QPR vs Chelsea Betting Preview

QPR

QPR have had a fluctuated start to the season. They are currently 3 games without a win, having been held at home to Blackburn last weekend. It seems the reality of the Premier League has set in, with the buzz of Tony Fernandes’ takeover having faded slightly. It is at home they are mainly struggling, with no recorded wins in the league at Loftus Road so far this season. They are still putting in the performances away though, and are definitely no write offs.

PR will be without top striker DJ Campbell as well as long term injuries Rob Hulse and Kieron Dyer. Captain Joey Barton will be hoping to continue to impress on the big stage once more. Back the controversial Barton to score anytime at 8/1 with Bet 365.

Chelsea

Chelsea are aiming to continue their good form. The Blues will be high in confidence after beating Genk 5-0 midweek, as well as winning 3 games in a row in the Premier League. Since the start of the season Andres Villas-Boas’ have been going from strength to strength and their big names are finally starting to put in the performances expected. The team has begun to blend and flourish magnificently.

Captain John Terry, Juan Mata and Didier Drogba will be hoping for recalls to the side, having been rested midweek. Also, Fernando Torres continues his 3 match ban. Daniel Sturridge will be eager to take the place of the £50m Spanish striker, and is 9/2 to score first with Bet 365. So far this season the young English striker has scored 4 goals in 4 Premier League appearances.

Match prediction

With QPR having failed to gain a win at home this season combined with Chelsea’s current form it’s impossible to deny the short priced favourites. Baring recent performances and scores in mind, it would be a smart idea to back Chelsea for a big win. It also looks unlikely for QPR to strike back with key striker DJ Campbell missing.

Other highlighted bets

Half Time/Full Time: Chelsea HT, Chelsea FT evens Ladbrokes
1st Card: QPR 4/5 William Hill
Correct Score: 3-0 Chelsea 8/1 Boyle Sports

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Article by Adam Allcock

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Man Utd vs Man City Betting Preview

The Manchester derby returns to the Premier League this weekend and it could well be even more fiercely contested than ever. The sides already locked horns in the Community Shield this season, with Man United taking bragging rights in that one, so City will be desperate for a positive result this time. Some are already saying these games could decide the league title, and an away win could put the gap between the two at 5 already.

Man Utd vs Man City Betting Betting odds

Man Utd

Man United’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool last Saturday has left them trailing in the league to local rivals City and Alex Ferguson will be determined to put that right this weekend. The current champions haven’t quite hit their previous heights recently, but they are still favourites at 2.1 with Ladbrokes to take all 3 points. Wayne Rooney has scored 11 goals already this season, and with his ability to pop up in important games, looks a sure bet at 2.8 with Paddy Power to score at any time during the match. These sides have score an unbelievable combined 52 goals in the league this season, so betting on over 2.5 goals with odds of 2.1 with Bet365, looks another good bet. However, there has not been much between these two sides this season, and so a draw

Man City

Many City scored a last minute winner in the week to keep their Champions League hopes alive, but now they go to their local rivals looking for their first win there since 2008. City are slight underdogs going into the clash but there is some good value in a correct score and away win. A 1-2 correct score in particular is looking good with odds of 13.0 available from Bet365. Roberto Mancini has shown this season he can be attacking and his side have responded with a massive 27 goals in 8 league games. Sergio Aguero has 8 of those goals and the Argentine is looking likely to start the game after stepping off the bench in midweek. With this in mind, the striker is looking very good at 9.0 with William Hill to open the scoring.

Highlighted bets

Sergio Aguero first goal scorer – 9.0 William Hill
Wayne Rooney any time scorer – 2.8 Paddy Power
Over 2.5 goals – 2.1 Bet365
DRAW – 3.5 Skybet

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Article by Sam Markham

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Racing Post Trophy betting and odds

The final Group 1 event of the flat season takes place on Town Moor this weekend as Doncaster prepares to host its annual Racing Post Trophy flat meeting, writes Mikey Mumford. Strictly open to two-year-olds, this year’s Racing Post Trophy will see a concise field nine runners head to post to do battle over the straight mile. Ballydoyle trainer Aidan O’Brien saddles four runners including the exciting Camelot who was a ready winner in his Leopardstown maiden. Godolphin’s Encke got off the mark at the second time of asking last time and Mahmood Al Zarooni will be hoping he can emulate last year’s winner Casamento.

Racing Post Trophy tips

Camelot Easy winner of a small field Leopardstown maiden in July in his only run to date. Market support is interesting though and he heads the market so connections must think a lot this colt out of Montjeu and Tarfah. The latter a five times winner over a mile so looks to have a good chance on pedigree.

Daddy Long Legs Got off the mark at the first time of asking in a Gowran Park maiden over 7f. Failed to repeat that performance at Doncaster next time but admirably stepped up to a mile to take a Grade 1 event at Newmarket at the end of September. Should give it another good effort and couldn’t rule out.

Encke Maiden winner over a mile at Newmarket last time after a good run in defeat at Doncaster. Should me more to come from him and from the stable that won this race last year with Casamento; hard to leave out of calculations.

Farraaj Never been out of the first two in his four runs to date; the last of those a second placed finish at Newmarket where he had no chance with the winner. But has scooped decent 7f events at both Sandown and Warwick although the worry is he is yet to race over a mile.

Fencing Raced central in his first start at Newmarket and led the group who raced down the middle before running on to take third near finish. Bettered that effort next time on good ground at Newbury when justifying favouritism over 7f. Should also appreciate the slight step up in trip and warrants respect.

Learn Beaten at odds on in his second try over 7f at Galway in July although made amends last time making all to win at another short price. This represents a big step up in company and might be vulnerable to a few speedier two-year-olds.

Talwar Most exposed horse in the line-up and it is difficult to know which horse will turn up. Has a reputation for running a good race then a poor one and that disappointing run came last time over 7f at Newmarket where he failed to make an impression. Must have a chance though if putting best foot forward.

Tibet Another one of Aidan O’Brien’s who is unbeaten after winning his maiden at the first attempt over a mile at Gowran Park. Won by a head that day but was always prominent and stayed on better than his rival in the final furlong; chance if reproducing and building on that effort.

Zip Top Won his maiden first time out but has since struggled probably due to the contrasting conditions he has faced. Found 6f too sharp for him on his penultimate run so a mile might bring about some improvement.

A difficult puzzle to solve with plenty of exiting two-year-olds it is hard to know how much they will come on for their last run. The unbeaten Tibet and Camelot hold excellent chances of maintaining their faultless racing records but a chance is taken on ENCKE who won a maiden last time and represents a stable who won this twelve months ago. [Mikey Mumford]

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Chelsea v Genk Betting Preview

Chelsea

Chelsea go into this sure-banker match on a good run of form. Having demolished Swansea, Bolton and Everton in recent weeks, confidence will be high at Stamford Bridge. So far in Group E, Chelsea have managed a win against a strong Bayer Leverkusen team and managed a goalless draw with Valencia. Facing Genk will look appetising for Chelsea’s high scoring hot shots in comparison. The main team news for Chelsea is the availability of Fernando Torres, as his suspension only includes league games. He will surely start, as Drogba played at the weekend, and will therefore be Chelsea’s main offensive weapon. Back Torres to finally hit the form he’s been promising all season and bag a hat trick – 16/1 with William Hill. Andre Villas-Boas has promised to put out a strong line up, and their midfield will surely run riot, with non-stop attack expected. Therefore at an incredible price of 5/6 with Bet365, bet on the total corners of the match to be over 10.

Chelsea v Genk Betting Betting odds

Genk

Genk are struggling as of late, having lost their last two league games and drop to 9th in Belgian Pro League. Last seasons champions are struggling to compete with runaway leaders Anderlecht. Genk’s defence is definitely their weak point, and with a spearhead led by Fernando Torres it is hard to see Genk be able to cope. However, their attack is their strong point, especially through former Rangers winger Thomas Buffel and workhorse striker Jelle Vossen, who struck 20 goals last season. The Belgian International and rumoured Everton transfer target is 13/2 with Sporting Bet to score at anytime.

Match Prediction: Expect Chelsea to dominate this game with ease, as they are far superior on paper and have hit form at the perfect time. A comfortable victory is widely expected, with a potential score line that looks more suited to a Rugby match.

Highlighted bets

Both Teams to Score: No 4/7 Sky Bet
Handicap -3 Chelsea: Chelsea 9/5 Victor Chandler
Correct Score: 5-0 Chelsea 12/1 Blue Sq

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Article by Adam Allcock

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Marseille vs Arsenal Betting Preview

This will be the first meeting of these two sides in their history – both in a similar position domestically as they struggle for consistency and both undefeated against the same opposition in the Champions league. At the moment, Marseille are edging Arsenal at the top of group F – however everything is to play for coming into this fixture – the victor securing the top spot as these two opposition jostle for the number 1 placing. What is certain with this match is it is sure to be an exciting fixture, as neither side looks to surrender their unbeaten Champions League status.

Marseille vs Arsenal Betting Betting odds

Marseille

Marseille look to this game not only having won both of their previous fixtures – they are also yet to concede this season in the Champions League and adding to that, the hosts have scored four already. Marseille, if victorious against The Gunners, will be able to secure a stronghold on the Group and put five points between themselves and Wednesday’s opposition. It’s plain to see the Frenchmen will be going all-out to claim a home-victory which would essentially book their place and could prove priceless in the hunt for qualification to the latter rounds.

Marseille have performed well in the champions League, especially against British opposition – the white and blues have won seven of their last nine fixtures against UK opposition, most recently beating Chelsea 1-0 in last season’s group stages. Many punters will be backing Marseille to continue their winning trend against Arsenal. Punters will also certainly be looking at Marseille to continue their to-date record of no goals conceded in the Champions League – a competition that, like Arsenal, has been more favourable than the French side’s domestic matches in Ligue 1.

It is the domestic form of Marseille that will have The Gooners fans heading to France with hope of a win – The French side struggling for form when Saturday comes, often failing to apply the cutting-edge that has seen them prosper so far in the Champions League. Marseille will have to defend well and win the midfield battle and will looking to get in front quickly, dictating the play and bring the game to Arsenal. Loic Remy, who has been often scintillating for Marseille and France so far this season, will be the man to watch in this game and is a value bet to score first against the red and whites.

Arsenal

The Gunners have yet to find their feet at the start of this premier League season – as the glory days of unbeaten seasons fades further into the past, its legacy has paved the way for a mixed bag of surprising losses and spectacular wins to seemingly take its place. That said Arsenal are still a serious force to be reckoned with in Europe and should be discredited at a punter’s peril. It has been the Champions League that has provided some solace for the North-Londoners, who are also yet to lose in Europe – winning one and drawing another as they bid to progress beyond the group stages.

Wenger’s men will have been well informed by the Frenchman of Marseille’s capabilities and at the importance of this fixture – a win would see them further cement their group position – in fact, a win will put the Gooners on top. I’m certainly backing Arsenal to come out fighting in a competition which has been a happier hunting ground for the Red and Whites in recent years.

Arsenal remain unbeaten in Group F, having scored 2 and conceded 1 as they head to the Stade Velodrome to face the current group leaders – the first time the two have met in their group and the two who punters will certainly be backing to qualify to the latter stages.

The major statistic that will prick the punter’s ears is Arsenal’s record against French opposition – having never lost away to a French club in their history. The Gunner’s last defeat in France in fact came during the 2006 Champions League Final – however their opposition that evening was Barcelona. Wenger will certainly be going into this game with every intention to keep their record in tact as they look to down another French side in Europe.

Arsenal have put their Spurs misery behind them and now come off the back of a vital league win against Sunderland, which saw Robin Van Persie net two goals in brilliant performance – again proving his quality. I’m certainly backing Van Persie to continue his run on Wednesday and he is a punter’s go-to player for Arsenal goals.

Betting Verdict

In order for Arsenal to win in France they will have to defend well, which has been a problem for the Gunners this season, compounded by the troubling loss to Sagna against arch rivals Spurs. Crucial to a Gunners win is silencing striker Loic Remy who has been a shining light for Marseille and for France this season. Remy has been terrifying defences with his pace and ability this season and he is certainly one for punters to watch at first goalscorer. Marseille will look to utilise their main Champions League outlet so far this season in the form of Andre Ayew who has already bagged two goals in 89 minutes of football for the French side. He is another punters should keep their eye on in this game.

Arsenal have often had trouble when going behind this season and will be looking to get an early lead against Marseille. Robin Van Persie is sure to be in the hunt for goals midweek and will be full of confidence – he is a solid bet to be first goalscorer. Marseille will also have to deal with Arsenal’s strength in midfield with the likes of Mikel Arteta and the pace of Theo Walcott, which is sure to give the opposition limited time on the ball. Marseille will most likely be going into this game as the favourites with the punters, but an Arsenal win could pay out big with the right bet and we all know that Arsenal are the team that can never be written off.

Match Prediction: Marseille to Win 2-1 – 17/2 Sky Bet

Value Bet 1: Loic Remy First Goalscorer – 13/2 Victor Chandler

Value Bet 2: Arsenal to Win – 21/10 Ladbrokes

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Article by Ben Grittiths

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Man City vs Villarreal Betting Preview

Man City

One point from their opening two Champions League games has shown Manchester City the task that faces teams in Europe and the World’s most competitive club competition. After drawing at home to Napoli, a very convincing 2-0 defeat in Munich against Bayern has left Mancini’s men in desperate need of a result in this forthcoming fixture.

Outside of European football, City are on a high. Top of the league and beating sides with ease, their 4-1 victory on Saturday at home to Aston Villa was with a side shorn of Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko, David Silva and Samir Nasri. That kind of squad depth will only help when it comes to midweek competition. Now the big guns, in a team full of quality players, can return rested to secure valuable points.

Man City vs Villarreal Betting Betting odds

Villarreal

Villarreal can only be disappointed with their start to the season. After qualifying for the Champions League group stages, Manager Juan Carlos Garrido has seen his side win only one La Liga game so far. Saturday’s away draw against Getafe was their second point on their travels, with disappointing losses against Barcelona (5-0) and Granada (1-0) preceding them.

There is little to smile about in Europe either. Two defeats from the opening two Champions League games makes qualifying for the knockout stages look out of their grasp already. Both of those defeats have been convincing 2-0 losses too, and now a trip to the Etihad Stadium.

There are definitely attacking stars in their line up. Nilmar, Borja Valero and Giuseppi Rossi will keep the City defence on their toes at all times. And Captain Marcos Senna will anchor the midfield with all his years of experience. They have been described as the Arsenal of Spain, with Barcelona too good for that title; short passing will most definitely be on display, as well as an eagerness to go forward.

Match Prediction: MANCHESTER CITY WIN – 1.36 Coral

The form of both these sides makes it hard to look beyond a Manchester City win. Both teams need the victory if they want to qualify from the group, especially after poor starts. However, that poor start for Villarreal transfers to domestic form too, whereas City have looked like title winners in the League this year.

The difference is squad depth. Resting your four best attacking players and winning like City did at the weekend is something not a lot of teams could do. And having seen both Bayern and Napoli beat Villarreal with ease, 2-0 looks a good bet for correct score.

With a little value in mind, it is interesting to note that Yaya Toure has been playing just off the striker recently. If he is given the chance to go forward he accepts it with gratitude and vigour, bursting through midfield towards the opposition box. With David Silva and Samir Nasri likely to keep Senna busy, the space could open up for the Ivorian. 12.00 with Ladbrokes is worth a try.

Highlighted Bets:-

First Goalscorer: Yaya Toure – 12.00 Ladbrokes
Correct Score: 2-0 Manchester City Win – 7.00 William Hill

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Article by Chris Wilkerson

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Arsenal vs Sunderland Betting Preview

Arsenal: Premier League Position, 15th, Form: LWWWLD

Arsenal will be hoping to get their Premier League season back on track this Sunday, with the international break coming at the perfect time. The past 2 weeks has eased injury problems and possibly regained any confidence lost during the 2-1 defeat to rivals Tottenham. Tomas Rosicky, Laurent Koscielny and Johann Djourou should all have recovered and be available for team selection. The Gunners have been much better at home this season than away, having recorded wins against Bolton and Swansea as well as wins in the Carling Cup and Champions League Group Stages. However, they have made their worst ever start to a Premier League season.

Arguably Arsenal’s three most creative players, Robin Van Persie, Theo Walcott and Aaron Ramsey are currently playing well, and possess the ability to run riot. Back Aaron Ramsey to score first at 12/1 Ladbrokes or the in form Alex Oxlade Chamberlain to score anytime at 23/10 with Paddy Power.

Arsenal vs Sunderland Betting Betting odds

Sunderland: Premier League Position: 16th, Form: DLWLDL

Sunderland have struggled so far this season, having spent big over the summer which has led Steve Bruce to come under increased pressure from both the fans and the board, so will hoping to keep both off his back with a credible result against a weak Arsenal team. Beating Stoke 4-0 a month ago looked to have kick started their season, but then Sunderland went on to lose 2-1 to recently promoted Norwich and escaped with a 2-2 draw against a below average West Brom.

Nicklas Bendtner is not allowed to play against his parent club, and fellow strikers Frazier Campbell and Conor Wickham are out injured which will probably force Steve Bruce’s hands to play new Korean signing Ji Dong-Won as a lone striker. Playmaker Stephane Sessegnon has been a has been a revelation for the Black Cat’s since signing for them in January, and with a deflated striker force he is well priced at 7/2 to score anytime with Bet 365.

Match Prediction: Arsenal

The price of Arsenal is too good to ignore, as in previous seasons it would have been much lower. They have too good of a team not to bounce back and pile the pressure on Steve Bruce’s boys. It looks to be a long seasons for Sunderland, and I doubt it will improve this weekend. Regardless, I still can’t see Arsenal keeping a clean sheet with how their defence has been performing this season.

Half Time/Full Time: Arsenal HT, Arsenal FT 11/10 Paddy Power.
Handicap -1 Arsenal: Arsenal 6/5 Bet 365
Correct Score: 3-1 Arsenal 11/1 William Hill

Article by Adam Allcock

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Chelsea vs Everton Betting Preview

Chelsea: League Position: 3rd, League Form: WWLWW

Chelsea have began the season quite successfully, and yet the form of both Manchester sides means they have started off quietly too. Overshadowed by both these rivals and the continuing media obsession with Fernando Torres, Chelsea have made tweaks rather than changes. Ramires has taken the role Michael Essien fulfilled before repetitive injuries stalled his career. Frank Lampard has began to operate a touch deeper than before, although that statement seems churlish after his hat trick against Bolton.

With the spotlight up in Manchester, the West Londoners of Stamford Bridge have clicked into gear nicely, smashing five past Bolton and four past Swansea in their past two league appearances. Even the loss at Manchester United saw them create enough chances to feel a tad hard done by.

Manager Andre Villas-Boas promised a slightly different style, and with new boy Juan Mata finding his feet quickly, the little Spaniard has become the icon of that change. His interplay with the forwards, and especially Torres, has brushed away some of the dust of rigid past from them, and whilst they still have that effective if not exciting style in them, there is much more intent and invention in their attacks than once before.

Chelsea vs Everton Betting Betting odds

Everton: League Position: 13th, League Form: WDWLL

Life for The Toffees is little fun at the moment. Back to back defeats against Manchester City and rivals Liverpool were hard to stomach. Not just the results, but the lack of any form or shape to their attacking play. At least in the Merseyside derby they started with a striker on the pitch rather than the muddled together midfield/attack of Cahill and Fellaini that did nothing against City.

They have proved themselves hard to play against, but where are the goals coming from? Louis Saha carries a hell of a weight on his shoulders with Beckford now at Leicester and Stracqualursi and Vellios more than a little unproven. The goals from midfield Tim Cahill brings have gone from a great bonus to an absolute necessity.

Of course, David Moyes does more than most could considering the budgetary restraints at Goodison Park. Loanee Royston Drenthe is exciting, if a little inconsistent, and there are some very good players in the blue of Everton. But without firepower it’s hard to see them causing Chelsea the problems they have before.

Match Prediction: Chelsea Win – 1.36 Coral

It may come as a surprise, but Chelsea have not beaten Everton in the Premier League at home since 2006. However, in those years the Everton team has never been this uninspiring. Grit and determination are valuable assets, but their lack of a killer punch makes them targets. Whereas in years gone by Chelsea strived due to their efficiency and fight, the latter quality Everton could match them on, the quicker passing and exploitation of space this season makes them a more dangerous weapon.

Chelsea come into the game without suspended Fernando Torres, but Didier Drogba seems fit to return, whilst they also have Anelka, Kalou, Sturridge and even Lukaku available up top. What Everton would do for just one of those strikers.

Chelsea’s big wins have come against sides like Bolton and Swansea who will go home and away and look to outplay opponents on the deck. This Everton will not do, if recent evidence is to be followed. As such, even though Chelsea are finishing 86% of games with three or more goals scored by both sides combined, Everton are stubbornly stuttering along with only 33%. Stifle may be the key word of David Moyes’ team talk.

With Chelsea’s attacking line up a likely variation of many, value for the first goal might be with likely starter Juan Mata, who was rested midweek for Spain. With pockets of space his speciality, but Everton out to suffocate in midfield, he will either be forced further forward or deeper into midfield. With the dominance Chelsea expect, gamble the little playmaker will pop up in the box.

Highlighted Bets:

Over/Under: Under 2.5 Goals – 2.25 Victor Chandler
First Goalscorer: Juan Mata – 8.00 Blue Sq
Correct Score: 2-0 Chelsea Win – 7.00 William Hill

Article by Chris Wilkerson

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Newcastle Vs Spurs Betting Preview

Media frenzies surrounded both clubs during the summer months – Newcastle were not long ago dealing with the Joey Barton situation which saw the player head to QPR, whilst Spurs were doing their damndest to keep a grip on Luka Modric, who was set on a move across the capital to Chelsea. You’d have thought both teams would have suffered because of this – instead it seems they have prospered – Newcastle remain undefeated, whilst Tottenham have won four on the bounce.

Both teams will have separate agendas this season; however neither will want to lose on Sunday. Last seasons fixture ended with neither taking the spoils – though it is Newcastle who have come off best during the Premiership years; winning 11 of 19 previous meetings and only losing 4.

Newcastle Vs Spurs Betting Betting odds

Newcastle: Position: 4th, Last 6: WWDDWW

Currently in fourth and one of only four unbeaten teams after the first seven games, Newcastle United fans could consider Sunday’s game as their first real test this season? Certainly Spurs are the toughest opposition Pardew’s men will have faced so far – but on Newcastle’s current form, Tottenham may well meet their match. Newcastle fans have had their fair share of disappointment over the years and not since the salad days of Kevin Keegan and early ‘90s magic have the Magpies had much to smile about – until now that is.

Newcastle are the surprise package this season – after seven games Newcastle have 15 points in the bag, with four wins and three draws. After a torrid transfer window and the major departures of the likes of Kevin Nolan and Club Captain Joey Barton, many expected the Toon to struggle. It goes to show, anything can happen in football.

Pardew has managed to galvanise a team which has only shipped four goals this season adding more fuel to the Newcastle victory fire that is becoming increasingly hard to put out. The defence, under the leadership of Steven Taylor, in the form of his life, has often left Krul with little to do between the sticks. A clean sheet is certainly not out of the question on Sunday with Pardew’s men striving to remain unbeaten.

What is more astonishing however – is Newcastle’s new-found scoring ability – Bagging nine goals this season, the Magpies have found their shooting boots. The Partnership of Demba Ba alongside Leon Best has been surprisingly menacing so far, defying the doubters with 7 of the teams 9 goals between them. Theirs is a partnership that punters should look to pounce on.

Goals and assists are also coming from midfield via the in-form Gutierrez – who slotted home Newcastle’s second against Wolves a fortnight ago. Tiote, having helped the Ivory Coast to undefeated qualification to the African Cup of Nations, is certainly another to watch against Spurs.

Wolves certainly tested Newcastle’s resolve at Molineux, but their resilience was proved under Pardew. Still, Newcastle fans won’t be getting too carried away at the prospect of a season unbeaten – but on current form, the time their streak finally does come to an end may have to wait a little longer. In the meantime, punters can’t get enough of Newcastle.

Spurs

After a somewhat stuttering start to the season, Tottenham Hotspur have found their feet – they travel to Tyneside coming off the back of a north-London derby victory which further exposed the power shift between Spurs and Arsenal. Spurs now currently sit in 6th place – having won four and lost two so far – including a 4-0 win at White Hart Lane against Liverpool, where the Whites showed their cut-throat potential. Harry Redknapp has again shown himself to be as talented as they come – his side’s performances meriting him September’s manager of the month award – fully deserved on Spurs showings this season.

After the Modric saga you could have been forgiven for thinking the boat at Spurs had been well and truly rocked over the summer – as it happens they are looking as strong as ever – and that includes Modric. Tottenham gambled big as they bedded in over the Croatian – a gamble that so far has paid dividends – he is a constant outlet for the forward line and is always a solid bet to bag a goal – more often than not in spectacular fashion.

It’s goals that haven’t been a problem for the Whites after their first six games. New-boy Adebayor has regained his scintillating form of old after having struggled since leaving arch rivals Arsenal. Adebayor has netted three times in four Premier League matches so far and is sure to score more in search of the famed 20-goals a season. I’m certainly tipping Adebayor to continue his streak against Newcastle and he is at good odds to be first goal scorer.

The only issue with Spurs season so far is the defence – in six games they have conceded 10-goals – most notably due to the injuries sustained by stalwarts Dawson and Gallas who provided much of the experience and leadership to the Spurs defence.

Betting verdict

Newcastle and Spurs could both be considered a punter’s best bet – Newcastle are proving increasingly hard to beat at the back. Spurs on the other hand are proving hard to stop going forward. Both teams are two of the form teams so far which should set up an exciting match.

Newcastle have been a go-to team for punters as their unbeaten status edges further into the season – their defence is looking sharp and going forward Ba and Best are building their bond with every game. The flaw in Newcastle’s game will be in the midfield –Modric, Bale and Parker may prove a stern test for Pardew’s men.

Tottenham have the obvious edge in attack – Adebayor and Defoe are always a threat – and with Modric, Van Der Vaart and Bale supporting, the Newcastle defence will have to work hard. The obvious problem with Redknapp’s side is the injury-ravaged back four that has looked shaky at times.

Some would say that this has draw written all over it – but I’m backing Spurs to edge it and halt Newcastle’s unbeaten run which has to end sometime. Spurs may well be too strong in attack for Newcastle and are looking dangerously confident, moreover they are at good odds to win away from home.

Match Prediction: Tottenham to WIN 2-1 – 17/2 Bet365

Value Bet: Adebayor First Goalscorer – 11/2 Boylesports

Article by Ben Griffiths

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Queen Elizabeth II Stakes betting and odds

It’s QIPCO British Champions’ Day on Saturday at Ascot but many race-goers will refer to the meeting which features the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes as Frankel day, writes Mikey Mumford. And rightly so because Sir Henry Cecil’s unbeaten colt has won all of his eight races and looks a banker to end his 2011 campaign on another winning note in this mile event. He’s no working man’s price though at 1/3 across the board so it might be worth looking at the market without the impressive 2,000 Guineas winner. Marco Botti’s German 2,000 Guineas conqueror looks best of the rest after chasing home Frankel in the Greenham and the St.James’ Palace while Immortal Verse goes looking for a hat-trick.

Queen Elizabeth II Stakes tips

Bullet Train Only had one run this campaign over 1m1f in which he was last of seven at Newmarket in April and was left in mid-division in several runs as three-year-old last year. Probably supplemented as a pacemaker for Frankel (should he need one) but makes very limited appeal in this Group 1 company.

Dick Turpin Ran a bit flat for his usually high standards in the Lockinge two lengths behind stablemate Canford Cliffs. But back to winning ways over course and distance last time when looking the likely winner from a long way out. Didn’t beat too much that day but travels well and each-way claims with Richard Hughes aboard.

Poet’s Voice Last year’s winner under Frankie Dettori hasn’t won since but this is normally his time of year and posted a decent effort over a mile at Newmarket latest. Struggled in the Celebration Mile despite being sent off paper favourite but should fare better here and likely to get his good to firm ground; one to follow Frankel home.

Side Glance Largely consistent performer who hasn’t been out of the top three in each of his last nine runs. He has been competing in slightly lesser Group 1 events and was third behind Dick Turpin here in his penultimate run. Obviously has work to do with that rival but is a previous course and distance winner and could get into the minor honours.

Dubawi Gold Nice winner of the Celebration Mile at Goodwood last time (Poet’s Voice finished last of seven) but was never able to challenge in the Hungerford behind eventual winner Excelebration. Will do well to alter that form against better rated rivals; best watched.

Excelebration German 2,000 Guineas winner scooped the Hungerford last time quite easily in the end but has twice been left trailing in behind Frankel. He got within one-and-a-half lengths of Khalid Abdullah’s colt in the St James’ Palace after Frankel looked to have been idling out in front but needs to raise the bar again; could be one for the forecast though.

Frankel Unbeaten colt who had his biggest scare to date in the St James’ Palace when all out and seemingly idling out in front two runs back. But he scored impressively in the Sussex Stakes, an easy five length winner over another top class rival in Canford Cliffs which showed he is better than ever and another faultless run should make him hard to oppose.

Immortal Verse Lightly raced filly who won on her only appearance on British soil over this course and distance in June when landing the Coronation Stakes. Beat a few useful types in that race, however this assignment represents another step up in class and might find it difficult up against the colts; should run her usual sound race nevertheless.

Only one likely winner in FRANKEL to put it bluntly as he is by far and away superior to the rivals he will face. However, the betting without the market leader is interesting and Excelebration who has run well in behind Sir Henry’s colt on a couple of occasions can follow him home. Last year’s winner Poet’s Voice comes good at this time of year and could sneak into that third spot. [Mikey Mumford]

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