In a strange coincidence (honest) this post, like the last one, is being made amidst intense speculation regarding the Manchester United manager's job. But we'll leave that to one side and instead look forward to Euro 2016 (no promises about big long mahoosive detailed guides to each team)
As regular readers (both of you) will know, we do enjoy looking for some outsider bets, so let's have a look at some of those further down the Top Scorer betting odds (as well as a few ramblings about the tournament itself):
With this being possibly his last major international tournament (certainly his final Euros), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (33/1) might never have a better chance to claim a tournament Golden Boot. He spearheads a Sweden side that features plenty of young talent to supply him (watch out for Jimmy Durmaz cutting in from the flanks) and they should progress from a Group E which features a talented Belgium side missing their best centre-back, a deeply uninspiring Italy side (potentially with gaping holes in its central midfield) and a frankly rotten Ireland side, so he should easily get amongst the goals early on before progression to a potentially winnable Round of 16 game (more on that later)
It's safe to assume that Germany will go some way into the tournament, thereby rendering any number of their players as possible contenders. Rather than the obvious Muller/Reus/Gomez/Ozil (all the very best in your retirement, Miroslav Klose) shouts (all of whom after busy club seasons are likely to be rotated at some point), it's worth instead having a small wager on Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder Karim Bellarabi (80/1), who could force his way into Jogi Loew's starting XI with a place on the right flank likely to be available if Muller plays centrally in Mario Gotze's absence
And because any article on here featuring betting tips wouldn't be complete without a >100/1 shot, Group D is exceptionally wide open behind Spain (and perhaps even including them- this is still largely the same side that looked so lethargic in Brazil 2 years ago, a tournament also immediately preceded by an all-Madrid Champions League final), thus any number of players could rack up a few goals. Worth a punt in that regard is Turkey's leading marksman Burak Yilmaz (125/1), as prolific as anyone on his day and with a very decent selection of attacking midfielders behind him
How's everyone getting on with their Euro 2016 sticker books, by the way? About 70% completed over here. Most importantly, Liam Boyce has been acquired (although still a long way short on shinies. Get in touch for swapsies)
Hosts France suffered a significant blow today with the news that Raphael Varane will miss the tournament (possibly to spend more time with his brothers Donatello, Leonardo and Michaelangelo), with Sevilla's Adil Rami called up as a replacement. This leaves Didier Deschamps with 2 likely central defensive partnerships: Laurent Koscielny and Jeremy Mathieu (downside: slow and inexperienced) or Koscielny with Eliaquim Mangala (downside: features Eliaquim Mangala). They should still easily top their group though (with Romania, Switzerland and Albania likely to play out some dreary, low-scoring affairs between themselves)
Finally, one can't help but wonder what Portugal will be thinking going into their final Group F game with Hungary in Lyon on June 22nd. A win will most likely see them top the group, setting up a Round of 16 clash with Group E's runner up (almost certainly Sweden, Belgium or Italy), while any other result could leave them in 2nd place, setting up a clash with the 2nd placed team from Group B (likely to be Russia- that group finishes on the 20th). One can't help but think the latter assignment could be the more appealing
PARTY IN HINCHTOWN
Wednesday, 25 May 2016
Monday, 21 December 2015
Almost As Intense As the Time Peter Forgot How To Sit Down
After an extended period of this blog being dormant, it was always likely to take something big for that to change, something like, ooh, a potential change of manager at Manchester United?
The situation is, of course, fluid, but let's go back to Friday, December 5. An inebriated Ed Woodward (your daily reminder that, yes, the Chief Executive of Manchester United really is called Edward Woodward) takes Fleet Street's finest out for a few drinks, and proceeds to tell all concerned that Van Gaal is considered a "genius", that the job is his as long as he wants it, and doesn't rule out the option of his contract being extended beyond its current end in 2017. Yet a mere 4 games later, said press pack is practically baying for his blood, and seems convinced their view is shared at board level- without wishing to dwell on it, one has to re-iterate that, for reasons unknown, the media really don't like Louis Van Gaal. Want some evidence? Look at how most non-English managers get quoted during their press conferences, then read a report on a Van Gaal one. Journalists are usually kind enough to their subjects to tidy up the sort of minor grammatical, subtle errors they naturally make in a foreign language, a luxury that they don't afford Van Gaal. Anyway, moving on to the main question- will he actually be sacked? And who would replace him?
The Glazers are based in the USA and delegate the entirety of the day-to-day running of the club to Woodward (who works out of MUFC's commercial offices in London. Yes, really). There will be input from Sir Alex Ferguson (still trousering in excess of £2 million per annum from the club for a largely ceremonial ambassador role) and Sir Bobby Charlton (both of whom objected to the potential appointment of Jose Mourinho in 2013) and the 6 Glazers themselves (Malcolm having died in 2014), but the final decision will ultimately be Woodward's. He's a physics graduate with a background in mergers & acquisitions activity and not what one would normally call a "football man", so the current complaints about the playing style under Van Gaal will not bother him or the Glazers one iota, so long as the money keeps rolling in- remember back to 2014, when David Moyes was only sacked when Champions League football the following season became mathematically impossible. This is a board of cautious bean counters looking to protect their investment and dreaming of yet another new bumper TV deal, not a bunch of football fans wanting to be entertained every Saturday and dreaming of silverware in May.
The financial situation is key here. The headline figure of £250 million of spending under Van Gaal is technically accurate, however it tells far from the full story. A number of high earning, experienced players have been moved on from the club over the last 18 months, with the vast majority of new signings being young, on relatively low wages and with significant potential resale value, a point Van Gaal himself effectively admitted when announcing the signing of Anthony Martial. It's worth also noting that the Glazers were fully prepared to sell David De Gea to Real Madrid on transfer deadline day to leave United with only Sergio Romero and Sam Johnstone as senior goalkeepers, Van Gaal having effectively jettisoned Victor Valdes. In terms of the criteria given to him by the board, Van Gaal isn't actually failing- commercial revenue is ever increasing, the average age (and wage bill) of the squad is dramatically lower than it was when he took the job and a top 4 finish is still well within United's reach (it's far from inconceivable that one or more of the 4 teams currently above United in the league may not maintain that position) even, as seems overwhelmingly likely, without reinforcements arriving in January.
Which brings us to the question of, if he goes, who would replace him. The widely touted favourite (and, to go back to my earlier point, media darling) Jose Mourinho is of course now available. Well, sort of. Mourinho only signed a new 4 year contract with Chelsea in August- he'll be paid that contract in full until its expiry in 2019 or he takes another managerial role. Therefore, in order to appoint him now, the board (who would need to seek the approval of Ferguson and Charlton, who overlooked him in 2013) would need to pay up the remaining 18 months of Van Gaal's contract (just days after publicly signalling their willingness to extend it), offer Mourinho a better contract than his existing Chelsea one and no doubt agree to give Mourinho an expansive "transfer war chest", along with carte blanche to ignore the club's preference of signing (and developing) younger players with resale value. All of these actions simply do not tie in with the behaviour we have witnessed from the Glazers during their ownership of the club, a 10 year period during which they have taken over £1 billion out of the club.
Let's briefly also touch on another potential replacement, Ryan Giggs. What works in his favour is that he's already on the payroll, and has (briefly) done the job before. However, given his current role as Van Gaal's assistant, he's either being completely over-ruled and/or ignored by Van Gaal, or he's complicit in United's current playing style (or lack of it).
It's clear that there are serious issues at Manchester United right now. However, as much as Louis Van Gaal has erred (not that he'd ever admit it), it is important to remember the constraints under which he operates- the frankly larcenous nature of the Glazers' ownership of the club doesn't get anywhere near enough scrutiny. Which is, of course, exactly the way they want it, and allows them to sit back and watch as Van Gaal is portrayed as the scapegoat.
Personally? I'd rather stick with Van Gaal for now- in a stick or twist situation like this, the cautious play is generally preferred. At 64 he's not the long-term, legacy option- but then again, neither is Jose Mourinho (look through his career history- the drop-off of his teams in his 3rd year is staggering). The nature of the league this season is such that a credible finish is still very much achievable, maybe even a cup too. The summer of 2016 will see numerous changes in management at many of the top clubs, at which point, should one or both parties feel a change is required, they will both have the maximum number of options available
THIS BLOG WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY COMPUGLOBALHYPERMEGANET
The situation is, of course, fluid, but let's go back to Friday, December 5. An inebriated Ed Woodward (your daily reminder that, yes, the Chief Executive of Manchester United really is called Edward Woodward) takes Fleet Street's finest out for a few drinks, and proceeds to tell all concerned that Van Gaal is considered a "genius", that the job is his as long as he wants it, and doesn't rule out the option of his contract being extended beyond its current end in 2017. Yet a mere 4 games later, said press pack is practically baying for his blood, and seems convinced their view is shared at board level- without wishing to dwell on it, one has to re-iterate that, for reasons unknown, the media really don't like Louis Van Gaal. Want some evidence? Look at how most non-English managers get quoted during their press conferences, then read a report on a Van Gaal one. Journalists are usually kind enough to their subjects to tidy up the sort of minor grammatical, subtle errors they naturally make in a foreign language, a luxury that they don't afford Van Gaal. Anyway, moving on to the main question- will he actually be sacked? And who would replace him?
The Glazers are based in the USA and delegate the entirety of the day-to-day running of the club to Woodward (who works out of MUFC's commercial offices in London. Yes, really). There will be input from Sir Alex Ferguson (still trousering in excess of £2 million per annum from the club for a largely ceremonial ambassador role) and Sir Bobby Charlton (both of whom objected to the potential appointment of Jose Mourinho in 2013) and the 6 Glazers themselves (Malcolm having died in 2014), but the final decision will ultimately be Woodward's. He's a physics graduate with a background in mergers & acquisitions activity and not what one would normally call a "football man", so the current complaints about the playing style under Van Gaal will not bother him or the Glazers one iota, so long as the money keeps rolling in- remember back to 2014, when David Moyes was only sacked when Champions League football the following season became mathematically impossible. This is a board of cautious bean counters looking to protect their investment and dreaming of yet another new bumper TV deal, not a bunch of football fans wanting to be entertained every Saturday and dreaming of silverware in May.
The financial situation is key here. The headline figure of £250 million of spending under Van Gaal is technically accurate, however it tells far from the full story. A number of high earning, experienced players have been moved on from the club over the last 18 months, with the vast majority of new signings being young, on relatively low wages and with significant potential resale value, a point Van Gaal himself effectively admitted when announcing the signing of Anthony Martial. It's worth also noting that the Glazers were fully prepared to sell David De Gea to Real Madrid on transfer deadline day to leave United with only Sergio Romero and Sam Johnstone as senior goalkeepers, Van Gaal having effectively jettisoned Victor Valdes. In terms of the criteria given to him by the board, Van Gaal isn't actually failing- commercial revenue is ever increasing, the average age (and wage bill) of the squad is dramatically lower than it was when he took the job and a top 4 finish is still well within United's reach (it's far from inconceivable that one or more of the 4 teams currently above United in the league may not maintain that position) even, as seems overwhelmingly likely, without reinforcements arriving in January.
Which brings us to the question of, if he goes, who would replace him. The widely touted favourite (and, to go back to my earlier point, media darling) Jose Mourinho is of course now available. Well, sort of. Mourinho only signed a new 4 year contract with Chelsea in August- he'll be paid that contract in full until its expiry in 2019 or he takes another managerial role. Therefore, in order to appoint him now, the board (who would need to seek the approval of Ferguson and Charlton, who overlooked him in 2013) would need to pay up the remaining 18 months of Van Gaal's contract (just days after publicly signalling their willingness to extend it), offer Mourinho a better contract than his existing Chelsea one and no doubt agree to give Mourinho an expansive "transfer war chest", along with carte blanche to ignore the club's preference of signing (and developing) younger players with resale value. All of these actions simply do not tie in with the behaviour we have witnessed from the Glazers during their ownership of the club, a 10 year period during which they have taken over £1 billion out of the club.
Let's briefly also touch on another potential replacement, Ryan Giggs. What works in his favour is that he's already on the payroll, and has (briefly) done the job before. However, given his current role as Van Gaal's assistant, he's either being completely over-ruled and/or ignored by Van Gaal, or he's complicit in United's current playing style (or lack of it).
It's clear that there are serious issues at Manchester United right now. However, as much as Louis Van Gaal has erred (not that he'd ever admit it), it is important to remember the constraints under which he operates- the frankly larcenous nature of the Glazers' ownership of the club doesn't get anywhere near enough scrutiny. Which is, of course, exactly the way they want it, and allows them to sit back and watch as Van Gaal is portrayed as the scapegoat.
Personally? I'd rather stick with Van Gaal for now- in a stick or twist situation like this, the cautious play is generally preferred. At 64 he's not the long-term, legacy option- but then again, neither is Jose Mourinho (look through his career history- the drop-off of his teams in his 3rd year is staggering). The nature of the league this season is such that a credible finish is still very much achievable, maybe even a cup too. The summer of 2016 will see numerous changes in management at many of the top clubs, at which point, should one or both parties feel a change is required, they will both have the maximum number of options available
THIS BLOG WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY COMPUGLOBALHYPERMEGANET
Saturday, 1 August 2015
There's No Mistake, I Smell That Smell
Gadzooks! It's almost time for the season to start again (although with the European "Under 21" Championship, the Copa America and an Eastern European pre-season adventure with my beloved Staggies, it doesn't much feel like I've had a break). With that in mind, here's what to expect (or not) in the SPFL Premiership this season (also, if you want some EPL fantasy football action, join our free league at fantasy.premierleague.com with code 738646-183823):
Celtic will win the thing. There, I said it
Aberdeen will once again finish 2nd, quite some way ahead of the rest but still some way off Celtic. Manager Derek McInnes didn't really need to change a successful team much, with Danny Ward and Graeme Shinnie providing the only necessary upgrades at goalkeeper and left-back respectively, and Paul Quinn (which incidentally means they signed the captains of both Inverness CT and Ross County) useful cover across the back line
Next up could well be St Johnstone. There may be more exciting teams in the league than Tommy Wright's battle-hardened bunch of thirtysomethings but they're a well-organised, disciplined mob with some decent wingers and, in the cumbersome but effective John Sutton, a proven goalscorer at this level. Young keeper Zander Clark impressed on loan at Queen of the South last season, and will provide genuine competition for regular number 1 Alan Mannus
One of those more exciting teams could be Dundee United, who were quite the Jekyll and Hyde proposition last season- spellbinding at times in the first half of the season, but utterly recalcitrant from January onwards, Jackie McNamara undoubtedly has some talented youngsters to develop before selling them to Celtic (taking a cut for himself in the process), but serious questions remain over them as a defensive unit (somewhat bizarre given McNamara's playing career as a sturdy full-back). That cost them last season and could do so again
Next up- don't be surprised if Ross County make an appearance in the top 6. Since arriving at the Global Energy For Make Benefit Glorious Republic of Ross-Shire Stadium, manager Jim McIntyre has transformed the Staggies into a direct, adventurous outfit. He has stuck with the County tradition of signing half a new team each transfer window, with this summer's most noteworthy additions being the impossibly blonde centre-back (and new captain) Andrew Davies, the Brobdingnagian centre-forward Brian Graham, the magnificent flowing locks of all-action Aussie Jackson Irvine, and Amy MacDonald's boyfriend
Where, you, ask, does that leave Hearts? One has to wonder, with a squad comprising many of the same players Gary Locke led to relegation 2 seasons ago, just how good Robbie Neilson's side really are, given how even a wretched Motherwell side comfortably dispatched with Rangers (2012-) to demonstrate the significant gulf between the Premiership and the Championship, and how the Jambos themselves were gubbed in both cup competitions by Celtic last season. A top 6 finish should be theirs, but that could be as far as they get in their first season back in the top flight
It'll be a close run thing with the 2 (or maybe even 3) teams directly above them, but Dundee could be the ones to narrowly miss out on a top 6 place. Manager Paul Hartley has again raided the lower leagues and has made some astute signings- Kevin Holt and Rory Loy should cope with the step up, although they do have a real lack of width, which could cost them points against the stuffier defences of the league
Another team set to be involved in the scrap for the top 6 are Inverness CT. Last season's Scottish Cup win covered up something of a drop-off in John Hughes' side's league results after the sale of Billy McKay- it remains to be seen if he, or captain Graeme Shinnie (or indeed the pacey Marley Watkins), have been adequately replaced
Let's file Motherwell and Kilmarnock together in 9th and 10th. Stayed up last season despite having a wholly unconvincing manager (Ian Baraclough and the Bonnyrigg Bielsa, Gary Locke)? Check. Have this summer re-signed a club legend portly centre-forward lethal in the 6 yard box but useless outside it (David Clarkson and Kris Boyd)? Check. A decent crop of youngsters who should get some game time? Check. Killie might have the edge come the season's end owing to having a goalkeeper who is competent (Jamie MacDonald) rather than the calamitous Dan Twardzik, but both are likely to be mired in the bottom 6 for the duration of the season
I really hope Kingsley isn't reading this, as I'm tipping Partick Thistle for 11th place. There was good news for the Jags today, as they completed the signing of Pogba: unfortunately for Kingsley and co, it's Mathias Pogba, the older, journeyman striker brother of the Juventus superstar. Key men such as goalkeeper Scott Fox, the under-rated rampaging full-back Stephen O'Donnell, the Brilliant When He Can Be Arsed Kallum Higginbotham and Lyle Taylor have all departed leaving Alan Archibald's squad looking a tad thin- he'll have to rely on youngsters to cover in certain positions, most notably at the back
That leaves us with Hamilton Accies finishing 12th, which looks plausible given the dramatic in their form after losing both manager Alex Neil and top scorer Tony Andreu to Norwich mid-season. Neil has at least sent them young striker Carlton Morris on loan, where he will be competing for a place with the rotund Christian Nade, who wasn't exactly a standout for Championship mid-tablers Raith Rovers last season- why manager Martin Canning believes he'll be able to find the net on a regular basis in a higher league is anyone's guess. At least he won't have lost any pace- he never had any to begin with!
GIVE GILLES, AYRTON AND DAN A HARD TIME UP THERE, JULES
Celtic will win the thing. There, I said it
Aberdeen will once again finish 2nd, quite some way ahead of the rest but still some way off Celtic. Manager Derek McInnes didn't really need to change a successful team much, with Danny Ward and Graeme Shinnie providing the only necessary upgrades at goalkeeper and left-back respectively, and Paul Quinn (which incidentally means they signed the captains of both Inverness CT and Ross County) useful cover across the back line
Next up could well be St Johnstone. There may be more exciting teams in the league than Tommy Wright's battle-hardened bunch of thirtysomethings but they're a well-organised, disciplined mob with some decent wingers and, in the cumbersome but effective John Sutton, a proven goalscorer at this level. Young keeper Zander Clark impressed on loan at Queen of the South last season, and will provide genuine competition for regular number 1 Alan Mannus
One of those more exciting teams could be Dundee United, who were quite the Jekyll and Hyde proposition last season- spellbinding at times in the first half of the season, but utterly recalcitrant from January onwards, Jackie McNamara undoubtedly has some talented youngsters to develop before selling them to Celtic (taking a cut for himself in the process), but serious questions remain over them as a defensive unit (somewhat bizarre given McNamara's playing career as a sturdy full-back). That cost them last season and could do so again
Next up- don't be surprised if Ross County make an appearance in the top 6. Since arriving at the Global Energy For Make Benefit Glorious Republic of Ross-Shire Stadium, manager Jim McIntyre has transformed the Staggies into a direct, adventurous outfit. He has stuck with the County tradition of signing half a new team each transfer window, with this summer's most noteworthy additions being the impossibly blonde centre-back (and new captain) Andrew Davies, the Brobdingnagian centre-forward Brian Graham, the magnificent flowing locks of all-action Aussie Jackson Irvine, and Amy MacDonald's boyfriend
Where, you, ask, does that leave Hearts? One has to wonder, with a squad comprising many of the same players Gary Locke led to relegation 2 seasons ago, just how good Robbie Neilson's side really are, given how even a wretched Motherwell side comfortably dispatched with Rangers (2012-) to demonstrate the significant gulf between the Premiership and the Championship, and how the Jambos themselves were gubbed in both cup competitions by Celtic last season. A top 6 finish should be theirs, but that could be as far as they get in their first season back in the top flight
It'll be a close run thing with the 2 (or maybe even 3) teams directly above them, but Dundee could be the ones to narrowly miss out on a top 6 place. Manager Paul Hartley has again raided the lower leagues and has made some astute signings- Kevin Holt and Rory Loy should cope with the step up, although they do have a real lack of width, which could cost them points against the stuffier defences of the league
Another team set to be involved in the scrap for the top 6 are Inverness CT. Last season's Scottish Cup win covered up something of a drop-off in John Hughes' side's league results after the sale of Billy McKay- it remains to be seen if he, or captain Graeme Shinnie (or indeed the pacey Marley Watkins), have been adequately replaced
Let's file Motherwell and Kilmarnock together in 9th and 10th. Stayed up last season despite having a wholly unconvincing manager (Ian Baraclough and the Bonnyrigg Bielsa, Gary Locke)? Check. Have this summer re-signed a club legend portly centre-forward lethal in the 6 yard box but useless outside it (David Clarkson and Kris Boyd)? Check. A decent crop of youngsters who should get some game time? Check. Killie might have the edge come the season's end owing to having a goalkeeper who is competent (Jamie MacDonald) rather than the calamitous Dan Twardzik, but both are likely to be mired in the bottom 6 for the duration of the season
I really hope Kingsley isn't reading this, as I'm tipping Partick Thistle for 11th place. There was good news for the Jags today, as they completed the signing of Pogba: unfortunately for Kingsley and co, it's Mathias Pogba, the older, journeyman striker brother of the Juventus superstar. Key men such as goalkeeper Scott Fox, the under-rated rampaging full-back Stephen O'Donnell, the Brilliant When He Can Be Arsed Kallum Higginbotham and Lyle Taylor have all departed leaving Alan Archibald's squad looking a tad thin- he'll have to rely on youngsters to cover in certain positions, most notably at the back
That leaves us with Hamilton Accies finishing 12th, which looks plausible given the dramatic in their form after losing both manager Alex Neil and top scorer Tony Andreu to Norwich mid-season. Neil has at least sent them young striker Carlton Morris on loan, where he will be competing for a place with the rotund Christian Nade, who wasn't exactly a standout for Championship mid-tablers Raith Rovers last season- why manager Martin Canning believes he'll be able to find the net on a regular basis in a higher league is anyone's guess. At least he won't have lost any pace- he never had any to begin with!
GIVE GILLES, AYRTON AND DAN A HARD TIME UP THERE, JULES
Monday, 20 April 2015
Tom Keen (Number 7)
Yeah, about those Grand National tips......
Time to get back to what I actually know, and leave the nags for about 10 months (5 furlong dashes over the flat doesn't interest me nearly as much):
Obligatory Champions League Quarter Final 2nd Leg Previews
The Madrid derby at the Vicente Calderon was a predictably scrappy affair (going 7 matches without beating your neighbours tends to do that to you, eh Mr Ancelotti?), with the No Disqualifications Match between Mario Mandzukic and Sergio Ramos proving an amusing side story, even if there was a suspicion Mandzukic may have bladed after catching Ramos' stray fingernail. They reconvene in the Emirati Oil Company Bernabeu (laugh now, but it's happening) on Wednesday with both sides hit by injuries and suspension- factoring in this, Diego Simeone's side's record in this game, and the standard bookies' overpricing of Atletico, 13/8 on Atletico to qualify is the call here (as is 9/2 on Monaco to qualify in Wednesday's other game)
He May Talk The Talk, But Jose Will Never Walk The Walk
Chelsea's youth team won the UEFA youth league last week, and they contest the 1st leg of the FA youth cup tonight. Jose Mourinho has spent some time this season talking up the progress being made by the club's academy, but how has this translated into actual minutes on the park for these players? It, er, hasn't. Witness the last 2 league games, where due to not-exactly-unpredictable injuries to Diego Costa and Loic Remy, Mourinho has deployed the geriatric Didier Drogba in attack. Lo and behold, in both games, Drogba's contribution has been, as one would expect from a 93-year-old centre-forward, minimal, especially past the 60 minute mark. And has Maureen deigned to use young strikers from the bench like Izzy Brown and Dominic Solanke? Of course not. By way of comparison, it's interesting to note that 19 year olds Paddy McNair and Luke Shaw were arguably Manchester United's best players on Saturday. Amazing what happens when you actually trust them, eh Jose?
Welcome Back, GP2
The hidden gem of the Sky Sports F1 channel, the GP2 Series started again in Bahrain this weekend, with all the fun, overtaking, and Sergio Canamasas crashing into people that we've come to expect from F1's main support series. Pre-season favourite, McLaren protégé Stoffel Vandoorne duly lived up to expectations, recording pole position, the race win and fastest lap in Saturday's feature race, following it up with a 2nd place in Sunday's sprint race. As ever in single-make formulae, he's unlikely to have it all his own way, though: likely contenders include Alexander Rossi, who finally has a good seat at Racing Engineering after a patchy 2014, and scored a feature race podium. Honourable mention, too, for his team-mate Jordan King, who was just behind him in the feature race before having the misfortune to be run into by the ever-dangerous Sergio Canamasas. Ferrari-affiliated youngster Raffaele Marciello, meanwhile, is making a play for Unluckiest GP2 Driver. After numerous instances of bad luck last season, his 2015 started with gearbox issues during qualifying, before being taken out of the feature race by Norman Nato, effectively ruining his weekend. If this guy can catch a break, he's sure to challenge Vandoorne, who should also face a greater challenge from the other side of his ART garage, with Nobuharu Matsushita taking to the series much more quickly than 2014 pilot Takuya Izawa, scoring points in both races
I SO INFORMED YOU THUSLY
Time to get back to what I actually know, and leave the nags for about 10 months (5 furlong dashes over the flat doesn't interest me nearly as much):
Obligatory Champions League Quarter Final 2nd Leg Previews
The Madrid derby at the Vicente Calderon was a predictably scrappy affair (going 7 matches without beating your neighbours tends to do that to you, eh Mr Ancelotti?), with the No Disqualifications Match between Mario Mandzukic and Sergio Ramos proving an amusing side story, even if there was a suspicion Mandzukic may have bladed after catching Ramos' stray fingernail. They reconvene in the Emirati Oil Company Bernabeu (laugh now, but it's happening) on Wednesday with both sides hit by injuries and suspension- factoring in this, Diego Simeone's side's record in this game, and the standard bookies' overpricing of Atletico, 13/8 on Atletico to qualify is the call here (as is 9/2 on Monaco to qualify in Wednesday's other game)
He May Talk The Talk, But Jose Will Never Walk The Walk
Chelsea's youth team won the UEFA youth league last week, and they contest the 1st leg of the FA youth cup tonight. Jose Mourinho has spent some time this season talking up the progress being made by the club's academy, but how has this translated into actual minutes on the park for these players? It, er, hasn't. Witness the last 2 league games, where due to not-exactly-unpredictable injuries to Diego Costa and Loic Remy, Mourinho has deployed the geriatric Didier Drogba in attack. Lo and behold, in both games, Drogba's contribution has been, as one would expect from a 93-year-old centre-forward, minimal, especially past the 60 minute mark. And has Maureen deigned to use young strikers from the bench like Izzy Brown and Dominic Solanke? Of course not. By way of comparison, it's interesting to note that 19 year olds Paddy McNair and Luke Shaw were arguably Manchester United's best players on Saturday. Amazing what happens when you actually trust them, eh Jose?
Welcome Back, GP2
The hidden gem of the Sky Sports F1 channel, the GP2 Series started again in Bahrain this weekend, with all the fun, overtaking, and Sergio Canamasas crashing into people that we've come to expect from F1's main support series. Pre-season favourite, McLaren protégé Stoffel Vandoorne duly lived up to expectations, recording pole position, the race win and fastest lap in Saturday's feature race, following it up with a 2nd place in Sunday's sprint race. As ever in single-make formulae, he's unlikely to have it all his own way, though: likely contenders include Alexander Rossi, who finally has a good seat at Racing Engineering after a patchy 2014, and scored a feature race podium. Honourable mention, too, for his team-mate Jordan King, who was just behind him in the feature race before having the misfortune to be run into by the ever-dangerous Sergio Canamasas. Ferrari-affiliated youngster Raffaele Marciello, meanwhile, is making a play for Unluckiest GP2 Driver. After numerous instances of bad luck last season, his 2015 started with gearbox issues during qualifying, before being taken out of the feature race by Norman Nato, effectively ruining his weekend. If this guy can catch a break, he's sure to challenge Vandoorne, who should also face a greater challenge from the other side of his ART garage, with Nobuharu Matsushita taking to the series much more quickly than 2014 pilot Takuya Izawa, scoring points in both races
I SO INFORMED YOU THUSLY
Friday, 10 April 2015
Rollins! Rollins Wins the Title!
It's almost here, folks- the Grand National!
As tradition dictates, let's go through a couple of general pointers, along with some of the possible contenders:
It Pays To Go Each-Way
I'm going to assume that, if you're reading this blog, you know what's meant by each way, but with so many horses in with a chance of at least placing, and so many runners at biggish prices, it really is worthwhile covering yourself by going each way on your runner(s). Scout around for the bookies offering 5 (and even 6) places, as well as scouting around for the best prices (we'll touch on that again later)
Beat The Crowd- Get Your Bets On Early
The casual punters will all be in your local Ladbrokes or Hills on Saturday morning, and their flood of fivers and tenners will only send the prices downwards, diminishing your returns (although the disappearance from this year's race of Shakalakaboomboom does mean there's no risk of the Ooh, Let's Pick Him Because He has A Funny Name LOLZ crowd adversely impacting on a horse's price). With the final declaration stage having been Thursday (once all the horses had been to the horse dentist), get in there quickly after that to get your runners (because you're taking more than 1; come on, there's 40 horses in the field!) at the best available price. Remember and shop around for the best prices, too- consult Oddschecker to compare bookies and their odds and offers
The Runners (well, some of them)
We'll not get through all 40 of them, but let's start from the top of the betting
SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR
The 7/1 favourite and mount of AP McCoy in his final ever Grand National- it's worth looking elsewhere for value, though. Won the 2014 Irish Grand National, however that's not really proved a springboard for horses to go on to greater things, and hasn't been seen since triumphing over a middling field over 3m 1/2f at Carlisle in November- 8 year olds have a poor record here, too
ROCKY CREEK
5th in last year's running of this race, there's every chance the 10/1 2nd favourite could place again this year, having romped a warm-up race at Kempton. 9 years old and coming into his prime for Paul Nicholls, very much one to consider despite carrying plenty of weight
THE DRUIDS NEPHEW
Romped a competitive handicap at Cheltenham last month, which saw his price for this tumble from 33/1 into its current 12/1. His jumping was fluent in that, plus he appeared to have plenty in hand, and goes off a decent weight in this. Concerns are over his stamina (has never won over more than 3m 6f) and his age (it's 13 years since an 8 year old won this), but if he can stay clear of trouble early on he's got a real chance
FURIOUS D
Given a new bad-ass attitude, show him some latitude and you'll win his gratitude. Unfortunately hasn't made the cut for this year's running, due mainly to the fact that the Springfield Derby doesn't count as a qualifying race
MONBEG DUDE
A real mudlark who has experience round these fences before, finishing 7th here last year under a similar weight and a former Welsh National winner. Unlikely to get the ground he needs, though, and while he should stay the distance, there's faster horses in the race over the distance
PINEAU DE RE
Last year's winner lines up again aiming to become the first horse to win back-to-back Grand Nationals since 1974. He's had a low-key build up to this year's run, just as last year, under Dr Richard Newland. Now 12 years old (it's 11 years since a horse that age triumphed here) and carrying 8lbs more than last year, you'd fancy him to have a decent chance of getting round again, but will probably be outpaced by others
OSCAR TIME
The real veteran of this race at 14 years old, he has a tremendous record in this race, placing 2nd in 2011 and 4th in 2013, as well as winning the Becher Chase at Aintree back in December. Were he any younger than 14 (nothing that age has won since 1853) then the 50/1 currently available on him would be genuinely outstanding- as it is, while he should run well for a while, he may just be found wanting at the end
ACROSS THE BAY
Hugely unlucky in both 2013 and 2014, where loose horses hampered him when leading onto the 2nd circuit- was unfortunate again at Cheltenham when brought down by another horse. This year sees him carrying less weight than both his previous 2 Grand National attempts- he's also fond of front-running, so may be worth backing for a bit of interest in the 1st half of the race- stamina won't be far off, and he's surely due a change of luck
GAS LINE BOY
An interesting 100/1 outsider. Was in decent form before Christmas before a slightly disappointing showing at Haydock in February- when you're only 4th in a race won by Harry the Viking, something's not right. Has demonstrated he's a decent stayer, but it would be a big ask for his jumping to hold up over 30 fences in a 40 horse field
There you have (some of) it, folks. Enjoy the big race
THIS BLOG WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY MUTUAL OF OMICRON. ENSURING YOUR PLANET, AND ITS DESTRUCTION
As tradition dictates, let's go through a couple of general pointers, along with some of the possible contenders:
It Pays To Go Each-Way
I'm going to assume that, if you're reading this blog, you know what's meant by each way, but with so many horses in with a chance of at least placing, and so many runners at biggish prices, it really is worthwhile covering yourself by going each way on your runner(s). Scout around for the bookies offering 5 (and even 6) places, as well as scouting around for the best prices (we'll touch on that again later)
Beat The Crowd- Get Your Bets On Early
The casual punters will all be in your local Ladbrokes or Hills on Saturday morning, and their flood of fivers and tenners will only send the prices downwards, diminishing your returns (although the disappearance from this year's race of Shakalakaboomboom does mean there's no risk of the Ooh, Let's Pick Him Because He has A Funny Name LOLZ crowd adversely impacting on a horse's price). With the final declaration stage having been Thursday (once all the horses had been to the horse dentist), get in there quickly after that to get your runners (because you're taking more than 1; come on, there's 40 horses in the field!) at the best available price. Remember and shop around for the best prices, too- consult Oddschecker to compare bookies and their odds and offers
The Runners (well, some of them)
We'll not get through all 40 of them, but let's start from the top of the betting
SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR
The 7/1 favourite and mount of AP McCoy in his final ever Grand National- it's worth looking elsewhere for value, though. Won the 2014 Irish Grand National, however that's not really proved a springboard for horses to go on to greater things, and hasn't been seen since triumphing over a middling field over 3m 1/2f at Carlisle in November- 8 year olds have a poor record here, too
ROCKY CREEK
5th in last year's running of this race, there's every chance the 10/1 2nd favourite could place again this year, having romped a warm-up race at Kempton. 9 years old and coming into his prime for Paul Nicholls, very much one to consider despite carrying plenty of weight
THE DRUIDS NEPHEW
Romped a competitive handicap at Cheltenham last month, which saw his price for this tumble from 33/1 into its current 12/1. His jumping was fluent in that, plus he appeared to have plenty in hand, and goes off a decent weight in this. Concerns are over his stamina (has never won over more than 3m 6f) and his age (it's 13 years since an 8 year old won this), but if he can stay clear of trouble early on he's got a real chance
FURIOUS D
Given a new bad-ass attitude, show him some latitude and you'll win his gratitude. Unfortunately hasn't made the cut for this year's running, due mainly to the fact that the Springfield Derby doesn't count as a qualifying race
MONBEG DUDE
A real mudlark who has experience round these fences before, finishing 7th here last year under a similar weight and a former Welsh National winner. Unlikely to get the ground he needs, though, and while he should stay the distance, there's faster horses in the race over the distance
PINEAU DE RE
Last year's winner lines up again aiming to become the first horse to win back-to-back Grand Nationals since 1974. He's had a low-key build up to this year's run, just as last year, under Dr Richard Newland. Now 12 years old (it's 11 years since a horse that age triumphed here) and carrying 8lbs more than last year, you'd fancy him to have a decent chance of getting round again, but will probably be outpaced by others
OSCAR TIME
The real veteran of this race at 14 years old, he has a tremendous record in this race, placing 2nd in 2011 and 4th in 2013, as well as winning the Becher Chase at Aintree back in December. Were he any younger than 14 (nothing that age has won since 1853) then the 50/1 currently available on him would be genuinely outstanding- as it is, while he should run well for a while, he may just be found wanting at the end
ACROSS THE BAY
Hugely unlucky in both 2013 and 2014, where loose horses hampered him when leading onto the 2nd circuit- was unfortunate again at Cheltenham when brought down by another horse. This year sees him carrying less weight than both his previous 2 Grand National attempts- he's also fond of front-running, so may be worth backing for a bit of interest in the 1st half of the race- stamina won't be far off, and he's surely due a change of luck
GAS LINE BOY
An interesting 100/1 outsider. Was in decent form before Christmas before a slightly disappointing showing at Haydock in February- when you're only 4th in a race won by Harry the Viking, something's not right. Has demonstrated he's a decent stayer, but it would be a big ask for his jumping to hold up over 30 fences in a 40 horse field
There you have (some of) it, folks. Enjoy the big race
THIS BLOG WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY MUTUAL OF OMICRON. ENSURING YOUR PLANET, AND ITS DESTRUCTION
Sunday, 8 March 2015
And If You Don't Love Me Now, You Will Never Love Me Again
A big sporting week is coming up: there's some Champions League last 16 action, the Formula 1 Chasing After Mercedes season gets underway, but most importantly, there's The Greatest Show on Turf, Cheltenham!
2 types of tips for y'all. First off, some general pointers on how to get the best out of this week:
MOMMA SAYS THE COBBLER IS THE DEVIL
2 types of tips for y'all. First off, some general pointers on how to get the best out of this week:
- Shop around for the best bookies. They're all queuing up with special offers and free bets to get your custom. Take care to read the full terms and conditions, though- generally, there'll be a promo code to enter, or your first bet will need to be of a certain size and/or price
- Shop around for the best prices. It's well worth taking up a few of the offers above and having accounts with different bookies in order to be best placed to take advantage of any differences in price- we'll get to tips for the individual races shortly, but in the opening race, Tuesday's Supreme Novices Hurdle, Shaneshill is currently priced at 10/1 with some firms, and 12/1 with others- that's a £20 difference to your return off a £10 bet
- Set a budget and stick to it. Don't blow everything on the 1st day. You can top up your budget with the myriad of free bets and enhancements that are out there. There's 27 races across 4 days, so there'll be plenty to get your teeth into- don't feel compelled to bet on every single race
- Have a look at the previous runnings of each race. Certain races, such as Wednesday's Queen Mother Champion Chase, have tended to be dominated by the favourites, while others such as the Supreme Novices Hurdle, have been something of a graveyard for the market leaders
- Play the long game. The Grand National weights have been announced, and the field for Aintree is starting to take shape. Many of the runners will be in action at Cheltenham this week, so keep a close eye on any horses in action this week to get some pointers regarding their chances next month
- On the opening day, all the current talk is regarding trainer Willie Mullins, and his 4 favourites in the Supreme Novices Hurdle (Douvan, 7/4), Arkle (Un De Sceaux, 8/13), Champion Hurdle (Faugheen, 5/4) and the Mares Hurdle (Annie Power, 8/13). There are numerous specials out there on just how many of them will triumph (Bet Victor have a particularly enticing one), but personally, I'll be backing only the latter 2
- It's AP McCoy's last ever visit as a jockey to Cheltenham- there will no doubt be plenty of media attention on him and anything he mounts. That, however, can often erode any value in backing him- don't be tricked into backing mediocre horses just because of the name on its saddle
- The impressive Champagne Fever goes on Wednesday in the Queen Mother Champion Chase- back him to win at 6/1 with Paddy Power
- The big showpiece event of the week is of course the Gold Cup on Friday- the class of the field appears to be Silviniaco Conti, who gave a very encouraging showing in last year's running, only to finish 4th. He's arguably in even better form this year after romping home against much of this field in the King George, and can be backed at a best price of 10/3
MOMMA SAYS THE COBBLER IS THE DEVIL
Friday, 27 February 2015
You Gotta Be Kidding Me!
Welcome back, dear readers
Maureen's Meltdown
So, Jose Mourinho decides to pop up on Goals on Sunday for a little rant. Had "The Special One" lost it? Nope, the exact opposite. Indeed, he probably had it scripted on the autocue (close your eyes, give Jose a Jewish New Yorker accent and you'd think you were listening to a Paul Heyman promo). This was classic Maureen, attempting to create a siege mentality, us-against-the-world mindset in his dressing room. "Look at the lengths I've gone to in public to defend you guys", he'll be telling his players. "Look at the loyalty I've shown you. I expect the same back". It's a mindset that can, and has, delivered Maureen some incredible success, but backfired spectacularly when he tried the same schtick at Real Madrid- it's difficult to portray the world as being against you when you're at one of the biggest clubs in the world, that demands success but at the same time has underlying honourable traditions to defend. But there's no way that his rant was timed deliberately to take media attention away from the altogether less pleasant news story that has engulfed Chelsea FC in the last week. Oh no. Absolutely not
Stand Back, There's A Harry Kane Coming
With a total of 24 goals in all competitions so far this season, it's no surprise to hear chat that Harry Kane will be included in the next England squad. However, with the dearth of top quality, experienced players available to Roy (was gonna go with Woy, but decided against a speech impediment joke) Hodgson, Kane probably won't be the only previously unheralded player making their international bow soon: while the inclusion of Burnley's Danny Ings wouldn't be a huge surprise, given the travails of centre-backs Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones with game time, form, fitness and being Phil Jones, there could be a call-up for Ings' club team-mate (and England Under 21 regular) Michael Keane
Playing To Your Strengths
Right, enough random Comment Is Free-esque nattering from me, let's do some betting tips for football matches!
Why not try something different in the Premier League this weekend? Rather than trying to predict the straight outcome of the Saturday 3pm games, here's a little over/under total goals acca:
Burnleh v Swansea: Over 2.5
Man United v Sunderland: Over 2.5
Newcastle v Tim Sherwood's Aston Villa: Under 2.5
Stoke v 'Ull: Under 2.5
West Brom v Southampton: Under 2.5
North of the border (let's get back to traditional, predicting winners), Dundee United, despite some iffy recent results, can get their groove back by beating a recalcitrant, disjointed Partick Thistle, while Inverness should have no trouble recording another win away at Ian Baraclough's wretched Motherwell side. In the Championship, meanwhile, Hearts -1 at home to Cowdenbeath are worth taking if you want to bulk up an accumulator (keep them at a sensible length, mind), while Queen of the South are very well priced to record another win away at an out-of-form Dumbarton side whom they have already beaten 4-0 and 3-0 this season. Happy punting
GREENWALD 1 RIFKIND 0
Maureen's Meltdown
So, Jose Mourinho decides to pop up on Goals on Sunday for a little rant. Had "The Special One" lost it? Nope, the exact opposite. Indeed, he probably had it scripted on the autocue (close your eyes, give Jose a Jewish New Yorker accent and you'd think you were listening to a Paul Heyman promo). This was classic Maureen, attempting to create a siege mentality, us-against-the-world mindset in his dressing room. "Look at the lengths I've gone to in public to defend you guys", he'll be telling his players. "Look at the loyalty I've shown you. I expect the same back". It's a mindset that can, and has, delivered Maureen some incredible success, but backfired spectacularly when he tried the same schtick at Real Madrid- it's difficult to portray the world as being against you when you're at one of the biggest clubs in the world, that demands success but at the same time has underlying honourable traditions to defend. But there's no way that his rant was timed deliberately to take media attention away from the altogether less pleasant news story that has engulfed Chelsea FC in the last week. Oh no. Absolutely not
Stand Back, There's A Harry Kane Coming
With a total of 24 goals in all competitions so far this season, it's no surprise to hear chat that Harry Kane will be included in the next England squad. However, with the dearth of top quality, experienced players available to Roy (was gonna go with Woy, but decided against a speech impediment joke) Hodgson, Kane probably won't be the only previously unheralded player making their international bow soon: while the inclusion of Burnley's Danny Ings wouldn't be a huge surprise, given the travails of centre-backs Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones with game time, form, fitness and being Phil Jones, there could be a call-up for Ings' club team-mate (and England Under 21 regular) Michael Keane
Playing To Your Strengths
Right, enough random Comment Is Free-esque nattering from me, let's do some betting tips for football matches!
Why not try something different in the Premier League this weekend? Rather than trying to predict the straight outcome of the Saturday 3pm games, here's a little over/under total goals acca:
Burnleh v Swansea: Over 2.5
Man United v Sunderland: Over 2.5
Newcastle v Tim Sherwood's Aston Villa: Under 2.5
Stoke v 'Ull: Under 2.5
West Brom v Southampton: Under 2.5
North of the border (let's get back to traditional, predicting winners), Dundee United, despite some iffy recent results, can get their groove back by beating a recalcitrant, disjointed Partick Thistle, while Inverness should have no trouble recording another win away at Ian Baraclough's wretched Motherwell side. In the Championship, meanwhile, Hearts -1 at home to Cowdenbeath are worth taking if you want to bulk up an accumulator (keep them at a sensible length, mind), while Queen of the South are very well priced to record another win away at an out-of-form Dumbarton side whom they have already beaten 4-0 and 3-0 this season. Happy punting
GREENWALD 1 RIFKIND 0
Monday, 29 September 2014
Always Be Yourself, Except When You Can Be Raymond Reddington. Then Always Be Raymond Reddington
What's happening!
As ever, this blog entry begins with my excuse for not putting up more stuff on here- this time, it's that I'm busy writing for the good folks at Bettingexpert.com. But let's get some good old-fashioned tips up:
"I REALLY FANCY A CAN OF CUKE"
As ever, this blog entry begins with my excuse for not putting up more stuff on here- this time, it's that I'm busy writing for the good folks at Bettingexpert.com. But let's get some good old-fashioned tips up:
- There's another round of Champions League games this week. There's not all that much value in sticking a traditional accumulator on across either Tuesday or Wednesday, but there's plenty of fun to be had in some of the games, particularly Manchester City v AS Roma, arguably the highlight of Tuesday night's games. One should expect goals in this game with the way both sides are set up. Roma will attack city's somewhat questionable defence with a 4-3-3 formation- the interest here is in that front 3, with their likely starters in those front 3 positions all well priced at over 3/1. As ever with goal scorer bets, wait until the team sheets are published, but level stakes across the 3 forwards starting (likely to be any 3 from Gervinho, Francesco Totti, Alessandro Florenzi, Juan Iturbe, Mattia Destro or Adem Ljajic) should yield a profit
- Away from the Champions League, there's the standard full Championship card. The whole "opposing Blackpool" trick is not one I'm particularly keen on blindly backing, but Middlesbrough demonstrated v Liverpool that they are a fine side, and should be backed here/ Norwich have also hit the ground running, and should maintain their excellent run of form at home to middling Charlton, while Aberdeen should comfortably see off St Mirren in the SPFL Premiership
- One of my favourite gambling weekends of the year is approaching: it's Scottish Cup 2nd Round time! This round, where the SPFL League 2 teams join the competition alongside the best non-league teams in the country always provides opportunities for profit as the bookies frequently misjudge the game between League 2 and the leagues below- the Highland League, Lowland League and Juniors all feature players who could comfortably play at a higher level. Moving on to Saturday's matches, Brora, East Fife, Hurlford United and Nairn County should all be bankers for your coupon, while there certainly could be upsets at Turriff (Mon I Turra), Berwick, Cove and Whitehill
"I REALLY FANCY A CAN OF CUKE"
Friday, 8 August 2014
Well, It Can't Be Any Worse Than Ewan's
Less than 24 hours before the SPFL season starts-time for a quick Q&A:
Have I written up everything I had planned to? Of course not
Do I want to get this here blog a slightly higher profile? Here's hoping
Will I suggest a few wildly optimistic bets your way? Yeah, sure
In an attempt to get every team written up, will I compromise the quality of my writing? Quality? What quality?
Eagle-eyed observers will note that I tipped Hamilton for a place in the bottom 2 of the SPFL Premiership (whoever came up with the idea having Unicef sponsor the league might be on to something- even I don't want to get into a bidding war with those guys) in my previous entry- joining them could be any one of a number of sides. Kilmarnock are this writer's pick- losing Kris Boyd and replacing him with Josh Magennis is a joke that doesn't even need a punchline. Manager Allan Johnston's baffling decision to play the hapless Craig Samson in goals ahead of the talented Antonio Reguero has seen the Spaniard decamp to Ross County (who themselves should be clear of the relegation places while not quite having enough to seal a top 6 place), while the rest of the squad looks short on depth and somewhat callow- fan favourite Alexei Eremenko has returned, but looked well short of full fitness last season. There are some talented youngsters coming through, and the experienced Lee Miller should plunder a respectable number of goals without getting close to Boyd's tally, but a tough season looms. St Mirren aren't much better- they'll probably be a decent watch, but surely cannot keep relying on 78-year-old Steven "elbows" Thompson in attack, while Jim "the Ghost" Goodwin is still far too undisciplined to be relied on in central defence. Keeping hold of their own talented youngsters, as well as unearthing a hidden gem or 2, will be key to their survival. Partick Thistle lack an out-and-out goalscorer, and the departure of the excellent Aaron Taylor-Sinclair is a (not unexpected) blow, but they've recruited sensibly, favouring quality rather than quantity (Ryan Stevenson is a very decent signing, and should contribute goals from midfield, while Abdul Osman should find the Premiership to his liking), as manager Alan Archibald trusts his side, which still chiefly comprises of members of 2012/13's 1st division winning squad, to learn from their 1st season in the Premiership.
Ahead of them, expect last season's top 6 to be this season's top 6. Or at least expect it to be last season's top 4, St Johnstone and a team from the Highlands- John Hughes did nothing to advance ICT's prospects upon taking over, they've so far failed to recruit anyone, and there's inevitable interest in talismanic striker Billy McKay- lose him (or even if he fails to rediscover last season's top form) and they could finish some way below last season's 5th place. Ross County once again have had half a new team arrive in Dingwall- the return on loan from Cardiff of Filip Kiss is a considerable coup. Another 7th place finish is probably as far as they could hope to finish, but any slips from the top 6 and the Staggies can challenge. The loss of Ryan Gauld won't actually be that keenly felt by Dundee United- Gauld was in and out of the starting XI at Tannadice for much of last season. The departure of Andy Robertson will be much more keenly felt- the former Queens Park youngster firmly established himself even in only 1 season as arguably the country's outstanding left-back. Many of Dundee United's signings are something of a gamble- much will depend on how they settle in along with what is already a pretty strong side. Aberdeen should beat Motherwell to 2nd place- Motherwell's defence simply looks too porous to sustain a challenge to Derek McInnes' impressive outfit, who are arguably the pick of the handicap market at +25
Moving on...
What I've Seen At The Festival So Far
Because you get modern culture on this blog too, now
Quick rundown of the shows this writer has been to see so far at the Edinburgh Fringe festival, along with handy /10 marks
Bob Graham's Travel Guide For Agoraphobics
A nice, pleasant, relaxed way to start an afternoon at the festival, as Bob regales the audience with tales on the perils and horrors of flat-sharing, growing up in the countryside and, well, travelling. Doesn't have the intensity of some of the feistier comics on the circuit these days, but that arguably works in his favour in the time slot. A perfectly enjoyable hour. 7/10
Free
1:40pm, the Beehive (not Tuesdays)
Rauls Are Made To Be Broken
Geordie whippersnapper Rahul Kohli has an intoxicating brand of youthful energy and cynicism, drawing on many of his own tales of racial prejudice. It's a more intense 40 minutes than the previous show, and despite only being 22, Kohli has plenty of amusing anecdotes to draw on, as well as proving himself adept at interaction with the (admittedly small) crowd. One to keep an eye on for the future- it would be interesting to see him on a bigger stage. 8/10
Free
3pm, Espionage
Abandoman
An Irish hip-hop improv show doesn't necessarily sound like a recipe for success but somehow it works, thanks largely to the 3 extraordinarily talented performers. The show, where the trio have 1 hour to write a number 1 song for P.Diddy (really) is heavy on audience interaction and participation. The show does start to repeat itself a bit in the 2nd half (they could cut 10 minutes out without leaving the audience short-changed), but a rip-roaring conclusion rounds off a very enjoyable hour. 8/10
£14-£15
9:10pm, Udderbelly (not Mondays)
Brendon Burns and Colt Cabana Sit in a 150 Seater and Provide the Commentary to Bad Wrestling Matches
The title is fairly self-explanatory- Aussie comic Brendon Burns, something of a fringe veteran, teams up with a relative newcomer, profession (and ex-WWE) wrestler Colt Cabana, along with a special guest each night (Daniel Sloss on this occasion). The show was an absolute riot from the get-go, with a noisy and knowledgeable crowd who clearly knew their wrestling (it's beneficial, but not essential, to have at least a modicum of wrestling knowledge going into the show). The performers go over various wrestling clips, mixed in with hilarious, unscripted material- Burns frequently goes off on tangents, while Cabana seems totally devoid of any restraint on his inner monologue, and is only too happy to point out the faults of his industry. It's very rare to go through an entire show with regular moments of stitch0inducing hilarity, yet that's achieved here easily. An absolute must-see. And that's the bottom line, because Stone Cold Shifty said so. 10/10
£8
10pm The Stand at St Andrew Square (not Sundays)
"WE ONLY GET 1 SHOT UPON THIS GREEN EARTH, AND THE ONLY THING YOU'LL GET TO BE IS YOU"
Have I written up everything I had planned to? Of course not
Do I want to get this here blog a slightly higher profile? Here's hoping
Will I suggest a few wildly optimistic bets your way? Yeah, sure
In an attempt to get every team written up, will I compromise the quality of my writing? Quality? What quality?
Eagle-eyed observers will note that I tipped Hamilton for a place in the bottom 2 of the SPFL Premiership (whoever came up with the idea having Unicef sponsor the league might be on to something- even I don't want to get into a bidding war with those guys) in my previous entry- joining them could be any one of a number of sides. Kilmarnock are this writer's pick- losing Kris Boyd and replacing him with Josh Magennis is a joke that doesn't even need a punchline. Manager Allan Johnston's baffling decision to play the hapless Craig Samson in goals ahead of the talented Antonio Reguero has seen the Spaniard decamp to Ross County (who themselves should be clear of the relegation places while not quite having enough to seal a top 6 place), while the rest of the squad looks short on depth and somewhat callow- fan favourite Alexei Eremenko has returned, but looked well short of full fitness last season. There are some talented youngsters coming through, and the experienced Lee Miller should plunder a respectable number of goals without getting close to Boyd's tally, but a tough season looms. St Mirren aren't much better- they'll probably be a decent watch, but surely cannot keep relying on 78-year-old Steven "elbows" Thompson in attack, while Jim "the Ghost" Goodwin is still far too undisciplined to be relied on in central defence. Keeping hold of their own talented youngsters, as well as unearthing a hidden gem or 2, will be key to their survival. Partick Thistle lack an out-and-out goalscorer, and the departure of the excellent Aaron Taylor-Sinclair is a (not unexpected) blow, but they've recruited sensibly, favouring quality rather than quantity (Ryan Stevenson is a very decent signing, and should contribute goals from midfield, while Abdul Osman should find the Premiership to his liking), as manager Alan Archibald trusts his side, which still chiefly comprises of members of 2012/13's 1st division winning squad, to learn from their 1st season in the Premiership.
Ahead of them, expect last season's top 6 to be this season's top 6. Or at least expect it to be last season's top 4, St Johnstone and a team from the Highlands- John Hughes did nothing to advance ICT's prospects upon taking over, they've so far failed to recruit anyone, and there's inevitable interest in talismanic striker Billy McKay- lose him (or even if he fails to rediscover last season's top form) and they could finish some way below last season's 5th place. Ross County once again have had half a new team arrive in Dingwall- the return on loan from Cardiff of Filip Kiss is a considerable coup. Another 7th place finish is probably as far as they could hope to finish, but any slips from the top 6 and the Staggies can challenge. The loss of Ryan Gauld won't actually be that keenly felt by Dundee United- Gauld was in and out of the starting XI at Tannadice for much of last season. The departure of Andy Robertson will be much more keenly felt- the former Queens Park youngster firmly established himself even in only 1 season as arguably the country's outstanding left-back. Many of Dundee United's signings are something of a gamble- much will depend on how they settle in along with what is already a pretty strong side. Aberdeen should beat Motherwell to 2nd place- Motherwell's defence simply looks too porous to sustain a challenge to Derek McInnes' impressive outfit, who are arguably the pick of the handicap market at +25
Moving on...
What I've Seen At The Festival So Far
Because you get modern culture on this blog too, now
Quick rundown of the shows this writer has been to see so far at the Edinburgh Fringe festival, along with handy /10 marks
Bob Graham's Travel Guide For Agoraphobics
A nice, pleasant, relaxed way to start an afternoon at the festival, as Bob regales the audience with tales on the perils and horrors of flat-sharing, growing up in the countryside and, well, travelling. Doesn't have the intensity of some of the feistier comics on the circuit these days, but that arguably works in his favour in the time slot. A perfectly enjoyable hour. 7/10
Free
1:40pm, the Beehive (not Tuesdays)
Rauls Are Made To Be Broken
Geordie whippersnapper Rahul Kohli has an intoxicating brand of youthful energy and cynicism, drawing on many of his own tales of racial prejudice. It's a more intense 40 minutes than the previous show, and despite only being 22, Kohli has plenty of amusing anecdotes to draw on, as well as proving himself adept at interaction with the (admittedly small) crowd. One to keep an eye on for the future- it would be interesting to see him on a bigger stage. 8/10
Free
3pm, Espionage
Abandoman
An Irish hip-hop improv show doesn't necessarily sound like a recipe for success but somehow it works, thanks largely to the 3 extraordinarily talented performers. The show, where the trio have 1 hour to write a number 1 song for P.Diddy (really) is heavy on audience interaction and participation. The show does start to repeat itself a bit in the 2nd half (they could cut 10 minutes out without leaving the audience short-changed), but a rip-roaring conclusion rounds off a very enjoyable hour. 8/10
£14-£15
9:10pm, Udderbelly (not Mondays)
Brendon Burns and Colt Cabana Sit in a 150 Seater and Provide the Commentary to Bad Wrestling Matches
The title is fairly self-explanatory- Aussie comic Brendon Burns, something of a fringe veteran, teams up with a relative newcomer, profession (and ex-WWE) wrestler Colt Cabana, along with a special guest each night (Daniel Sloss on this occasion). The show was an absolute riot from the get-go, with a noisy and knowledgeable crowd who clearly knew their wrestling (it's beneficial, but not essential, to have at least a modicum of wrestling knowledge going into the show). The performers go over various wrestling clips, mixed in with hilarious, unscripted material- Burns frequently goes off on tangents, while Cabana seems totally devoid of any restraint on his inner monologue, and is only too happy to point out the faults of his industry. It's very rare to go through an entire show with regular moments of stitch0inducing hilarity, yet that's achieved here easily. An absolute must-see. And that's the bottom line, because Stone Cold Shifty said so. 10/10
£8
10pm The Stand at St Andrew Square (not Sundays)
"WE ONLY GET 1 SHOT UPON THIS GREEN EARTH, AND THE ONLY THING YOU'LL GET TO BE IS YOU"
Sunday, 3 August 2014
Maybe This Battle Is To Fight Indifference
Ahoy-ahoy!
We're into August now so probably time for some gloriously disjointed pre-season previews, along with some other random musings
There will be more previews (probably) from me before the season starts, but for today let's have a quick look at the 3 teams promoted to the EPL, along with Dundee and Hamilton
Burnleh
Very much a surprise package in last season's Championship, and as such not massively equipped with Premier League experience and quality , but high on enthusiasm and youthful endeavour- not unlike the position Crystal Palace were in 12 months ago (signings such as Marvin Sordell, Michael Kightly and Lukas Jutkiewicz very much fit that bill). They have to start as favourites for relegation and indeed that will probably be where they end up, but they're a well-run club who won't bankrupt themselves chasing the impossible. They should be a decent watch, too
QPR and Leicester
These 2 are getting lumped together as there are numerous similarities between them. Both have spent (and will probably spend more yet) squillions on their sides thanks to not-at-all-dodgy Asia owners, both based their Championship successes of last season on strong, robust defences, expect to see some eye-bleedingly bad football from both sides, and both will probably survive by the skin of their teeth on the final day, thanks to some frantic January transfer window activity and maybe a change of manager or 2
Dundee
Last season's 1st Division winners have added a good mix of youth and experience to their side- fine young talents from the SFL such as Paul McGinn, Greg Stewart and Scott Bain come in along with old heads of the SPL such as James McPake, Kevin Thomson and Paul McGowan as part of a comprehensive squad overhaul by up-and-coming manager Paul Hartley. Their squad is as strong as any outside the top 6, and they should therefore avoid the relegation places quite comfortably. Being on a more sound financial footing these days, thanks on part to having a larger support base than many of their direct competitors, should ensure there's funds available should Hartley feel the need to strengthen further
Hamilton
Not unlike the aforementioned Burnley, Hamilton's promotion was a tad unexpected, but they capitalised on the fact that Hibs are shite to seal their place in the Premiership. They have a very successful youth system, which makes up a significant part of their side. They've added a quality goalkeeper in Michael McGovern, who finally gets a chance to play regularly in the Premiership, along with experienced winger and all-round pest Dougie Imrie, and player-manager Alex Neil will still pull on his boots when required. There's a startling lack of Premiership experience outside those 3, though, and they don't have the supporter base of Dundee to finance extra signings if they're required come January. They'll play some decent stuff and work hard for each other, but that alone probably won't keep them out of the bottom 2 come May. Another adventure through the play-offs is a possibility. And now...
A Day Out at the Commonwealth Games
Earlier this week, this intrepid reporter decided to take in some action at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This involved a trip to the newly-converted-and-soon-to-be-converted-back-again Hampden Park.
The weather was pleasant enough, and the route from the city centre well signposted to allow us to walk from George Square out to Hampden. 45 minutes later, we were in the International, a regular pre-match haunt for Scotland games. A very reasonably priced pint and a game of pool took us to just past 5pm, at which point the games to Hampden opened ahead of a 6:30pm start for the athletics. The route from the pub to the stadium was exceptionally well-marked, with enthusiastic volunteers every few hundred metres pointing folk in the right direction- this was the case inside the stadium too. The security at the games had been much talked about, but in reality it was nowhere near as onerous as it was made to sound, and certainly nothing like what one can expect at an airport these days.
Once inside the stadium (security was cleared in 5 minutes, with plenty of lanes run by staff as friendly as you're ever likely to get running these operations), the catering facilities were a significant upgrade on the usual Hampden fare- a wide variety of hot and cold meals and snacks were available, along with a selection of beer, wine and cider. Admittedly, the prices were on the high side, and there were understandably some queues at some outlets (15 minutes was the longest wait I personally had for some fish and chips), but it was massively refreshing and encouraging to see such choice.
After the athletics (£40 for 3 1/2 hours of top-end competition), the weather again was forgiving enough to allow a walk back to Queen Street (shout out to Scotrail here for putting on extra trains on many routes). There were, however, shuttle buses as far as the eye could see to ferry spectators back to the city centre, with ample staff again on hand. I could go on, but won't and will instead get to the point.
Why can't we have this for football matches at Hampden? Why do we not get extra catering facilities at Hampden for cup finals 9and semi finals) and Scotland qualifiers? Where are our extra shuttle buses? Outside of the services between Central Station and Mount Florida (which are at the behest of the police more than anything) where are our extra trains? On the pitch, the Scotland national team are doing as well as they have done in a long time. Off the pitch, however, there's plenty of room for improvement
SHOUT OUT TO "THE BOSS" JIM STEACY (CANADA), MENS HAMMER THROW GOLD MEDAL WINNER
We're into August now so probably time for some gloriously disjointed pre-season previews, along with some other random musings
There will be more previews (probably) from me before the season starts, but for today let's have a quick look at the 3 teams promoted to the EPL, along with Dundee and Hamilton
Burnleh
Very much a surprise package in last season's Championship, and as such not massively equipped with Premier League experience and quality , but high on enthusiasm and youthful endeavour- not unlike the position Crystal Palace were in 12 months ago (signings such as Marvin Sordell, Michael Kightly and Lukas Jutkiewicz very much fit that bill). They have to start as favourites for relegation and indeed that will probably be where they end up, but they're a well-run club who won't bankrupt themselves chasing the impossible. They should be a decent watch, too
QPR and Leicester
These 2 are getting lumped together as there are numerous similarities between them. Both have spent (and will probably spend more yet) squillions on their sides thanks to not-at-all-dodgy Asia owners, both based their Championship successes of last season on strong, robust defences, expect to see some eye-bleedingly bad football from both sides, and both will probably survive by the skin of their teeth on the final day, thanks to some frantic January transfer window activity and maybe a change of manager or 2
Dundee
Last season's 1st Division winners have added a good mix of youth and experience to their side- fine young talents from the SFL such as Paul McGinn, Greg Stewart and Scott Bain come in along with old heads of the SPL such as James McPake, Kevin Thomson and Paul McGowan as part of a comprehensive squad overhaul by up-and-coming manager Paul Hartley. Their squad is as strong as any outside the top 6, and they should therefore avoid the relegation places quite comfortably. Being on a more sound financial footing these days, thanks on part to having a larger support base than many of their direct competitors, should ensure there's funds available should Hartley feel the need to strengthen further
Hamilton
Not unlike the aforementioned Burnley, Hamilton's promotion was a tad unexpected, but they capitalised on the fact that Hibs are shite to seal their place in the Premiership. They have a very successful youth system, which makes up a significant part of their side. They've added a quality goalkeeper in Michael McGovern, who finally gets a chance to play regularly in the Premiership, along with experienced winger and all-round pest Dougie Imrie, and player-manager Alex Neil will still pull on his boots when required. There's a startling lack of Premiership experience outside those 3, though, and they don't have the supporter base of Dundee to finance extra signings if they're required come January. They'll play some decent stuff and work hard for each other, but that alone probably won't keep them out of the bottom 2 come May. Another adventure through the play-offs is a possibility. And now...
A Day Out at the Commonwealth Games
Earlier this week, this intrepid reporter decided to take in some action at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This involved a trip to the newly-converted-and-soon-to-be-converted-back-again Hampden Park.
The weather was pleasant enough, and the route from the city centre well signposted to allow us to walk from George Square out to Hampden. 45 minutes later, we were in the International, a regular pre-match haunt for Scotland games. A very reasonably priced pint and a game of pool took us to just past 5pm, at which point the games to Hampden opened ahead of a 6:30pm start for the athletics. The route from the pub to the stadium was exceptionally well-marked, with enthusiastic volunteers every few hundred metres pointing folk in the right direction- this was the case inside the stadium too. The security at the games had been much talked about, but in reality it was nowhere near as onerous as it was made to sound, and certainly nothing like what one can expect at an airport these days.
Once inside the stadium (security was cleared in 5 minutes, with plenty of lanes run by staff as friendly as you're ever likely to get running these operations), the catering facilities were a significant upgrade on the usual Hampden fare- a wide variety of hot and cold meals and snacks were available, along with a selection of beer, wine and cider. Admittedly, the prices were on the high side, and there were understandably some queues at some outlets (15 minutes was the longest wait I personally had for some fish and chips), but it was massively refreshing and encouraging to see such choice.
After the athletics (£40 for 3 1/2 hours of top-end competition), the weather again was forgiving enough to allow a walk back to Queen Street (shout out to Scotrail here for putting on extra trains on many routes). There were, however, shuttle buses as far as the eye could see to ferry spectators back to the city centre, with ample staff again on hand. I could go on, but won't and will instead get to the point.
Why can't we have this for football matches at Hampden? Why do we not get extra catering facilities at Hampden for cup finals 9and semi finals) and Scotland qualifiers? Where are our extra shuttle buses? Outside of the services between Central Station and Mount Florida (which are at the behest of the police more than anything) where are our extra trains? On the pitch, the Scotland national team are doing as well as they have done in a long time. Off the pitch, however, there's plenty of room for improvement
SHOUT OUT TO "THE BOSS" JIM STEACY (CANADA), MENS HAMMER THROW GOLD MEDAL WINNER
Monday, 30 June 2014
Pain Is Brown, Hate Is White, Love Is Black, Stab The Night
2 more last-16 games for me to preview (totally not rushing here. Honest)
Argentina v Switzerland
I'll get the headline out of the way first: Switzerland are going to win. Now, to explain: Argentina as a TEAM have simply not been all that impressive so far- far too reliant on Messi in attack, uncertain defensively and far too cautious in midfield- witness coach Alejandro Sabella's insistence on retaining 2 defensive midfielders (Mascherano and Gago) when striving to break down a resilient Iran defence. With Sergio Aguero set to miss this game, Sabella will be forced to look to his bench where, quite frankly, he does not have the same quality of replacements. Ezequiel Lavezzi is Aguero's most likely replacement and while he does offer considerable pace, his finishing lets him down far too often. Sabella's other options include the workmanlike but limited Rodrigo Palacio, or a return to the 5-3-2 shape with which they looked distinctly unimpressive in their opening game v Bosnia. Switzerland, meanwhile, have flown under the radar somewhat in Brazil. As expected, they qualified in 2nd place from their group, edging past Ecuador, being picked off ruthlessly by France, before making light work of Honduras. Ottmar Hitzfeld has a very neat, tidy, well-balanced side with plenty of youthful endeavour and, in Xherdan Shaqiri, a genuine world-class attacker. Lionel Messi isn't the only top-quality diminutive left-footed playmaking genius on display here. There's another big shock coming in this tournament
The verdict: Switzerland will eventually beat Argentina- or Argentina will beat themselves (their World Cup knockout stages record is awful)
The bet: Switzerland to qualify at best odds of 7/2 general
Belgium v USA
Much-hyped (over-hyped in this writer's humble opinion) before the tournament, Belgium cruised through their group as expected, although it took some considerable time, and a switching to plan B, to do so in each game- 4 goals from 3 games is also less than the return than many were expecting from such a talented attack. The USA lack the individual quality of Belgium (and indeed arguably any side still in the competition bar Costa Rica). However, there's an outstanding team spirit in their side fostered by Jürgen Klinsmann (one can easily picture him being quite the motivational speaker), plus some players of genuine potential- tireless right-back Fabian Johnson has been a real find, while Clint Dempsey has excelled all across the front line. This could be a slow-burner.
The verdict: For various reasons, it'll take more than 90 minutes to separate these two
The bet: The draw is available at 5/2 general. You'll get 11/10 with Youwin on a draw at half-time too
"ARE YOU COMING ON TO ME?"
Argentina v Switzerland
I'll get the headline out of the way first: Switzerland are going to win. Now, to explain: Argentina as a TEAM have simply not been all that impressive so far- far too reliant on Messi in attack, uncertain defensively and far too cautious in midfield- witness coach Alejandro Sabella's insistence on retaining 2 defensive midfielders (Mascherano and Gago) when striving to break down a resilient Iran defence. With Sergio Aguero set to miss this game, Sabella will be forced to look to his bench where, quite frankly, he does not have the same quality of replacements. Ezequiel Lavezzi is Aguero's most likely replacement and while he does offer considerable pace, his finishing lets him down far too often. Sabella's other options include the workmanlike but limited Rodrigo Palacio, or a return to the 5-3-2 shape with which they looked distinctly unimpressive in their opening game v Bosnia. Switzerland, meanwhile, have flown under the radar somewhat in Brazil. As expected, they qualified in 2nd place from their group, edging past Ecuador, being picked off ruthlessly by France, before making light work of Honduras. Ottmar Hitzfeld has a very neat, tidy, well-balanced side with plenty of youthful endeavour and, in Xherdan Shaqiri, a genuine world-class attacker. Lionel Messi isn't the only top-quality diminutive left-footed playmaking genius on display here. There's another big shock coming in this tournament
The verdict: Switzerland will eventually beat Argentina- or Argentina will beat themselves (their World Cup knockout stages record is awful)
The bet: Switzerland to qualify at best odds of 7/2 general
Belgium v USA
Much-hyped (over-hyped in this writer's humble opinion) before the tournament, Belgium cruised through their group as expected, although it took some considerable time, and a switching to plan B, to do so in each game- 4 goals from 3 games is also less than the return than many were expecting from such a talented attack. The USA lack the individual quality of Belgium (and indeed arguably any side still in the competition bar Costa Rica). However, there's an outstanding team spirit in their side fostered by Jürgen Klinsmann (one can easily picture him being quite the motivational speaker), plus some players of genuine potential- tireless right-back Fabian Johnson has been a real find, while Clint Dempsey has excelled all across the front line. This could be a slow-burner.
The verdict: For various reasons, it'll take more than 90 minutes to separate these two
The bet: The draw is available at 5/2 general. You'll get 11/10 with Youwin on a draw at half-time too
"ARE YOU COMING ON TO ME?"
Sunday, 29 June 2014
SPOILER ALERT: Maggie Did It
Now, to continue what I started yesterday:
Costa Rica v Greece
Let's be honest: who expected this to be a last 16 match? While Costa Rica were never going to simply roll over as whipping boys in Group D, their progress as group winners was still a sizeable shock. Greece, meanwhile, were, well, Greece- for the most part as exciting as watching paint dry, but remorselessly effective at frustrating stronger opponents. This Greece side are actually slightly more proactive than in previous years (watch for Torosidis and Holebas venturing forward from full-back). With both sides in unchartered territory, and in with a chance of progressing even further, one has to expect both sides will favour a cautious approach, at least to begin with.
The verdict: it might take extra-time and penalties, but Greece's tournament nous might just take them to the last 8
The bet: half-time score 0-0 at 5/4 general
France v Nigeria
This game has the potential to be just about anything- a wild, end-to-end classic, a demolition job by either team, or a cagey, nervy snoozefest. France rung the changes for their final group game v Ecuador, so a) they have fresh legs to bring in to face Stephen Keshi's mobile, athletic Nigeria side, and b) don't read too much into their slightly below-par performance. Nigeria impressed in their 3-2 defeat to Argentina, only eventually being undone by 2 moments of magic from Lionel Messi. They can run France close in this one, but there's a suspicion that their outstanding goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama will have just a bit too much work to do behind a somewhat porous defence. Slightly depressingly, the usual worries over bonus payments have started up, too
The verdict: France to edge an entertaining encounter
The bet: Both teams to score at 11/10 general
Germany v Algeria
Algeria were vastly underestimated by many- they frustrated Belgium for long spells, impressively brushed aside South Korea and then did the job required of them against, it has to be said, a disappointing Russia side to progress from Group H. Germany comfortably topped their group- with their vast array of attacking options, they shouldn't struggle for goals. The call for Jogi Low for this game should be to bring in Miroslav Klose from the start- Algeria's eventual undoing against Belgium came as a result of an alarming inability to defend against crosses, and it's that glaring weakness that, even with a talented midfield, will prove their undoing here
The verdict: Germany to win a gaols-laden match
The bet: over 3.5 goals at best odds of 13/8 with Coral
Costa Rica v Greece
Let's be honest: who expected this to be a last 16 match? While Costa Rica were never going to simply roll over as whipping boys in Group D, their progress as group winners was still a sizeable shock. Greece, meanwhile, were, well, Greece- for the most part as exciting as watching paint dry, but remorselessly effective at frustrating stronger opponents. This Greece side are actually slightly more proactive than in previous years (watch for Torosidis and Holebas venturing forward from full-back). With both sides in unchartered territory, and in with a chance of progressing even further, one has to expect both sides will favour a cautious approach, at least to begin with.
The verdict: it might take extra-time and penalties, but Greece's tournament nous might just take them to the last 8
The bet: half-time score 0-0 at 5/4 general
France v Nigeria
This game has the potential to be just about anything- a wild, end-to-end classic, a demolition job by either team, or a cagey, nervy snoozefest. France rung the changes for their final group game v Ecuador, so a) they have fresh legs to bring in to face Stephen Keshi's mobile, athletic Nigeria side, and b) don't read too much into their slightly below-par performance. Nigeria impressed in their 3-2 defeat to Argentina, only eventually being undone by 2 moments of magic from Lionel Messi. They can run France close in this one, but there's a suspicion that their outstanding goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama will have just a bit too much work to do behind a somewhat porous defence. Slightly depressingly, the usual worries over bonus payments have started up, too
The verdict: France to edge an entertaining encounter
The bet: Both teams to score at 11/10 general
Germany v Algeria
Algeria were vastly underestimated by many- they frustrated Belgium for long spells, impressively brushed aside South Korea and then did the job required of them against, it has to be said, a disappointing Russia side to progress from Group H. Germany comfortably topped their group- with their vast array of attacking options, they shouldn't struggle for goals. The call for Jogi Low for this game should be to bring in Miroslav Klose from the start- Algeria's eventual undoing against Belgium came as a result of an alarming inability to defend against crosses, and it's that glaring weakness that, even with a talented midfield, will prove their undoing here
The verdict: Germany to win a gaols-laden match
The bet: over 3.5 goals at best odds of 13/8 with Coral
Friday, 27 June 2014
Am I Insane? I Ask Myself Over And Over Again
32 came. 16 have been sent home with their tails between their legs. How will the remaining 16 do? Let's have a gander at some of the 2nd round games: (that 1st bit works really well if you imagine Gerard Butler reading it in a deep, serious voice. The 2nd bit less so)
Brazil v Chile
Brazil topped their group, but looked far from impressive for long spells, most notably versus Croatia (where a couple of questionable refereeing decisions went their way) and Mexico (who were full value for their draw), before comfortably dispatching of a clearly demotivated Cameroon. It's clear that, Neymar aside, this is a functional unit that lacks real quality in attack- were they not called Brazil and playing on home soil, there's no way they'd be anywhere near as heavily fancied as they are. Chile, on the other hand, have been genuinely thrilling, dispatching of Spain with an eye-catching intensity and all-out commitment to attack. Their "meh" attitude to defending will most likely prevent them from winning the tournament at some point, but, having already seen off the reigning champions, there's every reason to reckon they can put the hosts out too.
Verdict: Chile to triumph in a topsy-turvy, wild and wacky match
The bet: Chile draw no bet at best odds of 15/4 with 888sport
Colombia v Uruguay
Arguably the best team of the tournament so far, with arguably its best player (James Rodriguez) as its creative fulcrum, Colombia were extremely impressive in making light work of their group. They have a plethora of quality striking options, with plenty of support from midfield (the aforementioned James is the star, but don't overlook the tricky, direct, powerful Juan Cuadrado on the right, and the wonderfully talented diminutive playmaker Juan Quintero) and adventurous full-backs, they could be at this tournament for some time. Uruguay, meanwhile, only just managed to scrap their way out of their group- this looks like the end of the line for some of the more experienced among their rank, while apart from the impressive young centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez, there aren't yet the quality of replacements coming through. With their main attacking threat now muzzled, they're on their way home.
Verdict: Colombia to break down stubborn Uruguay resistance
The bet: Colombia to win at best odds of 21/20 with Paddy Power
Holland v Mexico
This should be a fascinating tactical battle. Louis van Gaal has arguably been the best coach of the tournament so far, shifting his side effortlessly from 5-3-2 to 4-3-3 and back as circumstances require. His players have shown remarkable commitment to his ideals, too- witness Wesley Sneijder chasing Chilean midfielders all over the park, and Dirk Kuyt putting in a shift at left wing-back. Mexico, too, will use 5-3-2 initially, also with a significant degree of flexibility- both wing-backs will bomb on at will, while Rafael Marquez is more than capable of carrying the ball out of defence. Giovani dos Santos should again operate just off Oribe Peralta in attack, which will pose plenty of questions for van Gaal.
Verdict: Holland to just edge an intriguing encounter
The bet: Holland to win at best odds of 23/20 with Bet Victor
IF I STAY OUT OF THE PUB, THE REST OF THE GAMES WILL BE PREVIEWED OVER THE WEEKEND
Brazil v Chile
Brazil topped their group, but looked far from impressive for long spells, most notably versus Croatia (where a couple of questionable refereeing decisions went their way) and Mexico (who were full value for their draw), before comfortably dispatching of a clearly demotivated Cameroon. It's clear that, Neymar aside, this is a functional unit that lacks real quality in attack- were they not called Brazil and playing on home soil, there's no way they'd be anywhere near as heavily fancied as they are. Chile, on the other hand, have been genuinely thrilling, dispatching of Spain with an eye-catching intensity and all-out commitment to attack. Their "meh" attitude to defending will most likely prevent them from winning the tournament at some point, but, having already seen off the reigning champions, there's every reason to reckon they can put the hosts out too.
Verdict: Chile to triumph in a topsy-turvy, wild and wacky match
The bet: Chile draw no bet at best odds of 15/4 with 888sport
Colombia v Uruguay
Arguably the best team of the tournament so far, with arguably its best player (James Rodriguez) as its creative fulcrum, Colombia were extremely impressive in making light work of their group. They have a plethora of quality striking options, with plenty of support from midfield (the aforementioned James is the star, but don't overlook the tricky, direct, powerful Juan Cuadrado on the right, and the wonderfully talented diminutive playmaker Juan Quintero) and adventurous full-backs, they could be at this tournament for some time. Uruguay, meanwhile, only just managed to scrap their way out of their group- this looks like the end of the line for some of the more experienced among their rank, while apart from the impressive young centre-back Jose Maria Gimenez, there aren't yet the quality of replacements coming through. With their main attacking threat now muzzled, they're on their way home.
Verdict: Colombia to break down stubborn Uruguay resistance
The bet: Colombia to win at best odds of 21/20 with Paddy Power
Holland v Mexico
This should be a fascinating tactical battle. Louis van Gaal has arguably been the best coach of the tournament so far, shifting his side effortlessly from 5-3-2 to 4-3-3 and back as circumstances require. His players have shown remarkable commitment to his ideals, too- witness Wesley Sneijder chasing Chilean midfielders all over the park, and Dirk Kuyt putting in a shift at left wing-back. Mexico, too, will use 5-3-2 initially, also with a significant degree of flexibility- both wing-backs will bomb on at will, while Rafael Marquez is more than capable of carrying the ball out of defence. Giovani dos Santos should again operate just off Oribe Peralta in attack, which will pose plenty of questions for van Gaal.
Verdict: Holland to just edge an intriguing encounter
The bet: Holland to win at best odds of 23/20 with Bet Victor
IF I STAY OUT OF THE PUB, THE REST OF THE GAMES WILL BE PREVIEWED OVER THE WEEKEND
Friday, 13 June 2014
We're Heading For Venus, And Still We Stand Tall
And we're off!
A tremendous game last night got Group A underway, but there's still (just) time to take a quick look at the groups I've not yet written up:
Group C- Cruising Through The Heat Lap Trial
This group was shook up when Colombia confirmed that they would be without Falcao this summer. Without him, Colombia are still a perfectly decent side, although they now arguably lack the world-class Number 9 who can get them out of trouble in the later stages. They should still win (and probably top) this group, but they're not quite of the same level as the sides generally in with a chance of winning the tournament. They're an adventurous side under Argentinian boss Jose Pekerman (Argentina's head coach at the 2006 World Cup), and Falcao's potential replacements are all of respectable pedigree- the industrious, workmanlike (although not in Falcao's league when it comes to finishing) Sevilla striker Carlos Bacca, Dortmund-bound Adrian Ramos, River Plate's unpredictable livewire Teo Gutierrez and Porto's cha-cha dancing Jackson Martinez. Pekerman usually played 2 upfront during qualifying, and will likely continue that philosophy in Brazil, certainly in the group stages. The main supply for the striker(s) will come from the wings, where Monaco's James Rodriguez from the left and Fiorentina's Juan Cuadrado from the right, both wonderfully direct and more than capable of getting on the scoresheet themselves, will provide support, themselves ably assisted by rampaging full-backs Pablo Armero (left) and Juan Zuniga (right). All this, however, does leave the central areas exposed. With 38 year old Mario Yepes (still commanding aerially, but with about as much pace on the turn as you'd expect from a 38 year old) occupying 1 central defensive berth (alongside him will be Carlos Valdes), don't expect too much adventure from central midfield (especially not with 2 Napoli wing-backs in the full-back positions). The main worry here is that with so many potent attacking players bombing on, and a defence that will surely be inclined to sit relatively deep, there could be massive spaces opening up between Colombia's defence and midfield. While Greece lack the creative talent to exploit those spaces, Japan a defence resolute enough to contain Colombia's potent attack, and Ivory Coast a combination of the 2, Colombia will surely come unstuck against the very top teams in the tournament. They'll be great fun to watch, though.
Of the rest of the teams in Group C, Ivory Coast are perhaps the most (over?) hyped of the 3. As always, there's no shortage of talented, powerful attacking players (even though the talismanic Didier Drogba is some way past his best, and should come under pressure for his starting place from Wilfried Bony). Support will come from Yaya Toure (given more freedom under Sabri Lamouchi) and widemen Salomon Kalou and the rejuvenated Gervinho- providing all are on form (and Toure's long season hasn't affected his output) there are enough goals in this team to get through. The defence, though, is an area of considerable concern. A central defensive partnership of Kolo Toure and Souleymane Bamba ,with Boubacar Barry behind them, is about as defensively secure as it sounds, and while full-backs Serge Aurier and Arthur Boka are both fine going forward, their lack of height leaves them vulnerable to back-post crosses (particularly if Gervinho and Kalou don't track the adventurous full-backs they will face in the group stage (yes, even Greece's full-backs will get forward. A bit). Japan are a neat, tidy side with some accomplished players in midfield (Keisuke Honda and Shinji Kagawa being the standouts), while plenty of their number have made their way to the Bundesliga recently. Like Colombia and Ivory Coast, scoring goals shouldn't be the problem for Alberto Zaccheroni's side- it's the defence that causes concern, where both height and a convincing goalkeeper are lacking. Greece, on the other hand, are a much more obdurate, resilient bunch. The tried and tested formula from their historic Euro 2004 triumph has been retained, even though only Giorgios Karagounis remains from that side (and he now plays a completely different role- the former number 10 is now stationed at the base of midfield as a scrapper). There have been a few tweaks to the side since 2004- expect to see the full-backs be given a bit more license to push forward (on the right will be Vasilis Torosidis, who was signed for Roma by Zdenek Zeman. Enoguh said), and the back line probably won't be quite as deep as previously. But the overall gameplan won't change- Greece will be extremely compact and hard-working without the ball, and not over-commit with it, instead hoping to win set-pieces to try and nick games 1-0 (incidentally, 5 of their 12 qualifiers ended with such a scoreline in their favour). If Greece are playing on any given evening, it's probably worth your while spending that afternoon painting a wall, so you've got something more exciting to do when the game starts by watching said Dulux Emulsion dry. It won't be pretty, but there's enough defensive nous (and enough weaknesses in the defences of their group rivals) to see Greece sneak into the second round
BETTING:
Colombia to win Group C: best odds 19/20 with Spreadex
Greece Stage of Elimination Round 2: best odds 7/2 with Coral
Ivory Coast v Japan over 2.5 goals and both teams to score: best odds 7/4 with bet365
GAS MAN! GAS MAN! GAS MAN!
A tremendous game last night got Group A underway, but there's still (just) time to take a quick look at the groups I've not yet written up:
Group C- Cruising Through The Heat Lap Trial
This group was shook up when Colombia confirmed that they would be without Falcao this summer. Without him, Colombia are still a perfectly decent side, although they now arguably lack the world-class Number 9 who can get them out of trouble in the later stages. They should still win (and probably top) this group, but they're not quite of the same level as the sides generally in with a chance of winning the tournament. They're an adventurous side under Argentinian boss Jose Pekerman (Argentina's head coach at the 2006 World Cup), and Falcao's potential replacements are all of respectable pedigree- the industrious, workmanlike (although not in Falcao's league when it comes to finishing) Sevilla striker Carlos Bacca, Dortmund-bound Adrian Ramos, River Plate's unpredictable livewire Teo Gutierrez and Porto's cha-cha dancing Jackson Martinez. Pekerman usually played 2 upfront during qualifying, and will likely continue that philosophy in Brazil, certainly in the group stages. The main supply for the striker(s) will come from the wings, where Monaco's James Rodriguez from the left and Fiorentina's Juan Cuadrado from the right, both wonderfully direct and more than capable of getting on the scoresheet themselves, will provide support, themselves ably assisted by rampaging full-backs Pablo Armero (left) and Juan Zuniga (right). All this, however, does leave the central areas exposed. With 38 year old Mario Yepes (still commanding aerially, but with about as much pace on the turn as you'd expect from a 38 year old) occupying 1 central defensive berth (alongside him will be Carlos Valdes), don't expect too much adventure from central midfield (especially not with 2 Napoli wing-backs in the full-back positions). The main worry here is that with so many potent attacking players bombing on, and a defence that will surely be inclined to sit relatively deep, there could be massive spaces opening up between Colombia's defence and midfield. While Greece lack the creative talent to exploit those spaces, Japan a defence resolute enough to contain Colombia's potent attack, and Ivory Coast a combination of the 2, Colombia will surely come unstuck against the very top teams in the tournament. They'll be great fun to watch, though.
Of the rest of the teams in Group C, Ivory Coast are perhaps the most (over?) hyped of the 3. As always, there's no shortage of talented, powerful attacking players (even though the talismanic Didier Drogba is some way past his best, and should come under pressure for his starting place from Wilfried Bony). Support will come from Yaya Toure (given more freedom under Sabri Lamouchi) and widemen Salomon Kalou and the rejuvenated Gervinho- providing all are on form (and Toure's long season hasn't affected his output) there are enough goals in this team to get through. The defence, though, is an area of considerable concern. A central defensive partnership of Kolo Toure and Souleymane Bamba ,with Boubacar Barry behind them, is about as defensively secure as it sounds, and while full-backs Serge Aurier and Arthur Boka are both fine going forward, their lack of height leaves them vulnerable to back-post crosses (particularly if Gervinho and Kalou don't track the adventurous full-backs they will face in the group stage (yes, even Greece's full-backs will get forward. A bit). Japan are a neat, tidy side with some accomplished players in midfield (Keisuke Honda and Shinji Kagawa being the standouts), while plenty of their number have made their way to the Bundesliga recently. Like Colombia and Ivory Coast, scoring goals shouldn't be the problem for Alberto Zaccheroni's side- it's the defence that causes concern, where both height and a convincing goalkeeper are lacking. Greece, on the other hand, are a much more obdurate, resilient bunch. The tried and tested formula from their historic Euro 2004 triumph has been retained, even though only Giorgios Karagounis remains from that side (and he now plays a completely different role- the former number 10 is now stationed at the base of midfield as a scrapper). There have been a few tweaks to the side since 2004- expect to see the full-backs be given a bit more license to push forward (on the right will be Vasilis Torosidis, who was signed for Roma by Zdenek Zeman. Enoguh said), and the back line probably won't be quite as deep as previously. But the overall gameplan won't change- Greece will be extremely compact and hard-working without the ball, and not over-commit with it, instead hoping to win set-pieces to try and nick games 1-0 (incidentally, 5 of their 12 qualifiers ended with such a scoreline in their favour). If Greece are playing on any given evening, it's probably worth your while spending that afternoon painting a wall, so you've got something more exciting to do when the game starts by watching said Dulux Emulsion dry. It won't be pretty, but there's enough defensive nous (and enough weaknesses in the defences of their group rivals) to see Greece sneak into the second round
BETTING:
Colombia to win Group C: best odds 19/20 with Spreadex
Greece Stage of Elimination Round 2: best odds 7/2 with Coral
Ivory Coast v Japan over 2.5 goals and both teams to score: best odds 7/4 with bet365
GAS MAN! GAS MAN! GAS MAN!
Thursday, 12 June 2014
Graeme's Silly Bet World Cup Special: Life Is Life
The Shiftyslastword World Cup preview wouldn't be complete without a contribution from our favourite guest contributor, Graeme of Silly Bet fame:
GRAEME'S SILLY WORLD CUP BETS
I am so fucking excited, gambling is back!
I haven't placed a bet since the final day of the Premier League season, once again I didn't win. Thanks Norwich you shower.
This years World Cup is perfect for me, most games start just after dinner and close just at last orders in the pub. The only downside is that we will all have to watch some Samba themed Ray Winstone 'bet now' shite. These adverts must be paying well for him because they have ruined any chance of him not playing a cock in any future films.
Due to my copious listening to various football podcasts over the past few weeks I feel pretty informed about the state off the respective squads in the World Cup. With their chances and foibles.
Therefore this isn't going to be a silly bet but more an alternative look at who this years winners and losers for me are going to be.
Winner -
Inevitable Dark Horses prediction -
GRAEME'S SILLY WORLD CUP BETS
I am so fucking excited, gambling is back!
I haven't placed a bet since the final day of the Premier League season, once again I didn't win. Thanks Norwich you shower.
This years World Cup is perfect for me, most games start just after dinner and close just at last orders in the pub. The only downside is that we will all have to watch some Samba themed Ray Winstone 'bet now' shite. These adverts must be paying well for him because they have ruined any chance of him not playing a cock in any future films.
Due to my copious listening to various football podcasts over the past few weeks I feel pretty informed about the state off the respective squads in the World Cup. With their chances and foibles.
Therefore this isn't going to be a silly bet but more an alternative look at who this years winners and losers for me are going to be.
Winner -
Inevitable Dark Horses prediction -
Monday, 9 June 2014
I Feel So Extraordinary, Something's Got A Hold On Me
We are T minus 3 days from the opening game of the 2014 World Cup, so let's get the remainder of the tournament written up on here. And, given that said opening game is Brazil v Croatia, let's focus this evening's efforts on their group
Brazil: Home Advantage
The bookies all have Brazil as favourites to win the tournament at around the 3/1 mark, and it's more than justified: this is a side that, while not quite as technically outstanding as, say, Spain 2010 or Brazil 1970, and without the iron-willed defence of some of the great Germany and Italy sides to have conquered the world, this is still a very strong, well-balanced side, with a potent mix of youth and experience, without any obvious weaknesses. The generous group they've been offered should allow Luiz Felipe Scolari's side the chance to ease themselves in to the tournament ahead of sterner tests to come in the knockout stage, the first of which will see them face either reigning champions Spain (who Brazil comfortably dismissed 3-0 at the Confederations Cup last year), a youthful, underwhelming Holland, or the wonderfully adventurous yet naïve Chile, all of which would pose a challenge, but one which you'd expect this Brazil side to overcome. Neymar is the obvious star of the side, and will play most often coming from the left into a central role, with Hulk doing likewise from the right. Fred will operate as target man, with Oscar at 10 (although don't be surprised if Scolari brings in an extra DM later in the tournament, especially if Oscar takes his indifferent club form at Chelsea with him into the tournament). They are rightly favourites to win the tournament- indeed, it would be a considerable surprise if they didn't at least the semi-finals. They have everything they need to win.
The Rest
Of the remaining 3 teams in Group A, Croatia have the most tournament experience, Cameroon perhaps the most raw talent, and Mexico a combination of the 2 after their Under 23 side won the Gold Medal at the 2012 Olympics, 10 of whom have made their final 23. That tournament aside, it's notoriously difficult to assess just how good this Mexico side is- much of their side plays in the Mexican league, they don't frequently test themselves against nations outside Central America, and many of the squad that made an almighty mess of their qualifying campaign have been replaced by the 2012 Gold Medal winning generation. Their FIFA ranking of 20 (just below Croatia in 18th, and some way ahead of 56th placed Cameroon) suggests they've got a decent chance of qualifying, but their lack of experience may see them fall just short- the experience should see this young side in good stead for 2018, though. The more things change, they more they stay the same is a mantra that could easily apply to this Cameroon side. The raw talent is there in certain positions, although question marks exist over their discipline- they were extremely physical in a recent 2-2 friendly draw with Germany (more proof of that raw talent), which featured many late, crude challenges, especially from their 3 man central midfield anchored by Barcelona's Alex Song, with Stephan M'Bia and Eyong Enoh among the contenders for the other 2 positions. Maintain the style they demonstrated in that game, and it would be no surprise to see Volker Finke's men pick up a red card in one of their games- they've also only just dealt with their standard dispute with the Cameroonian FA regarding pay. All this leaves Croatia best-placed to make it to the last 16- an immensely talented midfield with Luka Modric joined by the outstanding Ivan Rakitic (set to be on his way to Barcelona from Sevilla) and Inter protégé Mateo Kovacic supplemented by an experienced back 4 and a respectable, if not quite world-class, attack, should see Niko Kovac's men into the knockout stages, although probably not much further.
Group A Bets
Brazil to win the World Cup- best price 3/1 general
Croatia Stage of Elimination Last 16- best price 11/5 with Ladbrokes
Cameroon to commit the most fouls in Group A- best price 5/4 with Paddy Power
FREE WORLD CUP FANTASY LEAGUE SET UP AT FIFA.COM
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Brazil: Home Advantage
The bookies all have Brazil as favourites to win the tournament at around the 3/1 mark, and it's more than justified: this is a side that, while not quite as technically outstanding as, say, Spain 2010 or Brazil 1970, and without the iron-willed defence of some of the great Germany and Italy sides to have conquered the world, this is still a very strong, well-balanced side, with a potent mix of youth and experience, without any obvious weaknesses. The generous group they've been offered should allow Luiz Felipe Scolari's side the chance to ease themselves in to the tournament ahead of sterner tests to come in the knockout stage, the first of which will see them face either reigning champions Spain (who Brazil comfortably dismissed 3-0 at the Confederations Cup last year), a youthful, underwhelming Holland, or the wonderfully adventurous yet naïve Chile, all of which would pose a challenge, but one which you'd expect this Brazil side to overcome. Neymar is the obvious star of the side, and will play most often coming from the left into a central role, with Hulk doing likewise from the right. Fred will operate as target man, with Oscar at 10 (although don't be surprised if Scolari brings in an extra DM later in the tournament, especially if Oscar takes his indifferent club form at Chelsea with him into the tournament). They are rightly favourites to win the tournament- indeed, it would be a considerable surprise if they didn't at least the semi-finals. They have everything they need to win.
The Rest
Of the remaining 3 teams in Group A, Croatia have the most tournament experience, Cameroon perhaps the most raw talent, and Mexico a combination of the 2 after their Under 23 side won the Gold Medal at the 2012 Olympics, 10 of whom have made their final 23. That tournament aside, it's notoriously difficult to assess just how good this Mexico side is- much of their side plays in the Mexican league, they don't frequently test themselves against nations outside Central America, and many of the squad that made an almighty mess of their qualifying campaign have been replaced by the 2012 Gold Medal winning generation. Their FIFA ranking of 20 (just below Croatia in 18th, and some way ahead of 56th placed Cameroon) suggests they've got a decent chance of qualifying, but their lack of experience may see them fall just short- the experience should see this young side in good stead for 2018, though. The more things change, they more they stay the same is a mantra that could easily apply to this Cameroon side. The raw talent is there in certain positions, although question marks exist over their discipline- they were extremely physical in a recent 2-2 friendly draw with Germany (more proof of that raw talent), which featured many late, crude challenges, especially from their 3 man central midfield anchored by Barcelona's Alex Song, with Stephan M'Bia and Eyong Enoh among the contenders for the other 2 positions. Maintain the style they demonstrated in that game, and it would be no surprise to see Volker Finke's men pick up a red card in one of their games- they've also only just dealt with their standard dispute with the Cameroonian FA regarding pay. All this leaves Croatia best-placed to make it to the last 16- an immensely talented midfield with Luka Modric joined by the outstanding Ivan Rakitic (set to be on his way to Barcelona from Sevilla) and Inter protégé Mateo Kovacic supplemented by an experienced back 4 and a respectable, if not quite world-class, attack, should see Niko Kovac's men into the knockout stages, although probably not much further.
Group A Bets
Brazil to win the World Cup- best price 3/1 general
Croatia Stage of Elimination Last 16- best price 11/5 with Ladbrokes
Cameroon to commit the most fouls in Group A- best price 5/4 with Paddy Power
FREE WORLD CUP FANTASY LEAGUE SET UP AT FIFA.COM
LEAGUE NAME: PJANIC AT THE DISCO
PASSWORD: 1234
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Sunday, 1 June 2014
Run With Us, We've Got Everything You Need
Salutations!
With just 11 days to go until the start of the World Cup, let's have a look at another of the groups. Which team are potential winners? Who will probably get out of the group but not get much further? Who's going home early? Let's have a look at Group E
France: Rare Harmony
When one thinks of France at tournaments, one thinks of talented yet combustible, enigmatic bunches of players- witness their shambolic campaign in South Africa in 2010, and the mutinous atmosphere that underpinned many previous tournaments, where senior players effectively ran the show in the absence of a strong manager. The significantly younger crew that Didier Deschamps is taking to Brazil has all the talent of their predecessors and then some, but are a far more harmonious, well-balanced bunch. Qualifying for the tournament may not have gone smoothly, yet they demonstrated their mental fortitude by overturning a 2-0 deficit to Ukraine in their play-off. They'll play 4-3-3, with an exciting blend of youth and experience throughout. Hugo Lloris will captain the team in goal- the Spurs keeper is one of the finest in Europe, and one of the few from his club to emerge with any credit from a fairly shambolic season. Patrice Evra has served his time over his role in 2010 and retains his place at left-back- PSG's Lucas Digne travels to Brazil as his deputy, and should eventually succeed him. Central defence should see Mamadou Sakho, 2 goal hero of that play-off victory, paired with Real Madrid's excellent youngster Raphael Varane, with Mathieu Debuchy should get the nod over Bacary Sagna. The midfield is genuinely excellent and one of the finest at the World Cup, featuring PSG team-mates Blaise Matuidi and Yohan Cabaye alongside the outstanding young powerhouse Paul Pogba (yeah, Mr Ferguson, he actually is as good as he thinks he is)- Matuidi will provide the defensive screening to allow Cabaye to provide the creativity and clever probing and Pogba the power and thrust. The front 3 aren't bad, either- Karim Benzema has hit a purple patch of form at just the right time (with Olivier Giroud as a more than capable backup option), with Franck Ribery providing service from one flank, and the diminutive genius Mathieu Valbuena set to get the nod on the other (Real Sociedad's Antoine Griezmann is an exciting wildcard option off the bench). Providing they get the job done and top the group, a favourable last-16 tie should be awaiting them, ahead of a potential quarter-final with Germany.
The Rest: Neat, Tidy, Cosmopolitan and Goalless
Switzerland, Ecuador and Honduras make up the rest of Group E. Their official ranking of 7th is about as credible as, well, most things FIFA have their pawprints on these days, but the Swiss should still progress from the group. They're a decent side with the exciting generation who got to the final of the 2011 European Under 21 Championship, among them that tournament's star player Xherdan Shaqiri, Admir Mehmedi, Granit Xhaka and Yann Sommer (plus 3 of the 7 standby players), starting to break through at full international level, plus a number of good-but-not-quite-world-class players who are regulars in Europe's top leagues. The legendary Ottmar Hitzfeld, for whom retirement beckons after the tournament, will lead this cosmopolitan crew (many of the players, Shaqiri, Xhaka and Napoli's Gokhan Inler among them, have dual citizenship) to Brazil. Shaqiri struggled for regular game time at Bayern Munchen this season, but he remains a key player for the Swiss, and will probably start on the right of a 4-2-3-1 system, and look to come inside on his left foot. The group itself is fairly kind on Switzerland, and qualification is to be expected. What's less kind, however, is that they're likely to face Argentina in round 2.
Having not appeared at a single World Cup before 2002, Ecuador have now qualified for 3 of the last 4 World Cups, reaching the 2nd round in 2006. Matching that this time round, however, could well be beyond them. Their record during qualifying makes for interesting reading- unbeaten at home, yet not a single victory away (they play home qualifiers at altitude)- they also suffered the tragic loss of key frontman Christian Benitez. They'll probably be better equipped to deal with the oppressive heat the teams will face in Brazil (they play Switzerland at 1pm local time on June 15th, when conditions are supposedly the toughest), but it's difficult to see them having enough firepower in Benitez's absence to make real progress.
Honduras are very much the outsiders of the group, and indeed one of the weakest teams at the entire tournament. There are few familiar faces in the squad (or at least few that will be familiar to anyone that doesn't follow Wigan Athletic), and they have struggled for goals (only managing 13 in 10 Central American qualifying games). There are some survivor from their 2010 World Cup campaign (where they managed a goalless draw with Switzerland after defeats to Chile and Spain), but it would be a major shock if they were to pose any threat to France and Switzerland.
Here's a few Group E-based punts for y'all to look at:
France to reach the quarter finals: best price 11/10 with Boylesports
Straight forecast: France-Switzerland-Ecuador-Honduras best price 2/1 with Bwin
Honduras v Ecuador Under 2.5 goals best price 3/4 with Bet Victor
BN BISCUITS ARE BACK!
86 STICKERS NEEDED TO COMPLETE THE WORLD CUP STICKER BOOK
With just 11 days to go until the start of the World Cup, let's have a look at another of the groups. Which team are potential winners? Who will probably get out of the group but not get much further? Who's going home early? Let's have a look at Group E
France: Rare Harmony
When one thinks of France at tournaments, one thinks of talented yet combustible, enigmatic bunches of players- witness their shambolic campaign in South Africa in 2010, and the mutinous atmosphere that underpinned many previous tournaments, where senior players effectively ran the show in the absence of a strong manager. The significantly younger crew that Didier Deschamps is taking to Brazil has all the talent of their predecessors and then some, but are a far more harmonious, well-balanced bunch. Qualifying for the tournament may not have gone smoothly, yet they demonstrated their mental fortitude by overturning a 2-0 deficit to Ukraine in their play-off. They'll play 4-3-3, with an exciting blend of youth and experience throughout. Hugo Lloris will captain the team in goal- the Spurs keeper is one of the finest in Europe, and one of the few from his club to emerge with any credit from a fairly shambolic season. Patrice Evra has served his time over his role in 2010 and retains his place at left-back- PSG's Lucas Digne travels to Brazil as his deputy, and should eventually succeed him. Central defence should see Mamadou Sakho, 2 goal hero of that play-off victory, paired with Real Madrid's excellent youngster Raphael Varane, with Mathieu Debuchy should get the nod over Bacary Sagna. The midfield is genuinely excellent and one of the finest at the World Cup, featuring PSG team-mates Blaise Matuidi and Yohan Cabaye alongside the outstanding young powerhouse Paul Pogba (yeah, Mr Ferguson, he actually is as good as he thinks he is)- Matuidi will provide the defensive screening to allow Cabaye to provide the creativity and clever probing and Pogba the power and thrust. The front 3 aren't bad, either- Karim Benzema has hit a purple patch of form at just the right time (with Olivier Giroud as a more than capable backup option), with Franck Ribery providing service from one flank, and the diminutive genius Mathieu Valbuena set to get the nod on the other (Real Sociedad's Antoine Griezmann is an exciting wildcard option off the bench). Providing they get the job done and top the group, a favourable last-16 tie should be awaiting them, ahead of a potential quarter-final with Germany.
The Rest: Neat, Tidy, Cosmopolitan and Goalless
Switzerland, Ecuador and Honduras make up the rest of Group E. Their official ranking of 7th is about as credible as, well, most things FIFA have their pawprints on these days, but the Swiss should still progress from the group. They're a decent side with the exciting generation who got to the final of the 2011 European Under 21 Championship, among them that tournament's star player Xherdan Shaqiri, Admir Mehmedi, Granit Xhaka and Yann Sommer (plus 3 of the 7 standby players), starting to break through at full international level, plus a number of good-but-not-quite-world-class players who are regulars in Europe's top leagues. The legendary Ottmar Hitzfeld, for whom retirement beckons after the tournament, will lead this cosmopolitan crew (many of the players, Shaqiri, Xhaka and Napoli's Gokhan Inler among them, have dual citizenship) to Brazil. Shaqiri struggled for regular game time at Bayern Munchen this season, but he remains a key player for the Swiss, and will probably start on the right of a 4-2-3-1 system, and look to come inside on his left foot. The group itself is fairly kind on Switzerland, and qualification is to be expected. What's less kind, however, is that they're likely to face Argentina in round 2.
Having not appeared at a single World Cup before 2002, Ecuador have now qualified for 3 of the last 4 World Cups, reaching the 2nd round in 2006. Matching that this time round, however, could well be beyond them. Their record during qualifying makes for interesting reading- unbeaten at home, yet not a single victory away (they play home qualifiers at altitude)- they also suffered the tragic loss of key frontman Christian Benitez. They'll probably be better equipped to deal with the oppressive heat the teams will face in Brazil (they play Switzerland at 1pm local time on June 15th, when conditions are supposedly the toughest), but it's difficult to see them having enough firepower in Benitez's absence to make real progress.
Honduras are very much the outsiders of the group, and indeed one of the weakest teams at the entire tournament. There are few familiar faces in the squad (or at least few that will be familiar to anyone that doesn't follow Wigan Athletic), and they have struggled for goals (only managing 13 in 10 Central American qualifying games). There are some survivor from their 2010 World Cup campaign (where they managed a goalless draw with Switzerland after defeats to Chile and Spain), but it would be a major shock if they were to pose any threat to France and Switzerland.
Here's a few Group E-based punts for y'all to look at:
France to reach the quarter finals: best price 11/10 with Boylesports
Straight forecast: France-Switzerland-Ecuador-Honduras best price 2/1 with Bwin
Honduras v Ecuador Under 2.5 goals best price 3/4 with Bet Victor
BN BISCUITS ARE BACK!
86 STICKERS NEEDED TO COMPLETE THE WORLD CUP STICKER BOOK
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