a strange team selection. I look at the Liverpool team and nothing would really worry me if I was Martin O'Neill. The front three of Luis Suarez, Fabio Borini and Raheem Sterling is weaker then that of Sunderland. The boy Sterling looks a great player with plenty of pace however none if them are what I would call goal scorers. Suarez is capable of great skill and incredible goals but is he going to score 20? I dont think so. This for me is Liverpool biggest problem. Both of their goals this season have come from set-pieces.The team does not have goals in them. As a team they create very little and even if they do they have no clinical striker to finish them. In fact for me they have no traditional striker at all now that they have let Andy Carroll go. This decision was an error, Carroll has not had the best of times at Anfield however as a Newcastle fan I know just how good he can be, given the service. This was the same as Alan Shearer. He was also a plan B. Liverpool have all small forwards and are unable to change the game. There is no power up front so arial threat is non existent. Now I know the same could be labelled at Barcelona however they are in a different league, literally and metaphorically, and the players they have are far superior to that of Liverpool. Sunderland are defensively organised and so a shut-out here is very likely. Also worryingly Steven Gerrard looks as if the years of carrying Liverpool and being the 'Roy of the Rovers' have finally taken their toll on him.

I understand what Brendan Rogers is trying to do however I do think he has made mistakes this season already and I do not see things getting any easier for him any time soon. Today will be emotionally charged for Liverpool due to the Hillsborough files however this match will do nothing to raise their spirits.

The records will show any team that struggles for goals will be battling relegation, now I do not think Liverpool will be in such trouble however talk of top 4 is laughable unless of some terrific signings in January and plenty of luck. For me they will be mid-table and they can have no complaint.

SkyBet go 12/5 a Sunderland win which is amazing odds and ones that should not be missed. SkyBet also go  11/10 Liverpool win and the draw is 12/5.

Bet of the day: Sunderland to beat Liverpool 12/5 (SkyBet)

Accumulator bet: Arsenal, Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United and Bournemouth @ 20/1 (SkyBet).

Longshot: Stoke to win at home to Manchester City @4/1 (SkyBet). Stoke a very tough place to go and Man City may be thinking of Real Madrid in mid-week.

Also maybe few pounds on Brendan Rogers to be the first manager sacked in the Premier League at 20/1.

Racing:

Camelot goes for history and I think he should do it. At 2/5 it is too short for me however it will be major shock if he fails.

Win bet: 1.50 @Doncaster- Invisible Man @4/1 (SkyBet)

Each-Way: 3.00 @Doncaster- Steps @10/1 (SkyBet)

Rugby League:

It is play-off weekend and so three matches left to bet on. Treble for me; Leeds, Hull and Warrington at 11/10 (SkyBet).

Good luck with your bets today. 

Magnificent Murray claims first title in thriller

New York Fairytale for Murray

Finally the 76 year wait for a British Grand Slam winner is over. British tennis fans had to stay up until the early hours of this morning to watch Andy Murray win his first Grand Slam title defeating Novak Djokovic in a five-set-thriller, 7-6 (12-10), 7-5, 2-6, 3-6, 6-2 , to win the US Open in four hours and 54 minutes. Emulating the achievement of Fred Perry 76 years to the day since his US open victory.

Judy Murray and Andy's
Girlfriend Kim Sears show their delight

As Djokovic's forehand went long on Championship point Murray sank to his knees by the corner of the court, head in hands, as he realised what he had just achieved. His family were exultant and Ivan Lendl was his usual self showing little to no emotion but standing and applauding his man. This win also made sure that Murray would not enter the record books for losing his first 5 Grand Slam finals and raises him to World Number 3 in the rankings.  

Many famous Scotsman were in the crowd as both James Bond aka Sean Connery and Sir Alex Ferguson watched on willing Murray to victory. 

Murray has grown in strength throughout the year as the 'Lendl' effect has come into play. His run at Wimbledon showed to many that he could do it. His performance at the Olympics was staggering. Weeks after losing a final he was unstoppable. I have never seen him play as well as he did during that tournament. That win gave him so much belief and was the reason why so many tipped him for the US Open. This confidence was added to when Rafael Nadal pulled out due to a knee injury. One of Murray's main rivals out of the running. 

Roger Federer then suffered a shock defeat to Tomas Berydch meaning Murray would avoid Federer in the semi-final. People began to say it is his year, it is fate. Then when defending Champion Novak Djokovic's semi-final was suspended to the following day meaning Murray would get an extra day off before the final also seemed to give Murray the advantage. 

Both players had to deal with poor conditions as winds caused serving to be proving difficult for both men  as they shared breaks early on. But it was Murray that lead 4-2 after a game that included an astonishing 54 shot rally. However it is never easy with Murray and with a player of Djokovic standard mistakes tend to be punished as Djokovic forced a tie-break. Murray had the upper hand in the tie-break and produced some superb shots to win a pulsating but nervy tie-break 12-10 after no less then 6 set points. 

Murray started the second set in similar style as he powered to a 4-0 lead breaking Djokovic twice. However again nothing is easy with Murray as the reigning Champion struck back to somehow get back to 5-5. Although Murray broke him again to clinch the set, 7-5, to win the second set. This was the first time he had ever won 2 sets in a Grand Slam final. 

A tired Djokovic realises its not to be his day

Being the Champion that he is Djokovic suddenly found his feet as he blitzed Murray to win both the third and fourth sets 6-2 / 6-3. At the end of the fourth it appeared that Murray had lost his way as he was struggling to find his best whereas Djokovic looked on top form. Everything pointed to a Djokovic win. 

Although Murray shocked Djokovic at the start of the decider by breaking him. Murray then held before breaking again by producing some defensive play of the highest order. How Murray was getting some of Djokovic's powerful shots back was incredible. A 3-0 lead, British tennis fans began to dream. However again a nervous Murray lost serve and Djokovic held and suddenly it was 3-2. Then in a crucial game Murray held his nerve for 4-2 before Djokovic faltered as he seemed to be struggling to move from tiredness. Murray then stepped up served it out for glory before falling to his knees. 

The standard of tennis in this final was incredible and made for amazing viewing. Was it as good as Nadal/Djokovic at the Australian? Maybe not however it was not far off. The ebb and flow, the drama and the sheer brilliance of both players at times was phenomenal. 

Is this the first of many?

This is without doubt Murray's greatest achievement and one I did not see coming this year. In my predictions back in February I did not expect Murray to make a final let alone win one. I thought next year would be his year, as Lendl would have had time to really work on his game however it has happened early. Will Murray go on and win 5/6 titles I do not know. There is no doubt that he is in his prime and should be contesting finals over the next two years. His main rival is Djokovic as Federer is past his best despite that being difficult to believe when you watch him sometimes and will retire in the next two years and Nadal has knee problems that will hamper him and I would not be surprised if he retired in the next two years. Murray has a great chance to be very successful and from a British tennis point of view I hope he will be. 

His victory means that all top four men players one a grand slam this year. 

Comments welcome. 

Weekend Tips

This week it is the international break and as such top flight football has been put on hold. Although there is still plenty of betting opportunities to be had. There are still football fixtures in both league 1 and 2. There is also racing from Haydock, Kempton,Ascot, Stratford and Thirsk as well as the final round of Super League action and the US Open reaches it conclusion. So as you can see there is plenty going on.

Tennis:

Williams looking so strong

The US Open reaches it conclusion this weekend as Serena Williams (right) and Victoria Azarenka face-off in the Women's singles final while the men have Semi-finals today with the final tomorrow. Familiar faces are present as Novak Djokovic takes on David Ferrer and Andy Murray takes on Tomas Berdych. The biggest shock is obviously the non-apperence of Roger Federer after he was beaten by Berdych. As a result Murray's route to the final on paper would appear even easier. For me it is a straight forward affair as Murray will face Djokovic in tomorrows final. 

This will give British tennis fans another chance to dream of Grand Slam glory for Murray (right). It goes without saying that Murray has been playing the tennis of his life over the past few months. He looks stronger and will present Djokovic will a real test. His game under new coach Ivan Lendl has improved and will continue to do so. But I have to say I do not think his Grand Slam duck will end here. SkyBet go 9/4 for Murray to win the tournament which is a good price but one I will not be taking. Djokovic at 4/9 looks the best bet, or better still you can forecast the final of Djokovic to beat Murray in the Final at @ 8/11(SkyBet), this bet must be made before either semi-final starts.  Djokovic's performance against Juan Martin Del Potro was enough for me to see him as the winner. 

In the Women's final Serena Williams is hot favourite and considering her recent form you would not bet against her. Stunning displays at Wimbledon and the Olympics would make me extremely confident of  Williams victory. She looks fitter now then she has for the past few years. At 1/6 (SkyBet) she is too short, but perfect for the multiple bet. 

Bet of the day: Djokovic, Murray and Williams @8/11 SkyBet

Football:

I think that a Goals bet is the way to go this weekend. League 1 and 2 always provide plenty of goals.  

Goals: Brentford/Colchester, Yeovil/Bournemouth, Oxford/Exeter , York/Chesterfield, Northampton/AFC Wimbledon and Port Vale/Rotherham  @  20/1 (SkyBet)

Win bet: Sheffield United, Swindon, Southend and Gillingham @8/1 (SkyBet)

Also a Serbian win over Scotland at 13/8 (SkyBet) looks very tempting. 

Rugby League: 

Wins for : Catalan, Wakefield, Hull, Warrington, Leeds @11/10 (SkyBet)

Horse Racing:

Each-Way bet: 2.50 Haydock- Rockinate @14/1 (SkyBet)

Win Bet : 4.30 Haydock - Star of Rohm @7/1 (SkyBet) 

Good Luck with all your bets this weekend.

Comments are welcome.

Weekend Tips

The transfer deadline has come and gone and today many of those new signing will get their debuts. It will be interesting to see how they all get on. For me I am very interested in the early kick-off between West Ham and Fulham to see how Andy Carroll plays. There is no in my mind that Carroll will be a success for West Ham and I think his chances of scoring today are very good. This being said I am also looking forward to seeing Fulham and the likes of Dimitar Berbatov, however I doubt he will feature. For me he is a great signing for Fulham. 

So another full set of fixtures before the two week International break as well as horse-racing from Sandown, Chester and Beverley as well as Rugby League action.

Football:

This week my single bet will be on West Ham. I watched West Ham last weekend against Swansea and quite simply they were awful. Swansea torn West Ham apart in truth, with a little help from the West Ham defence that was. However as ever with football this is another game. West Ham are usually strong at home. Upton Park is a formidable place to go. The crowd will be lively and buoyant after the recent additions. Then we have Fulham. Without doubt the more notorious bad travellers the Premier League has ever seen. Although they themselves have added some quality to their side. 

Carroll set for debut today

I expect plenty of goals in this one and would not be surprised by a 3-3 scoreline. Having said that I am tipping West Ham to win this one with Carroll (right) scoring almost a cert. I have never been a fan of Sam Alladyce however he has signed some very good players during the summer. I believe he now has the squad to survive in the Premier League. The likes of Yossi Benayoun and Matt Jarvis are good Premier League players that will both score goals and create chances for others. 

As for Martin Jol's Fulham, they have undergone some change this summer losing players like Moussa Dembele, Clint Dempsey and Andy Johnson. They have started the season well, thrashing Norwich and giving Manchester United a real game at Old Trafford despite ending up losing. I think the signing of Dimitar Berbatov and Hugo Rodellega add an attacking threat they will cause plenty of defences a headache. However it is in centre midfield where I feel they are lacking. This will be exploited today I feel. 

So I predict Fulham's poor away record to continue today in a high scoring defeat. As a result 4/6 (SkyBet) for both teams to scores looks a great bet. On top of that West Ham are 5/4 for more booking points which again looks very very likely. 

Match odds: West Ham 7/5, Fulham 15/8, Draw 23/10

Bet of the Day: West Ham at 7/5 (SkyBet) to beat Fulham. 

Accumulator Wins: Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday, Crawley Town and Blackpool @29/1 (SkyBet)

Longshot of the day: 3 Draws: Swansea/Sunderland, West Brom/Everton and Wigan/Stoke @36/1 (SkyBet) 

If feeling very lucky add Liverpool/Arsenal @130/1 (SkyBet)

Horse Racing:

Win bet : 2.50 @ Sandown: Master of War @ 2/1 (SkyBet)

Each Way bet: 3.05 @ Chester: Capaill Laith @20/1 (SkyBet)

Also Richard Hughes has some very good rides today and an accumulator on him would not be a bad idea.

Rugby League:

Bradford to beat Hull looks a great bet. The Bulls are on great form despite the off the field issues. Hull are already confirmed in the play-offs and see Bradford as being more committed in this one.  Bradford at @ 4/11 (Skybet). Tempting to combine with wins for Wakefield and Warrington for even money bet. 

Good Luck with your bets. 

Weekend Tips

Last week I did say that strange results would happen. QPR let me down massively getting absolutely thumped by Swansea. I still stand by saying that I think Swansea will struggle, although if they have found a goalscorer in Michu then hope for them is restored. Also the signing of Ki from Celtic is a positive move. Luckily the Bradford Bulls did pick up the win over Huddersfield so it was a total losing day. 

This week there are again plenty of chances for wins with a full fixture list as well as racing from Newmarket, Goodwood and York. 

Football:

Todays Premier League matches are tough to call. Tomorrow's games have more potential for betting. Tomorrow Stoke host Arsenal. This is a notoriously difficult one for Arsenal and one I doubt they will be looking forward to. With this in mind the 9/4 (Skybet) price for a Stoke win is very appealing. While watching Arsenal last week there was a sense of de ja vu as they dominated a home match without finding a breakthrough. So many times has this be seen at the Emirates. Fans may argue that teams come to defend at the Emirates and get 10 men behind the ball, however if Arsenal are a top side they should be able to break through. The Arsenal of old would have. The loss of Robin Van Persie will affect them as every time someone misses a chance people will say 'Van Persie would have scored that'. 

Giroud needs a score soon

Therefore the pressure of the likes of Olivier Giroud is huge. His miss last week will not have helped his confidence either. The sooner the new signings such as Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud (right) score the better. Although this week I do think that a defeat is on the cards. The 9/4 price is very nice and worth a punt. Arsenal are favourites at 6/5 (SkyBet) and the draw is 23./10 (Skybet)

Also tomorrow, Manchester City travel to Anfield to take on Liverpool. Liverpool suffered a 3-0 defeat last week to West Brom, whereas City claimed a lucky 3-2 win over Southampton. City will again be favourites for this one and I do expect them to win and win comfortably, 2-0 City would be my prediction. If Liverpool lose it will be the first time they have lost the opening two games since 1959 and Bill Shankly was manager. Brendan Rogers has a tough job on, the signing on Sahin will help however if he plays in this one we will see. My fear is that City will be totally dominant however do as they did against Southampton and not finish the job early on when they had the chances. Liverpool do have players to hurt as Luis Suarez has proved before. City as 7/5 (Skybet) for this one and like the Stoke odds it is very tempting.  Liverpool are 15/8 (SkyBet) and the draw in 12/5 (SkyBet). 

Bet of the Weekend: Stoke/Man City win double @ 8/1 (SkyBet). 

Treble : Sheffield Wednesday/Leeds/Middlesborough @8/1 (Skybet)

Longshot of the day: Newcastle to beat Chelsea @6/1 (SkyBet) 

Racing: 

Each-Way bet: 2.15 @ Goodwood - Annie's Fortune 14/1 (SkyBet)  

Win Bet: 3.25 @ Goodwood- Chachamaidee 11/4 (SkyBet)

Rugby League:

Challenge Cup Final day and my tip is Leeds. Leeds are 2/1 (SkyBet) and this is a great price. Burrow to be man of the match at 8/1 is also tempting. 

Good luck with any bets today.

Weekend Tips

The day has come.  After another penalty heartache for England at the Euros and football fans enjoying Wimbledon and the Olympics: the domestic football is back. Men and women all over the country are waking up this morning with excitement as to the season ahead. All with hopes of promotion, glory or success. With clubs starting the new season with new managers, no fewer then six in the Premier League, a fresh hope of what is to come may be the feeling if you are an Aston Villa fan that is or maybe a slightly nervy one if you are a Tottenham fan. 

With this weekend being the opening day bets will be tough to call. There is no doubt ,as ever on the opening day, there will be shocks and possibly some big wins. If recent years are to go by then Wigan should start as ever with a resounding 4/5/6-0 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday. It is the first time we will get to properly see new signings and see the impact they will have. There is also racing from Newbury, Newmarket and Doncaster as they search for winners continues. Also just a reminder that next week is the Ebor Festival at York, should be a cracker. 

Football:

Tough times ahead for Laudrup:
A fascial expression I think we will be
seeing a lot of this season

There are seven Premier League matches this afternoon as well as a virtually full football league fixture list. My bet of the day is that of QPR to beat Swansea. Mark Hughes has strengthened his squad throughout the summer adding players of class and experience. The signings of Park Ji Sung and Junior Hoilett will really aid them this season. For me they will have a better season however I would not go as far as calling them a surprise package. As for Swansea, they did very well last season defying all expectations to stay up. Although this season I think they are in trouble. The loss of Joe Allan to Liverpool was a blow however for me it was losing Gfyi Siggurdsson that is the biggest loss. I look at Swansea and I just do not see goals. They may continue their style from last year and have plenty of possession but for me I do not see where the goals are coming from and a team that does not score goals are clearly relegation material. Also new manager Michael Laudrup (above right) despite a converted  playing career but his managerial CV is not full of successes and he has never managed in the Premier League. I think he is going to struggle. As a result with QPR being at home, first game of the season, they will look for 3 points. Personally I think it will be 3-0. 

SkyBet go 20/21 the QPR win and this is a great price. A Swansea win is at 11/4 and the draw 5/2. If anyone was interested the 3-0 win is at 40/1.     

Elsewhere it will be interesting to see how Arsenal perform. The loss of Robin Van Persie and now Alex Song may have affected them. Sunderland can be an awkward team but away from home would put me of a bet here. In theory it should be a classic Mark Lawrenson BBC prediction of 2-0, but with Martin O'Neil as manager I feel a shock here is possible and SkyBet go a tempting 7-1 the Sunderland win and 7/2 the draw. Also a wins for West Ham (6/5)and Reading (13/10) are possible. West Ham take on, in my opinion a very poor Villa, and at home back in the Premier League the atmosphere will be fantastic. Reading have a slightly trickier affair against Stoke, however again they will be buzzing to start the season and I do think despite the calls of doom and gloom for Reading that they will have a good season and survive. They play good football and I have been impressed with certain summer additions such as Pavel Pogrebnyak. 

The other games I will just watch as for me none are worth a bet.

Bet of the day: QPR win over Swansea @ 20/21- SkyBet 

Premier League Treble: QPR, West Ham and Reading @9/1 - SkyBet or add Manchester City for odds of 10/1

Long Shot- Sunderland to win at the Emirates @ 7/1- SkyBet

3 Draws- Hull/Brighton, Ipswich/Blackburn and Fulham/Norwich @40/1- SkyBet

Accumulator- Sheff Utd, Preston, Rotherham, Southend and Swindon @30/1- SkyBet

Racing:

 Each-Way bets:  Newbury 3.05 - Edinburgh Night/ Newbury 3.40- Rakaan

 Win Bet: Doncaster 5.00- Daring Indian

Rugby League:

The Bulls have been resurgent of late and despite Huddersfield's win last week I think the Bulls will have too much for them. Better focused and more committed so have to back the Bulls. Bradford Bulls to beat Huddersfield Giants @ 2/1 (Sunday)

Good luck with all your bets today.

Who has got it right?

This summer we have seen no less then 6 managerial changes with  Liverpool, Tottenham, Swansea, Norwich, Aston Villa and West Brom all with new men in the hotseat. However which club have made the right appointment?

Is Rodgers the right man?

Liverpool took the decision early on in the summer to remove Kenny Dalglish from his position. For me this was no surprise as Liverpool had a poor season on and off the field. Despite a League Cup victory and an FA Cup final, finishing the season in 7th was simply not good enough. Their performances were poor as they really struggled to find the back of the net. Dalglish spent over 100 million in 18 months and unfortunately for him many of his signings did not perform. Andy Carroll, Stewart Downing, Charlie Adam, Jose Enrique, Sebastian Coates and Jordan Henderson all had poor seasons and as a result Dalglish took much of the criticism. Also off the field, the Luis Suarez race row caused nothing but poor publicity for Liverpool. The way it was handled was appalling and the behaviour of Dalglish throughout was totally unprofessional. It was this for me that sealed his fate.

Brendan Rogers offers a new approach to Liverpool. He has won many plaudits for his management of Swansea and the football they played but this is a huge jump for him. This job is totally different. The expectations as well as the size of the job. For me Liverpool are further away from a title win as I can remember. I admit leading Swansea to the Premiership and keeping them up against the odds was a remarkable achievement. However I did feel that towards the end of last season they had been found out and would have said they will struggle this coming season.

Rogers has made some signing so far with Fabio Borini from Lazio, Joe Allan from Swansea and Oussama Assaidi from Heerenveen all joining and I expect more with Clint Dempsey being heavily linked. However I do think it will be a huge error to let Andy Carroll leave and one that could leave Rodgers with egg on his face.

I expect Liverpool to have a very tough season and that will start with a tricky trip to West Brom on saturday. For me a 6th place finish is the best they can hope for however I would predict the same as last year and 8th.

Is Rogers the right man to lead Liverpool to glory? Maybe, however it will take him 2/3 years at least to build them but will he get such time? For me he is not the right man but only time will tell.

Verdict: 5/10       Prediction for Season: 8th          

Laudrup faces tough test

Having lost Brendan Rogers many, including myself, have tipped Swansea for relegation. The loss of Gyfi Sigurdsson, Joe Allan and soon that of Scott Sinclair will affect them. Swansea finished last season poorly just as Bolton did the year before they went down. Swansea have turned to the legendary ex- Danish, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Ajax and Juventus star Michael Laudrup (left) to make sure they survive a second season in the Premier league. It is an obvious match for both man and club due to the philosophy that they both have. As a player Laudrup's talents can not be questioned however as a manger such a reputation he does not hold. He has had success at Bronby and did well with limited finances at Getafe and Real Mallorca. Although he has no experience of the Premier League and English football apart from TV. He will learn quick no doubt however for me he is up against it.

He has made signings, bringing in former players who he knows and trusts which is always a good move. Jonathan de Guzman,Chico Flores and Miguel Michu are players I have seen very little of. All three have come from Spanish or Italian football and it will be interesting to see how they adapt. They have also signed young right-back Curtis Obeng who is a great player. I saw him playing for Wrexham last year and he looked like he could play at a much higher level. Will be interesting to see how he develops. Also they have signed a striker Preston Jamie Proctor from League One Preston and Kyle Barkley from Arsenal and Itay Scechter from Kaiserslautern. I expect more signings  especially if Sinclair does leave. My concern for Swansea is goals. Is Graham going to get 10-15 goals? Sinclair and Sigurdsson scored over 20 goals between them last year and these will be hard to replace. So the pressure on the likes of Graham and the new guys such as Michu is great. Laudrup needs to unearth a gem or face relegation.

I would like to see Laudrup do well and not become another former great player to fail as a manger as Ruud Gullit and Bryan Robson have.

Verdict: 6/10        Prediction: 18th

Tottenham took the hugely unpopular yet predictable decision of replacing Harry Redknapp. Tottenham's collapse last year was a nightmare for fans as they lost third place from a position of such strength. Redknapp's course case, the England job possibility and that 'ghost' goal in the FA Cup semi-final seemed to suggests the way things were going for Spurs. Didier Drogba's penalty in Germany in the Champions League final sealed in the nightmare meaning Spurs missed out of Champions League football. Such a promising year had ended in despair.

Villas Boas needs success

Daniel Levy has opted for Andre Villas Boas as the man to lead the Tottenham charge for success and a top-four finish. Villas Boas has a nightmare at Chelsea and was removed by player power. The Chelsea players were never with him their performances clearly showed that. Due to that experience many fans may be sceptical of his appointment. For me he deserves a chance however this is it. Every manager gets sacked and offered things just do not work out however for this to happen twice in a row with two major English clubs with ambition will affect his reputation. If he fails at Spurs expect him to return to Europe and I would guess he will not be back for a long time, if ever. 

Spurs are almost certain to lose Luka Modric, which is a big blow however I expect them to re-invest the 30million+ they will receive for him. They have been linked with the likes of Moussa Dembele, Willan and Joao Moutinho. For me they are looking a little light up front and so getting Emmanuel Adebayor back seems to be an obvious move considering the success he had last year. 

The signing of Jan Vertonghon is a great signing and I expect more signing of such pedigree to follow.

Verdict: 7/10  Prediction: 6th

Clarke's first chance in the hot seat

West Brom have opted for the vastly experienced assitant-manager Steve Clarke (right). Clarke has had spells at Newcastle,Chelsea,Liverpool and West Ham while working with some top managers. People may say that this is a gamble considering he has never held a top job position. This on top of the fact that he is replacing the experienced man that is Roy Hodgson who really developed West Brom into a safe mid-table Premier League side. He is a tough man to follow no doubt. I do believe that Steve Clarke had deserved a chance and will flourish in his new position. 

West Brom have largely kept the same squad as last year which is a positive. The squad has the quality to survive another Premier League season in comfort I feel.

The signing of Romelu Lukaku is one that I am interested to see. This is a man who arrived at Chelsea with a big reputation and promise however he was never seen. For a 18 year-old he is physically huge. For me he is suited to the Premier League due to his power and pace. I think he will be a big hit this during this loan spell. West Brom will undoubted add to their squad and I think it will put them in a good position for a mid-table finish. 

Verdict: 7/10      Prediction: 11th

Not even Lambert can save Villa 

Aston Villa are a team in all sorts of trouble. It has been a decline since Martin O'Neill left the club. Alex Mcleish and Gerard Houllier  both endured poor seasons at Villa park. I heavily tipped Villa to be relegated last season and they were so lucky to survive. For only managing to win 7 games all season, they deserved to be relegated. 

Villa have opted for Paul Lambert (left). Lambert has huge success at Norwich leading them from League One to the Premier League and then survival in three years. Lambert is a good manager no doubt, however the Villa job promises something very different. the club is in decline and going down. If will take one hell of a manager to lift such a club and turn its fortunes around. A task I feel is beyond Lambert. 

I look at the squad and it is so poor. I know there is still time to buy however they need 6/7 quality players I feel. Throughout the team I would worry. Shay Given is no where near the player he was, saw that at the Euros, Richard Dunne must be 3 stone over weight. He is slow and cumbersome, as proved at the Euros. Then they have signed Vlaar, who was appalling at the Euros. If defence they have nothing and they will be shipped goals on a regular basic. In midfield, unless someone new has turned up I see nothing that would worry me. It is only Darren Bent. He is the only one to get goals and goals win games. Injury to Bent and their goals will disappear.   

They have relegation written all over them. Opening three games of the season will leave Villa bottom with 0points for sure. Home against Everton and away at newly promoted West Ham and Newcastle. Lambert is a good choice and if I were a Villa fans I would be happy with it however for me noting can save them. 

Verdict: 8/10   Prediction 19th

Hughton he right man

Norwich fans will have be saddened to lose Paul Lambert to Villa during the summer after they have endured three wonderful seasons under his tenure. They have replaced Lambert with Chris Hughton (right). This for me is a great move for the club. Chris has done terrifically well at Newcastle, where all agree he was unlucky to be sacked and at Birmingham City leading them to the play-offs despite all the off the field issues.

Norwich fans will be wary of the 'second season sydrome' however for me they will be safe. Hughton will make some new signing to improve the squad. Also I do not foresee them losing anyone. The bulk of last year's team will remain. I do think they will find it more difficult this year but will survive. They are in far better shape then Aston Villa. 

Verdict: 9/10         Prediction: 15th 

Other Predictions:

Title : Manchester United

Top Four: Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Everton

Relegation : Swansea, Reading and Aston Villa 

Time for English Football State of Origin

Origin is huge success in Australia. 

Every year I watch the State of Origin in Australian Rugby League witnesses passion, drama and great entertainment. This is where the states of Queensland and New South Wales faces each other in a three match series.

The series has been a huge success since its creation in the early 1980's and is now one of the most anticipated matches of the year in Australia with sell out crowds and a worldwide audience.

I have always wondered why this idea is not used in English football. You could easily have North v South. Having sat through numerous boring friendlies for the England team, this would be something new and different. I think it would be a great concept as it could be seen as almost a trial match for the England team.

Also I believe the British public will get behind it, and I am sure they would be sell outs if sold/marketed properly. You could have three matches held over the country.

Game 1: North - Old Trafford

Game 2: South - The Emirates

Game 3: Midlands - Villa Park

Also to prevent the chance of draws, if level after 90 minutes it should go straight to penalties. The pressure of this would be the closest the pressure of a World Cup or European Championships. 

Now the teams would be an issue whether they are decided by birth place, first professional appearance, club and also which side to players from the Midlands go on. Personally I would say birth-place and players from the midlands can be selected by either side, so if chosen by both the player decides. Decisions by these players stick, you could not play for South one year and North the next.  

Also you would have to decide whether Scottish and Welsh players would be allowed to play. Personally I would say no but it is open to debate. 

For Example :

TEAM SOUTH:

                                          HART

G.JOHNSON          TERRY           FERDINAND            COLE

                  LAMPARD    PARKER      WILSHERE

WALCOTT                       DEFOE                           STURRDIGE



Manager : Harry Redknapp




TEAM NORTH :

                                             FOSTER

   JONES                LESCOTT        CAHILL              BAINES

                    GERRARD    CARRICK        MILNER

  A. JOHNSON                ROONEY                         WELBECK
                                   



Manager : David Moyes

This is just hypothetical. But I would want to see this.

Obviously there are many obstacles, such as the clubs and scheduling but I think the FA should work with the Premier League to make it happen. It is a guaranteed sell out with rights sold around the world. 

It would benefit the England team and Roy Hodgson as he would see these players without the foreigners around them to judge them. It would also highlight the growing issue of lack of English players in the Premier League and it could also be a stepping stone between club and county. 

I will be sending this idea to the FA. 

Cronk sends Queensland into Seventh Heaven

Queensland celebrate historic win

A late Cooper Cronk drop-goal gave Queensland a dramatic 21-20 win over New South Wales in game three of the Origin series. The victory gives the Maroons their seventh consecutive Origin series win.

NSW found themselves 16-8 down at the break however rallied magnificently in drawing level at 20-20 with less then 10 minutes to go. Although with 5 minutes remaining Cooper Cronk hit a 40 metre drop goal to break NSW hearts and seal a thrilling series win for the Maroons.

It was also Petro Civoniceva's last ever origin game 12 month after Darren Lockyer retired and he left just like Lockyer on the high of a Queensland victory. 

The stage was set. 52,000 people in Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane for game three, Origin decider. Both sides desperate for victory as the Blues looked to end a six year losing streak. Changes were made by both sides notably Maroons coach Mal Meninga moved Greg Inglis to full back to replace injured Billy Slater while Ricky Stuart replaced Uate with Brett Morris.

The pressure and intensity was clear to see early on. In the second minute,  Paul Gallen was punished for a punch on Brent Tate. Replays showed Tate slamming  his fist into the side of Greg Bird's head as he lay on the ground after Bird had given Tate some treatment in the previous tackle. This resulted in a brawl including all the players. This was one of several clashes in the game.

It started well for the Blues, they defended well from early Queensland pressure and after Brett Morris crashed over and Todd Carney converted , adding to an earlier penalty, gave the Blues an 8-0 lead. This lead was cut short soon after as Darius Boyd went over in the corner for his third try of the series and sealing a terrific Queensland move. In the 32nd minute the Maroons hit the front for the first time as  Jonathan Thurston scored after he made the break from inside his own half before off loading. With NSW still struggling to get back into position a quick play the ball continued the move and despite a covering defence Thurston was able to finish off a move he had started. This gave Queensland a 10-8 lead however they were not done yet. Before the break Justin Hodges crossed as he sliced through the NSW defence and despite appealing of obstruction the video referee gave the try. The poor defending of NSW would have angered Coach Ricky Stuart.

After the break a clever grubber by Robbie Farah was grounded by Brett Stewart to cut the deficit to just 2 points, keeping the NSW dream alive. Then despite another two penalties from Thurston, NSW scored the try of the series. Possibly one of the great origin tries. Again it was Robbie Farah who provided it, the West Tigers man wonderfully weighted cross field kick to the corner was caught at full stretch by Josh Morris who beat Boyd to score a great origin try. Ricky Stuart punched the air as NSW fans 'dared to dream'. Carney added the conversion from the touchline to level the scores at 20-20. However it was not to be as Cronk broke the hearts of NSW with a superb drop goal.

Some magnificent performances on both sides. For NSW Paul Gallen once again lead from the front with a terrific display, Brett Morris justified his selection with a wonderful try and a great tackle to deny Greg Inglis a certain try. Todd Carney finish with 100% kicking conversion and despite criticism he can not be faulted. Personally I did not think NSW could replicate their performance in the second game however they gave it everything and were unlucky to lose in the end. For Queensland Greg Inglis filled in for Billy Slater well and was a constant threat on the attack. Backrower Nate Mykes won the Wally Lewis award for man of the series and deservedly so. Thurston won the man of the match which without doubt his best display of the series. Cameron Smith lead his troops well but obviously the headlines will go to one man. Cooper Cronk. Cometh the hour, Cometh the man and with time ticking away Cronk stepped up to win his team the game.

Meninga writing history as coach

Mal Meninga (left) is already a Legendary player of the game, however now that will read player and coach. His record as coach of Queensland is second to none. Seven Origin wins on the spin. True, the Queensland team has been remarkable in its wealth of talent with the likes of Darren Lockyer in these seven years however that does not make them win. He must take enormous credit. Meninga said afterwards:

"You have to understand the enormity of the challenge, going in every time as favourites, trying to keep that winning streak going. It takes a lot of effort. Because of that effort we're in there celebrating." 

Ricky Stuart's furture is in doubt however I hope he stays as I rate him as a coach and they came so so close.  He is the man for me to eventually end the Queensland wining streak. 

The State of Origin Concept is a great one and is a wonderful spectacle for the game of Rugby League. Its success is growing and this will not be changing anytime soon. Match winner Cronk described it as the "pinnacle of a players career, and I am honoured to wear the shirt". In my view Origin is one of the  greatest event of Rugby League and Sport.

**Top picture courtesy of www.Sportinglife.aol.co.uk; Mal Meninga picture courtesy of www.smh.com.au