It seems like an eternity ago since the World Cup. Now it is time to concentrate on the domestic scene. It is always tricky at the start of the season but I am willing to jump in with both feet rather than just dipping my toe.
I have had a look at all the games that are taking place this weekend. I am going to give tips that I think offer value. Whilst I think Forest are going to comfortably beat Blackpool, writing about it on here at 1/3 seems pretty pointless. If I felt confident they would win at a canter then I would look at an overs goals market or a handicap bet for better value.
NAP of the weekend
MIDDLESBROUGH (5/6 Paddy and Ladbrokes) to beat Birmingham
Middlesbrough have looked to Spain for some signings with the most significant being Enrique Garcia (Kike) from Real Murcia for 3.5 million euros. His goal scoring record is roughly about 1 every three games. Birmingham had a terrible end to the season and were lucky to avoid relegation. Their pre-season has consisted of some confidence boosting games against lower league teams. They have performed well but it is a different story when thrown back into the league situation. Birmingham have seen 11 new additions to their team. They will need time to gel.
Exeter Vs Portsmouth – Under 2.5 Goals (5/6 Boyle Sports, 4/5 Victor and Stan James)
I contemplated going for Portsmouth as I fancy them for the league but I think this may be a tentative affair at the start of the season and it could go either way. Whilst Exeter only managed one win in 4 games, and just 6 goals in total, they did play Reading and Swansea with narrow defeats. Portsmouth are often free flowing in games and this was continued in their friendlies. I think that the opening day will make both teams cautious in this game.
Rochdale Vs Peterborough- Over 2.5 Goals (20/23 Victor)
Peterborough need to shrug off their play off final defeat. They have had a steady unbeaten pre-season and have been scoring goals freely scoring 12 and conceding 8. Rochdale have the same GS and GA but over 6 pre-season games. There should be goals in this one.
Speculative Doubles and Treble
Middlesbrough to win (5/6 Paddy and Ladbrokes), Portsmouth to win (7/5 Victor and Coral) and Peterborough to win AND Both Teams to Score (15/4 Boyle Sports and 18/5 Coral) – The treble pays 20.35 at Boyle Sports and 19.44 at Betway. The worst double pays 4.32 at Betway and 4.28 at Boyle Sports.
MY BETTING STAKES THIS WEEKEND
Middlesbrough £75
Exeter vs Portsmouth – Under 2.5 goals £25
Rochdale vs Peterborough – Over 2.5 goals £50
Speculative Doubles and Trebles (above) – 4 bets @ £6.25 each
Total Bets £175
