Weekend Tips

On last weeks bets, the accumulator success was the highlight @14/1. I hope you had that as I did. My longshot 'hollywood' bet came oh so close before Sergio Aguero scored in the 94th minute and my bet of the day was ruined by a certain Martin Fulop. A performance of amateur standard in which he gifted Arsenal 2 goals and despite getting a strong hand on Andros Santos' shot failed to stop the ball from going in. If only Ben Foster had been in goal it could have been different. Anyway moving on...

A massive saturday is now here. Two matches of huge significance. Firstly at 3pm the Championship Play-off final between Blackpool and West Ham United. The £90million game as it has been previously billed. A place in the Premier League is up for grabs as both look to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.  This is followed by the biggest game in club football, the Champions League final. At 7.45pm Chelsea take on Bayern Munich for the ultimate club prize. Both games promise to be enthralling.

Football:

Holloway dreaming of the big-time

I have long been tipping Blackpool to win the play-offs. They are the perfect play-off team. They have won the play-offs before and in Ian Holloway (left)  they have a real character who can really motivate the players. They go into this one as the underdogs. West Ham were the favourites to gain automatic promotion from the beginning of the season. With Sam Alladyce as manager, a man of Premier League experience as well as having players such as Robert Green, Mark Noble, Carlton Cole, Kevin Nolan and Matthew Taylor. All of these players have experience of playing in the Premier League. Their sqaud on paper is by far the best in the Championship and they will have been disappointed only to make the play-offs although this will all be forgotten if they win today. The key player for me is Jack Collison, he has been fantastic of late and is a crucial player for West Ham. If he continues his form Blackpool may struggle to contain him. West Ham have so many options especially on the attacking sense. In Ricardo Vaz Te, Nicky Maynard, Carlton Cole, John Carew and Sam Baldock they have plenty of goal-scorers.

The bookies go 10/11 (SkyBet) for a West Ham while Blackpool are @11/4 (SkyBet) to win it in 90 minutes.

Is it fate?
Phillips to fire Blackpool back to the premier League 

My tip is to back the outsiders in this one. No doubt that they are up against it but I just feel they will do it. I have backed them from a long-time out and will continue to do so. I think it will be a cracking match. The pressure in on West Ham and I think this will help Blackpool. I think Blackpool will be looking forward to this one more than West Ham. Big Sam will be so relieved if West Ham win this one. West Ham looked very very good in their play-off semi against Cardiff as they dominated both games although that will not happen today. Blackpool are a tricky team with fantastic team spirit and do have some quality players. In Matt Phillips and of course the legendary Kevin Phillips (above) they have two match-winners. Kevin Phillips is a goal-sorer and I am sure he will score today. He is clinical in front of goal and that is why he scores so many.  My fear for Blackpool is that of set-pieces. West ham are incredibly powerful in the air and Blackpool must cope with this.

I predict a classic high scoring game of which I a going to have a couple of quid on Blackpool to win 4-2 @80/1 (SkyBet).

My bet of the day is 11/4 Blackpool win.

Robben against his former club
is in the hunt for glory

Then tonight, a clash that many were not expecting after seeing the semi-final draw. It was all set-up for an El Classico final in which the two best teams in the world would battle it out for the title. However it was not to be as both Real Madrid and Barcelona were left stunned by Bayern Munich and Chelsea. This one promises to be a very interesting clash. Both sides are missing players due to yellow cards although for me it is Chelsea who will suffer more. The loss of Ramires, Branislav Ivanovic and Raul Mierles is huge. However despite this I still expect a terrific match in which anything could happen. Bayern Munich have a very dangerous front three. In Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben (left) they have two of the best wide players in Europe. However for me despite the stats and the media hype I personally do not rate Mario Gomez. For me is is massively overrated. He is far to wasteful in front of goal and in a game such as this he will only get maximum 2 good chances, but will he take them? I think not. They do have a magnificent team with players such as German Internationals Phillip Lahm Bastian Schweinsteiger , Thomas Muller, Toni Kroos and Manuel Neuer. Another advantage for them is the venue. The match is taking place at their home stadium the Allianz Area. This is a major advantage for Bayern and one which Chelsea will have to deal with.

On paper and in theory Chelsea are up against it and should not really win, that is why many have predicted that they will not. Although with this Chelsea team you just get the feeling they can. For many it is their last chance. Many of them were in the team that lost to Manchester United in 2008 and not many get a second chance. These players have got that second chance and in truth for many a final chance. Players such as Dider Drogba will cause Bayern a lot of problems due to his power and strength. He is the one Chelsea fans will look too. Players such as Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard I expect to also have terrific games. Can Interim manager Roberto Di Matteo win the trophy that Roman Abramovich wants so much? It really does promise to be a classic watch.

Bayern last won the tournament back in 2001 however were beaten finalist in 2010 to Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan. As a result many of their players will also feel that they have a second chance.

It will be interesting to see how the 5-2 defeat they suffered to Dortmund at the weekend affects Bayern ,if at all. Many will say just as with Chelsea's defeat to Liverpool that their minds were on this one.

For me I do think that it will be tight although am seeing a Chelsea win by 2-1. To win in 90 minutes Chelsea are a great price @ 100/30 (SkyBet) whereas Bayern are @7/10(SkyBet).

Fun bet for me is Dider Drogba to score first and Chelsea to win 2-1 @66/1(SkyBet). Either sides to win on penalties is @ 12/1 (SkyBet).

Bet for this one : Chelsea to win in 90 minutes at 100/30(SkyBet)

Horse-Racing:

Newbury 3.40: Win:  Frankel @1/4 (SkyBet) can see no other outcome

Newmarket 3.55: Eachway : Bernie the Bolt @7/1 (SkyBet)

King Kenny's reign comes to an end

Down and out- Dalglish sacked after poor season

It has been announced this afternoon that Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has been sacked. The news comes after days of speculation in which a trip to Boston for a meeting with the Liverpool owners was reported to have not gone well.

Fenway Sports Group released this statement:

"Fenway Sports Group (FSG) and Liverpool Football Club announced that Kenny Dalglish is to leave his post today as manager after having his contract terminated.After a careful and deliberative review of the season, the club came to the decision that a change was appropriate. It is not a decision that was reached lightly or hastily. The search for a new manager will begin immediately."

T-Shirt debactle

For me this decision has been coming. The sacking of Damien Comolli proved that the writing was on the wall. Liverpool spent an awful lot of money on players this season and in truth the returns have been poor. Signing such as Andy Carroll, Jordan Henderson, Charlie Adam, Jose Enrique, Stewart Downing and Sebastian Coates have all not been impressive. None have had good seasons. An eighth place league finish is simply not good enough. The performances themselves have also been very poor as they have struggled all year. Dalglish's handling of the Luis Suarez racism issue was also appalling. That episode brought the whole of Liverpool football club into disrepute. The way they conducted themselves was awful. The T-Shirts (above) were a disaster as Luis Suarez was found to be guilty. Even after this Dalglish seemed to never regret his actions. He was forced to make an apology by the club. His attitude towards the press was terrible. The arrogance of the man was unbelievable as he would just walk out on interviews. I doubt any journalist will shed a tear over this decision.

For me Dalglish has got exactly what he deserved. I did personally think that the Carling Cup win and a FA Cup Final would have brought him some time however it would appear not. Their season can be categorised as nothing but failure for a team of Liverpool's stature. The fans will still mourn his departure as he will always be regarded as a 'god-like' figure. Although Liverpool are now better off. They can now move forward with a new manager. It will not be easy, the team needs serious investment in the right type of players. If Liverpool do not get this appointment right they could continue to slip and remain outside of those Champions League places for years to come. The two Manchester clubs will continue to improve as will Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea. If Newcastle can perform again next season, or a team such as Everton continue their great form Liverpool will again be struggling to be in the top six. The Premier League is a very very tough league and it will not be getting easier for Liverpool anytime soon.

Is Martinez the answer 

The next appointment will be interesting SkyBet has Wigan manager Roberto Martinez (right) as the 7/4 favourite. Martinez has been linked with the Aston Villa and West Brom jobs in recents days however this is by far a much bigger job. If Liverpool will actually go with him I am not sure. Is he the man to take Liverpool forward? Only managed a team at the lower end of the Premier League will low expectations and no european experience. He does not seem the sort of man they will go for to me. He has done wonders at Wigan by keeping them in the Premier League year after year and likes to play a good brand of football. I do think he can manage at the bigger club however this jump may just be too far too soon. I am sure Martinez will be extremely keen to get this job. Liverpool desperately want to end their wait for a league title is Martinez the man to supply that? For me Liverpool are so far away from the title that it will take years to even get close.  It is a massive job as serious rebuilding needs to take place.

Other candidates include that of former manager Rafa Benitez (4/1 SkyBet), former England Fabio Capello (10/1 SkyBet), former Chelsea Andre Villas Boas (10/1 SkyBet) and current Swansea manager Brendan Rogers (6/1 Skybet). I am sure that over the coming days the number of names linked with this job will rise and rise. I am sure Sven Goran Eriksson will suddenly express an interest soon as he does in all available jobs. I have heard numerous fans saying how they would not mind Benitez back however I feel that this would be a disaster.

For me I have no idea who they will go with. However @25/1 (Skybet) Guus Hiddink would be a wonderful appointment and maybe worth a few quid.  

Ferdinand and Crouch left out as Hodgson names England squad

Hodgson names squad

There was much speculation and intrigue about the announcement of this squad however in the end many will be left scratching their heads. In my opinion certain decisions in the squad baffle me as do some of those who did not make the 23. 

The squad itself is again a squad of obvious names without that many new faces nor ideas. I understand Hodgson's argument of trying to pick the players who qualified for the tournament however I would have liked to have seen more changes. His inclusion of so many Liverpool players is also confusing. England have been written off by nearly all with regards to this tournament so I am a bit disappointed that the same old names have been picked. 

No call for Rio

The main talking point has been the leaving out of Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand (left). In the press conference Roy Hodgson said it was for 'pure footballing reasons' citing the fact that he has only played once for england in the last year. Although using this thought process the inclusion of Steven Gerrard should be brought into question. Many of the press and people on social media sites are lamenting his absence although for me it is no surprise. Personally I would not have taken him. I do not feel his form this year has been good enough as without Nemanja Vidic by his side he has showed how vulnerable he is. His fitness would also worry me and for these reasons I would have left him out. Many are citing to the problem with John Terry as the reason for his admission although I do believe Hodgson when he said that that played no part in the decision. 

Goalkeepers:

In truth I do not have any problem with his selection in this area. Hopefully Joe Hart remains fit for the entire tournament. With regards to who is available this is the three I would have picked. The only change would be Robert Green out and Ben Foster in however due to Foster's self-exile from being picked this is not possible. I am very happy for John Ruddy. He has had a wonderful season and it is good that he is getting his chance. He throughly deserved to be picked. 

Defenders:

This area has caused a few raised eyebrows since the announcement earlier today. Despite as I mentioned earlier the well documented exclusion of Ferdinand, for me it is the exclusion of Micah Richards which disappoints me most. He deserves to be in the squad, his performances this year have proved that. He has improved so much in recent times and you cannot compare him to the raw, awkward and error - prone player he was 3 years ago. You do wonder what he has to do to be picked. His absence is even more galling when you consider that due to Kyle Walker's injury it seems that Richards is not even number two. Without doubt these two are the best right-backs England has. Therefore the selection of Glen Johnson is baffling. He has been poor this year and his defensive weaknesses have be highlighted time and time again in an England shirt. He is without doubt a weak link.  

I am also unhappy with this idea of Phil Jones playing right-back. He is clearly not a right-back and should not be used so. He also looks uncomfortable and out of position. This will be exploited when we play the top sides. I do agree with his inclusion but hope he is not asked to fill in at right-back. It seems crazy to me that we would rather take a man seen as a utility and fill in when there is a proper right-back available. Elsewhere I do not have too many complains, Ashley Cole and Leighton Baines deserve their places as does Gary Cahill. For me Cahill is the best central defender England has. Joleon Lescott has received many plaudits this season for his role in Manchester City's title win however I do feel that his performances have been made to look better due to the fact that he plays alongside Vincent Kompany, one of the best defenders in the world. Lescott is also prone to lapses in concentration and errors as shown in the final game against QPR. This for me has been England problem for years, all of our so called 'top' centre backs play along side world class players that cover their floors. For example Vidic for Ferdinand, Ricardo Carvalho for John Terry, Kompany for Lescott. This is why when they play together in the big games England's defence looks poor. 

Terry picked for Euro squad

Finally the inclusion on John Terry (right) was almost a given despite the fact that I would not take him. I do not see how we can succeed with him. The mans on and off the field antics are deplorable. Many have spoken of his place in the dressing room now he is not captain as potentially difficult. This was seen in South Africa with the 'Terry press conference'. He loves being the man in charge, we have seen this at Chelsea for years, undermining any manager he want and ultimately getting them the sack e.g Andre Villas Boas. Their is a reason why so many people joke about Terry running the Chelsea team. This along with the racism case hanging over him presents a very dangerous man to have in your team. Hodgson played the 'innocent until proven guilty' card however we all know he is guilty and how bad it that going to look when he is found guilty? Especially with the rumours it was pick Terry or Ferdinand. So we picked the racist. Many will argue that he should be judged on the field, however that provides no help for the Terry cause. In the last few weeks he has been torn apart twice by Andy Carroll and let his team down with his mindless sending out at the Nou Camp. It he was willing to do that in the Champions League semi-final as the captain of his 'beloved' Chelsea, you cannot take him. He could cost you the tournament. 

Despite my criticism of the defenders we have selected the truth is if not them then who? That is the problem, we do not have enough players to pick from. Other centre halves are Chris Smalling- injured or Ledley King and Jamie Carragher both too old, slow and injury prone. Our reserve defender Phil Jagielka is a great player and I would loved to have had him in the squad. For me he is greatly underrated. He and Lescott had a good partnership at Everton and it is very rare to have two players who have played together with regularity. This is another reason I think he picked Terry due to his partnership with Cahill. I do think that Cole, Cahill and Terry will be in the starting line-up for the France game. 

On the whole even if I accept the Terry decision the selection of Johnson I can not as Micah Richards should be on the plane. 

Midfield:

Hodgson has flooded the midfield by selecting nine players. He has picked the classic names of Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Gereth Barry. These three were always going to be picked despite for me Gerrard's worrying lack of form and Barry being, for me, poor. He is another one who is covered up by his Manchester City teammates. He is billed as a defensive midfielder who breaks up plays i.e the classic role of Claude Makelele although you could never compare him to the great man. For me he does not stop anything. He is too slow and players breeze past him. His performance in the hammering by Germany showed that. The way Mezut Ozil covered around 50 metres as Barry struggled to cover 20 to win the ball and then process to power away form him. 

Something new- Chamberlain gets the nod

Elsewhere I was delighted by the inclusion of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (right) and also happy to see Theo Walcott and Scott Parker. Chamberlain deserves his chance as he has shown his class this season. Walcott is a dangerous player and I hope he shows his true talent and of course Scott Parker. A terrific player who should have been in the World Cup squad two years ago. Ashley Young despite the diving deserves to be in and could prove a very useful asset for England. 

On the other hand the inclusion of Stewart Downing angers me. The man has been awful all year. 

1.NO Premier League assists

2.NO Premier League goals.`

How can this man be taken as an attacking winger. The man in the reserve list is that of Adam Johnson. Two years ago I wrote an article lamenting the fact that he was not picked for the World Cup squad. Now two year on and I am doing the same. The truth is this boy has talent. He has unfortunately suffered as I suspected due to the fact that he does not play regular football. I am sure that if he played every week he would be in this squad no doubt. He is a far superior player to Stewart Downing. For me he will have to leave City to get regular football. I honestly would have preferred Wolves' Matt Jarvis, Swansea's Scott Sinclair or Chelsea Daniel Strurridge (who is a reserve) to Downing. Finally the inclusion of bag-carrier James Milner is a frustrating one. He adds nothing to the team. People say he is a utility man although for me he is just poor in a range of different positions. He is always shown up on the international stage and will be again if used. Literally Ryan Taylor of Newcastle could do what Milner does will ease. 

Strikers:

Carroll lucky to be included

Hodgson's decision to go with four is interesting. I understand that due to the formation we play we would not require many forwards however would have liked to have seen five. The selection of Wayne Rooney was a given despite him missing games one and two by which time England could in theory be out. Danny Welbeck was another obvious one and despite me not being a fan he can do a job and hate to say it but the fact he plays for Manchester United made his selection a cert. Andy Carroll (left) is one I agree with as he offers something completely different. He has shown the form that got him his big money move and England cap recently although he can feel mightily lucky to be included. Jermaine Defoe I do not agree with. For me he is far too wasteful in front of goal which in the big games will cost you. I see why he has been picked due to being small, fast and adds to the balance of the squad having a smaller forward. I honestly feel if Darren Bent was fit he would have bee picked over him.  

Of those who have missed out I feel sorry for Grant Holt. Second highest English scorer behind Rooney this year. For me he deserved a chance. I am not saying he should start however what sort of message does it send when he has the season he has had and does not get picked. I am sure if he was signed by Liverpool or a Manchester United he would have been picked. He plays for unfashionable Norwich and people laugh at his style but the man has ability and to not even be a reserve is a joke. Peter Crouch can also feel unlucky. I suppose Carroll has been chosen over him although Crouch's international goal scoring record is awesome. I am sure he will be very very disappointed.

Overall the squad does not fill me with hope for the tournamnet. The same names, going to another tournament, whereby the same outcome looks extremely likely. I do not like the fact that so many of the squad are from the top teams again. Players are lesser clubs never get the recognition. Fact. Grant Holt is a prime example. My annoyance is not that they are not in the team but they never seem to get a chance. The England squad is a closed shop. 

My hopes for the tournament are slim, I hope we get out of the groups however cannot see us going further then that. For me the Germans will win it and watch out for the French to be the surprise team. 

England squad for Euro 2012:

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Man City), Rob Green (West Ham), John Ruddy (Norwich)

Defenders: Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Phil Jones (Man United), John Terry (Chelsea), Joleon Lescott (Man City), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Leighton Baines (Everton)

Midfielders: Theo Walcott (Arsenal), Stewart Downing (Liverpool), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Gareth Barry (Man City), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham), Ashley Young (Man United), James Milner (Man City)

Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Man United), Danny Welbeck (Man United), Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham)

Standby players: Jack Butland (Birmingham City), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Johnson (Manchester City), Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea).

Mcleish sacked by Villa

Time to go

Alex Mcleish's sacking has been coming since the day of his appointment. The man never really had a chance. I am by no means a Mcleish supporter as I do question why he took the job. 

To be honest the man deserved the sack. Aston Villa have been so poor this season. The only won 7 games out of 38. They limped their way to Premier League Survival by boring teams and amassing a staggering 17 draws. They survived by two points. In truth Aston Villa deserved to go down. They never showed any fight or will. The lack of quality was staggering. 

Key signings such as Charles N'Zogbia were a disaster as Villa failed to improve on last seasons poor display. Mcleish never seemed to have the backing of the players or the fans and when this is the case you have no chance. The key for Villa now is who do they replace him with?

They have said that they want a 'vibrant' manager. Someone with new ideas an reinvigorate the club. Currently SkyBet have Norwich boss Paul Lambert as the favourite. Lambert has done a magnificent job at Norwich in the past three years. He would be a great appointment although why would he leave Norwich for Villa. Norwich have a better squad and probably better finances. I think it would be mad to leave Norwich for Aston Villa at this moment in time. This can be said for another candidate that of Roberto Martinez (5/1 SkyBet). To be fait it would be seen as a step up for him to go to Villa. Although I doubt he will see the appeal. Martinez is holding out for a big job it seems and he seems to be waiting for that job. 

Villa Park bound? 

The problem for Villa is that not I really do not see who they are going get. No top manager will want to go there. The likes of Claudio Ranieri and Rafa Benitez have been linked however I cannot see either of them happening. If I was putting money on it I would back them to go and get Gus Poyet (20/1 SkyBet) from Brighton. He fits their bill. He is young, up and coming and will have new ideas for the club. Personally I do not think he would be successfull however do think that this is the way they will go. 

Weekend Tips

It is finally here. The final day of the Premier League season is upon us and what a day it will be. I cannot remember a time when the title, top four places and relegation issues will all be decided on the final day. It is going to be very tense and exciting afternoon, which will involve many twists and turns. A full 10 matches all kicking of at 3pm for the only time during the season. Personally I cannot wait. 

Also this weekend we have huge Challenge Cup Quarter-final action and Saturday racing from Ascot, Haydock, Nottingham and Lingfield. 

Last weekend my bet of the day came through as Chelsea beat Liverpool. It was all going as I had predicted, a 3-0 win for Chelsea, until Andy Carroll came on and changed the game. Luckily they hung on and I collected the winnings. 

Football:

It is written in the stars?
Hughes heads back to the Ethiad

So many massive games this weekend. Only four of the ten games, have no effect on the title, Champions League places and relegation. It is difficult to know where to start. Although I will start will the title race. Personally I can not see anything other then a Manchester City win over relegation threatened Queens Park Rangers. At home, with the team they have and the way they are playing it is difficult to see how they will not win. However we have seen some incredible things this season in the division. City are @ 1/8 (SkyBet) to win this one, 8/1(SkyBet) the draw and a massive 14/1 (SkyBet) for the unthinkable QPR win. Roberto Mancini must be expecting to win this one although another interesting element is that of current QPR manager, and former Manchester City manager, Mark Hughes (left). Sacked by City, Hughes says he is not motivated by revenge, although you can bet he would love to deny City winning the title as well as keeping QPR up. Also players such as Nedum Onuoha, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Joey Barton going back to their former club. It is almost written in the stars that a team managed by Hughes will deny City with a goal scored by an ex-city player. This is without doubt Sir Alex Ferguson's dream. It seems far-fetched but you never never know. 

Ferguson hoping for an incredible day 

Meanwhile Sir Alex Ferguson's (right) Manchester United are travelling to Sunderland. This is potentially a difficult one. Sunderland have been poor of late, as they appear to be thinking about their holidays. Although final day of the season, final home game and hosting United they may just be up for it. I expect United to win @2/5 (SkyBet) as I think they will attack Sunderland from the off, although they have been wasteful in front of goal. If you fancy Sunderland here you will get 13/2 (SkyBet) or the draw @7/2 (SkyBet). I think United will just win this one 2-1. 

The race for top four it now at the final stage. Chelsea have dropped out of the running which leaves Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle United to battle it out for 3rd/4th/5th. However with the possibility of Chelsea winning the Champions League it is now made it even more important to finish third as to guarantee that Champions League place. Arsenal travel to take on West Brom in Roy Hodgson final game in charge. Tottenham are at home to Fulham and Newcastle face a very tough trip to in-form Everton. Arsenal are an unbelievably short, 1/66 (SkyBet) to finish sunday in the top four, Tottenham are 1/8 (SkyBet) and Newcastle are 9/2 (SkyBet).

Hodgson hoping for perfect send off

The bookies seems certain that Arsenal will come third however I am not sure. I think the game against West Brom is going to be very very hard. I have made this one my bet of the day. I honestly believe that West Brom @4/1 (SkyBet) will win this one, if Tottenham and Newcastle United can take advantage is another issue. For me Arsenal showed their weaknesses last week against Norwich and I can see West Brom doing to Arsenal what they did to Chelsea and pick up a 1-0 win. It is Roy Hodgson's (right) last game and so a big performance is expected, on top of this they are also the home side which is a plus for them. For me this is a good bet. I think Arsene Wenger will be very very worried about this one. The bookies go Arsenal @8/13 (SkyBet) and the draw is at @3/1 (SkyBet).

Finally for me Bolton are looking a cert for relegation. Even if QPR fail to get anything from the Ethiad, Bolton will have to win at Stoke. Stoke in truth have nothing to play for and people will remember what Wigan did their last year. However the way Bolton have been playing I cannot see it. Last week was huge, to throw away a 2 goal lead at home to West Brom was the final nail in the coffin for me.

Bolton are 4/11 (SkyBet) to go down with QPR @11/5 (SkyBet)

Bet of the Day: West Brom @4/1(SkyBet) to beat Arsenal. 

Longshot of the game: Hollywood script bet - QPR to draw at Manchester City @8/1 (SkyBet)

Accumulator: Chelsea, Swansea, Norwich and Wigan @ 14/1 (SkyBet)

Horse-Racing:

Win bet:  Beachfire @11/2(SkyBet) in the 3.45 @ Lingfield 

Each-way bet: Hawkeyethenoo @12/1(SkyBet) in the 3.25 @Ascot

Rugby League:

Leeds Rhinos won as expectedly last night as they beat Leigh 60-12 to progress to the semi-finals. Today it is the massive game between St Helens and Wigan Warriors. This one is very very tough to call. Both on form, both with terrific players. St Helens are  @11/8 (SkyBet) and Wigan are @10/11(SkyBet) I think St Helens will edge it, I predict 24-20. On Sunday, I expect Huddersfield Giants @1/33 (SkyBet) to progress with a home win over London Broncos @8/1 (SkyBet) and Catalan Dragons @8/11(SkyBet) to beat Warrington Wolves @11/10 (SkyBet). This one is going to be a great game. Catalan in France are very very tough, not many teams go to the south of France and come back with anything another then defeat. 

Drogba Fires Chelsea to Cup Success

Chelsea seal another FA Cup succes

Chelsea made it four FA Cup victories in six years as they claimed a well deserved 2-1 victory over Liverpool. Chelsea were dominant and strikes from Ramires and of course Dider Drogba gave Chelsea a comfortable 2-0 lead and seemingly another FA Cup final victory. Although Liverpool finally woke up in the final 25 minutes, inspired greatly by the introduction of Andy Carroll, as they pilled the pressure on a tiring Chelsea. Carroll netted with a great finish before the a moment of pure brilliance from Petr Cech kept Carroll's header out. Carroll showed the form he had at Newcastle and why Liverpool paid so much money for him. Chelsea hang on to claim their first silverware under interim manager Roberto Di Matteo and left Kenny Dalglish's side with more then a few regrets.

In truth for the first 65 minutes Chelsea were so dominant they could have had three or four. Liverpool did not turn up. It was for me the most one sided FA Cup final since Manchester United victory over Millwall back in 2004. The gulf between the two appeared to be huge. Steven Gerrard was anonymous for most of the game as his Captain Fantastic / Roy of the Rovers aura seems to be fading. No longer can he galvanise and carry Liverpool sides as he has in the past. It was a very poor showing from Liverpool who Gordon Strachan describes as 'lacking enthusiasm', which seems unbelievable for a Cup Final. 

The deadlock was broken after 11 minutes as Jay Spearing was dispossessed and Juan Mata's pass found Ramires in full flight who breezed past Jose Enrique will ease before he fired his shot straight at Pepe Reina, however the Spaniard had tried to predict the shot and so was in the wrong position and could do nothing to prevent the ball going in. In truth it was a catalogue of errors. Jose Enrique attempt at defending was awful as for Reina, you would expect a man of his experience to be doing far better. 

No stopping that one- Drogba fires home

Throughout the first half Liverpool created nothing. As an attacking force they were dismal. It was so easy for Chelsea. As a result I expected them to be given the riot act and to come out second half all guns blazing however this was not the case. They began the second half as they had finished the first. Chelsea then deservedly went 2-0 ahead through Drogba's left-footed low drive into the far corner (left). It was so one-sided it was not even a spectacle. For an FA Cup final for a team to show not fight, passion, enthusiasm or drive was incredible. 

However the introduction of Andy Carroll on 55 minutes turned the game. He immediately looked to be a threat. On 65 minutes Carroll scored a superb effort as he bamboozled John Terry before firing into the roof of the net. For the first time in the game, Liverpool seemed to be interested. 

Cech makes incredible save from Carroll

Suddenly they were flooding forward and looked a threat. Carroll was causing chaos in the Chelsea defence. John Terry's quiet afternoon had gone. The team seemed to now have purpose and drive. In the 82nd minute they were nearly rewarded again. Carroll (right) found himself totally unmarked and his powerful header was incredibly saved by Petr Cech. Liverpool appealed for the goal, as Luis Suarez remonstrated with the linesman. In real time from the television angle it looked a goal however from the reply it showed to me that the ball had not crossed the line and Cech had in fact made an FA Cup winning save. I am glad that the referee got this one correct, as would have been awful if we had had another goal -line decision controversy. The officials got this one correct however goal-line technology must be brought in.  Liverpool continued to push forward in search on the equaliser as Chelsea fell further and further back. It seemed they were running on empty. However it was not to be for Liverpool as Chelsea hung on for the win.To be honest despite Liverpool's final 25 minute burst of energy, I do not think anyone could seriously make a genuine case for Liverpool deserving to be level.  You cannot not play for the first 65 minutes and seriously expect to win. Chelsea were deserved winners. 

Where do Liverpool go from here?

The defeat will leave Liverpool fans reeling over their sides lack of anything in the first 65 minutes. Kenny Dalglish will be wondered what exactly happened. Should Andy Carroll have started? His performance in the last 25 minutes was that of when he was at Newcastle. I do think that Carroll will come good. If he is used correctly he is incredibly dangerous. His performance maybe gives him an outside shot at the England squad. Today we saw a number of very poor showing, Steven Gerrard (right) looked past it, Enrique seems to be getting worse and Liverpool appear to be going backwards. As for Dalglish he is a man under pressure. He spent a lot of money over the summer and his return is a dismal league campaign and finish, FA Cup final defeat and a Carling Cup win. Luckily for Dalglish he has qualified for the Europa League although they are so far of the pace it must scare Liverpool fans. Although Dalglish looked an old and haggard man on the touchline who seems to not know what to do. It will very interesting to see what happened in the summer at Liverpool. Will Dalglish still be in charge? I think so although will he be given money to spend? Dalglish and Liverpool must face the stark reality of the situation and will have to do some seriously thinking over the next few weeks.  

As for Chelsea they now have a Champions League final to look forward to. That is the big game for them no doubt. They will need to win, due to their league form, in order to qualify for the tournament next year. Also it is the one they have always wanted. It will be an intriguing final no doubt. It may also be vital for the future of Roberto Di Matteo. If he does win the Champions League, surely he will be given the job. For me he should get it anyway, however Roman Abramovich is a strange man and no one can predict what he will do. 

Weekend Tips

Last weekend I was let down by West Brom and Norwich. However my points about Liverpool were justified if you saw the performance and defeat to Fulham in mid-week. I am sure had Grant Holt been picked Liverpool would have struggled. Elsewhere the horse-racing bet of the day came in though with Ballyoliver @7/2. Finally Batley put in a fine display despite narrowly losing  to London Broncos although they were well worth the bet. 

This week we see the end of both League 1&2 as well as a bumper Sunday of huge Premier League action and on top of this an FA Cup final. There is also horse-racing from Newmarket, Goodwood and Thirsk. 

Football:

Goal-machine Cisse will be looking for more against City

An absolutely massive weekend of Premier League action. So many crucial games as the title, Champions League places and relegation still to be decided. With regards to the title race, I can see no other result then a Manchester United win @1/6 (SkyBet) against Swansea. United toughest game is next week away at Sunderland, if Sunderland are up for it then it will be a very very difficult trip for them. The other key game is that at St James' Park. In form Manchester City take on in form and Champions League chasing Newcastle United. This one could be a classic. Both sides with so much attacking flair. For me the key is for Newcastle to score first. For Alan Pardew's side this is a must. This is very possible for them to do. The form of Papiss Cisse (left), 13 goals in 12 games and with the providers of Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa you would think they will cause City trouble.  Newcastle are @19/5 (SkyBet) for the win, City @4/6 (SkyBet) and 3/1 (SkyBet) the draw. I am going to tip Newcastle to win this one. It is a bold claim as City will throw everything at them however think Newcastle will win it. A Newcastle win is a must if they are to continue to search for 3rd in the table. 

Harry looking for nothing less then 3 points at Villa park

The other Champions League contenders are Arsenal who play Norwich in the Saturday lunchtime kick-off. I expect Arsenal to win this one, however do hope for Grant Holt to cause havoc. Arsenal are 4/6 @(SkyBet) for the win. Tottenham play away at dire Aston Villa and can only see a win here. The only hope for Villa is a 0-0, however cannot see Villa holding out. Harry Redknapp's (right) Tottenham @5/6 (SkyBet) for the win, Aston Villa @100/30 (SkyBet). Alex Mcleish's men are really struggling as they look to limp over the line for Premier League survival. I said I thought Villa would go down and they will be very very close although I just feel that point they got last week may save them. However we have seen some very strange goings-on this season and who knows maybe QPR will win away at City on the final day. 

The FA Cup final seems to be almost forgotten about as so many fixtures are happening around it and the league season still ongoing. For me it should be like it used to be, on it's own day after the season has finished. Anyway I digress, this one is a 5.15 kick off and for me there is only one outcome. Chelsea despite that defeat to Newcastle in mid-week are by far the favourites @ 6/4 (SkyBet). Liverpool are @9/5 however this is far too short. Liverpool's performances have been poor to put it nicely. 

Drogba a cert to score for me

For me this will be 3-0 to Chelsea and @25/1 I will give that a punt. Liverpool will struggle as they have all season and cannot see them being able to cope with the attacking options of Chelsea. Juan Mata will cause them real trouble and if Didier Drogba (left) starts he will certainly score. Even if he does the resurgent Fernando Torres could easily score. His form of late has been greatly improved and against his former club it is almost written that he will play a part. There is no doubt that this one is bigger for Kenny Dalglish and Liverpool although they will fall short. This will leave Dalglish's job in danger I feel. Over 100 million spent and only a Carling Cup. I do believe he will survive although if they start next season badly he could be the first man for the sack. I expect Roberto Di Matteo to play his strongest side and this will be more then enough to overcome Liverpool.

Bet of the day: Chelsea @6/4 (SkyBet) to win the FA Cup in 90 minutes. 

Lower league acculator: Wins for Sheffield Wednesday, Stevenage, Notts County and Southend @6/1 (SkyBet)

Outside bet of the day: Relegated Exeter to beat Sheffield United @7/1 (SkyBet). The Ched Evans jailing has really affected them as I just cannot see them scoring. One to certainly avoid when betting on a play-off winner.   

Horse-Racing:

Eachway Bet: Woolfall Treasure in the 3.30 at Goodwood is a nice each-way punt @14-1(SkyBet). 

Win Bet: Neutrafa @100/300 (SkyBet) in the 4.05 at Goodwood. 

Good luck with all your bets.