RSS

Lucky.ie

Two Irish punters go head to head to see who comes out tops

Posts Tagged ‘premier league’

Keep them Coming, Robin

October 5th, 2012

Keep them Coming, Robin

After two more goals on Tuesday night secured another victory for Manchester United and maintained our course for Champions League knockout qualification, in-form striker, Robin van Persie, admitted that he is still not content with his performances.

Speaking in front of a packed media in Romania, Van Persie addressed his recent form since joining United and reflected on how he can improve.

“I am on a good run but I would like to do better,” Van Persie revealed to BBC Sport. “I would like to make more assists than I have. It is not only about goals. I think I am on the way [to settling in well]. I want to make more assists; I have made only one. I would like to improve that.”

United fans already delighted with the Dutchman’s start to his Old Trafford career will no doubt be pleased by the news Robin is looking to create more goals as well as score, but the way he is playing there really is no need to.

Sir Alex brought Van Persie to the club for a specific reason: to score goals. Eight strikes in 10 games proves the boss’ decision to spend £24m on the striker was correct, and it is clear that Robin is there to score rather than assist others.

Ferguson has smartly merged Van Persie into the squad, shifting Wayne Rooney to a deeper role to provide United’s midfield with the requisite bulk needed to stave off tough Premier League opponents.

Robin has proven he can hold the line up front on his own and with Rooney’s precision passing – exemplified in the two assists against Cluj – there is no reason for Van Persie to change his game.

The Dutchman’s prowess in front of goal has lifted United to 121/50 in the odds to win Premier League 2012-13 (http://betting.betfair.com/football/premier-league/). Meanwhile, local rivals, City, have some work to do if they hope to overturn their flagging form (http://betting.betfair.com/football/champions-league/champions-league-mancini-on-a-mission-041012-579.html) in Europe.

After two more goals on Tuesday night secured another victory for Manchester United and maintained our course for Champions League knockout qualification, in-form striker, Robin van Persie, admitted that he is still not content with his performances.

Speaking in front of a packed media in Romania, Van Persie addressed his recent form since joining United and reflected on how he can improve.

“I am on a good run but I would like to do better,” Van Persie revealed to BBC Sport. “I would like to make more assists than I have. It is not only about goals. I think I am on the way [to settling in well]. I want to make more assists; I have made only one. I would like to improve that.”

United fans already delighted with the Dutchman’s start to his Old Trafford career will no doubt be pleased by the news Robin is looking to create more goals as well as score, but the way he is playing there really is no need to.

Sir Alex brought Van Persie to the club for a specific reason: to score goals. Eight strikes in 10 games proves the boss’ decision to spend £24m on the striker was correct, and it is clear that Robin is there to score rather than assist others.

Ferguson has smartly merged Van Persie into the squad, shifting Wayne Rooney to a deeper role to provide United’s midfield with the requisite bulk needed to stave off tough Premier League opponents.

Robin has proven he can hold the line up front on his own and with Rooney’s precision passing – exemplified in the two assists against Cluj – there is no reason for Van Persie to change his game.

The Dutchman’s prowess in front of goal has lifted United to 121/50 in the odds to win Premier League 2012-13. Meanwhile, local rivals, City, have some work to do if they hope to overturn their flagging form in Europe.

No comments »

Posted in Betting

Tags: Manchester United F.C. Old Trafford premier league Robin Robin van Persie United Van Persie Wayne Rooney

Sunderland Clinch Crucial Saha Deal

August 18th, 2012

Sunderland may have pulled off one of the signings of the English summer by clinching the services of experienced striker, Louis Saha, on a free transfer.

-

The well-travelled Frenchman arrives at the Stadium of Light after his release from his short-term stint with Tottenham last season. The forward enjoyed an impressive stay at White Hart Lane during the second half of the season, proving he is still a very capable finisher at the highest level.

-

The former Everton, Manchester United, and Newcastle star will not only bring his experience of Premier League football to his new club, but also Saha is still one of the smartest strikers in the business.

-

Sunderland manager, Martin O’Neill, has admitted that he is delighted to have secured the services of the France international, making it clear to news soccer reporters that Saha would have a big role to play for the team, as they look to make the next step up in the Premier League.

-

“Louis is a striker whose abilities have been proven at the very highest level, and he brings with him a raft of experience of top-flight football,” O’Neill said.

-

“I’m sure he will be a great addition to our squad in an area we recognise needs strengthening, and I’m delighted we have been able to complete the deal ahead of our first game of the season.”

-

Saha is only the second new face to have arrived at the club during the close season, and O’Neill will be well aware that he needs to bring in another couple of players if he is going to be able to challenge for a place in the top half of this season’s Premier League table.

-

Thinking of betting on soccer this summer? Visit the Bet365 website for the latest odds on the Premier League, as well as the Spanish La Liga and the Australian A-League.

No comments »

Posted in Betfair, Strategy

Tags: Louis Saha Martin O'Neill premier league Saha Stadium of Light Sunderland Sunderland A.F.C. White Hart Lane

Hoops Need More than Hughes

August 17th, 2012

Mark Hughes has been busy in the transfer window this summer, with the riches inherited by Queens Park Rangers from owner, Tony Fernandes, but the 48-year-old gaffer does not have what it takes to inspire the Hoops.

Ji-Sung Park, who signed for Rangers from Manchester United for just £2million, has four Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and a Champions League winners medal to his name.

The additions of Rob Green between the sticks, Andrew Johnson, and Junior Hoilett up front, Ryan Nelsen in defence, and Fabio de Silva on loan, demonstrates serious intent from the Londoners.

Bobby Zamora and Djbril Cisse remain on the books, having been brought in last January for a combined £10million, while Samba Diakite has made his loan move permanent.

For a club that finished one point above the drop, they are accumulating big, big names.

The problem for QPR is that the man holding the reigns has not won the fans over and divides the players and media.

‘Mistreated’ at Manchester City, ‘arrogant’ at Fulham, ‘uninspiring’ at Blackburn; the Hughes story is one misfortune to another.

Yet, however you interpret his previous jobs, the former Manchester United and Chelsea midfielder is not a man that players and fans warm to.

His dour demeanour and siege mentally, Hughes may be perceived as an antidote to the preying media and negative Premier League news, but it does little for his sides’ moral.

Last season, when Fulham fans chanted “Mark Hughes lacks ambition”, as their side came away from Loftus Road with three points, the taunts rang all too true.

Rangers have assembled a squad that should finish way higher than 17th, but, while Hughes remains at Loftus Road, the club will only move sideways, and not upwards.

Check out the latest on the other relegation candidates on the Bet Victor website, or take the plunge with a West Ham bet.

No comments »

Posted in Betting

Tags: Ji-Sung Park Junior Hoilett Loftus Road Mark Hughes premier league Queens Park Rangers FC Ryan Nelsen Tony Fernandes

De Bruyne Ready to make Impact

July 17th, 2012

Kevin de Bruyne has made it clear that he is looking forward to making an impact in the Chelsea first-team, after linking up with his new teammates, following his arrival from Genk.

The Belgian midfielder signed for Chelsea last January, but was immediately loaned back to Genk for the remainder of the season, much to the chagrin of fans who like to bet on soccer games.

This year, the 21-year old is expected to be a part of Roberto Di Matteo’s first team plans; although, the battle for places in the Chelsea midfield will make it a tough ask for de Bruyne to establish himself as a regular starter.

Fellow Belgian, Eden Hazard, is also a new arrival at Stamford Bridge, and de Bruyne is looking forward to linking up with the striker for their new side. The two compatriots will also play a role in helping each other settle into their new surroundings.

“I know a couple of people here already, so it’s quite good for integration. I don’t see there being any problems,” de Bruyne said.

“I know Eden [Hazard] very well, and for a long time. I played with him for the national team. We are the same age, so we played together when we were 18, 19.

“Since I have been here for pre-season, everything is fine; the club has taken very good care of me and has organised everything perfectly to make it easy,” added the attacking playmaker.

It will be interesting to see the look of the side that starts the season under Di Matteo.

The Italian will be freer than he was last year to stamp his authority over the squad, possibly giving younger players, like de Bruyne, the chance to impress and cement their place in his plans.

Chelsea are third favourite to win the Premier League, next year, according to the soccer betting tips on Bet365.

No comments »

Posted in Betting

Tags: Belgium Chelsea Chelsea FC Eden Hazard Kevin De Bruyne premier league Roberto Di Matteo Stamford Bridge

Premier League Predictions 29-30 Aug

August 28th, 2009

I got 7 out of 10 right last week and I think I’ll find it hard to match or beat that with this weeks fixtures. Here goes:

Chelsea v Burnley: Home Win – I have to go for Chelsea as the banker bet this week. I was wrong about Burnley last week as I thought Everton would beat them, but I have to say Chelsea at Stamford Bridge have to beat Burnley. Is it possible Burnley can get a point after beating United and Everton? No! (having a laugh to myself here incase I get this one wrong

)

Blackburn v West Ham: Home Win – I said in last week that I thought Blackburn would be a team that wouldn’t have any relegation troubles. They have 0 points so far and it’s not hard to get stuck down there at the bottom of the table if you don’t get a few results under your belt. I’m tempted to say draw, but I’ll go for Blackburn to get all 3 points.

Bolton v Liverpool: Away Win – I’m tempted to say draw or even home win! But Liverpool ‘need’ to get back on track here after 2 defeats so far. It’s not a tragedy but I’m sure they aren’t happy with the start so far. I’m going to be bold and say that if they don’t take all three points then they can’t win the league hence the away win. Bolton aren’t a bad side though and ‘might’ be hard to break down.

Stoke City v Sunderland: Draw – Stoke were strong at home last year and will be hoping to keep it up this year. However, Sunderland are looking good and Steve Bruce will get the best from his players. I expect Sunderland to get something here and to do well this year.

Tottenham v Birmingham: Home Win – I think Spurs can keep it up. Look at their team on paper, they’ve some good players there and a decent squad size. I know it doesn’t sound right that Spurs are taking 12 points from the first 4 games but it’s logical and I’m saying home win here.

Wolves v Hull City: Home Win – I said it before and I’ll say it again I’m not convinced with Phil Brown. This game is hard to call but it’s a home win for me.

Man Utd v Arsenal: Home Win – Heart says home win. Another hard one to call, I’d be tempted to say draw but I’m going for United to get all 3 points here and bypass Arsenal in the table. Hopefully I’m right! but Arsenal are looking good so far and this will be a tight game I think.

Portsmouth v Man City: Away WinCan Portsmouth get their first point? Not for me. This is a great chance for Man City to prove to the doubters that they are serious contenders and take 9 from 9 points here. Portsmouth need a result but I don’t expect them to get it here. I’ve went for Man City, but if you’re looking for a bit of value, it’s worth having a read around about the state of the take over bid going on at Portsmouth.

Everton v Wigan: Home Win – Everton are at the bottom of the table and shouln’t be there on paper. I never thought they’d be pointless after 2 games. Wigan got battered by Man Utd in the second half last weekend and I expect Everton to beat them here. The Lescott transfer saga is now over and Everton will be hoping to put their bad start to right this weekend. They’ve already got Distin in to replace Lescott so he’ll be looking to start off with a clean slate and a clean sheet.

Aston Villa v Fulham: Home Win – I watched Villa beat Liverpool 3-1 on Monday night and if I’m honest I don’t think they deserved it. Their defense looks shocking but will be bolstered if they sign Richard Dunne from Man City (I’m not sure if this is a done deal yet). Fulham are a good side, their away form wasn’t great last year, but I think it will improve this season. However, I’m just going to go with my gut here and say Villa to win this one.

As always, I only do this for the fun as I’m more interested in the Premier League than any other division. If you look over my previous posts you’ll see that I rarely follow up with a bet. Hopefully next month there might be a bit more action taken on my predictions/tips (I’ll be posting on this at the beginning of September). If you think I’m way of the mark with any of my selections, don’t be afraid to let me know with a comment!

No comments »

Posted in Predictions, Selecting, by Enda

Tags: Predictions premier league tips

Premier League Tips 22-24 Aug

August 21st, 2009

Here’s my predictions for this weekend’s games:

I’ve bet on one of these already and I may be putting on another bet tomorrow morning before kick off. If you fancy a bet yourself sign up to Betfair by clicking on the banner below for a £50 free bet.

Arsenal v Portsmouth: Home Win – Arsenal’s impressive start to continue and I expect goals in this one. Portsmouth will be gutted about the midweek defeat to Birmingham with such a late goal and will be keen to get their first points on the board, I dont think they’ll get them and there best hope for me is an outstanding performance from David James

Birmingham v Stoke City: Draw – Should be a cagey enough game, Stoke got by on home form last year and will be hoping to improve away this year. I think they might get a result here

Hull City v Bolton: Draw – I’ll go for Bolton to get something here after an opening day loss

Man City v Wolves: Home Win – Man City to maintain their 100% record. I expect them to be very strong and home this year just like last season

Sunderland v Blackburn: Home Win – This is a hard one to call but I’ll go for the home team although I think Blackburn did ok against Man City on the opening day and I dont expect them to have any relegation troubles

Wigan v Man Utd: Away Win – United need to recover after their loss away to Burnley. Anything less than a win is a disaster and Fergie would have had the hairdrier on full power since Wednesday night

West Ham v Tottenham: Away Win – London derby and Sean expects Spurs to faulter this weekend. I expect them to keep on scoring here and I think they can take all 3 points. Spurs for me offer the best odds and value out of this weeks games

Burnley v Everton: Away Win – Everton have ambitions on pushing the big 4 this year and are a good side. They got mauled by Arsenal and I’m thinking they an get over the Arsenal win and the uncertainty regarding Jolein Lescott’s position at the club and get their season off to a start here. They are also coming of a 4-0 win in europe this week. Could Burnley get 2 massive wins in the space of 4 days? Not for me

Fulham v Chelsea: Away Win – I expect Fulham to make this a tough game for the blues but can anyone stop Chelsea? I expect them to grind out another result here. Fulham have also lost Andy Johnson up front so are loosing a bit of fire power for this one

Liverpool v Aston Villa: Home Win – I’m tempted to say draw as you wouldn’t expect Villa to be without points after 2 games but I think Liverpool will be too strong for them at Anfield. They justified their short odds earlier in the week by crushing Stoke

So far I have 6/10 in last weekend’s games and 3/6 in the midweek fixtures. I’d like to improve on this, so let’s see how I go this time. If you have any thoughts on my tips, please feel free to drop me a comment.

4 comments »

Posted in Predictions, Selecting, by Enda

Tags: Predictions premier league tips

My Fantasy Football Team

August 15th, 2009

Make sure to join the lucky.ie fantasy football league for a chance to win both mine and Sean’s balance at the end of August if you’re topping the table at the end of the Premier League season.

Here’s a sneak preview at my squad:

fantasy_football_week1

I’ve tried to pick a strong forward line and 15 players that I think should play every week and hopefully sneak the odd goal.

2 comments »

Posted in Competition, Fantasy Football, by Enda

Tags: Competition Fantasy Football football free money premier league

Premier League Predictions

August 15th, 2009

Since it’s the first week of the new season I’ve decided to have a bit of fun and have a go at predicting the outcomes of the games. I checked Betfair and the odds for my predictions are a massive 2800/1, which probably doesn’t even reflect the chances of them happening However, If you’re backing multiples on betfair you can only have 8 selections on one coupon so you can’r actually back all 10 Premier League games. The minimum bet for multiples is also €2 so there’s no way I chance that amount of my kitty on this kind of bet. If I could place a smaller bet I’d definitely put my money where my mouth is for the fun of it! Here’s my tips:

Chelsea v Hull City : Home win - has to be Chelsea here. They’ll be keen to get of to a good start and I think Hull are going to find it very difficult this year.

Aston Villa v Wigan : Home win – Villa need to progress again and Wigan may be effected by Bruce exit.

Blackburn v Man City : Away win – On paper it has to be Man City although they need to improve their away form this year.

Bolton v Sunderland : Draw - this one will be tight and Sunderland are a value bet here imo.

Portsmouth v Fulham : Away win – Fulham struggled away from home last year, i think they can improve on that this year and this is as good a chance as any against a depleted Portsmoth side.

Stoke City v Burnley : Home win - I think Stoke’s impressive home form from last year will continue and I’m tipping Burnley for relegation.

Wolves v West Ham : Draw – Hard to call this one. I’m tempted to say away win but I think Wolves are the strongest of the 3 teams to come up and might upset a few teams at home this year.

Everton v Arsenal : Draw - Hard to call again. I expect these teams both to be pushing near the top end of the table and Everton can improve if they have a bit for luck with injuries.

Man Utd v Birmingham : Home win - Has to be United, although there’s defensive issues with Vidic, Neville, Brown out and Evans is suspect. United need to get off to a good start this year though.

Tottenham v Liverpool : Home win - Stevie G is a doubt for this one and I’m going for an upset here and a Spurs win. Spot the United fan!

ps. Remember to enter the Lucky.ie Fantasy Football League for a chance to win some free money.

No comments »

Posted in Predictions, Selecting, by Enda

Tags: football Predictions premier league tips