Saturday’s British betting preview

Saturday 17th December

Scottish Premier League

Motherwell v St Mirren

Christmas is only eight days away but Motherwell will be in no mood to provide St Mirren with any festive cheer when the two sides meet at Fir Park.

Motherwell have surprised many this season with their form and currently sit best of the rest in the Scottish Premier League. There was ambitious talk earlier in the season that they may even be capable of splitting the two Glasgow sides but that seems like a fading possibility. They have, however, been very consistent and that is evidenced by the fact that they have lost just four game all season and three of them have been to Celtic and Rangers. St Johnstone are the only other side who have defeated them and they to have been impressive this season. Stuart McCall took over from Craig Brown last season and he managed to get the club to the Scottish Cup Final where they eventually lost out to Celtic but things are definitely on the up and the fans will be excited about what the future holds.

St Mirren’s manager Danny Lennon has been in the job for 18 months and it looks as though, slowly but surely, he is starting to mould his side into what he wants them to play like and what he set out at the start of last season. They look much more threatening this year and play a more attacking brand of football which the fans were crying out for. The other side of that story, however, is that they concede more goals as their defence is less protected than what it has been in previous season. It seems to be working though as the Buddies currently sit eighth which is unusual for them as they are normally in and around the relegation zone. Seven points clear of bottom placed Dunfermilne means that the first few months of the season have been a success but their is a long way to go between now and May so Lennon will be aware that the job is only half done.

Motherwell have one of the most exciting talents in Scotland in the shape of Jamie Murphy. The striker has been in and around the first team picture at Fir Park for a few years now but over the last couple of seasons he has really come to the fore and he is now one of the manager’s first picks every week. Along with Michael Hingdon he is the club’s top scorer with six league goals, but he’s also a provider of goals which makes him so important to the team. Having scored two goals in his side’s 3-0 win over St Johnstone last Saturday, Murphy heads into tomorrow’s fixture full of confidence.

St Mirren had spent a lot of money on wages by bringing in the likes of Paul McGowan, Steven Thompson and Gary Teale over the summer and all three are players who have contributed to their teams good form this season. Lennon will have been happy that his side came back from two goals down last Saturday against Aberdeen to earn a draw but they may well have won it as they were by far the better team in the second half and had plenty of chances. It means that St Mirren have went three games without a win and have won just one of their last five. Away from home they have won just one of their last six but they did manage a draw against Rangers at Ibrox so Fir Park should hold no fears for them.

Motherwell have won 10 of their 17 matches this season which is an excellent record in a league where so many of the sides are evenly matched. With Higdon and Murphy upfront they have two players capable of causing defences a lot of problems and scoring that vital goal which is often the difference in the SPL. They are too big a price to pass up tomorrow despite the fact that their home form is not as strong as their form on the road, they still remain the percentage and value call.

My Selection: Motherwell to beat St Mirren

Best price available: Evens available with William Hill

English Championship

Cardiff v Middlesbrough

Big match in the Championship as third placed Cardiff host fourth placed Middlesbrough – a win for either side could see them end up in an automatic promotion spot tomorrow evening.

Malky Mackay has worked wonders in truth since arriving at Cardiff. He has had to change so much of the squad which is often disruptive and results in a team having to gel before they can get to the level they were at previously. That’s not been the case here as the former Watford manager has seen the changes that he made pay off and the Bluebirds are just a couple of points off the top two positions. Their last defeat was way back in October and since that loss at Peterborough they have won six of their following nine games. It’s tremendous form and some of the wins have come against difficult teams and at notoriously hard venues such as Reading and at home to Birmingham. Overall they have lost just three games all season and only one of those has come at the Cardiff City stadium where they have won seven of their ten matches to date.

Tony Mowbray has got things right at Middlesbrough this season and they seem desitned to challenge for promotion this season after a couple of indifferent campaigns. Level on points with tomorrow’s opponents it’s no surprise that there is a lot of pressure on tomorrow’s match but for all the right reasons. They set themselves up perfectly with two 1-0 victories against Bristol City and Brighton in recent weeks. Those games have been par for the course this season as they may not be the prettiest team to watch but they are hard to beat and more often than not, are able to nick a goal and take the points. Their away form is particularly good with six wins from 10 matches – only West Ham can boast a better record than that in the division. Those defeats came against Nottingham Forest and Southampton, both of which were after their magnificent run of six straight away wins in all competitions between August and September.

Kenny Miller has been an inspired signed for Cardiff as he allows Mackay to set up a system which is both hard to break down, but also allows them great freedom going forward. Miller is very much a striker who likes to put defenders under pressure and never stops running for the whole time he’s on the pitch. This means that Cardiff can play a counter attacking style of play away from home but at the same time they can switch it and keep the ball for long periods with that extra midfielder thanks to Miller playing as a lone striker. The Scottish internationalist has six league goals to his name already but few would back against him adding to that in the next few weeks.

‘Boro are one of the lowest scorers in the top half of the Championship with 25 goals so it’s no surprise to read that they boast the best defensive record in the league as well. Their defences have been breached just 17 times this term which is their foundation for their success. They do need to do better against the sides in and around them in the table however as the loss to Southampton earlier in the season was coupled with a home defeat against West Ham. They have also drawn against the likes of Blackpool and Leicester. There is an argument to be made that the fixtures have been kind to them in the early part of the season but they do face a difficult programme of fixtures over the Christmas period so their credentials will be put to the test – starting tomorrow.

Cardiff, for my money, have been the most impressive Championship side in recent weeks. They are not conceding many goals and look dangerous on the break. The only criticism of them would be that they may not take as many chances as they should be and that could be key tomorrow against a resoulte Middlesbrough defence but I have a suspicion that Tony Mowbray’s men have been flattered somewhat by their league position and fancy the home side to come out on top here.

My Selection: Cardiff to beat Middlesbrough

Best odds available: 5/4 available with Victor Chandler

English League Two

Crewe v Crawley

Top of the table Crawley travel north to take on Crewe in a bid to extend their unbeaten run in all competitons to 15.

It was the end of an era when Dario Gradi finally stepped aside and allowed a new man to take on the role as Crewe’s manager. Gradi had been in the job for over 20 years so you could forgive the new manager, his assistant Steve Davis, of being a little worried that he was in a no win situation. His start as manager may not have been terrific but it’s not been terrible either. Crewe are currently sitting in mid-table and of the four games that Davis has been boss, they have won two, drawn one and lost the other one which was, incidentally, his first match in charge in the FA Cup so they remain unbeaten under his stewardship in the league. Tomorrow will be their hardest test yet as they face the league leaders and their home form is definitely something that needs to improve as they have already lost five games on their own patch.

Crawley were many people’s favourites to go up and earn consecutive promotions due to the amount of finances they have at their disposal. The form they are currently in has seen them climb to the top of the division with a three point lead heading into the festive period. Steve Evans is no strange to managing succesful sides in the Conference but it’s the first time that he has been in charge of a club at this level who have been doing so well. 14 games unbeaten for anyone is a massive achievment due to the competitive nature of football nowadays but even more so for a team who were playing in the division below last season. Their last defeat was in the middle of September and to date it’s only their third league reverse of the campaign so far.

Crewe will be hoping that their three game unbeaten run in the league can give them the confidence to compete against high flying Crawley and if they can produce their best form on the day then they well give their visitors problems. The key is consistency at Gresty Road though as they have such a young team and it’s inevitable that they are going to have some off days as they are on their learning curve at the moment.

Crawley will travel to Crewe full of confidence having won their last five scoring 16 in the process. Matt Tubbs was prolific last season in the Conference and he has carried on that kind of form this season. He’s scored four goals in his last two games after a run of five games without a goal so the chances are he is hitting a bit of form one again which is probably not great news for tomorrow’s opponents.

When a team is in the form that Crawley are it’s hard to oppose them and it’s certainly not going to be me that is the brave man who backs against them. I think they will have too much going forward for tomorrow’s hosts.

My Selection: Crawley to beat Crewe

Best odds available: 8/11 available with Bet365

Saturday 10th December

Scottish Premier League

Celtic v Hearts

Celtic have transformed their season in recent weeks and will be hoping to continue their good run with a victory over an out of sorts Hearts side at Celtic Park.

It wasn’t so long ago that Celtic were 12 points behind in second place and there were more than a few supporters who were calling for Neil Lennon to be sacked as manager. Fast forward a month or so and things are looking a lot brighter for the Bhoys. Having won their last five league matches they have cut the gap to just four points which makes the form side in the SPL. Their recent good form has been the result of some key players coming back from injury and getting a run of games under their belt. Gary Hooper is a prime example as the striker was out of sorts for much of the season because of niggling injuries whereas now he has hit the kind of form he was in last season, scoring five goals in his last three league games, including a hat-trick the last time Celtic played an SPL match at home against St Mirren. Hooper is now joint top scorer in Scotland and Lennon will be keen for his star man to continue his good form, especially as Celtic are due to play league leaders Rangers at the end of December.

Hearts started the season brightly enough despite Jim Jefferies being sacked. Paulo Sergio was installed as his replacement and the initial signs were good however there has been a total lack of consistency recently and the pressure seems to be affecting the manager as he has had several outbursts at referee’s and the other match officials. The other problem facing Sergio is discontent amongst his players who have been failed to be paid once again this season. The players must try and remain professional but they are also human and if their is no guarantee of their wages being paid before Christmas, it’s bound to have an effect on the field. Last weekends 2-1 home defeat to St Johnstone was a real low point and was their seventh defeat of the season already. They travel to Glasgow knowing that the last time they played Celtic they ran out 2-0 winners at Tynecastle in October so they will be aware of what level of performance it will take in order to repeat such a feat.

Celtic’s recent form has been impressive in terms of results and performance. The 5-0 demoltion of St Mirren two weeks ago was a signal of intent from Lennon and his men and the first half performance last Sunday away to Dundee United was also much more like they way they can play. Beram Kayal is in much better form alongside Victor Wanyama in the middle of the park and it’s their partnership which has provided more protection for the much maligned defence. This has been evidenced in the amount of goals they have conceded in recent weeks compared to earlier in the season with the opposition managing to breach the defence just twice in the last six SPL games.

Hearts have lost four of their last six matches in the league and the fans are beginning to get restless as the performances have dropped in recent matches. Sergio is a passionate person and will be hoping that his passion rubs off on his players heading into Saturday’s match as it looked lacking at times last Saturday. When they defeated Celtic in October the players were all up for it and they never stopped fighting for every ball and closing Celtic down at every opportunity. It’s now about transferring that kind of performance from Tynecastle to their travels as they have won just one match on the road all season.

Celtic are without doubt in much better form than the last time these two sides met and Hearts are regressing. Hooper and Stokes have 20 goals between this this season and will be a handful for the visitors defence whilst Kayal, Wanyama and Forrest in the midfield are full of energy and enthusiasm at the moment meaning it will be be difficult for the Hearts midfield to get a hold of the game. There is only one winner of this match for me and I can see it being a comfortable one at that.

My Selection: Celtic (-1) to beat Hearts

Best odds available: 21/20 available with Bet365

English Championship

Burnley v Portsmouth

Burnley have come from behind twice in the last fortnight to win away from home, this week they entertain a Portsmouth side yet to win away from home.

Eddie Howe came with a big reputation for such a young manager when taking over from Brian Laws last season. The former Bournemouth manager had been used to success and winning games when at his former club but it’s been a slightly different story at Turf Moor. Fans would have been disappointed after missing out on the play-off’s last season whilst this season, they have been unable to string a run of form together meaning they have been towards the wrong end of the table for much of this season. Signs are there, however, that Howe and his players are beginning to turn things around. After losing two late goals to Leeds resulting in a fourth successive defeat could have been a crushing blow but they have dusted themselves down and put a run of three wins together. They were behind against both Hull and West Ham but showed a new resilience and came back to win both matches. In between those games, they destroyed Ipswich at home which was arguably one of their most impressive wins of the season to date.

Portsmouth done the column a favour last weekend when they were successful against struggling Coventry but they face a different proposition against Burnley away from home. As mentioned, Pompey have not won an away game this term with a record of three draws and six defeats. They are one of only two sides who hold such a record so Michael Appleton definitely has his work cut out as he strives to improve his new club’s fortunes on the road. Last weekend’s victory was massive for a couple of reasons; they off-field drama seems to be never-ending at Fratton Park so the players showed how professional they are by gaining all three points and it was also the first win under the new manager. He will be hoping to build on that and ensure that Portsmouth can stay clear of the relegation zone as it’s getting very congested towards that end of the table. A win tomorrow, however, would mean that they would be just one point behind the Clarets.

Burnley’s home form has been patchy due to their inconsistency this season. They have won three, drawn three and lost the other four so if they do hold ambitions of being compeititive for a play-off spot they need to start winning more games at home. Last time out at Turf Moor their crushing win over Ipswich would have done a lot for confidence as it was also at home where they let slip a lead to lose 2-1 to Leeds late on the game beforehand. On loan striker Sam Vokes has been a breath of fresh air since moving from Wolves and he provides a different option upfront. His header last weekend which gave his new side victory showed his class and if they can retain his services to enhance their chance of promotion to the Premier League.

Portsmouth have lost six of their last seven away games in the Championship with their only point coming against Crystal Palace a couple of weeks ago. Their biggest struggle seems to be scoring goals as they have only managed one goal in their last six on their travels. Appleton may look to adopt slightly different tactics tomorrow but his hands are tied in terms of personnel as he is working with such a small squad. His options will be boosted tomorrow however as Liam Lawrence, Hayden Mullins and Luke Varney are all set to declare themselves fit after missing out last weekend.

Burnley don’t have a great home record by any means but they are hitting a bit of form and with Portsmouth so poor and toothless away from home, the selection is a home win.

My Selection: Burnley to beat Portsmouth

Best odds available: 21/20 available with William Hill

English League One

Walsall v Charlton

League leaders Charlton travel to Walsall on Saturday hoping to continue their excellent run of form which has left them seven points clear at the top of the table.

Walsall are currently in the relegation zone after a dismal run of form which has seen them fail to win any of their last six games in League One. Their last win was a 1-0 home victory over Preston back in October which was only their third win all season. Dean Smith has been in charge for just under a year but he is under pressure to get results and with the festive period coming up, he will be hoping his team can get some sort of confidence heading into one of the busiest periods of the season. Two of their three wins have come at home but they have also lost five matches at the Bescott already. In order to climb the league they need to make it harder for teams to take points off them, the visit of Charlton may well not be the type of team they will look forward to facing but if they were to get something tomorrow, it may well act as a catalyst and get their season going.

Chris Powell will be delighted with the start his Charlton side have made this season after so many coming’s and going’s during the close season. More than 20 players have been brought to the Valley under Powell but the supporters will not be caring about that so long as they continue to steamroll through the League One opposition. With just one defeat all season, an incredible eight wins in a row in all competitions and the top scorers in the division, the plaudits they have earned thus far have been well deserved. Their last league match was arguably the biggest of the season to date in England’s third tier as they came up against a Huddersfield side who had not been beaten for over 40 matches in the league. This Charlton side don’t care much for reputation or records though, and they accounted for them rather comfortably in the end, winning 2-0.

Walsall know that if they can string a couple of results together then it will mean a move out of the relegation zone. It is tight at the bottom of League One but the longer they go without winning, the harder it becomes to climb the table. Jon Macken is one of the most experienced players in the division and Smith will be hoping that his striker can put that experience to good use and prevent others around him for panicking as it’s the worst thing that could happen at this stage.

Bradley Wright-Phillips is one of the most inform strikers in England never mind League One. The former Manchester City trainee has 14 league goals to his name already including seven goals in his last six league matches. He is certainly capable of playing at a higher level but his attitude has been called into question at previous clubs. If Powell can keep his mind on his football and ensure he keeps putting the effort in, there is every reason to believe that he could finish up top scorer out of all the divisions in England this season.

Charlton are bang in form, Walsall are totally out of sorts so the away win looks the only wager here.

My Selection: Charlton to beat Walsall

Best odds available: 5/6 available with Coral

Saturday 25th November

English Premier League

Arsenal v Fulham

A Lodon derby at the Emirates between inform Arsenal and Fulham is the early evening kick off on Saturday.

After an horrendous start to the season which culminated in an 8-2 thrashing by rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford, Arsenal’s form has picked up dramatically in recent weeks. From their last 13 matches in all competitions they have failed to win just two of them – one in the league and one in Europe. The only match they did lose was the North London derby against Spurs at White Hart Lane. That defeat was back in early October which means they are on a run of nine games without defeat winning eight of those. Their last home defeat was against Liverpool in August and despite their early season troubles, it was, to date its the only loss they have suffered on their own patch this season. They have, in actual fact, won nine of their following ten matches at home which is an excellent record by anyone’s standards. Their good form see’s them sitting in 7th place at the moment, three points off the fourth Champions League spot which is surely their aim at this stage of the campaign.

Fulham have been diasppointing thus far and are edging ever closer towards the dreaded relegation zone. Last weekend’s draw with Sunderland was one of the most boring fixtures that have been played in a long time. Fulham had a couple of chances to win the game but it would have been harsh on Sunderland who dominated for large spells. It now means Martin Jol’s side have won just two of their 12 Premie League matches which means they sit only above four sides in the division. Jol has had a reputation of playing attractive, attacking football at his previous clubs including Spurs. That doesn’t seem to be the case at his current club, however, despite the amount of attacking talent that he has at his disposal. One of their victories has come away from home so there is a little crumb of comfort for the travelling fans but it’s only the smallest of crumbs as their record away to Arsenal is terrible – they have yet to win. From 25 games they have lost 22 and managed just three draws.

There is not a man in World Football who is in better form than Robin Van Persie. The Dutch striker has really came to the fore in 2011 and his run of form has conincided with his longest injury free spell for years. From 33 matches this calendar year, Van Persie has scored 31 goals. Arsenal have scored 15 goals in their last five games of which Van Persie has scored two thirds of them. There is little doubt that the Gunners have adopted a different style of play this season since losing Cesc Fabregas in the summer and it’s suited their striker in form. Theo Walcott’s direct play from the wide areas as well as Mikel Arteta’s and Aaron Ramsey’s distribution from the middle of the park has allowed Van Persie to get more chances and with his confidence so high and finishing so clinical, he is not missing too many at the moment.

Fulham paid a big fee for Brian Ruiz who arrived from Dutch side Twente in the last transfer window. He has taken some time to adapt to his new club, so much so that despite the large fee he has been unable to command a regular starting spot and has just one goal to his name. Bobby Zamora remains Fulham’s biggest threat and despite not scoring as many as he would have liked he is still very much in the thoughts of England manager Fabio Capello. Zamora lined up in his country’s recent 1-0 victory over Sweden at Wembley and will be hoping to kick on between now and the end of the season and stake a claim for a place in the Euro 2012 squad.

There can only be one winner for me on Saturday evening and I envisage a comfortable home win. The 1/2 available may well tempt many but to make it a little more attractive, go for Van Persie to score anytime and his side to take all three points.

My Selection: Robin Van Persie to score at anytime and Arsenal to win

Best odds available: 13/10 available with Betfred

English Championship

Leeds United v Barsnley

Another derby but this time it’s of the Yorkshire variety as promotion chasing Leeds entertain their near neighbours Barsnley at Elland Road.

Leeds have been in and around the play-off zone for much of the season and after narrowly missing out at the end of last season, will be even more determined to ensure they last the pace this time around. Simon Grayson has had to contend with losing key players throuhgout his time in charge at Leeds but he still manages to keep churning results out and keep his side competitive with the other sides looking gain promotion to the Premier League. The Championship is as competitive as ever this season so it will be close come May when the top six will be set in stone but currently sitting fifth and with a couple of points to spare, it’s looking positive for Leeds. What will be especially pleasing for Grayson and their prospects of sustaining their challenge is that their away form is just as good as their home record. He will be hoping that his players can make amends for their last home match which resulted in a 5-0 thumping from Blackpool. In actual fact, Leeds have not won a home match since the 1st of October.

Barnsley’s aim at the start of the season will have been to remain in the division but they will be hoping to do that as early as possible and then look to finish as high as possible. 17 matches into the season and they are sitting in 15th position with a healthy 21 points. Their last match was a 2-0 win over another Yorkshire side in the shape of bottom club Doncaster at Oakwell. Tomorrow’s match will be a totally different prospect but they will make the short journey to Elland Road in good heart after that win. Their away form does leave a lot to be desired however as it’s now six games without a win on the road. They have lost their last three matches against Portsmouth, Cardiff and Brighton so they, along with tomorrow’s opponents, have something to prove and rectify. Their sole win on the road came back in August when they got the better of Reading in a 2-1 victory.

Leeds have won their last two games since being thrashed 5-0 at the beginning of the month. A 1-0 victory over Leciester was followed by a come from behind 2-1 success against Burnley last Saturday. At the heart of both of those wins and most of the good things about Leeds this season has been Robert Snodgrass and Ross McCormack. The Scottish internationalists have scored 13 goals between them in the League this season and their fitness and form will be vital as Leeds look to cement their positive league position.

Barnsley have not faired too badly against Leeds in recent times and have managed to accumulate eight points from their last four meetings – two wins and two draws. Goals were a common theme last season in this fixture with a total of 13 goals shared between the sides so there is reason to believe that there may well be goals tomorrow. That hope is enhanced further with the amount of goals that both sides have conceded this term. Leeds have shipped 26 goals already this season (the most of any top side) whilst Barnsley’s defences have been breached nine times in their last three away matches alone.

I wouldn’t put anyone off backing over 2.5 goals but the value bet for me is for the home side to record their first home win in four.

My Selections: Leeds to beat Barnsley

Best odds available: 3/4 available with William Hill

English League One

Sheffield Wednesday v Leyton Orient

The third match previewed this week see’s Sheffield Wednesday host Leyton Orient with the home side hoping to maintain their unbeaten record at Hillsbrough.

It would have been hard for any side to keep tabs on Huddersfield and Charlton with the form the top two in League One have been in but Gary Megson and his Wednesday side are just about managing it. Just two points off of second placed Huddersfield, the Owls are impressing many with their consistency. One defeat from 11 matches in all competitions is impressive form considering how competitive League One is. Their home record is also very strong as the only blemish from nine league games was their most recent home fixture against Brentford. That matched ended goalless but they had won their other eight matches at Hillsbrough with an aggregate score of 18 goals for and just five against. Viisitng sides will really have to be on their game if they wish to take anything back home with them.

Leyton Orient are also a side in very decent form as they have not lost in any of their last nine games. Russell Slade’s side certainly started slowly but no-one can deny that they have certainly turned the corner and are definitely heading in the right direction. Orient have actually performed slightly better on the road and ammased more points on their travels than when playing at home. Their only two defeats away from home this season have come against Brentford and Walsall both of which were very early on the season. It means that they have been to Huddersfield and avoided defeat so they will certainly not be overawed heading into tomorrow’s fixture, despite Wednesday boasting the best home record in the division.

Megson will once again be hoping that the goals of Gary Madine can prove to be the difference for his side. The former Carlisle striker is enjoying an excellent season but he has failed to score in his last four matches. Before that, however, he had went on a run of eight goals in seven matches. If he does get back to that kind of form then there is no reason that Wednesday cannot look to push for one of the automatic promotion spots.

Leyton Orient may not score as many as other teams in the league and have had some trouble keeping them out at the other end but they are one of the form sides in the division at present. Kevin Lisbie is an experienced head upfront and he will lead the line tomorrow as he looks to do the double over the Sheffield clubs having scored against United earlier in the season.

Both sides are in good form and people may be put off backing the home side because Orient haven’t lost in nine. I’m of a different opinion and despite the away side being hard to beat, Wednesday are a better side and have better players. Gary Madine will be a handful for one of the worst defences in the league so take the Owls side to gain another three home points.

My Selection: Sheffield Wednesday to beat Leyton Orient

Best odds available: 8/11 available with Skybet

Saturday 19th November

Coventry v West Ham United

Second top West Ham travel to second bottom Coventry tomorrow as the Championship returns from taking a break last weekend due to the International break.

Coventry have endured a torrid season thus far and find themselves just one place off the bottom of the Championship. Doncaster are the only team who sit below the Sky Blue’s at the moment but they have the same number of points so it’s obvious that results need to improve otherwise Andy Thorn will soon be out a job. Their last match was a 4-2 home defeat by league leaders Southampton. The only crumb of comfort they can take from that was they came back from two goals down to level the match, only to lose two late goals. It means that they have not won any of their last five matches – their last win was in the middle of September. At home they have won just two of their seven matches to date, losing three of them. Attendances have been plummeting over the years at the Ricoh Arena and they don’t show any sign of stopping as crowds slip to just over 10,000.

West Ham have adapted to life in the Championship pretty well as the only have one team above them heading into the winter. Sam Allardyce has bought very smartly in his quest to return the Hammers to England’s top flight. The likes of Matt Taylor, Kevin Nolan and John Carew were all playing in the Premier League last season so there experience and quality have been essential. Arguably, however, the most exciting signing thus far has been Sam Baldock from MK Dons who has bagged five goals from his first nine league games. Baldock notched his fifth of the season last time out against Hull in an impressive 2-0 victory at the KC Stadium. It was West Ham’s fifth away win from eight games having just lost once, incidentally against the current league leaders. Allardyce has shored things up at the back and employed plenty of attacking threat which has struck a very effective balance, especially away from home.

Coventry will be hoping that their more experienced players come to the fore and turn in a performance tomorrow. Gary McSheffery is one such player who has simply disappointed this term. A player of his calibre should have more than one goal by this stage but it’s just further proof of how much the club as a whole have been struggling. It’s fallen up on a less experienced player to get the goals with top scorer Lukaz Jutkiewicz the only player in the squad to have hit more than one goal in the league all season. It’s clear what has to change if they have any desire to climb the league in the short term.

West Ham will be hoping to close the gap at the top but know that if they do drop points, there are several teams waiting to take advantage as the challenge for the automatic promotion spots hot up. The squad they have at their disposable may well prove vital come the end of the season as the likes of Henri Lansbury, David Bentley and Papa Bouba Diop have not yet hit top gear. Another shrewd signing has been the loan deal which brought Manuel Almunia to Upton Park. The Arsenal goalkeeper has yet to taste defeat at his new club and was outstanding in the win over Hull.

I’m confident that West Ham will be raring to go after the week’s break whilst Coventry, in my opinion, are on a very slippery slope at the moment so I think the away team will be taking maximum points back home with them tomorrow evening.

My Selection: West Ham to beat Coventry

Best odds available: 4/5 available with William Hill

English League One

Sheffield United v Carlisle

A resurgent Carlisle travel to Yorkshire to take on Sheffield United as both sides look for the points in their quest from promotion to the Championship.

Danny Wilson who took over the job as manager in the summer is not having it all his own way as he did earlier in the season. Sheffield United were roundabout the top two for much of the early part of the season but recently they are slipping down the table. They are still in a healthy enough position but will be hoping to climb the table again and challenge for the automatic promotion spots which their supporters will be expecitng, especially as rivals Wedensday are also performing well at the moment. Although they are not quite in the same vein of form they were in earlier in the campaign they have only one league game in their last seven. Their home form is decent with five wins and just two defeats from nine matches. Their last home match in the league was a 4-4 thriller with Exeter. It was an entertaining match for the neutral but Wilson will be determined to shore things up at the back.

Carlisle had been on a run of five defeats from six matches in September but they are coming strong now with just one loss from their last nine games in all competitions. Greg Abbott celebrated his third year in charge this month and he can look back on what he has done with some amount of pride. He led his side to Wembley two years in a row and after losing heavily the first time around, they won the Football League Trophy in March with a 1-0 win over Exeter. Despite their slow start this season they are looking like they can mount a challenge for a play-off position. Currently 10th, they are only three points off of sixth place so are definitely one of several clubs in the mix as the season begins to hot up.

Sheffield United brushed aside Oxford United at home in the FA Cup last Saturday scoring three and keeping a clean sheet. It would have been the perfect tonic heading into this match against a team in form. Brammall Lane has definitely been one of the most entertaining grounds on matchdays this term as there have been 34 goals scored in just nine matches. It’s easily the most out of all the League One clubs so it will be no surprise if there are a few goals for the fans tomorrow.

Carlisle have won four and lost just two games on their travels this season so will be heading to Sheffield tomorrow knowing they have a chance against their more illustrious opponents. Like the Blades, the Cumbrians enjoyed a comfortable cup victory last weekend and being on the run they are currently on, will be confident they can cause a shock and go level on points with tomorrow’s opponents.

I can see this match being very open tomorrow and there could be several goals as both sides like to get the ball forward quickly and each have strikers bang in form. Carlisle have a good away record but they have not played many of the better sides thus far. One side they have played who are above them was league leaders Charlton who were far too good and ended up thrashing them 4-0. With that in mind, seeing as Sheffield United have been strong against the lesser lights of League One at home, I am siding with the home side.

My Selection: Sheffield United to beat Carlisle

Best odds available: 19/20 available with William Hill

Scottish Cup

For my third preview this weekend, rather than selecting one team, I am going to suggest a treble as the Scottish First division clubs enter the cup for the first time this season.

Ayr v Montrose

Firstly, my local town club host third division Montrose so will be hot favourites to turn over a side who sit two tiers below them. Ayr are no stranger to cup runs and have already made the semi-final’s of the other cup competition having put out SPL sides Hearts, Inverness and St Mirren. Montrose on the other hand are one of the worst sides in the Scottish Football professional set up. The club are thrid bottom of the third division and have won just four of their 12 league matches. They were 4-0 down last weekend only to come back and draw 4-4 with Stranraer. The main reason for their comeback was the fact their opponents goalkeeper got sent off and they never had a replacement on the bench.

Ayr are not the greatest by any stretch but they should prove far too strong here and are certainly one of the few clubs who target the cup competitions as it provides much needed income.

Ayr are a best priced 4/11 available with William Hill

Bo’ness United v Cowdenbeath

One of three Junior sides left in the competition, Bo’ness, host Division two leaders Cowdenbeath hoping to cause a shock and take their place in the draw for the next round when the SPL teams enter it. Bo’ness playing their league games in the East of Scotland Premier League and are certainly one of the better sides at the at level. This is a big step up though and they will need to raise their game in order to get a result against their league opponents. Cowdenbeath done us a turn last weekend when winning the top of the table clash against Stenhousemuir and although their away form is not as strong as their form on the road, they go into this match as heavy favourites.

Bo’ness are on a bad run of form and have won just one of their five league matches this season. They are currently sitting third bottom so would have been hoping for a better preparation as they head into one of their biggest matches in their history.

League form can often count for little in cup compeitions but when there is also a gulf in class between the two sides, it’s harder to ignore. Hopefully Cowden can oblige for us again this week.

Cowdenbeath are best priced 4/7 available with William Hill

Irvine Meadow v Livingston

The third leg of our treble also see’s a Junior side take on league opposition. Irvine Meadow, who qualified after winning the West Superleague, host First division Livingston at Meadow Park. The Ayrshire club have a big repuation in Junior circles because they were once able to offer a lot more to players than teams in the professional game. That financial clout has gone but they remain successful and lost their first match of the season last Saturday. Livingston are placed higher on the pyramid than Cowdenbeath so the challenge for Meadow is even greater despite being in better form. Livi sit third in the table at the moment and have lost just two league games although they have drawn seven of those.

The task Meadow face is a stiff one because Livingston are a full time professional club so their players do this for a living whilst the junior’s will also have their main occupation as well as playing football at the weekend. This can often be the decisive factor as fitness can tell in these sort of matches.

With than in mind, the away win is added to Cowdenbeath and Ayr to complete our cup treble.

Livingston are a best priced 4/11 available with William Hill

Good Luck

Saturday 12th November 2011

English FA Cup

Luton v Northampton

The league sides enter the FA Cup as all the sides have that dream of reaching Wembley. League Two Northampton, struggling in their division, travel to Luton who will be hoping they can cause a shock and knock out their higher ranked opponents.

Luton have been close to regaining their league status a couple of times in the past few years but they have not quite managed to get over that elusive line. This season is proving a little more difficult as they currently find themselves outside of the play-off’s. It’s still very early, however, and the seven points they are behind the league leaders is not much of a margin when there’s more than half a season and 27 games still to be played. Their home record has been their biggest strength thus far as they have won six of their 10 games at Kenilworth Road, losing three. Their most recent match was a 2-1 loss at home against Fleetwood Town last weekend which would have been a tough one to take as the sides are so close together in the league table. Gary Brabin, in his first full season as Luton boss, will be excited at the prospect of testing his squad against a side from League Two and it will be a measure of how far they have got to go.

Gary Johnson has enjoyed a lot of success in the FA Cup at his previous clubs, most notably Yeovil Town in the early 2000′s. He’s not having as much enjoyment, however, with his new club Northampton as they find themselves closer to the relegation zone than the top of League Two. A lot was expected from Town this season with the new man in charge and the batch of players he brought in. Things havent panned out that way though and with five losses from their last six matches they are currently in 20th positon, just three points off the second relegation spot. Fans are rarely patient in football and with Johnson being so experienced having been around a few clubs, he knows that results need to improve or a change may have to be made. They have managed to pick up more points on the road in the league than at home so another away game may be what they need to kick start their season.

Brabin will be hoping that Amari Morgan-Smith can transfer his goals from the Conference into the cup competitions like last season. Morgan-Smith scored a hat-trick in last season’s FA Cup and has started this campaign even better with nine goals from 15 matches.

Northampton have found it difficult to keep a clean sheet all season. From their 17 matches they have kept the opposition out just three times whilst they have scored in all but five of their League Two matches. Johnson will be aware that they need to shore things up at the back to get more wins but will be confident in the knowledge that if they do manage to do that, they have goals in the team to push them up the table and improve their season.

Kenilworth Road is a hard place to go at the best of times as it’s a tight pitch and the fans create an excellent atmosphere. Northampton, unfortunately for them, are not visiting at the best of times with the run of form they are currently on. They have lost their last three and four of the last five on the road. I think Luton can take advantage of the magic of the FA Cup and add to Northampton’s woe’s.

My Selection: Luton to beat Northampton

Best odds available: 11/8 available with Ladbrokes

English FA Cup

Swindon Town v Huddersfield

A mouthwatering clash at the County Ground see’s Paolo Di Canio’s Swindon entertain Huddersfield as two sides in form meet for a place in the next round of the FA Cup.

Swindon have been on a rollercoaster ever since Di Canio took charge of the club during the summer. There has been public fall-outs with players, impressive performances and the odd heavy defeat. Sometimes up, sometimes down but it’s always been interesting under the former Celtic, Sheffield Wednesday and West Ham talisman is getting to grips with being his own boss. He’s not started too badly at all as Swindon are currently in the play-off zone, seven points off an automatic promotion spot. Their recent form is very good as they are on an unbeaten run of eight games winning six of those. It’s been their most consistent period of the season thus far so it may be that Di Canio is growing into the job and instilling the same belief that he had, into the players.

Huddersfield have been in superb form all season and still remain unbeaten in the league. Lee Clarke’s men equalled Nottingham Forest’s record for the longest unbeaten run in the football league last weekend when they drew 1-1 with Walsall. Ordinarily it would have went down as a disappointing result for the Terriers but to equal the record as they did is an incredible achievement for any club, let alone one playing in the fiercely competitive League One. Clarke will be hoping that this season, unlike the others, will end in promotion to the Championship and that his side’s hardwork will get their deserved reward in May. As it is, league business is put to the side and the club’s focus is on progressing in the biggest cup competition in the World.

It promsises to be a very attractive tie as Di Canio and Clarke were both very good footballers in their own right. They also had a grounding as players which has formed their footballing philosophy as Clarke played under Kevin Keegan whilst Di Canio was signed by Tommy Burns and Harry Redknapp. All three were managers who wanted to play the ball on the ground, attack with purpose and provide the fans with entertainment. Those traits have been adopted by tomorrow’s managers so the fans should be in for a treat.

Swindon have been strong at home with five wins from their eight matches and only the one defeat. They average well over two goals per game as well whilst they don’t concede many either so they will be confident of holding their despite playing against a side a division above them.

Huddersfield have always struggled to turn draws into wins in the league which has been the main reason for them remaining in League One. This season they have won nine and drawn eight of their 17 league games so it looks as though that may still be a problem. They are consistently hard to beat though and will know that despite their lofty league position will count for nothing when they run out tomorrow.

I can see a game of goals at the County Ground on Saturday with so many attacking options on display. I would normally side with Huddersfield but they will have to do without Jordan Rhodes who is on International duty with Scotland this weekend. As that is the case I will go for the overs and hope that the phisophies of Di Canio and Clarke come to the fore.

My Selection: Over 2.5 goals

Best odds available: 7/10 available with BlueSquare

Scottish League Division Two

Cowdenbeath v Stenhousemuir

A rare step into the lower leagues of Scotland for our third preview this week as top of the table Cowdenbeath take on third place Stenhousemuir.

Cowdenbeath have been in superb form all season so it’s no surprise to see them at the top of the table at this stage of the season. They have a 100% record at home in the league winning all five of their matches thus far and have been beaten just twice all season. The Fife club have former Scotland international Colin Cameron as their play manager and his influence cannot be underestimated as his side continue to impress. Cameron was a dynamic midfielder in his prime and having been born just a few miles outside Cowdenbeath, his career has come full circle.

Stenny have surprised many with their form this season which see’s them sitting just five points off of tomorrow’s opponents. Like Cowdenbeath they have been very strong at home with five wins and a draw from six games. Their away form is not has clever with just one win on their travels. They’ve lost just one more game than Cowdenbeath though so they too are a team bang in form and hard to get the better of.

Cameron, unlike many well know managers starting in the lower leagues, has refrained from bringing in some old pal’s to imrpove the club’s fortunes. Instead he has decided to go down the route of inexperience and put his faith in younger players. It is already paying off as the enthusiasm and energy that come’s with using younger players is readily outweighing the fact they have little experience of being in this position.

Stenny have a more experienced squad than their opponents on Saturday but are proving that it can pay to go with an older head or two. The challenge will come over the winter and early Spring as that is when the race for promotion really starts. Will the older heads of Stenny prevail, or will the younger legs of the Cowndenbeath squad just have that vital edge.

Stenhousemuir got the upperhand earlier in the campaign when they beat Cowdenbeath 3-1 back in August. That was earlier in the season and the form Cowdenbeath have been in you can bet it will be a lot closer this time around.

Home form counts for a lot in the this league and having already won five on the bounce in the league, scoring 13 and conceding five, the selection has to be the home side against a team who have won just once on the road this term.

My Selection: Cowdenbeath to beat Stenhousemuir

Best odds available: 5/6 available with Coral

Saturday 5th November 2011

English Championship

Cardiff City v Crystal Palace

One point separates Cardiff and Crystal Palace in the table as both sides currently sit in the play-off zone so an attractive match is in proposition tomorrow at the Cardiff City Stadium.

Malky MacKay is four months into his job as Cardiff manager and despite some tricky moments and a lot of rebuilding, he looks to be getting things right on track for another push for promotion. Taking over from Dave Jones was always going to be difficult as he was in charge of some of the most successful Cardiff City teams in recent times. It’s a hard act to follow but the Scot is doing things his own way and getting a lot of success from it. Already in the quarter finals of the League Cup, his side sit fifth in the Championship, one point off tomorrow’s opponents and four points behind second placed West Ham. Their most recent match resulted in an impressive 3-0 success against Derby at Pride Park. It was only their second away win of the season but on the basis of it, it won’t be the last win on the road. Having won three of their last four they are hitting form heading into the Winter months which will delight MacKay as he is well aware that one team always puts together a run between now and Christmas which see’s them in contention for promotion.

Crystal Palace were previewed in this blog last month when they beat our selection, Ipswich, at Portman Road. It was a surprise to me as I felt that they were a far better side at home and that their early season form on the road flattered them somewhat. That’s not proving an error in judgment as they are now unbeaten in nine games in all competitions. Dougie Freedman’s side are also in the last eight of the League Cup so he’s another Scottish manager who is proving to be a hit in the English Championship. Palace have drawn their last two matches 0-0 with Reading and Portsmouth. Standards have been set so high that the Eagle’s fans will probably be disappointed with those results as they were both at Selhurst Park where they have been so strong this campaign. With three defeats and four wins from their seven away games, life is rarely dull on their travels. Their last defeat on the road was over a month ago and confidence will certainly be high, especially as their last away game was that impressive 1-0 win against the Tractor Boys.

MacKay has attempted to blend youth with experience during his overhaul of the playing squad. He has also looked to his fellow countrymen to bolster the players already there with the likes of Craig Conway, Don Cowie and Kenny Miller joining in the summer. All three are internationalists and will be key players in the coming months.

Palace will be hoping that Owen Garvan returns to the squad along with Alexander Tunchev. Both have missed recent games with injuries but are influential players who should at least find themselves on the bench. Jermaine Easter and Glenn Murray are likely to play upfront after forming a very hard working partnership.

Cardiff are on an impressive run of their own with just two defeats in 15 with their home record particularly impressive. From their first seven matches they have won four and drawn two. The only defeat at home has come against Brighton at the beginning of the season.

Their win against Derby was one of authority and they will hopefully have enough to dispose of a stubborn Crystal Palace side.

My Selection: Cardiff to beat Crystal Palace

Best odds available: 20/21 available with Boylesports

English Championship

Portsmouth v Nottingham Forest

Steve Cotterill returns to Fratton Park less than a month after leaving to become Nottingham Forest manager. Portsmouth will be desperate to put one over their former boss as the two sides clash.

Pompey have yet to appoint a full time replacement for Cotterill and it might be having an adverse effect on the players as from the four games since his departure, they have won just once and and lost two of the other three. Guy Whittingham, caretaker manager, is probably unlikely to get the role permanently but he will be doing is utmost to ensure he is being considered. Pompey’s home form has been good through all the upheaval with four wins and two draws from seven games. Their only defeat came against Peterborough at the end of September. After two games on the road where they picked up a solitary point, they will be glad to get back to home comforts and will be especially motivated as their former manager makes a return.

Forest were in dire straights before Cotterill took over in October. Steve McLaren’s reign was nothing short of a disaster and he had to go as players were simply not playing for him any longer. Since Cotterill has took charge their fortunes have definitely changed although their is plenty of room for improvement. Three wins from four matches is a big step in the right direction especially when you consider the calibre of teams they have beaten. Middlesbrough and Reading have been accounted for at the City Ground whilst a 2-1 win away to Blackpool means they have a 100% record on the road under their new boss. The only blot in his short career as Forest manager was a 1-0 loss at home to Hull where they dominated for large spells.

Portsmouth look to have been dealt a massive blow with the loss of their captain Liam Lawrence. The midfielder picked up an injury against Crystal Palace on Tuesday and it looks highly unlikely that he’ll be able to take part tomorrow. Greg Halford may well take his place as the utility man looks as though he’ll return from is own injury.

Forest are unlikely to change a winning formula after their 1-0 success against Reading. Cotterill has looked to stabalise the team and shored things up at the back. He will be looking towards Marcus Tudgay for their goals with the striker having notched in two of his four games in charge.

Passions are likely to be running high tomorrow come 3pm at Fratton Park. For all the good Cotterill did under immense pressure during his time with Portsmouth, football fans are a fickle lot and all they will remember is that he left their club for another, a rival in their own division.

It’s a more speculative punt than normal as a lot has to be taken on faith with regards to how well Forest are currently playing or if they have been successful because of the immediate impact of a new manager. Portsmouth have a small squad and with the loss of their influential captain it seems even more condensed. They don’t score too many at the best of times and with Lawrence out, they could be vulnerable against a team who look to be on a roll whatever the reason for their upsurge in form.

Cotterill will know these players inside out and as he’s a very shrewd character, the value may well lie in the away win.

My Selection: Nottingham Forest to beat Portsmouth

Best odds available: 85/40 available with Victor Chandler

There will be another preview for Sunday’s games so check back on Saturday night

Also, I have succumbed to the Twitter craze and will be updating regularly with my thoughts on football and horse racing so if you wish, follow me @CReilly1967

Saturday 29th October

Norwich v Blackburn

Both Norwich and Blackburn were expected to be fighting relegation this season but the Canaries are riding high in the top half whilst Rovers are currently propping up the foot of the table, they meet at Carrow Road tomorrow.

Paul Lambert is as astute as they come. He has worked under some fantastic managers during his playing career in the shape of Ottmar Hitzfeld and Martin O’Neill. The fact he sat his coaching badges whilst he was still playing meant that he could take a managerial job earlier than most. He has steadily progressed since taking the Livingston job in 2005 and he’s yet another Scottish manager plying his trade in the Premier League. Norwich has to wait until September to get their first win of the season but they have barely looked back since.A battling 2-0 loss at Old Trafford against Manchester United is their only loss in their last five matches so they seemed to have adjusted well to life in England’s top flight. Last weekends 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield would have been a massive boost as it proved to everyone connected with the club that they do deserve to be in the Premier League and they are capable of competing against the better sides, even away from home.

Blackburn have struggled for much of the campaign and manager Steve Kean has been under intense pressure from his own fans. Kean, however, does have the backing of the owners and a 4-3 extra time win over Newcastle in the League cup during the week would have helped his case and he will hope that his players can push on and carry their cup form, which has taken them to the quarter finals, into league duty – starting this weekend. Rovers have won just once from their first nine games, losing six of them, so they need to be harder to beat so that when they don’t play well, they can still pick up the odd point, especially on their travels. Last time out against Tottenham they lost an early goal but Kean will be satisfied with their immediate response as they got back into it only to lose it in the second half. Their last away match was their second draw on the road this season when they played another of the promoted clubs, QPR. A repeat of that wouldn’t be the worst in the world but Kean knows they need to start winning games to move off the bottom of the table.

Norwich have already seen off Sunderland and Swansea at home and look to be getting stronger as the season goes on. It can’t be underestimated how important it is for sides who have been promoted to get points on the board early so the fact they are coming into their own after a few games will be pleasing for Lambert who is sticking to his principals and playing attractive football with plenty of width in the side.

It may be to early to say this is a must win for Steve Kean but he is under pressure to deliver results. Managers rarely last long when the fans have turned against them and the only way to win them back is to get instant results. A bad result tomorrow and the knives will be out again.

Norwich are the side in form and were worth a point last week. It will be a different type of game tomorrow as the last couple of home matches will mean the crowd will be expecting them to go at Blackburn and gain another three points. Confidence is high at Carrow Road and I can see them being victorious again.

My Selection: Norwich to beat Blackburn

Best odds available: 21/20 available with PaddyPower

English Championship

Birmingham v Brighton

There were two divisions between Birmingham and Brighton at this stage last season but one relegation and one promotion means they meet tomorrow in the Championship and St Andrews.

Chris Hougton had an unenviable task when made manager of Birmingham City in the summer as the club had to get rid of their best players to pay large debts which so many clubs suffer as a result of a relegation from the Premier League. A shaky start to the season was to be expected such was the turnover of players and with the quality of some of those who left. However things are definitely looking a lot brighter for the Blues both at home and in Europe. Birmingham have actually won their last six matches in all competitions, four in the league and two away victories in the Europa League. The four wins in the league have been even more impressive as they have come against some of the bigger clubs in the league such as Leeds, Leicester and Nottingham Forest. Hougton will be demanding that his players continue to give their all and improve the chances of promotion challenge come the end of the season. Tomorrow’s match takes on significant importance despite being so early in the season as they can move into the play-off positions with a win and would have at least one game in hand over most sides as well.

Brighton were the opposite to Birmingham as they had a very positive close season after running away with the League One title last season Moving to a new Stadium added to the Euphoria whilst the signing of quality players such as Craig Mackail-Smith and Vicente was the icing on the top. This good feeling carried over to the start of the season as they were unbeaten in their first eight matches in all competitions, a run of form which yielded seven wins a draw. With form like that they had many people thinking of a second automatic promotion (something Norwich achieved last season), including their own fans. Unfortunately for the Seagulls fans things have tailed off in recent weeks as they haven’t won in their last eight matches – losing five of them. Poyet’s problems were further increased after influential midfielder Gary Dicker was carried off in their most recent defeat against West Ham on Monday night.

Birmingham have played five games at St Andrews in the league and have won four of them. The only team who have come away with anything were Barnsley who were only denied by a late Chris Burke goal. Home form is always important in the Championship so Hougton will be pleased that his side are difficult to beat on their own ground and will be determined to continue that tomorrow.

Brighton will be hoping that their good football and excellent passing game can provide something this week. They had an incredible amount of possession on Monday night but chances were few and far between for having so much of the play. West Ham got an early goal and basically sat on their lead inviting their opponents on to them. Brighton were not up to the challenge that night so Poyet must decide whether he changes something or sticks with what has gotten them so far over the last 12 months.

Birmingham have a bang in form striker with Chris Wood scoring four goals in his last five matches and he will be up against a side he was on loan at last season. Brighton may well be wishing they still had him as they have scored just three goals in their last five games. A team that can’t score can’t win games so I’m taking Brum to notch their seventh successive victory tomorrow.

My Selection: Birmimgham to beat Brighton

Best odds available: 11/10 available with Ladbrokes

English League One

Preston v BournemouthTen points and 12 places in the table seperate Preston and Bournemouth but there are few easy games in League one and the away side will be hoping to upset the odds tomorrow at Deepdale.

Phil Brown is one of the more colourful characters in the game and there’s rarely a dull moment when he’s around. He can also produce a team to challenge in both League One and the Championship which is what he’s doing with Preston North End. He couldn’t save them from relegation last season but he’s been charged with the task of getting them straight back into the Championship at the first time of asking. A run of six straight victories and seven out of eight was enough to put them into contention for automatic promotion but things have stalled of late and they are without a win in their last five league games. It means they currently sit out of the play-off zone but their is a long way to go and recent performances have certainly not been terrible – they have also played two of the current top four so although there is plenty of room for improvement to get to that stage there has been enough shown thus far to be optimistic. Their home form is pretty strong as they have won four of their seven matches at Deepdale and are scoring plenty of goals with an average of more than two goals per game at home.

Bournemouth are in their second season in League One and as is common in these leagues, they are finding the second season more difficult than the first. Eddie Howe, who led them to the division, has obviously left for pastures new and the role of manager was handed to Lee Bradbury who was a player at the time. His side currently sit in the relegation zone but with the league being so tight throughout, a couple of wins could see them leap right up the table. It’s trying to find consistency which is the problem for the Cherries as they have won back to back games just once this season. They are difficult to beat however as they have lost just one of their last six matches which will definitely be a source of comfort for Bradbury and the Bournemouth supporters who will both be keen to move away from the relegation picture as soon as possible.

Bournemouth have performed better on the road this season compared to at home so the visit to Preston will not hold too many fears for them. Wins against Leyton Orient and Exeter will have bolstered their confidence when playing on their travels and Bradbury will be hoping for more of the same.

Preston’s only other defeat other than Sheffield United was against Colchester back in August so it promises to be an entertaining game for those attending. Neil Mellor and Iain Hume have forged a good partnership and will be hoping their goals can get their side back on to the winning trail.

I don’t think there will be much in it but I’m going for another home win here.

My Selection: Preston to beat Bournemouth

Best odds available: 10/11 available with Skybet

Saturday 22nd October

Bolton v Sunderland

Neither Bolton or Sunderland have had the start to the season that they would have wanted or expected so Saturday’s game give’s both sides a chance to rectify that at the Reebok.

Owen Coyle will have been disappointed with the number of defeats his side have so early in the season but he will have been boosted by recent performances. Last weeks victory over Wigan was far more like it and they looked like the team of last season with so much quality going forward. They troubled the Wigan goal on a regular basis and looked threatening for the full 90 minutes. It was just their second win of the season after eight games (losing the rest of them) and their first since the opening day of the season, so it was very timely heading into such an important stage of the season. Despite their victory they still remain in the bottom three, one place behind tomorrow’s opponents despite having the same number of points. What may provide a source of comfort for Coyle is the fact that Bolton have already played the likes of Chelsea, the two Manchester clubs, Liverpool and Arsenal. It’s a tough run of fixtures for anyone at anytime of the season but for a club who had brought in several players to begin their campaign with so many hard games it is doubly difficult.

Steve Bruce is under a lot of pressure at the minute after a less than positive start to the season. Last weekends defeat to Arsenal in London was their fourth of the season and with just one win to their name thus far, the pressure is mounting on the former Manchester United captain to start achieving results sooner rather than later. Their only win to date was a 4-0 thumping of Stoke City back in September which they would have been hoping would have been the turning point but the following three games have yielded just one point – and that was after being 2-0 down early on against West Brom. Like Bolton it’s not all doom in gloom as there were some positive signs against Arsenal last Sunday. Despite losing a goal in the first minute, the Black Cats equalised and held their own for much of the match only to lose to a fantastic Robin Van Persie free kick in the last few minutes.

It’s too early to talk about a six pointer – far too early, but it could prove to be a vital match for the future of Steve Bruce. A defeat and it would mean Bolton would leapfrog Sunderland and leave them in the relegation zone whilst a win could be the catalyst for them to clim the table. Sunderland do have a good recent record at the Reebok as they are unbeaten in their last three visits, winning two of them. A repeat of that would be a timely boost for the under-fire Bruce.

Bolton impressed me last weekend with the manner of their win against Wigan. To dominate a local derby is a feat at anytime but coming off so many defeats in the league and to do so away from home is even more impressive. Sunderland also stepped up their game against Arsenal but with home advantage I think Bolton will prove to be too strong and put even more pressure on Sunderland and their manager.

My Selection: Bolton to beat Sunderland

Best odds available: 13/10 available with PaddyPower

English Championship

Ipswich Town v Crystal Palace

Sixth meets fifth in the Championship tomorrow so it promises to be an entertaining match at Portman Road when Ipswich meet Crystal Palace.

Ipswich’s recent resurgence see’s them sitting top of the form table in the Championship as well as sitting in the play-off zone in the league itself. Paul Jewell will have been as disappointed as anyone with the start to the season by his side but things have certainly picked up in recent weeks. Key to their revival has been a strong midfield, one which would not look out of place in the Premier League let alone the current level they are playing at. Keith Andrews, Lee Bowyer, Jimmy Bullard and Grant Leadbitter have all had recent experience of playing at the top level whilst Jay Emmanuel Thomas was purchased from Arsenal in the close season. Despite winning their first match of the season they went on to lose five of their next six league games which saw them in the relegation zone at one point. Things have certainly picked up however and they are now unbeaten in their last six matches, winning four of them. It’s even more impressive when you consider they teams they have played during that time.

Palace have certainly surpassed many people’s expectations this season with the amount of points they have gathered so early on. Six wins from 12 is a more than decent return for a club who have been battling relegation for the past few seasons. Dougie Freedman is doing a grand job and will be delighted with the response of his players but he will also know that there is a long way to go between now and May so will be demanding that they keep it up. A big positive for Palace is that they seem equally comfortable away from home as they do at Selhurst Park as they have amassed the same amount of wins on the road as they have done at home. Back to back wins against Watford and Bristol City after the International break will have done wonders for confidence heading into a busy set of fixtures where they will be up against some quality sides such as tomorrow’s opponents, Southampton and Cardiff.

It’s such a cliche but the midfield battle is so important when two closely matched sides meet. It will be no different tomorrow and the likes of Bullard and Andrews will be up against South African and Australian internationals. Kagisho Evidence and Michael Jedinak will be accompanied by the goalscoring threat of Darren Ambrose in the Palace midfield whilst the potent partnership of Glenn Murray and Jermaine Easter will certainly test the home defence.

Ipswich are on a real role at the moment with a midfield packed full of quality it was only a matter of time before they got their act together. Michael Chopra will be tasked with adding to his five league goals as he assumed a likely lone striker role with the wide players expected to get up and support the former Cardiff hitman.

I am expecting game packed full of chances and possibly goals tomorrow as both managers like to get their teams forward. There has been 19 goals shared at Portman Road this term whilst Crystal Palace’s away games have yielded 16. With that in mind, as well as fancying Ipswich to gather all three points, I think the over 2.5 goals is also worth a wager.

My Selection: Ipswich to beat Crystal Palace at a best priced 21/20 available with William Hill Over 2.5 goals at a best priced 4/5 available with Bet365

English League One

Sheffield Wednesday v Colchester United
After a morale boosting come from behind draw against city rivals United last weekend, Sheffield Wednesday host Colchester knowing that a win could see them top if other results go their way.

Gary Megson may not have been everyone’s idea of Wednesday’s new manager and had a less than successful start last season but he has proved his doubters wrong this term. Six home wins from six in the league is the main reason for sitting third in the table and gives them real hope of returning to the second tier of English football after a few years in the wilderness. They have not tasted defeat since the middle of September and as mentioned, their 2-2 draw with Sheffield United would have felt like a win as they were two goals down with less than 10 minutes to go before their late, late show.

Megson has assembled a team of quality players who have experience at a higher level than this throughout their careers. Chris Sedgwick is one of those players and his vast experience is a real help in the middle of the park. The man everyone is talking about, however, is Gary Madine. Unlike others, Madine has not yet tasted a higher level of football but the former Carlisle man is really impressing and has scored 11 goals in 13 matches.

Colchester are not one of the bigger names in the League One list of clubs but they are consistent and do have a history of upsetting the odds so they do come with a warning. John Ward will be a little more satisfied after his side went the last four games unbeaten, winning two and drawing two. Before that they were struggling for any kind of consistency which meant they were towards the bottom of the table but they are improving as recent wins against Chesterfield and Walsall would back up. Two 2-2 draws followed so heading into tomorrow’s match against a heavyweight such as Sheffield Wednesday, confidence should be as high as it has been all season.

Anthony Wordsworth has been the jewel in Colchester’s crown this season as the midfielder has scored six goals in 13 games which is an excellent return for a striker at this level let alone a midfield player. He is attracting interest from bigger clubs but he looks totally devoted to Colchester and his development over the past couple of seasons has been excellent. With his six goals, he is on course to beat his tally of 11 goals he notched in 2009/10.

This game may have had home win written all over it a couple of weeks ago such was the form of Colchester but they are proving that they can be hard to beat with just one loss in eight games. That loss was against the other Sheffield side when they were easily beaten 3-0 at Brammal Lane.

Despite Colchester’s better form of late, there is a great deal of momentum behind Sheffield Wednesday and with Gary Madine in such prolific form, it’s hard to see anything other than a victory for the Owl’s.

My Selection: Sheffield Wednesday to beat Colchester

Best odds available: 5/6 available with Stan James

Saturday 10th September

Sunderland v Chelsea

Top flight league action returns after a week of International football as Steve Bruce’s Sunderland, still without a win, entertain Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland have endured a tough start to their league campaign with just two points to show from their opening three games. They have found it hard to score goals having found the net just once which was on the opening day of the season. At the same time, however, they remain hard to break down which results in few teams getting the better of them. Liverpool could only manage a draw on the opening day of the season whilst Swansea, for all their efforts, had to settle for a point as well. It’s testament to the organsation of Bruce who prides himself on building from the back having been such an accomplished defender in his playing days. The Sunderland fans will be hoping that the new arrivals from the summer begin to click with Nicklas Bendtner the latest to sign on after agreeing a year long loan deal from Arsenal. He may just be the focal point the Black Cat’s need to push on and turn some draws into victories.

Chelsea remain unbeaten with two wins and a draw from their three games but few have been impressed with how they have reached their seven points. Andre Villas-Boas is learning the hard way in the Premier League that time is not a manager’s friend. Stuttering home wins against West Brom and Norwich followed an opening day draw with Stoke. The young manager said after that game that his side’s opponents were too physical and never played football in the correct manner – he may find history repeating itself tomorrow. Accused of lacking craft for a while now, Juan Mata and Raul Meireles who both arrived in August will be charged with providing that spark to ignite their title aspirations. Fernando Torres has looked sharper but is still to get off the mark this term whilst the likes of Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Nicholas Anelka are another year older.

Sunderland will make it difficult for Chelsea tomorrow with a five man midfield abley supported by a well drilled back four. Bendtner will likely start in place of Gyan who after the Ghanian injured himself in his country’s friendly against Brazil. Chelsea will also be without a striker in the shape of Drogba as he is still recovering from the vicious head injury he recieved in their last match against Norwich. This means Torres is likely to play through the middle with Mata and Florent Malouda possibly supporting him from the wide areas.

Chelsea have a magnificent record away to Sunderland winning on their last six visits. The home side will take heart from the fact they crushed Chelsea 3-0 last season at Stamford Bridge so they know it can be done. Personally I think Chelsea will be all the better for the International break and can seem them kicking on a bit now. Mata is a terrific addition to the squad and his trickery may well be the difference.

My Selection: Chelsea to beat Sunderland

Best odds available: 8/11 available with Paddypower

English Championship

Reading v Watford

Both Reading and Watford were much higher up the table for a lot of last season but they are looking up at most teams at the moment so both will be determined to get the points at the Madejski Stadium.

Brian McDermott must have been aware that this season would be even harder than his first full season last term. Not only did he need to pick his players up after losing out at Wembley in the play-off final, he also had to contend with the loss of key players such as Matt Mills and Shane Long. Both made big money moves and little of that money has been reinvested into the team. Adam Le Fondre has been brought in to shoulder the burden left by Long whilst Kaspars Gorkss has replaced Mills at the heart of the defence. Having impressively beaten Leicester at the Walkers Stadium in the middle of August, many would have expected the Royals to kick on but they have lost their next four games in all competitions. McDermott may well take some heart from the fact that every defeat has been by the odd goal but it’s little consolation as it still results in the same outcome – no points.

Watford have also had to contend with a shake-up in the summer as their manager, Malky Mackay has moved on to pastures new to take up the job at Cardiff. Sean Dyce, former player at the club, has come in but he has had to sell his best players as well. Danny Graham, last season’s top scorer, moved to Premier League side Swansea whilst Don Cowie has followed his former manager to Wales. It has resulted in Watford failing to win any of their five league games to date. Three draws with Birmingham, Coventry and Burnley, as well as defeats against West Ham and Derby have left many fans fearing the worst. The one positive that the Hornets can take solace from is the fact they have kept hold of their much sought after striker Marvin Sordell. Southampton were one of many sniffing about but he will be a Watford player until January at least.

Reading were one of the most impressive sides in the division last season and despite their departures, they still have a lot of quality. Le Fondre is a goalscorer and his move from Rotherham may prove to be a stroke of genius on McDermott’s part.

Watford on the other hand look likely to struggle this season. Dyce is very inexperienced and his signings have yet to impress. If it wasn’t for a last minute equaliser against Birmingham last time out then they would have been faced with the prospect of going into this match in second bottom place.

The home side look very attractive at the prices and with Le Fondre set to make his debut I can see them taking all three points tomorrow afternoon.

My Selection: Reading to beat Watford

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Betfred

English League One

Huddersfield v Tranmere Rovers
Huddersfield remain unbeaten but will face a tough test as Tranmere, who sit above them in the table, come visiting in search of extending their good run with their fourth victory of the season.

Having tipped up the Terriers in last week’s previews, they let readers (and myself) down as they could only manage a draw with rivals Oldham. Only the bar denied Alan Lee from helping Huddersfield to all three points but as it was, they settled for keeping their unbeaten record in tact. They will be looking to get back to winning ways tomorrow however as they cannot afford to keep drawing matches if they wish to pursue automatic promotion. With MK Dons and Sheffield United flying high at the top, Lee Clark will be aware that his side must be more ruthless infront of goal, especially on their travels. Their home record his strong, and has been for a while. Two wins and a draw from their first three matches, it already looks ominous for visiting opponents who will find it difficult to take anything from the Galpharm Stadium.

Tranmere have surprised many with their start to the season after a few seasons at the other end of the table. Les Parry, formerly the club’s physio, has worked wonders on such a limited budget. From their first six matches they have won three and drawn two, their only defeat was against Notts County in a five goal thriller, losing out by the odd goal. They have secured two wins on the road, however, both down in London with Brentford and Leyton Orient losing out respectively. They are a team very much built from the back as they have scored just seven goals from their half dozen league games. Tomorrow will arguably be their biggest test as Huddersfield have been in the promotion shake-up the last couple of years so Parry will be able to see how far his side have come in recent weeks.

Tranmere are packed full of experience from the back four right through to the strikers. They do, however, have a very small squad so getting points early may well prove vital come the end of the season. As much as these sides are only seperated by a point, I believe Huddersfield, especially at home, are much better equipped to mount a serious charge for promotion and sustaining their good early season form. Having scored seven already at home, I’m banking on the Yorkshire side to get the better of tomorrow’s opponents.

My Selection: Huddersfield to beat Tranmere

Best odds available: 3/4 available with William Hill

Saturday 3rd September

Sheffield United v Bury

The Premier League and Championship in England takes a break for a week due to International football so League One and Two take centre stage. Sheffield United have made a strong start to their campaign and will be looking for another three points at home to Bury.

Danny Wilson is quickly becoming the man of many clubs, Yorkshire clubs to be precise. Having started out with Barnsley, he had an unsuccessful spell at Sheffield Wednesday before being manager at a further four clubs before ending up at the other Sheffield club. Four wins from five matches means they are joint top of the table and it’s a start that has rejuvenated the Blades’ crowd after relegation last season. The squad is pack full of experience and there are a few players who have stayed on at the club to prove that they are worthy of the magnificent support they always recieve. Richard Cresswell, Nick Montgomery and Stephen Quinn are no strangers to Bramall Lane so they understand what the club is all about. The way the fixtures have fallen has meant that United have played just one match at home in the League thus far so it makes the start even more impressive.

Bury have made a steady enough start to lives in League on with two wins and a draw from their first five matches. Sitting in mid table at the moment, it’s surely a position that everyone associated with their club would take come May. They have already defeated one half of the Sheffield clubs when victorious at home last months. That match will give them confidence that they can take on the big clubs in the division of which the Steel City clubs most certainly are. Their other victory was away to Wycombe Wanderers, they kept a clean sheet that day so again, the fact they have got their first away win will be a weight off their collective shoulders. Richie Barker is in his first managerial post after a a playing career which spanned more than 15 years – much of it in the lower leagues in England. It is a test for him and his side but at the moment, they seem to be coping rather well all in all.

United will be looking forward to getting back to Bramall Lane after playing just one match so far. With a big crowd expected, United may well face their two new loan signings from Rangers in the shape of John Fleck and Kyle Hutton. They will add real energy and drive to the squad, bringing about a better balance within the squad between experience and youth. Bury will have to do without their talisman in recent seasons, Ryan Lowe. The prolific striker has moved to Sheffield Wednesday ironically enough so the challenge for Bury will be to replace Lowe’s goals to enhance their chances of staying up.

There was two divisions between these sides last season as United were in the Championship and Bury were promoted from League Two. The fact they are now competing in the same division suggests, that for very different reason, they deserve to be. I think the odds on a home win are very generous and I am selecting them with a good deal of confidence to get their fifth victory of the season.

My Selection: Sheffield United to beat Bury

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Coral

English League One

Oldham Athletic v Huddersfield Town

It’s another battle of the roses as Lancashire based Oldham take on Huddersfield from Yorkshire at Boundary Park.

Oldham have started in League One for well over a decade now, and for most of those years, they have been in and around the bottom half of the able. Apart from a couple of years at the start of this decade when they reached the play-off’s, it’s been a struggle for the Lactics. This season has started with two victories and three defeats, not bad after they lost their first two matches of the season. Their home form is nornally what keeps them in the league so Paul Dickov, in his second season in charge, will be hoping to boost their points total with a victory tomorrow. Dickov has bolstered his attacking options this week by signing Shefki Kuqi. The veteran forward played with his new manager when at Blackburn the Scot will know exactly what he will bring to his side. Kuqi is likely to make his debut tomorrow alongside loan signing Tom Adeyami from Norwich.

Huddersfield remain undefeated after five games with two wins and three draws. After losing key players such as Anthony Pilkington and Lee Peltier in the summer, it’s taken a little longer than expected for the Terriers to find their full stride. Last weekends 3-0 romp against Wycombe certainly signalled their intention however and they well be hitting a bit of form. It was their third win in a four in all competitions with the only blot on their copybook in that run being an extra time defeat to Championship side Cardiff. Despite the departures there are still plenty of goals in the side with Lee Novak and Jordan Rhodes still scoring freely. The introduction of players in the ilk of Tommy Miller from Sheffield Wednesday will hopefully boost the chances of Huddersfield going one step better in their bid for promotion. Having failed at the semi-final stage of the play-off’s two seasons ago, they were beaten 3-0 by Peterborough in the final last season.

Oldham may have been underachieved in recent seasons but the fact they have not been relegated in so long shows that they can be hard to beat and that they can get a result when they need to. Obviously, so early in the season, the pressure is not on as yet which I think play’s into the away teams hands. The pitch will be in the best state of the whole season which will suit the footballing style of Clark and his side. With so many matchwinners in their side, I think Huddersfield will be victorious on their travels for the first time in the league this season.

My Selection: Huddersfield to beat Oldham Athletic

Best odds available: 6/5 available with Victor Chandler

English League Two

Crawley Town v Bristol Rovers

Big spending Crawley were most people’s favourites to win League Two this season whilst Bristol Rovers posess a strong squad after their relegation from League One last season so tomorrow’s match looks nailed on to be entertaining.

Crawley romped the Conference last season and they have taken well to life in League one as they currently sit just three points off of first placed Rotherham. Last weekend’s defeat to Cheltenham was their only blot thus far when losing 3-1 away from home. It was a shock to many especially as they were 3-0 down at half time. Steve Evans will be hoping for a reaction from his players as it is now three defeats in a rown across all competitions. They do boast a 100% record at home however and have yet to concede a goal having notched five themselves. The man who scored for fun last season has taken off on the same foot this one as well with three goals from four. It means that Matt Tubbs has now scored 40 goals in 44 league games, an amazing record.

Bristol Rovers may well be a little disappointed with their start to the season as they had a couple of results where most expected better from them. Last weekends draw with Hereford was not on the agenda and they will consider it two points dropped. Manager Paul Buckle will be looking to his experienced players to get back on track as they also lost out in the cup during the week. Adam Virgo at the back is a big presence is more ways than one whilst Matthew Gill in the middle of the park has impressed thus far. It’s upfront where Rovers have struggled with just six goals scored in the league to date. Whay may come as a consolation to Buckle is the fact they are unbeaten at home in the league taken four points from a possible six.

It is a big match in the context of League One and much like the Sheffield United v Bury match, there were two divisions between the sides last term. As ever though, there is a reason why they are in this League and with Crawley so impressive at home added to a slightly indifferent start from their more illustrious opponents makes the home side clear favourites. They are a side I would stay on the right side of more often than not when playign in Sussex and I’m taking them to get back on track after three defeats on the road.

My Selection: Crawley to beat Bristol Rovers

Best odds available: 4/5 available with Betfred