Ascot King George IV odds and betting

All sings lead towards Berkshire on Saturday for this year’s renewal of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. Nathaniel landed the spoils in this race twelve months ago and bids to become the first back-to-back winner of this contest since Swain in 1998. However, he faces tough competition for a share of the £1million purse with Hardwicke winner Sea Moon and Coronation Cup victor St Nicholas Abbey also amongst the field of ten runners for the contest over 1m4f. Check out all the latest free bets for this race.

Brown Panther Ran no sort of race on seasonal reappearance this year but was a wide margin winner in listed company at Pontefract last time. Clearly handles soft ground and boasts course and distance winning form last year but needs to improve once more to figure here; probably fighting for minor honours.

Dunaden Hong Kong vase winner last year who might have finished closer to eventual winner Sea Moon in the Hardwicke at Royal Ascot last month granted a little luck in running. Still beaten over three lengths though and for all his ability and wins overseas, he has been well held on both runs in Britain.

Masked Marvel Three length St Leger winner twelve months ago from Brown Panther in second but has been largely disappointing since. Finished last of 16 in the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe on final start last year and although Coronation third last time was a step in the right direction he has his work cut out in this company.

Nathaniel Showed himself as good as ever on his seasonal reappearance in the Eclipse a fortnight ago when holding off the late challenge of Farhh. Won this same race twelve months ago and will have no problems with the conditions; he looks the one to beat in this line-up for the in-form John Gosden camp.

Reliable Man Smart performer in France over both 1m2f and 1m4f rand a creditable fourth in the Prince Of Wales’s at this track last month. Has form on soft ground and interesting that connections have persevered with him in Britain and is one that could go well at likely bigger odds.

Robin Hood Last of 11 in last months Prince Of Wales’ where he was deployed as a pacemaker for eventual winner So You Think; connections likely to adopt those same tactics here for St Nicholas Abbey; no appeal.

Sea Moon Hardwicke winner last month who had to play second fiddle to St Nicholas Abbey in the Breeders’ Cup last year. Yard in decent form at present though and he has form on deteriorating ground which cannot be said about some of the others. Had Dunaden in behind last time and another bold bid is expected; respected.

St Nicholas Abbey All wins gained have come at left-handed tracks and could only manage third in this racer last year after allowing leaders to go off in front. Back to his best in the Coronation Cup at Epsom latest over 1m4f on good to firm and will not be short of supporters again; should go close.

Danedream Surprise 20-1 winner of the Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe last year but was mightily disappointing in four-runner Group 1 at Saint-Cloud latest over 1m4f on good to soft. She will need to improve markedly on that effort but a repeat of her L’Arc form would put her in the frame so has to enter calculations.

Deep Brilliante This son of the legendary Deep Impact won the Japanese Derby in May but that bare form is difficult to assess against these domestic contenders. He has won on ground described as soft before and would not be the biggest surprise to see him go well here.

King George IV betting verdict

The market is finding it hard to split Sea Moon, St Nicholas Abbey and NATHANIEL and it is easy to see why given their previous winning form. However, preference is for the latter who was expected to come on for his run in the Eclipse last time yet still managed to hold his rivals and he can do the same again here. If John Gosden’s inmate underperforms Reliable Man and Deep Brilliante are the interesting ones at likely bigger prices. Remember, you can even bet with Paypal on this race – visit our Paypal betting guide.

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Newmarket July Cup betting preview

The Darley July Cup will cap of Newmarket’s July meeting on Saturday and judging by the entries for the Group 1 sprint, it promises to be another fascinating renewal. Dream Ahead stole all the headlines in this race twelve months ago under jockey Hayley Turner and the bookmakers believe it will be James Doyle who follows in her footsteps aboard Bated Breath, who currently heads the betting. The Roger Charlton-trained five year old was just found out by international challenger Little Bridge in the King’s Stand at Royal Ascot last month but could make amends here. Click here for a choice of free bets on this race.

Society Rock, last year’s Diamond Jubilee winner was unfortunate in this year’s renewal after missing the break completely but James Fanshawe’s representative made eye-catching late headway to finish fifth. Aussie raider Ortensia has stayed in Britain since a below par run in the King’s Stand behind Bated Breath but William Buick takes the mount this time around and better is expected over six furlongs providing the ground is not too soft.

Of the others of interest, Strong Suit, now in the colours of Qatar Racing Limited holds a definite chance if she can repeat the form he displayed last year in winning the Jersey and Lennox Stakes. Godolphin are represented by Sepoy, who never travelled at Meydan in March but can be given a chance returned to turf, but he might prove vulnerable on his first run on British soil.

At a much larger price, Libranno for the Richard Hughes camp is interesting on the back of his consecutive wins at Salisbury and Newmarket respectively. The four-year-old is bidding for a three-timer and although he takes his chance in a much warmer race, Pat Cosgrave’s mount is certainly in decent heart.

Another exciting renewal of the July Cup awaits and if Bated Breath can repeat the form of his King’s Stand second to Little Bridge he must hold every chance. However, the tentative vote goes to Society Rock, who was very unlucky in the Diamond Jubilee last time but made rapid late headway to suggest his time was near again. Libranno could well fare best of the rest at much likelier odds.

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Haye v Chisora betting

The controversial fight between David Haye and Dereck Chisora will go ahead on Wednesday at West Ham’s Upton Park ground. Chisora had actually had his license revoked by the British Boxing Board of control after the infamous cash between the two back in February. Nonetheless, the fight has been given the go ahead by the Luxembourg Boxing Federation and so the two will face off. Get a £25 free bet on this fight from William Hill.

David Haye has been installed as the prefight favourite for the match and is priced at 1.4 with several bookmakers including Betfred. The Haymaker certainly has a good record, with just two losses in his professional career, so he should have the edge. But he hasn’t stepped into the ring since the defeat to Wladimir Klitschko, so what effect will this have on him? Previously, he has won the large majority of his fights by knockout, 23 out of 25. With this in mind, 2.88 for Haye to win by KO or TKO could bring a good return from your money.

Latest live odds

Like Haye, Dereck Chisora does have a good fight record, however, he has lost his last two fights against Robert Helenius and Vitali Kilitschko. Because of this, there is some great value to be had in a Chisora win on points, especially with odds as long as 8.6 being available from Betfair. But also as it looks like a close fight that could be difficult to call.

Haye vs Chisora free bets

Skybet are offering some good specials for the fight, such as whether or not the fight will be won in an odd or even round. You can get either of these at 3.25, and both are well worth looking at.

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Spain vs Italy Euro 2012 Final betting

Italy may just have won the neutral war at Euro 2012, and that is down to their refreshing style change, and also the wonderful, artistic and peerless Andrea Pirlo. His midfield compatriots deserve credit, Montolivo has justified his inclusion with great work at both ends of the pitch, but no man has controlled a midfield this tournament like Pirlo, dictating both knockout ties like he was dancing on ice. View all the free bets available for this match.

However, the man the media could not ignore, even before his match winning performance against Germany, has been Mario Balotelli. But that semi-final brushed away the antics and displayed the explosive talent of the Manchester City forward, using head and explosive right foot to lead Italy into half time with a 2-0 lead.

Italy are now an attacking side, yet showed in the second half with Germany that they can still do what the Italians always have, defend with an irresistible force. They have grown better with every game, which is usually the mark of champions, and must be confident they can take the trophy.

Spain

The first team to reach three major international tournaments in a row, it is getting easier to argue the case that this Spain side is the greatest international team in history. They have efficiently done as the Spanish now do, pass their way through games in their own style. This feat has also been achieved without two key players, namely Carlos Puyol and striker David Villa.

The latter has been key to a shift in Spanish style and public reaction out in Poland/Ukraine. Dissenting noises have been heard as Spain keep the ball, often without making ground, just keeping possession. When it all goes right it is like music, but the crowds have found some of the slower play a bit dull. With Villa injured, they have played without a striker, using midfielders as false number nines, and this has stopped some of their better work being finished off.

But the Spanish march continues. They may have struggled to see of Portugal, but they won, and like Italy they are showing champion’s traits.

Match Prediction: Spain Win – 2.15 William Hill

Whilst both teams have many positives coming into this game, Spain will have learned more from their draw with Italy than the Italians did. Italy will want to try the same tactics, or at least style of play, to stop the Spanish threat while creating their own. Spain, the best technical team in the world, will find different ways to attack the Italians, and still find that possession is the best form of defence.

On top of that, it is not often you get a price of over evens on the Spanish. Whilst they may have been held by Portugal for 120 mins, and taken into extra time at the 2010 World Cup, there is some value here.

Pirlo has certainly stamped his authority on games in the centre of midfield, but Spain’s high pressing line and the wonderful duo of Xavi and Iniesta are more than a match for him, and Spain’s champion experience could be key. Italy have grown into the tournament, as have Spain to a lesser degree, but Spain have also seemed so confident in their methods in any situation, and will do as champions do and back themselves confidently under the pressure of a final.

Their 1-1 draw in the opening game for each side was not full of chances, and goals could be at a premium. If you were to back one team to make an opening it would have to be Spain, and maybe the roaming Iniesta will come up trumps in a major final again.

Highlighted Bets:-

Over/Under: Under 2.5 Goals – 1.44 Betfred

First Goalscorer: Andres Iniesta – 13.00 William Hill

Correct Score: 1-0 Spain – 6.00 Stan James

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Spain vs Portugal betting

Portugal

The question in the media is the right one this week. Coming into a major international semi final, can Cristiano Ronaldo carry on his fine form, and will it be enough to force his country into the Euro 2012 final.

It is not even harsh to suggest the result will be influenced by how the Real Madrid man plays. They may have some quality players in their ranks, and Spain would be unwise to forget Nani, Meireles, Coentrao etc, but Ronaldo is the star man and their real hope of unlocking a Spanish team looking for back to back European Championship titles.

They have named an unchanged side in every game so far, but the injury to Helder Postiga in attack will change this. Manager Paulo Bento is likely to call in man mountain Hugo Almeida, who offers a more physical, aerial threat leading the line.

Spain

Labelled boring by the French media, Spain passed their way to victory against the French with ease. They have still to set the world alight like the past two major international tournaments, but Laurent Blanc’s side never looked like scoring against them.

Coach Vicente Del Bosque has claimed his side are drained, and this may force changes. In turn, this could bring the recall of Fernando Torres and see Spain play with an actual striker, rather than a rotation of midfielders filling the central gap which at times left good play unrewarded.

Spain will set a new record of 11 European Championship finals matches unbeaten if they avoid defeat. Their last loss in the competition was the 1-0 reverse to Portugal at Euro 2004. The Spanish have kept eight consecutive clean sheets in knock-out games at major tournaments. Goalkeeper Iker Casillas is unbeaten in 780 minutes (13 hours) at this stage since Zinedine Zidane’s 90th-minute goal for France at the 2006 World Cup.

Match Prediction: Portugal Win – 4.5 Betfred

According to Opta, Spain have completed 2,623 passes at Euro 2012, more than twice as many as Portugal (1,159). Spain will have the most possession, it is clear, it is what they do and will continue to do with players so skilled in the art of pass and move. Rather than the usual plaudits they receive for their easy on the eye style, criticism has come labelled at them this time around. No striker, no urgent desire to score, sometimes it seems like their reason for keeping the ball is to drain the match of energy and keep clean sheets. Suddenly the artists of attack look like a defensive side.

The no striker approach has also given them a slightly blunt look up front, and the importance of David Villa to their side is become clearer as the games go by. To see Xabi Alonso pop into the box alone to score a header is much of a surprise, and they have put balls into decent areas to find no man leading the line to even attack them.

They have played sides who have not punished them with the opportunities they do get, but one man in this tournament who can is Ronaldo. His dynamic style and undoubted skills could seize each moment and make it a victory. Spain are the better side, but maybe Ronaldo is the only clear matchwinner in this game.

Highlighted Bets:-

Over/Under: Over 2.5 Goals – 2.75 William Hill

First Goalscorer: Cristiano Ronaldo – 7.00 Bet Victor

Correct Score: 2-1 Portugal – 19.00 Stan James

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Spain vs France betting

Spain: Group Position: 1st, Form: WWDWW

Spain have topped their group like all expected, but they certainly have not been the dominant force of years gone by. Whether they miss the bulldog Puyol in defence or Villa’s movement and poaching ability up front, either way they are not flowing as fluidly as the past two tournaments.

The Ireland game aside, Italy and Croatia have done more than frustrate the Spaniards in their games. Both created chances, both will feel they could have won the match, but there is much to say in the fact they did not, even when Spain were not their best.

Equally, as the goals in those two games show, when Spain click they are almost unstoppable. And with so much of the ball, it does not give the opposition much chance to create. As such, it will be very hard to bet against the Spanish in every game they play, especially with players like Xavi and Iniesta running midfield.

France: Group Position: 2nd, Form: WWDWL

The French have done well to brush off their awful World Cup 2010 campaign in South Africa, where they imploded internally, players and staff alike revolting against crackpot manager Raymond Domenech. Since then, Laurent Blanc has been brought in and turned France around.

This change in manager has really changed the French. New players have been tried and trusted to show their skills on the international stage. And when you look at their team there is world class talent in every area. From ‘keeper Lloris, Clichy, M’Vila, Nasri, Ribery and Benzema, they have a team that can do more than just make things difficult for Spain.

The defeat in the last game against Sweden showed that they are not the finished article yet, but with games in quick succession and qualification all but guaranteed in that game you can sense why they switched off. It was the first time they had lost in 24 games, but Laurent Blanc will have let them know that was unacceptable, and they do not need to be told how easily they will be punished if they play like that against Spain.

Match Prediction: Spain Win – 1.85 Paddy Power

Neither side has come through the group stages as strongly as they would have liked, but the key with these tournaments is to battle through the early going and grow in strength as time goes by. As such, both are still dangerous animals, and the thing about the European Championships is that quality games and opponents come thick and fast.

The thought of a side growing better should hold more fears for France than the champions, as Spain’s highest level of play is definitely the higher standard. Spain will also have the majority of possession, something France have had in their games so far, and will therefore test the concentration and discipline of defence and midfield.

This Spanish style, and France’s fear of over committing due to this, will keep the score low. Spain are also lacking a goalscorer, and must decide whether Torres’ goals against Ireland mean he’s worth his place or that they should go back to the ‘false number nine’ system they used against Italy.

Spain vs France betting tips

Over/Under: Under 2.5 Goals – 1.62 Stan James

First Goalscorer: Andres Iniesta – 10.00 Paddy Power

Correct Score: 1-0 Spain – 6.5 Bet Victor

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Diamond Jubilee Stakes (Group 1) (6f)

IF she is able to reproduce her Australian form, where she has been barely troubled on her way to 21 consecutive victories, then wondermare Black Caviar will be utterly different class to her challengers in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes. Indeed, such is her theoretical superiority that several bookmakers are almost double figure odds about all the 14 rivals she will line up against in the race over six furlongs. Generally a best priced 3-10, the Peter Moody-trained superstar has little to prove but everything to lose as she puts her untarnished record on the line at Royal Ascot. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill or check out our Royal Ascot free bets section.

Black Caviar Rated only second to Frankel with Timeform’s rating of 136, and a win here will only enhance her claim as the world’s best sprinter. More rain means that it now seems certain to produce the softest track which she has ever raced but trainer remains confident she will handle any going. Regular rider Luke Nolen warmed up on the track with a fourth in the King’s Stand on Tuesday and will be extremely hard to beat here.

Society Rock Won this race a year ago after finishing second in 2010 and certainly on paper, looks best of the domestic defence. Just held in third on pleasing reappearance this season in Group 2 at York last month but expected to strip fitter for that run and this dual Ascot winner must be taken seriously nevertheless in his bid to follow up.

Moonlight Cloud Another overseas challenger and high-class filly who beat Society Rock by four lengths in last year’s Prix Maurice de Gheest. Was equally impressive on her return at Longchamp last month in a Group 3 over slightly further (7f ) and looks one of the more likely ones if Black Caviar is to be beaten here.

Krypton Factor Bahrain-trained Dubai Golden Shaheen winner who has rarely been seen out of the places at Meydan this year. However, he was beaten at odds against in Singapore last month in soft conditions and more rain would hinder his chances here; and likely he will to have to settle for minor honours. Have you seen the £500 in free bet offers available for Cheltenham 2013?

All the rage is about the Aussie wondermare and it is typically hard to see anything beating the Peter Moody-trained BLACK CAVIAR if she is able to reproduce the form of her 21 races at home. Moonlight Cloud looks the most likely danger from overseas and if there is to be an upset she might cause it while Society Rock usually puts his best foot forward at Ascot and can scoop the minor honours. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill.

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The Coronation Stakes (Group 1)

The highlight of the fourth day at Royal Ascot is The Coronation Stakes and one which features both the English and Irish 1,000 Guineas victors as Homecoming Queen and Samitar prepare to do battle respectively. A Group One race for fillies only, the contest is run over a mile on the round course at Ascot and is often the next target for those fillies that have ran in a Guineas race that season. In fact, 12 out of the last 14 winners of this race had run in a Guineas race that same season and as a general rule of thumb, those at the head of the betting usually perform well. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill or check out our Royal Ascot free bets section.

Elusive Kate Triple winner in France including Group 1 over a mile at Longchamp on her penultimate run last season but was never able to challenge when sent off favourite for fillies Grade 2 contest at Breeders’ Cup latest. She holds a definite each-way chance if that run can be forgiven though, and Olivier Peslier booked to ride, who is 2-2 on her. However, only one horse in 15 years has won this race on her seasonal debut.

Fallen For You Off the mark in conditions event on seasonal reappearance on the AW at Kempton in May and a little short of room in Group 3 event over 7f last time out. Even so she did little to threaten the leaders thereafter and will need to eke out further improvement against some in-form rivals.

Homecoming Queen Hugely impressive winner when making all in the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket in May on good to soft ground although couldn’t reproduce that effort (fourth behind Samitar) in the Irish equivalent later that month. Work to do to reverse that result and Samitar’s form has also been given a boost after Ishvana scored in the Jersey Stakes on Wednesday, but should be thereabouts.

Laugh Out Loud Ran too free at Newmarket three runs ago but earned her place with a good Group 2 win over a mile (good to soft) at Chantilly last time out. Needs to step up again on that effort but certainly a filly going the right way and is much respected in this company with Frankie Dettori booked to ride.

Samitar Put two relatively poor showings by her standards behind her when eye-catching winner of the Irish 1,000 Guineas (good) at the end of last month. Beat recent Jersey winner Ishvana by a length-and-a half so that form has taken a timely boost and is a previous Ascot winner over 6f. Stable yet to have a Royal Ascot winner in the first three days but she represents yards best chance on day four. Look out for great Cheltenham free bets offers at this year’s Festival.

Starscope Nine length second to Homecoming Queen in Guineas and easily outran her 33-1 odds that day. Followed up with a third in listed event at Newbury latest behind Momentary and Shirocco Star and latter was a game third in the Ribblesdale yesterday. Improvement likely but probably not the stables first string as John Gosden also saddles Elusive Kate and Fallen For You.

A strong field but a reproduction of her runaway 1,000 Guineas win at Newmarket would make Homecoming Queen particularly hard to beat. However, SAMITAR was equally impressive on her way to giving Mick Channon his first classic success in the Irish equivalent at The Curragh and she is given the tentative vote of confidence having already beaten Aidan O’Brien’s representative. The John Gosden-trained Elusive Kate could run into the places but might just need this outing. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill.

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ASCOT GOLD CUP (2m 4f)

Fame And Glory is all the rage ahead of the feature race on Day Three at Royal Ascot as another one of Aidan O’Brien’s stellar performers looks all set to scoop one of the meetings main events. Some consider the Ascot Gold Cup to be the highlight of the entire meeting and as one of the longest races of the flat season, the 2m4f contest is a real test of stamina. The bookmakers have installed Fame and Glory as the 11-10 favourite for the race as he bids for a repeat of his success twelve months ago. But his old rival Opinion Poll, who he has beaten on his last two visits to Ascot heads the list of dangers which also include recent Kempton victor Colour Vision. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill or check out our Royal Ascot free bets section.

Fame And Glory Winner of this race last year and set for another bold bid after game win at Navan holding off the useful mare Unaccompanied. Won at this course on his final run last season in the Group 3 Champions Long Distance Cup and preparations for this year’s race could not have gone any better and is rightly the one to beat again this time around.

Opinion Poll Finished a close up second to Fame and Glory the last twice but won a competitive looking Group 3 over in Meydan in March before a convincing win returned to Sandown last time. No problems with trip and another bold bid likely but needs to pull out a little bit more to finally reverse the placings with Fame and Glory. Read about our free bets for the 2013 Cheltenham Festival here.

Colour Vision Progressive type when with Mark Johnston and scored on first run for Godolphin in Group 3 event at Kempton last time over 2m. Needs to eke out further improvement in this field but likely that he will and closely matched with stablemate Opinion Poll.

Saddler’s Rock Four length winner over Opinion Poll in a Group 2 at Doncaster over 2m2f on his penultimate run but beaten on reappearance in a listed even in his native Ireland latest. Suspicion the heavy ground did him no favours that day and should be seen in better light if taking to these conditions.

One of the very best races of the meeting and one in which Opinion Poll will be hoping it is a case of third time lucky in his bid to overturn the places with last year’s victor FAME AND GLORY. However, Aidan O’Brien who saddled Yeats to four consecutive Ascot Gold Cup wins between 2006 and 2009, is on course for another win with Fame And Glory, who is a consistent and proven performer at Ascot. Saddler’s Rock can follow him home. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill.

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Prince Of Wales’s Stakes (Group One) (1m2f)

Last year’s second So You Think will be hoping to go one better when he takes on ten rivals in the renewal of the Prince of Wales’s Stakes on Day Two. Another Group One event but this time over 1m2f, will also see last year’s Derby third Carlton House line up in the royal silks, while the Saeed Bin Suroor-trained Farhh puts his unbeaten record on the line in much hotter company than he has previously contested. Can So You Think make up for last year’s disappointment or can Carlton House provide Her Majesty with a Royal Ascot winner in Diamond Jubilee year? Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill or check out our Royal Ascot free bets section.

So You Think High class performer who finished fourth in the Dubai World Cup in March just beaten into third by Planteur who he will meet again today. He bounced back with a routine victory in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at The Curragh last month and returns to Ascot after his second in this race twelve months ago; great chance he will go one better.

Carlton House Derby third last year and fourth in the Irish equivalent on his final run last season, he made a pleasing reappearance at Sandown in the Group 3 Brigadier Gerard Stakes last month. Will face much hotter company this time around though but looks the most likely danger to So You Think.

Planteur Dubai World Cup third on his first run for Marco Botti and ran on well in the Prix d’Ispahan at Longchamp last time when beaten just over a length again when finishing third. He was fourth in this race twelve months ago and likely he’ll find So You Think too good once more.

Farhh Unbeaten in three starts so far albeit at a considerably lower level in a couple of handicaps at Newmarket and Thirsk respectively. Unraced beyond a mile but was mightily impressive last time and should continue his progression here. However, better competition likely to find him out this time.

Reliable Man First run on British soil after all four wins have come in France. Consistent performer nevertheless but fared the worst of those held up in the Group One Prix d’Ispahan last month before staying on inside the final furlong. Interesting to see what the market makes of him. Get all the info you need for the Cheltenham Festival here. 

As fitting as it would be for Carlton House to provide the Queen with a Royal Ascot winner in Diamond Jubilee year, there is no getting away from the credentials of last year’s second SO YOU THINK. The Aidan O’Brien-trained six-year-old can make amends for his odds on defeat in this race last year. There have been three French-trained winners of this in the last five years and Reliable Man can run well for connections. Get a free £25 bet on any race at Royal Ascot with William Hill.

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