NRL Preview: Roosters v Sharks

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">NRL Preview</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sydney Roosters v Cronulla Sharks</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday, July 1, 3:00pm (AEST) at Central Coast Stadium</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Central Coast Stadium will play host to this hotly anticipated top 4 battle. The Sharks luck finally ran out last week following a series of narrow wins while the Roosters got out of jail with a Mitchell Pearce field goal in golden point. The Wolf says not to be alarmed by sub-par performances from sides stacked with Origin starts at this time of the year but does note that the Sharks slow starts are a worrying sign. They have found themselves down by at least 12 in each of their last 3 and a repeat of that against the Roosters will be costly. The script is written for a huge response.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">History</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cronulla have won 5 straight against the Roosters averaging just shy of 26ppg in that stretch. The half time margin has been no more than 6 points in the last 4 meetings but the Sharks have consistently been able to put on second half clinics – averaging 18 second half points in those games. The Sharks led 13-12 at half time in Round 25 last year but a 24-0 second half performance turned it into a rout. Forwards Gallen, Prior and Bukuya all got on the score sheet in what was a dominant display by the Sharks pack.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Form</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Sydney Roosters went in big favourites against an understrength Storm team in Adelaide last weekend but needed golden point to win in an underwhelming performance. They remain second on the ladder with an 11-4 record. Cronulla are out of the Top 4 following an embarrassing loss at home to Manly, going down 35-18. The Sharks have now dropped two of their last three. They have a 10-5 record.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Matchup</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jared Waerea-Hargreaves v Andrew Fifita: As we have seen in the past with these sides  the team that wins the battle of the forwards tends to collect the to points. Fifita has been in rare form over the last 12 months and his match winning performances in the Grand Final and Origin I have shown that he is a man for the big stage. Hargreaves will not be taking a backward step here and has really upped his work rate in recent weeks with Napa and Cordner having Origin commitments. He has averaged 20 hit ups, 190m and close to 30 tackles in the last fortnight! Fifita was criticised for his performance backing up from Origin II but credit must be given to the Eagles. He was forced to make 40 tackles last week and it really took the sting out of his running game where he failed to run for 100m for the first time this season. Hargreaves and co will be looking to do much of the same.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stats That Matter</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Sydney Roosters are 7-8 ATS with an 8-7 under record while Cronulla are 9-6 ATS with a 10-5 under record.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Cronulla have won five straight against the Sydney Roosters and have posted 30-plus in three of those.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Six of the last eight have tallied 40 or more points.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Roosters have covered just 1 of their last 5 at Allianz and have covered just 1 of 5 when favoured at the ground by less than a try.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Cronulla are 12-5 ATS in road day games since 2014.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Cronulla have covered 6 of their last 8 road games and 9 of their last 11 games as an underdog.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Final Thoughts</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Wolf is expecting a huge response from the Sharks this week. They were out-muscled and out-enthused last week but they can be excused with 5 players backing up from Origin. Cronulla have had the wood over the Roosters in recent seasons winning the last 5 meetings. The sharks have consistently won the forwards battle which has allowed them to then go wide and pile on the points. At a neutral venue it is surprising to see the Sharks start as underdogs. They are 12-5 ATS in road games since 2014. The Roosters have conceded 16 or more in 5 straight and The Wolf is predicting the Sharks to do a number on them.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It’s Shaping Up</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cronulla by 16</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cronulla +2 ($1.91)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Other Recommended Bets</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cronulla 13+ ($5.50) </span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TSQRq-fQ_aw/WVZUJf_6gYI/AAAAAAAACJ0/9rsURWuYYe0t3ztjM6ujo3MpOU3RUrCbgCLcBGAs/s1600/2017Jun29033436_596251562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="600" height="434" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TSQRq-fQ_aw/WVZUJf_6gYI/AAAAAAAACJ0/9rsURWuYYe0t3ztjM6ujo3MpOU3RUrCbgCLcBGAs/s640/2017Jun29033436_596251562.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

NRL Preview: Roosters v Sharks

NRL Preview Sydney Roosters v Cronulla Sharks Saturday, July 1, 3:00pm (AEST) at Central Coast Stadium Central Coast Stadium will play h...

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NRL Preview: Sea Eagles v Warriors

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">NRL Preview</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Manly Sea Eagles v NZ Warriors</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday, July 1, 5:30pm (AEST) at nib Stadium</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Eagles continue to lat claim as title contenders and last weeks win over the Sharks was perhaps their best. Taupau and Jake cotinue to lay a platform and it has allowed Cherry-Evans to flourish in a way that has his name being thrown up to replace the injured Thurston for Queensland. The Warriors posted back to back wins for just the second time this season with a scrappy performance against the Dogs but will have to find another gear if they are to challenge the high flying Eagles.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">History</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Warriors make one of the longest trips in professional sport this week. The 7 hour flight from Auckland to Perth has been one that they have struggled with in the past. They are 0-5 at nib Stadium and have also lost their last 5 when facing the Sea Eagles. It gets worse… Manly have won 11 of the last 12 and 18 of the last 22. It is one of the most dominant records in the NRL and questions will be asked of the Warriors defence.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Form</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Manly are the hot team in the NRL following their superb 35-18 win over Cronulla. The Sea Eagles are now into the Top 4 with a 9-5 record. Manly have now won four straight and six of their last seven. New Zealand had few issues disposing of Canterbury at Mt Smart on Friday night. The Warriors have now won three of their last four, keeping opponents to 14 or fewer in those three wins.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Matchup</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Daly Cherry-Evans v Shaun Johnson: Cherry-Evans has returned to the form that saw him win the Clive Churchill Medal and we may very well see him in a Maroons jersey next week. He has shown just how effective he can be behind a dominant pack. We have seen him really improve his one on one defence and we have consequently seen teams stop trying to isolate him. It has allowed him to focus more on attack where he is equal fist in try assists, with non other than Shaun Johnson. It is really difficult to understand what is expected from Shaun Johnson. He leads the NRL in try assists, has over 30 tackle busts, 9 forced drop outs and more than his fair share of line break – all with Foran in the side who was supposed to hinder his output. It is about time his team-mates stepped up and laid him some sort of platform! The Wolf cannot see him getting that in Perth and has Cherry-Evans winning this battle in a canter.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stats That Matter</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Manly are 9-5 ATS with a 7-7 total record while New Zealand 6-9 ATS with a 8-7 under record.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Manly have won five straight and 11 of their last 12.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Warriors have not scored more than 18 in any of their last six against Manly.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Sea Eagles won the only clash in Perth between the two teams.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Manly are a perfect 1-0 at NIB Stadium while New Zealand are 0-5 with three losses of 16-plus.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Manly have covered 9 of their last 12 away from Brookvale though are 4-7 ATS when favoured by more than a try.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Warriors have covered just 20 of 50 away from Mt Smart since 2014, including a 12-19 ATS as an underdog.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– New Zealand are 23-15 over in day matches since 2014.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Final Thoughts</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Manly are on a roll at the moment and there really is no stopping them. They have won 5 straight and 11 of their last 12 highlighted by a 17 point win over the defending premiers. The Warriors are yet to win 3 in a row this season and have a dreadful record in Perth, losing in all five of their trips there. Manly have covered 9 of their last 12 away from Brookvale and have held the Warriors to 18 or less in their last 6 clashes. Taupau and Jake to lay the platform with Cherry-Evans to stake him claim for an Origin jersey with a man of the match performance.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It’s Shaping Up</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Manly by 22</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Manly -6.5 ($1.91)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Other Recommended Bets</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Manly 19+ ($4.25) </span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSXJGp83Vzo/WVZTvsc6utI/AAAAAAAACJw/zolXcdw0IvA6lVqIHq1beahLPRFHdn2ZACLcBGAs/s1600/2017Jun29053229_576544338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSXJGp83Vzo/WVZTvsc6utI/AAAAAAAACJw/zolXcdw0IvA6lVqIHq1beahLPRFHdn2ZACLcBGAs/s640/2017Jun29053229_576544338.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

NRL Preview: Sea Eagles v Warriors

NRL Preview Manly Sea Eagles v NZ Warriors Saturday, July 1, 5:30pm (AEST) at nib Stadium The Eagles continue to lat claim as title cont...

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NRL Preview: Raiders v Cowboys

<div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">NRL Preview</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Canberra Raiders v Nth Qld Cowboys</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday, July 1, 7:30pm (AEST) at GIO Stadium</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Cowboys have been rocked by the fact that Thurston has been ruled out for the season but they showed plenty of grit and determination to beat the Panthers on the siren last week. The Raiders on the other hand are looking to end a three game losing streak in order to keep their finals hopes alive. With both teams battling for a spot in the 8 this is a four point game!</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">History</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Canberra may have won 3 of the last 4 meetings in the nation’s capital between the two sides but their overall record against the Cowboys is abysmal. The Cowboys have won 9 of the last 12 encounters dating back to 2011 with the sides combining for 41 or more points in 10 of the last 13 clashes. Historically they have been very open encounters with the half time margin being 8 or more points in 12 of the last 16 meetings.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Form</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Canberra have been struggling with just two wins in their last eight matches and enter this off a very disappointing loss to the Broncos on home turf. The Raiders have conceded at least 21 in three straight. North Queensland showed plenty of resilience to knock off Penrith 14-12 on home turf following news Johnathan Thurston would miss the rest of the season. North Queensland are now seventh on the ladder with a 9-6 record.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Key Matchup</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Josh Papalii v Jason Taumalolo: They are two of the most devastating ball runner in the NRL and once they get going there really is no stopping them. Taumalolo leads the competition in run metres and it comes as no surprise as he has gone for 200+ metres in 4 of his last 5 and a total of 8 times this year. Paul Green was cautious with him minutes earlier in the year but he has gone closer to 70 minutes in recent weeks. He is one of the league leaders in tackle bust and holds the key to the Cowboys getting a roll on. Big Papa is the closest thin there is to Taumalolo. A wrecking ball on the left edge for the Raiders he has a huge motor and is basically playing 80 minutes this season. We have seen him cross the white line several times this year and has laid on a handful after bursting straight through. Look for him to be running lines looking for that short ball from Sezer.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stats That Matter</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Canberra are 7-8 ATS with an 8-7 under record while North Queensland are 11-4 ATS with a 10-5 under number.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– North Queensland have won 9 of the last 12 against Canberra though the Raiders have won three of the last four in Canberra.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Raiders are 19-25 ATS at home since 2014.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– As a favourite of less than a try at home, the Raiders are a poor 1-6 ATS.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Cowboys have covered seven straight road games.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Interstate teams of 3.5 or less cover at 71% since 2014.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Cowboys are 11-7 ATS when a road underdog of a converted try or less.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– North Queensland are riding a five-game cover streak.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Canberra have covered just 1 of their last 7 games.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Final Thoughts</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Raiders continue to lose close encounters after putting themselves in a position to win. The Cowboys on the other hand are riding a 5 game cover streak and are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 road games. They continue to find a way to win games even without Thurston thanks to some gallant defending. The Cowboys have conceded 20 or more in just 1 of their last 8 and that was a fortnight ago with all of their Origin stars on the sidelines. Canberra have covered just 1 of their last 7 overall and have lost 9 of their last 12 against the Cowboys. The Wolf cannot trust the Raiders at the moment. They are lacking a definitive leader on the field and have continuously lost their way late in matches. Cowboys with the start.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It’s Shaping Up</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cowboys by 2</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cowboys +4 ($1.91)</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Other Recommended Bets</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1st Half Margin Cowboys 9+ ($5.00) </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mN3QI7Hwruc/WVZTRr3dHoI/AAAAAAAACJs/VaykzUv1-6sgc3MerpHwd07X9Xu6GNM_wCLcBGAs/s1600/2017Jun29055346_647734254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="600" height="470" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mN3QI7Hwruc/WVZTRr3dHoI/AAAAAAAACJs/VaykzUv1-6sgc3MerpHwd07X9Xu6GNM_wCLcBGAs/s640/2017Jun29055346_647734254.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>

NRL Preview: Raiders v Cowboys

NRL Preview Canberra Raiders v Nth Qld Cowboys Saturday, July 1, 7:30pm (AEST) at GIO Stadium The Cowboys have been rocked by the f...

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AFL Preview: Blues v Crows

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carlton v Adelaide</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday 2:10pm at MCG</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A total mismatch on paper, Carlton will be hoping to stun an Adelaide team looking to climb back to top spot.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Form</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carlton are 15th on the ladder with a 5-8 record and enter this off two wins in their last three, so they are playing reasonable football. Their last games was a 26-point loss to rivals Richmond. The Blues have not posted a score of 100 all year.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adelaide sit second on the ladder with a 9-4 record, dropping from top spot after a shock loss to Hawthorn. The Crows have lost two of their last three. The Crows have scored 100-plus in nine of their 13 games this season. Adelaide have kept opponents to 60 or fewer in three of their last five.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stats That Matter</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Carlton have won 4 of the last 7 against Adelaide.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Carlton are 28-21 ATS at the MCG since 2012.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Blues are 16-4 ATS at the MCG as an underdog of three goals or more since 2012.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Carlton are 18-8 ATS in day matches at the MCG.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Adelaide are 36-18 ATS in day games since 2012.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Crows are 39-20 over interstate.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Adelaide are 12-7 ATS interstate when favoured by three or more goals.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Crows have covered 9 of their last 11 after being restricted to fewer than 90 points.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Betting Data</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2017 Line: Carlton 8-5, Adelaide 9-4</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2017 Over-Under: Carlton 5-8, Adelaide 6-7</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What To Expect</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Both teams have been kind to punters this year and this is no easy game to forecast. A small lean towards the Blues here, who have been absolute money getting three or more goals at the MCG. The Blues also have a good record against the Crows.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It’s Shaping Up</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adelaide by 12</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carlton +27.5 ($1.91)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Player Markets</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sam Docherty has hit 30-plus touches in three of his last four. He is the real deal and just continues to improve.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sam Docherty 30+ Disposals ($1.75) </span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EHsZi4A4EkA/WVZSiNBumSI/AAAAAAAACJk/TnM175889Z8M2lw0IaL3E9Q0Fb3tCi-1gCLcBGAs/s1600/undefined%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="900" height="372" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EHsZi4A4EkA/WVZSiNBumSI/AAAAAAAACJk/TnM175889Z8M2lw0IaL3E9Q0Fb3tCi-1gCLcBGAs/s640/undefined%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

AFL Preview: Blues v Crows

Carlton v Adelaide Saturday 2:10pm at MCG A total mismatch on paper, Carlton will be hoping to stun an Adelaide team looking to climb bac...

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AFL Preview: Suns v Kangaroos

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gold Coast v Nth Melbourne</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday 4:35pm at Metricon Stadium</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Suns and North are both stuck down the bottom of the AFL ladder and know any fading hopes they have for the season require a win here.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Form</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gold Coast are 14th on the ladder with a 5-8 record. They have dropped their last two against Carlton and St Kilda and have won just three of their last nine. The Suns have not posted 100 since their Round 7 win over Geelong. They rate 10th in attack but have the second worst defence in the AFL conceding 102.1 points per game.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">North Melbourne are second last on the ladder with a 4-9 record. They rate seventh in scoring but a lowly 15th in defence. The Roos have dropped their last three, going down to defending premiers the Western Bulldogs by a point. North have kicked 100-plus in five of their last eight games.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stats That Matter</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– North Melbourne have won 5 of the 8 all-time matches with Gold Coast.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Gold Coast have covered 6 of the last 7 clashes.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The over has hit in 5 of the last 7 Suns-Kangaroos clashes.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The over is 13-5 when the Suns are favoured at Metricon Stadium.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Suns have covered just 1 of their last 5 as a favourite at Metricon Stadium.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Gold Coast are 22-14 ATS at Metricon after conceding 100 or more points.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– North are 8-4 under as an interstate underdog of 18 or less.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– North Melbourne are 15-8 over interstate off scoring 100 points.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Betting Data</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2017 Line: Gold Coast 7-6, North Melbourne 6-7</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2017 Over-Under: Gold Coast 7-6, North Melbourne 8-5</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What To Expect</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gold Coast and North Melbourne should be playing a fairly expansive game here making the over a top bet. The angles are all in play here for the over. It has hit in 13 of the last 18 times the Suns have been favoured at home and 15 of the last 23 times the Roos have been interstate after scoring 100 points.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It’s Shaping Up</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gold Coast by 13</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Over 190.5 points ($1.88)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Player Markets</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gary Ablett has been in scintillating ball-getting form of late with 32-plus disposals in seven of his last nine including four hauls of 35-plus.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gary Ablett 35+ Disposals ($2.25) </span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5KagK5sRhE/WVZR3v3uy7I/AAAAAAAACJc/hLUl2pDf8F4oMPeKdcgAZR1zTAFHqSABgCLcBGAs/s1600/GaryAblettAFLRd12HawthornvGoldCoastrrWuQJfp9tIl%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="600" height="444" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5KagK5sRhE/WVZR3v3uy7I/AAAAAAAACJc/hLUl2pDf8F4oMPeKdcgAZR1zTAFHqSABgCLcBGAs/s640/GaryAblettAFLRd12HawthornvGoldCoastrrWuQJfp9tIl%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

AFL Preview: Suns v Kangaroos

Gold Coast v Nth Melbourne Saturday 4:35pm at Metricon Stadium The Suns and North are both stuck down the bottom of the AFL ladder and kn...

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AFL Preview: Giants v Cats

<div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">GWS v Geelong</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday 7:25pm at Spotless Stadium</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The match of the round without question, first-placed Greater Western Sydney host third-placed Geelong in a salivating affair that will have a major impact on the pointy end of the ladder.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Form</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Greater Western Sydney has moved top of the table with their 10-3 record following their 60-point destruction of the Brisbane Lions. The Giants have a 10-3 record and have won 5 of their last 6 with their only loss a shock to Carlton. GWS rank third in attack and sixth in defence. Five of the last eight Giants games have been decided by single digits.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Geelong have won four of their last five and are third on the ladder, just a win behind the Giants. They enter this off a two-point win at home to Fremantle in what was a grinding affair. The Cats have dropped their last four away from Simonds Stadium. Geelong rank fifth in scoring but are a surprisingly average ninth defensively.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stats That Matter</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Geelong have won 5 of the 6 all-time matches against GWS.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– GWS have covered 5 of the 6 all-time matches against Geelong.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– GWS have covered just 2 of their last 8 at Spotless.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Giants are over 9-6 at Spotless when favoured by more than three goals.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The over is 11-4 in the last 15 Giants games at Spotless when they are favoured.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– GWS are 4-1 ATS at Spotless after scoring 110 or more.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Geelong are 12-17 ATS interstate since 2012.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– The Cats have covered their last three as an interstate outsider.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Geelong have covered just 1 of 4 since 2012 when an underdog of at least three goals.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– GWS are 12-3 under at night.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">– Geelong have gone under in 10 of their last 16 at night.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Betting Data</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2017 Line: Greater Western Sydney 6-7, Geelong 6-7</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2017 Over-Under: Greater Western Sydney 8-5, Geelong 7-6</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What To Expect</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Betting does seem a little off in this one making the Cats getting an enormous start a bet. Not too many angles pushing them but GWS have barely been winning of late. The best bet though is the under. The Giants go under in 80% of night games while the Cats have been a strong under team at night of late.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It’s Shaping Up</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">GWS by 6</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Under 177.5 points ($1.88)</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Player Markets</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mitch Duncan has found the 30-touch mark in four of his last five and he has a great level of consistency with the amount of ball he gets, hitting between 27 and 33 touches in 10 of his 13 games.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mitch Duncan 30+ Disposals ($1.75) </span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LGroA7EnfS8/WVZRbTE-2rI/AAAAAAAACJY/VUs0a2ye6VQGOmsWo9DMlK3v5d5o4jPLACLcBGAs/s1600/undefined.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="900" height="372" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LGroA7EnfS8/WVZRbTE-2rI/AAAAAAAACJY/VUs0a2ye6VQGOmsWo9DMlK3v5d5o4jPLACLcBGAs/s640/undefined.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>

AFL Preview: Giants v Cats

GWS v Geelong Saturday 7:25pm at Spotless Stadium The match of the round without question, first-placed Greater Western Sydney host t...

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MLS Betting: Cracking Columbus to provide more entertainment

<div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Columbus Crew v Atlanta United</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sunday, 00:30</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Columbus didn't disappoint us last week against Montreal in a game that always looked like being high-scoring, and this match has a similar feel.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We have a recent formline in Atlanta's 3-1 win against the Crew just two weeks ago, and given that Columbus have scored at least once in each of their home games so far this season, there's no reason at all why styles won't combine for more goals this weekend. </span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Atlanta are powerful at home, poor away, which isn't uncommon in MLS, and they've allowed 2.2 goals per game in their last five away fixtures. With the Crew continuing their recent goalscoring form against Montreal last week, and with Tata Martino's Atlanta always likely to press high, play open, and produce results like their midweek 3-2 Cup defeat in Miami, I think that odds against about there being at least four goals in this one makes a lot of sense. </span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I still believe that Atlanta have a chance of winning MLS Cup in their first season, as they'll be so dangerous should they make the post-season, but they're still a work in progress, and that will likely lead to a defeat in Ohio, and more goals.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Back Over 3.5 Goals in Columbus Crew v Atlanta United @ 2.20</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sporting Kansas City v Portland Timbers</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sunday, 00:00</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sporting KC may be flying at the top of the Western Conference, but the squad named by the US Coach Bruce Arena for the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup has affected Peter Vermes and his side more than any other MLS team, and we must treat them with caution over the next month or so.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">SKC host the Portland Timbers this weekend, and will have to do so without three key players: Graham Zusi, Matt Besler and Dom Dwyer. Zusi and Besler are two key players in a rock solid backline, and while Dwyer hasn't been as prolific in 2017 as in previous years, the English born centre-forward will be much missed. When you add to that the absence of the injured Benny Feilhaber, you realise that SKC have problems. </span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">That weakens Vermes' team considerably, and while their record of having won 13 of their last 17 home games is hugely impressive (they've drawn the other 4), it has to be under threat this weekend from a Portland side who are poor away from home, yet untroubled by the USMNT.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Timbers played well at home against Seattle last week, and were unfortunate to concede a late Clint Dempsey equalizer. While they've lost their last five away games, there are reasons to believe that they can put a dent in SKC this weekend: the return to form of Fanendo Adi, the continuing excellence of Diego Valeri, the emergence of Dairon Asprilla as a key player.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I know that Sporting won at Houston in midweek in the Cup without the key men they'll be missing on Saturday, but that was a poor Houston XI, and this will be a very different test.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On the face of it, 1.80 for a home win looks a good bet, but the personnel issues indicate that SKC are a lay at that price, and we should bet accordingly.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lay Sporting KC v Portland Timbers @ 1.80</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chicago Fire v Vancouver Whitecaps</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sunday, 00:00</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Given their recent form, it was a surprise to see Chicago Fire lose at Cincinnati in the Cup in midweek. They're back on home soil now, and look set to continue their excellent recent run.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Vancouver are a curious team, though. They never seem to hit the heights or make headlines, but are quiet achievers under Carl Robinson, and given that they've won three and drawn one of their last four against the Fire, recent history gives them something to hold on to.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Chicago are a changed franchise this season of course, and so those results may be less relevant that in other cases, but the Whitecaps have now scored in five consecutive games on the road, and the Fire will be feeling the pressure of going for a single season record eight consecutive home wins.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Vancouver have won twice away from home, and only one of their four defeats (weirdly, at Real Salt Lake) has come by more than a single goal. They've already done well in Portland, Montreal and Houston, and I think that they'll make life a lot harder for Chicago than the stats might suggest.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">There's obviously a faint worry that this could be another blow-out, but Vancouver don't get blown out very often, and they have a better chance of getting away with a draw or more than the prices suggest.</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Back Vancouver Whitecaps +1 v Chicago Fire @ 2.50</span></span></div> <div> <span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-duWNGqM8r5A/WVZP0CpimUI/AAAAAAAACJM/Nb12JVXRKlw-YWjbO-MDpTN-w6BvIxKgACLcBGAs/s1600/federico-higuain-columbus-crew-mls-08292015_1q84xppifw7tn1so4g4ktssy8s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="620" height="442" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-duWNGqM8r5A/WVZP0CpimUI/AAAAAAAACJM/Nb12JVXRKlw-YWjbO-MDpTN-w6BvIxKgACLcBGAs/s640/federico-higuain-columbus-crew-mls-08292015_1q84xppifw7tn1so4g4ktssy8s.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-weight: 600;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div> <div> <br /></div>

MLS Betting: Cracking Columbus to provide more entertainment

Columbus Crew v Atlanta United Sunday, 00:30 Columbus didn't disappoint us last week against Montreal in a game that always looke...

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European U21 Championship: Star-studded Spain look set to reign supreme

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Germany U21 v Spain U21</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Friday 30th June, 19:45</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Live on Sky Sports</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pre-tournament favourites Spain have been chalked up as fair 2.00 shots to clinch their third U21 European Championship crown in four editions following an unblemished passage to Friday's final in Krakow.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">La Rojita secured their spot in the showpiece decider courtesy of a 3-1 victory over 10-man Italy on Tuesday evening; Atletico Madrid starlet Saul Niguez scoring a sensational second-half hat-trick to give Albert Celades's side a fourth win from four fixtures in Poland.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spain started the tournament as the team to beat - only outright glory will be accepted back home from a squad that was outlined from the off as the strongest, player-for-player. La Rojita certainly haven't disappointed and their flawless performance from the group-stages deserves immense credit.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Iberians sealed their semi-final berth with three wins from three, racking up nine goals and conceding just one - a stunning Bruma effort against their main threat in Group B, Portugal. Spain even had the luxury of resting their first-choice XI in their pool concluder against Serbia.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Seven of the squad boast senior experience and the strength in depth across Spanish football is so absurd that the likes of Inaki Williams, Denis Suarez and Mikel Oyarzabal are far from guaranteed a place in the starting XI.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Spanish midfield is the most competitive element of the La Rojita team with Saul, Dani Ceballos and Marcos Llorente orchestrating a front-three of Marco Asensio, Sandro Ramirez and skipper Gerard Deulofeu. Spain simply have the arsenal to ruthlessly exploit any hint of weakness in opposition defences.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">That's how the four-time champions overcame Italy. La Rojita dominated possession against the Azzurrini but were limited to a single effort on-target during the opening period whilst facing four. But Roberto Gagliardini's naive 58th minute sending off shortly after Saul's opener proved decisive.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Federico Bernardeschi's equaliser was a pleasant leveller but in truth the game was already gone. Spain's individual brilliance told, as did the added freshness of their starters as they left Italy chasing shadows, picking off the Group C winners on the counter-attack to comfortably seal their spot in Krakow.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Spain have now scored 12 goals from just 58 attempts - a stunning 21% conversion rate - with their phenomenal finishing easily out-stripping their expected goals output. But if there's one doubt over this side, it's arguably their lack of a collective system that's previously been imposed in the past.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Critics back home suggest Celades is merely a puppet master in the dugout with the incredible individual ability in the squad putting Spain on the path to silverware, as opposed to any tactical tweaks. And La Rojita did appear uncomfortable when pressed high by Portugal earlier in the competition.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Germany 4.20 went 120 minutes against England on Tuesday night before progressing with a 4-3 triumph on penalties and head coach Stefan Kuntz's is expected to ensure his troops restrict Spain's movement, especially at full-back where Jonny and Hector Bellerin are encouraged to push high up the park.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kuntz made his first changes of the competition ahead of the England encounter and his options are thinning for the final. With Niklas Sule and Matthias Ginter with the seniors and Jonathan Tah injured, Niklas Stark's absence was keenly felt at centre-half during the semi-final.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gideon Jung stood in at centre-half and looks like being required once more whilst centre-forward Davie Selkie - who found the net against England - is now rated a major doubt for Germany.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Die Mannschaft overcame an early swarm of English attacks to take control of their final-four clash but alarming defending from set-pieces and a series of flaky finishes kept the scores locked level until the shoot-out.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Germany are in the final for the third occasion but the 2009 winners don't appear to have the tools at their disposal to spoil or stifle the classy Spaniards. A midfield consisting of Max Meyer, Mahmoud Dahoud and Maximilian Arnold are more likely to add value going forward and with their backline struggling, Kuntz's charges are best opposed here.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Germany may have won 16 of their past 20 at this level but Spain arrive on the back of an unbeaten 13-match run W10-D3-L0 and should be capable of clinching a record-equalling fifth U21 European Championship title.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recommended Bet</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Back Spain to win 2.00</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoJEAvVtAYI/WVYklhYUhLI/AAAAAAAACI8/wluAkJLbQCQZ-cppa3vwskzqZQl-JiKyQCLcBGAs/s1600/niguez-reuters-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="705" height="354" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoJEAvVtAYI/WVYklhYUhLI/AAAAAAAACI8/wluAkJLbQCQZ-cppa3vwskzqZQl-JiKyQCLcBGAs/s640/niguez-reuters-m.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

European U21 Championship: Star-studded Spain look set to reign supreme

Germany U21 v Spain U21 Friday 30th June, 19:45 Live on Sky Sports Pre-tournament favourites Spain have been chalked up as fair 2.00 sho...

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Confederations Cup: Finals

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">3rd Place Playoff: Portugal v Mexico – Sun 10:00pm</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Portugal went into their semi final clash against Chile as firm favourties – wrongly so according to The Wolf. Chile were able to dominate possession and created the better chances including hitting the woodwork twice in the matter of seconds. Neither side were able to break the deadlock and when they went to penalties it was Bravo who was the hero. Portugal missed all three of their penalties with Ronaldo not even attempting one. Santos will surely start Quaresma for this one and his side should have little troubles breaking down a Mexico defence which has consistently leaked goals. Germany put 4 past them and it could have been more. The 3rd place playoff match has consistently been the most entertaining of the competition! There have been four or more goals in each of the last three matches to settle 3rd place with all three of them going to extra time. The Wolf is rolling out all 5 chips for Over 2.5 goals and wouldn’t be surprised if we see 5 or even six!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best: Over 2.5 goals ($1.60)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: Over 3.5 goals ($2.60)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Correct Score: Draw 2-2 ($13.00)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Final: Germany v Chile  – Mon 4:00am</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Germany have been a goal scoring machine throughout this tournament and their performance against Mexico was no exception. They have scored 3 or more goals in 3 of their 4 matches but it was Chile that held them to a single goal in their group game fixture. That 1-1 draw was the most technical battle of the tournament and we are in store for a repeat. Both sides will look to make an impression early by pressing up the pitch but The Wolf expects to settle into a real midfield battle after the opening 15 minutes. It will be Draxler and Goretzka for Germany versus Sanchez and Vidal. There is no doubt that the Chilean duo have a clear edge in flair and firepower but their counterparts play that traditional German role to a tee and will look to bring Hector, Kimmich and Can into the game at every opportunity. Germany are likely to go with a back three yet again and The Wolf says it leaves the door open. They have conceded in all 4 games this tournament and Chile will get their chances. The Wolf tipped Chile to lift the trophy and will be sticking with them but says we are likely to again see extra time and penalties which will suit Chile just fine – after all Bravo saved all three Portuguese penalties and Chile beat Argentina twice on penalties to win the Copa America.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best: Both Teams To Score – YES ($1.90)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: Draw ($3.40)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Correct Score: Draw 1-1 ($6.50)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EcjOf1ar9W4/WVYiFv7GcCI/AAAAAAAACIw/Qgil3_6BwGYJCDLPoZIU_Kg4t3VILmp9gCLcBGAs/s1600/Joshua%252BKimmich%252BGermany%252Bv%252BChile%252BGroup%252BB%252BFIFA%252B5F6w4nu_xinl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="378" data-original-width="600" height="402" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EcjOf1ar9W4/WVYiFv7GcCI/AAAAAAAACIw/Qgil3_6BwGYJCDLPoZIU_Kg4t3VILmp9gCLcBGAs/s640/Joshua%252BKimmich%252BGermany%252Bv%252BChile%252BGroup%252BB%252BFIFA%252B5F6w4nu_xinl.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /> <br />

Confederations Cup: Finals

3rd Place Playoff: Portugal v Mexico – Sun 10:00pm Portugal went into their semi final clash against Chile as firm favourties – wrongly so...

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ATP Eastbourne/ Antalya: Semi Finals

<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Wolf would like to pay tribute to Richard Gasquet for his performance yesterday. He played two matches, against two of the biggest servers on tour, and won both encounters in straight sets. The Wolf says we will continue to back him and he rates the Frenchman as the bet of the day!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">ATP Eastbourne</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Feature Previews</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Novak Djokovic v Daniil Medvedev</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Youngster Daniil Medevedev has really made a name for himself in recent weeks. He has beaten Haase and Kokkinakis twice along with Ram, Mahut, Querrey and Johnson – all very handy grass court players. He’s not the greatest mover but you hardly need to be on grass. He serves big and looks to attack very early in the rallies. Solid off both wings he also looks to close into the net – very important in this match. Djokovic made a fast start against Young in the quarters but the errors did begin to flow in the second and the American was able to trouble Novak by pushing him wide on both wings. Medvedev hits a pretty flat ball but will look to attack up the lines in the hope of getting similar results. Medvedev took a set off Novak when they met in a Davis Cup tie earlier in the year and The Wolf says he is more than capable of doing the same.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet: Over 21.5 games ($1.80)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: Both Players Win a Set – YES ($3.00)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Richard Gasquet v Gael Monfils</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gasquet came out on top as an underdog when they met a week ago in Halle and the market has correctly flipped. One thing that hasn’t changed is the fact that The Wolf is chips in on Gasquet! He has won the last 3 meetings between them (not including his retirement at the French) and this is a surface that suit his game far more than his compatriot. Gasquet beat Anderson and Isner in back to back matches yesterday without dropping serve and he managed to break down two of the biggest servers on the tour on grass! He earned a break in each of the 4 sets he played yesterday and if he can return at that level against Monfils it will be curtains!!!</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet: Gasquet WIN ($1.80)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: Sets Gasquet 2-0 ($2.80)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">ATP Antalya</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Feature Previews</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Marcos Baghdatis v Yuichi Sugita</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Wolf said that Baghdatis would struggle against Ramanathan and he sure did. He needed a 3rd set breaker to get though and will face an even tougher task against Sugita. The man from Japan has climbed into the top 100 and is coming off a dominant 6-3 6-0 win. The Wolf says his ability to get into his opponents service games holds the key, and he will be the one who dominates any baseline exchanges. There have been flaws in the former Australian Open finalists game and The Wolf has Sugita taking full advantage.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet: Sugita WIN ($1.62)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: 1st Set Score After 4 Games Sugita 3-1 ($3.90)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Adrian Mannarino v Andreas Seppi</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Both men have exceeded The Wolf’s expectations this week. This is Mannarino’s best chance at claiming his maiden ATP title  of his career while for Seppi it is a change at making a final for the first time in over 2 years. Seppi leads the H2H 3-2 but they have split the two meetings on grass – both last year. Most interestingly, all 5 of their clashes have been decided in straight sets and they have never gone beyond 10 games in a single set. It makes the Unders a mouthwatering proposition. Seppi in straight.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best Bet: Seppi WIN ($1.80)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: Sets Seppi 2-0 ($2.80)</span><br /> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QV3GWQ8PJcg/WVYhgjcmV4I/AAAAAAAACIo/JiThePG5ozU7hRN7Es1c-94lX9cKNld-QCLcBGAs/s1600/2017Jun29112329_803286046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="600" height="444" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QV3GWQ8PJcg/WVYhgjcmV4I/AAAAAAAACIo/JiThePG5ozU7hRN7Es1c-94lX9cKNld-QCLcBGAs/s640/2017Jun29112329_803286046.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

ATP Eastbourne/ Antalya: Semi Finals

The Wolf would like to pay tribute to Richard Gasquet for his performance yesterday. He played two matches, against two of the biggest serve...

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Germany v Mexico: Expect fireworks in Sochi tonight

<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Germany v Mexico<br />Thursday 19:00<br />Live on ITV1<br /><br />Not many will have been more pleased with a goalless 120 minutes in the Kazan Arena last night. The full-time draw puts us back in black for the week.<br /><br />This evening, Germany play Mexico for a shot at Chile in Sunday's final. The world champions' three group games delivered 3-2, 1-1 and 3-1 scorelines. In five competitive games this year, Joachim Low's men have managed just a single clean sheet - against San Marino.<br /><br />Mexico bring a much bigger goal threat than that lot. El Tri struck six times in going unbeaten through their three group matches (2-2, 2-1, 2-1). You'll notice there that they too are without a clean sheet in Russia.<br /><br />With both teams bringing significant scoring threats - and fragile defences - to the party in Sochi tonight, we really like the near-evens price on Over 2.5 Goals.<br /><br />Recommended Bet<br />Back Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.95 in Germany v Mexico</span></span></span><br /> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OjiPSkj6scg/WVTDvqQepEI/AAAAAAAACIY/WY26TK9JFD4BSOJraNAiZjFY_OXfBNaXgCLcBGAs/s1600/untitled_design_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="704" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OjiPSkj6scg/WVTDvqQepEI/AAAAAAAACIY/WY26TK9JFD4BSOJraNAiZjFY_OXfBNaXgCLcBGAs/s640/untitled_design_45.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>

Germany v Mexico: Expect fireworks in Sochi tonight

Germany v Mexico Thursday 19:00 Live on ITV1 Not many will have been more pleased with a goalless 120 minutes in the Kazan Arena last night....

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Against All Odds: Santos to bounce back at Flamengo

<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Flamengo v Santos<br />Thursday June 29, 01:45 BST<br /><br />This is the first leg of two between two of the main contenders to lift the cup. The Copa do Brasil hasn't disappointed this year as pretty much all of the big boys are left standing and we are in for some mouth-watering cup ties.<br /><br />This one is no exception and Flamengo are the hot favourites to take a first leg lead. They have made a flying start to their league campaign as they are third in the Campeonato, having lost just one of their 10 matches.<br /><br />Interestingly though, Zé Ricardo's side have drawn five of their 10 fixtures and they only edged out Atletico GO in the previous round of this competition - and they drew the first leg at home 0-0.<br /><br />Santos suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Sport Recife at the weekend, but they are still fifth in the Campeonato. That result ended a five game unbeaten streak - four of which were victories.<br /><br />Levir Culpi's men will want to atone for that loss tonight and they will be boosted by the fact that they have won their last two away games - both 2-0.<br /><br />This should be a really close-fought affair and there won't be much in it at the final whistle. Which is why, with Flamengo trading at around the 1.69 mark, I have to make them my lay of the day.<br /><br />Recommended Bet<br />Lay Flamengo v Santos @ 1.69</span></span><br /> <br /> <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Q0UGIyXHqw/WVTCIz2FDtI/AAAAAAAACIM/0nZboZl12M80J3xTQpk5R3cLPR6d5wjzQCLcBGAs/s1600/truyenthong2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Q0UGIyXHqw/WVTCIz2FDtI/AAAAAAAACIM/0nZboZl12M80J3xTQpk5R3cLPR6d5wjzQCLcBGAs/s640/truyenthong2.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span>

Against All Odds: Santos to bounce back at Flamengo

Flamengo v Santos Thursday June 29, 01:45 BST This is the first leg of two between two of the main contenders to lift the cup. The Copa do B...

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Welterweight Title – Horn v Pacquiao

<div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Welterweight Title Fight</span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jeff Horn, an ex-schoolteacher from Brisbane has somehow landed a world title fight against one of the world’s greatest ever boxers in Filipino, Manny Pacquiao, at Suncorp on Sunday afternoon. Pacquiao needs no introduction given he’s won titles in 8 different weight divisions but the real question is, does Horn stand any chance of victory?  Well, according to the Wolf, the answer is a resounding no.  This fight is a complete mis-match that looks to have been setup as the first fight in Pacquiao’s “farewell tour”. A tour that probably sees him fighting all over the world, picking up fat pay-cheques & beating lower ranked opponents.  This is not a fight that the world wants to see, but nevertheless, the city of Brisbane will be glued to their televisions in the hope that the local boy can spring an unlikely surprise.</span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Onto the fighters and Pacquiao enters the fight as a 38-year old Senator that is definitely past his best but would probably still rank as the best welterweight in the world right now. His record stands at 59-6-2 (38 KOs) and he fought, and won convincingly, twice last year beating Timothy Bradley & Jessie Vargas – dropping both fighters. Horn’s camp will tell you that Manny is so far past his best that their man, a bigger and younger man, has the edge.  It’s simply not true. Almost everyone is bigger than Pacquiao, including Jessie Vargas last year – it didn’t help.  These days almost everyone is younger than Manny but that also didn’t help Vargas in November. Pacquiao taught him a lesson that day.</span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">For Horn this fight is a no-lose situation.  Lose and, well, it’s Manny Pacquiao. Win, and you’ve pulled off a huge shock and set yourself up for some huge fights in the future.  His record stands at 16-0-1 (11 KO) but the key stat here is in the quality of his opposition.  Horn has never, probably will never again, fight someone of Pacquiao’s calibre.  They are on different levels, completely different levels and that gulf in class will show in the ring on Sunday.  Horn would beat Conor McGregor in the ring but he’d struggle against the likes of Vargas & Bradley and Pacquiao beat both of those.</span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We could look at strategy and key strengths and weaknesses but the simple fact of the matter is that the gulf in class is just too big. Horn is currently trading at around the $5 mark, he should be $50 in reality.</span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Best: Under 10.5 Rounds ($2.05)</span></div> <div> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Value: Pacquiao wins in Rounds 7-12 ($4.00)</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4xX_upxFY8/WVR__vr_NuI/AAAAAAAACH8/KjwPIQxpX78qvkvfckoxf69hl0huBNwVACLcBGAs/s1600/133228913_AAP_Manny-Pacquiao-vs-Jeff-Horn-SPORT-large_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqG_wklub6EnvveMZfcbf8h2AT8uVSvh9Bh7Oaylw4ePc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="720" height="398" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4xX_upxFY8/WVR__vr_NuI/AAAAAAAACH8/KjwPIQxpX78qvkvfckoxf69hl0huBNwVACLcBGAs/s640/133228913_AAP_Manny-Pacquiao-vs-Jeff-Horn-SPORT-large_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqG_wklub6EnvveMZfcbf8h2AT8uVSvh9Bh7Oaylw4ePc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>

Welterweight Title – Horn v Pacquiao

Welterweight Title Fight Jeff Horn, an ex-schoolteacher from Brisbane has somehow landed a world title fight against one of the world’s...

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Wimbledon 2017 Men's Preview: Federer the man to beat at SW19

<div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Champagne on ice for the next fortnight</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Strawberries and cream, champagne and top level grass court tennis.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There is no tennis tournament, or arguably sporting event, comparable to Wimbledon, which gets underway on Monday morning.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For those of us looking at betting and trading options, however, the only champagne we should be considering drinking will be in celebration when our bets are paid out, and there is no better time to start looking at outright options for the coming fortnight than now, a stage of the season where almost all players have competed in grass court warm-up events, and form is rubber-stamped.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">However, it's difficult to want to commit too much to players without assessing their draw, and consequently, I'll be back over the weekend to check out the draw and finalise our outright options for this year's event.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wimbledon conditions likely to be medium-paced for grass</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First of all, it's worth discussing the likely conditions that the players will experience in the coming fortnight. It's almost certain that the court speed will be average for a grass venue, with 83.9% of service games held and a mean of 0.64 aces per game achieved in the last three years at SW19, compared to the ATP grass court mean figures of 84.4% and 0.66, respectively, in the same time period.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Having said this, it's worth noting that these figures are hugely in excess of all-surface numbers, and particularly clay courts, where the players have been forced to transition from following the conclusion of the French Open several weeks ago, so players will have had some adjusting to do from a court speed basis.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nadal lacking grass-court match practice</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">On this basis, playing warm-up matches on grass seems an entirely logical plan for players, so it's interesting to note that Rafa Nadal has chosen not to do so, withdrawing from Queens last week citing fatigue following his triumph at Roland Garros.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Conversely, Novak Djokovic, who tends to only play grass court exhibition matches in advance of Wimbledon, decided to take a late entry into Eastbourne, and the Serb has just defeated Vasek Pospisil in his opening match on the south coast.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">With the grass court season shorter than clay or hard courts, I like to look at a few particular areas when compiling an outright market shortlist, and these areas specific to grass are no injury doubts, reasonable form, strong serve/return data on the relevant surface over the last 24 months, and a solid career record against top 20 opponents on the surface.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm more willing to look at records against top 20 opponents currently given the open nature of both the ATP and WTA fields - certainly there are no utterly dominant players in the draw, as both Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams have been in recent years.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Federer boasts the best career record against top 20 players on grass</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Those at the forefront of the market, unsurprisingly, have the best records against top 20 opponents on grass. Tournament favourite, Roger Federer, at 3.45, has a 35-12 career record (74.5%) and leads this metric from Rafa Nadal (17-6, 73.9%), Andy Murray (28-11, 71.8%) and Novak Djokovic (17-8, 68.0%). Nadal is currently 5.90 with the Exchange, with Murray at 5.80 and Djokovic, 7.60.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lower-ranked big servers also with strong records</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">However, it may be of interest to readers to learn of some unheralded names who have beaten top 20 opponents on grass more than 50% of the time - the big-serving trio of Ivo Karlovic (12-9), Feliciano Lopez (16-15) and Gilles Muller (7-4) all fall into this bracket, and if we are looking at long-shot options, certainly could be considered. Queens champion Lopez, at 130.00, is the shortest-priced option of these players, with Muller at 620.00 and Karlovic even bigger at 880.00.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of the other players towards the top of the market, Milos Raonic (6-6) and Grigor Dimitrov (5-5), also have non-negative records, but there is a long list of players who have had huge issues against top-20 players on the surface historically.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cilic and Wawrinka with poor records against top players on grass</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Focusing on players priced below 150.00 in the outright market with this poor record, we can discount several players.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Marin Cilic, with a 6-11 record, is one, despite the Croat receiving market support and being backed into a current 24.00. Considering his grass data is strong - he has won 73.3% of service points and 34.7% of return points to lie third on tour in this combined metric - but his record against better players is weak, he appears to fit the profile of a flat-track bully. That is unlikely to get the job done against the best players in the world.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stan Wawrinka, currently available at 42.00, is friendless in the market and it is obvious to see why - he is just 1-7 against top 20 players on grass (win over David Goffin, who is absent this year with an ankle injury) and has reached the final of a grass event just once (a 250 event, where he lost to Nicolas Mahut) in his entire career. The Swiss player actually has the opposite dynamic to Cilic, in that he reserves his best tennis for the highest profile matches, but it is impossible to side with Wawrinka here.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Karlovic, Lopez and Muller on our shortlist</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moving onto grass court historical player data, it's worthwhile noting that both Karlovic and Lopez also boast combined service points won percentages of 103.0% or greater in the last two years, better than the likes of Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev, Gael Monfils and Nick Kyrgios. Muller is a little lower, at 102.0%.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">With this in mind, I'm keen to shortlist these players prior to the draw as back-to-lay propositions. A tough draw may scupper us, but Karlovic, Lopez and Muller - all in great form on the surface - are definite options.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fitness doubts surrounding many other contenders</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">From an injury and form perspective, there are certainly fitness doubts over the likes of Milos Raonic, Juan Martin Del Potro and Kei Nishikori amongst others, while there has to be at least some question mark around Rafa following his withdrawal from Queens.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Furthermore, the King of Clay is ranked just 17th on the ATP Tour for combined service points won and return points won on grass in the last two years, and can be easily swerved.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bigger doubts over Murray than Djokovic</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">World number one Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic lead those with concerns over their form, and of the two, I'm keener to side with Djokovic. He has an excellent record at Wimbledon, winning the title in three of the last six years, his 2017 data is marginally better than the Scotsman's, although both are in huge decline, and Djokovic boasts better grass data in the last two years. At a current 7.60, I have a suspicion that Djokovic's price may prove some value.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Murray also has some fitness doubts - he withdrew from his exhibition match at the Hurlingham Club yesterday with another hip issue, and it is far from guaranteed that he is not feeling the after-effects of shingles, which he picked up earlier in the year.</span></div> <div> <br /></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Federer justifiably market favourite for glory</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This leaves us with just one player worthy of discussion - tournament favourite Roger Federer. The Swiss legend has been backed into 3.45, as mentioned previously, following his standard, almost yearly, win in Halle last week.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Certainly, on his favourite surface, Federer is the player to beat, and stats accurately reflect this. He leads the ATP Tour for combined service points and return points won across the last two years on grass, at 110.2%, while doubts persist about his ability in longer matches in this best of five set format, I need to point out that he's won four of five deciding fifth sets in the last 12 months.</span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">At the age of 35, Federer certainly isn't getting any younger, and he's far from unbeatable, but he remains the player to beat at SW19 in the next fortnight.</span></div> </div> <div> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div> <div> <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XQg00IR1EU/WVR_c1lUXVI/AAAAAAAACH0/oJ271N1dp1YPX4dpk-24alICpt1Uw8niACLcBGAs/s1600/federer-wimbledon-2016-monday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5XQg00IR1EU/WVR_c1lUXVI/AAAAAAAACH0/oJ271N1dp1YPX4dpk-24alICpt1Uw8niACLcBGAs/s640/federer-wimbledon-2016-monday2.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>

Wimbledon 2017 Men's Preview: Federer the man to beat at SW19

Champagne on ice for the next fortnight Strawberries and cream, champagne and top level grass court tennis. There is no tennis tour...

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Wimbledon 2017: Do not write off Azarenka on pregnancy return

<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Replicating our French Open form the aim for Wimbledon</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The French Open was a huge success for us, particularly from a WTA perspective, where we managed 11 consecutive winners, and were only denied an event clean-sweep by Jelena Ostapenko defeating Timea Bacsinszky, who suffered an injury in the first set of their semi-final.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm certainly keen to continue in this vein of form, although it will be very tough to replicate - I was told that by someone on Twitter that the odds were around 2,000/1 for the 11 consecutive winners - and we start our Wimbledon campaign with the pre-draw preview, with the final warm-up event in Eastbourne under way, albeit rain-delayed.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kvitova and Pliskova vie for market favouritism</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After her victory in Birmingham last week, Petra Kvitova is the marginal outright favourite for the Wimbledon ladies singles title, at a current 6.00, shading favouritism from Karolina Pliskova, at 6.20.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Certainly, both ladies should benefit from the pace of Wimbledon - although my metrics graded it at medium-paced for grass, it's significantly quicker than other surfaces, and it's worth mentioning that Kvitova leads the way for service points won percentage (67.0%) on grass in the last two years, with Pliskova fifth, behind Angelique Kerber, Madison Keys and Coco Vandeweghe.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Big-servers likely to thrive at SW19</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Immediately, this gives decent insight into which type of players are suited by grass - big servers - and the likes of Kvitova and Pliskova are able to hold serve around 80% of the time on grass, a figure actually in excess of the ATP all-surface mean.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As with the ATP, I want to look at some specific areas to identify our shortlist - no injury doubts, reasonable form, strong serve/return data on the relevant surface over the last 24 months, and a solid career record against top 20 opponents on the surface.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">However, there are only 11 players currently priced below 100.00 on the Exchange on the ATP, but the WTA field contains exactly double this number, at 22 players. Therefore, it follows that our shortlist will be more plentiful than the ATP, particularly when my research demonstrated that there were numerous players in the WTA who had solid records against top 20 players on the surface.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Numerous players with good grass data but poor record against better opponents</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Of those outsiders with a solid sample of data in this area, we can certainly discount Julia Goerges (2-7), Tsvetana Pironkova (5-8), Lucie Safarova (3-7), Alison Riske (1-12), and from a smaller sample, Johanna Konta (2-4), Svetlana Kuznetsova (1-4), and Anastasia Sevastova (0-3).</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's a shame that the likes of Goerges, Pironkova and Riske in particular can have a line drawn through them - they have excellent recent records on the surface, but with this metric showing weakness, it would seem to be fair to consider them flat-track bullies, rather akin to Marin Cilic in the ATP.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">While Venus Williams managed to get to the Australian Open final without facing a top-25 opponent in January, this should be thought of as the exception to the rule - a player will need to have a high enough potential level to defeat a top player, and probably several of them, to go deep in the event.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Vandeweghe among many with fitness doubts</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm also cautious about Coco Vandeweghe, despite her two-year grass court service points won and return points won percentage being fourth on the WTA Tour, with the American big-server quitting her match against Garbine Muguruza last week in Birmingham at one set all, with a twisted ankle and foot blisters.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Similarly, there are fitness doubts around Timea Bacsinszky and Caroline Wozniacki, and form and fitness issues for the likes of Agnieszka Radwanska, Madison Keys and Belinda Bencic.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With all these players struck from our thoughts, we can start to concentrate our focus on the players worthy of inclusion on our shortlist.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kerber and Halep strong statistical options</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Quite surprisingly, Angelique Kerber leads the way statistically on grass in the last two years, and last year's runner-up may be a touch under-rated at a current 20.00.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The German, still somehow world number one, has just toughed out a three-set win against Krystina Pliskova at Eastbourne, and a good showing on the south coast can give her confidence. Depending on how the out-of-form German fares this week, she can be considered on our shortlist.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">French Open runner-up Simona Halep 19.00 is another who we can add - she has a tour-leading 47.6% of return points won on grass in the last two years, and is third behind Kerber and Kvitova for the combined serve and return points won.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My main issue with the Romanian is whether she can mentally get over the brutal defeat to Jelena Ostapenko in Paris, but these odds based on her numbers and strong recent form on clay are an insult to her. I'll be keeping an eye on her data from Eastbourne.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grass-court specialists available at big prices</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Other players I am not keen to jettison at this juncture are Sabine Lisicki 120.00, a grass-court natural who showed a good level in Mallorca last week on her return to tour from injury, and the improving Kristina Mladenovic, although she looks a touch short at 30.00.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Also worthy of consideration are Magdalena Rybarikova, another grass-court specialist who has won six of 11 matches against top-20 opponents on the surface, CiCi Bellis, Ash Barty 50.00, a player with huge potential and upside, and top-ten grass stats in the last two years, and probably to the surprise of some, Victoria Azarenka at 40.00.</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Azarenka has massive upside at a huge price</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Belarussian has massive upside at this price given her superb career grass court record (35-14), and her career combined serve/return points won percentage of 108.2% would rank her third in the current two-year WTA list. While Azarenka's level in Mallorca last week following her return to tour from pregnancy was mediocre, she will no doubt benefit from the time on court, and I'll be keeping an eye on her draw on Friday morning.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Certainly, the draw is critical - Lisicki, Rybarikova, Bellis, Barty and Azarenka are all unseeded - and this quintet could receive brutal draws, but in advance of Friday, they form our shortlist, along with Kerber and Halep.</span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkXw5fvg6d4/WVR-OdGHsdI/AAAAAAAACHs/oTn54BxwpiMawdKO918m-3c3RCXLBygbQCLcBGAs/s1600/azarenka-reuters-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="759" height="354" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkXw5fvg6d4/WVR-OdGHsdI/AAAAAAAACHs/oTn54BxwpiMawdKO918m-3c3RCXLBygbQCLcBGAs/s640/azarenka-reuters-2.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>

Wimbledon 2017: Do not write off Azarenka on pregnancy return

Replicating our French Open form the aim for Wimbledon The French Open was a huge success for us, particularly from a WTA perspective, whe...

Read More