Author: Pete

I’m Confident About The British & Irish Lions’ Chances This Summer

We’re at that time of the year again where it’s exciting to be a rugby union fan, where we see the best in the UK come together to take on Australia in what is bound to be an action-packed three-match series.

I’m definitely excited, especially having seen the talent that was on show in this year’s 6 Nations tournament – perhaps reflected in the make-up of the side.

Heavily influenced by the Irish (only just), who have 15 players, followed by 13 from England, eight from Scotland and just two from Wales, I definitely think we have a great chance.

Who Stand Out For The Lions?

There is no doubt that we have a very dynamic pack, with individual strengths. The likes’ of Maro Itoje, Tom Curry and Josh van der Flier are definitely big players for the Lions and I think will be key coming up against the Wallabies – at least, certainly difference-makers.

The Lions also have great flair in the backs – Finn Russell, Marcus Smith and the maverick that is Tommy Freeman have the potential to really unlock Aussie defences and are certainly dangerous with the ball in hand.

Meanwhile, in Henry Pollock, there is a rising star that can take the stage by storm and really show the world what he is all about.

I think there has to be a shout out to Ben Earl as well whose workrate is often underrated – he quietly goes about his business, puts in the hits, covers the pitch and is sublime as a support player, usually breaking lines and hard to defend against.

What Could The Outcome Be?

Not surprisingly, the Lions are favourites for the series, especially after Australia’s slump to eighth in the world rankings, though they do have home advantage.

The Lions will likely need to cope with tricky weather conditions – it is winter down under, though they may be glad of the cooler temperatures and it could actually work to their advantage.

I’m thinking that it will be closer than a lot of people think – possibly a narrow 2-1 series victory. Coach, Andy Farrell will definitely make sure his boys don’t let complacency set in and he will be keen to keep his players aware, though relaxed at the same time.

It is always an entertaining fixture and I think that these will be three very different games, so fans have a lot to look forward to.

Ultimately, I expect Lions’ quality to shine through – especially with the blend of talent and experience in the squad which could essentially overwhelm the Wallabies.
There were times in the 6 Nations where we saw players punished in the rain with handling errors, so the Lions will be hoping for dry conditions – should this be the case, then it will only help their cause.

Derby Delight For Delacroix Or Ruling Court To Deliver Favourable Verdict?

It’s that time of the year again and we’re in Derby day fever as the Epsom Betfred Derby swiftly approaches.

This year looks to be an exciting lineup and plenty of intrigue surrounding the race. As we have seen in previous years, anything can happen and this time around, it seems to be a considerably open field.

Both the current, joint, 3/1 favourites – Delacroix and Ruling Court appear to have particularly early backing, though it could well be the latter that has the best chance, set to go off from stall seven, which, historically, has served as an advantageous draw.

While these two look to be the punter’s favourites at the minute, I think there could well be some each/way value as well.

What Stand Out About The Two Favourites?

For me, aside from the odds, the Aidan O’Brien/Ryan Moore combination have proven to be potent and if they get it right on the day, then Delacroix could be primed to challenge right to the last, despite having a wide draw.

It does appear to lend momentum to Ruling Court who, under Charlie Appelby is in good hands, however, I am slightly concerned and the only thing that would stop me from having a flutter on him is his stamina over 1.5 miles.

Much will obviously depend on the ground as well. At the minute, the forecast is indicating dry conditions and this could have an impact. Delacroix has historically favoured good to soft while Ruling Court has typically shown great ability on good to firm.

It will certainly be an interesting battle between the two, though there may just be one or two candidates that may surprise punters on the day.

Who Could Be One To Watch?

I would definitely not rule out Prince Of Arras. He is the third favourte and at 5/1 I think he has great on-the-nose value, considering his strengths. Trainer Ralph Beckett is very confident about his ability to handle varying conditions and he put in a very notable performance in the Dante Stakes, while he has shown he is very strong in the closing stages.

The only disadvantage for him, I feel is that he goes out from stall 16, however I do think he has the ability to spring a surprise and I’m sure this is why he has longer odds. Though, there is value there.

Lambourn – another in the O’Brien stable could be very good value, with odds of around 12/1 and he goes from stall 10 which has proven to be the most sucessful historically.

As ever, I think this promises to be an intriguing race and I am sure it will not disappoint!

I’d Definitely Back McIlroy To Win Another Major This Year

After what has to be the best US Masters for a number of years, watching Rory McIlroy complete the Grand Slam, I think nothing’s going to stop him now.

It’s like he’s overcome that mental barrier that has been stopping him all of these years and he’s in the form of his life. When he dropped shots towards the end to force a play-off with Justin Rose, he showed nerves of steel to come back – in previous years, he would have crumbled.

I was that convinced he’d win, I even had a little punt each way, which made it extra sweet, though based on his performance at Augusta, I’m very tempted to back him for The Open in July.

Obviously before this, there is the small matter of the PGA Championship and US Open and he could well do the clean sweep, which would be an extraordinary achievement and something that no professional golfer has ever achieved.

I really think he looks unstoppable and I’m sure that if he fails to win any of them, then it won’t be because he’s playing poorly – I’d be very surprised if he doesn’t finish inside the top five for each anyway.

What Has Changed For McIlroy?

I’ve never seen him more focused on a golf course and there were times when I was watching over the four days where I thought I was watching a robot. His putting game has come on leaps and bounds and he is playing the percentages very nicely.

He reminded me of times at Augusta of watching prime Tiger Woods, who in my era I think is the best I’ve ever watched and I definitely think McIlroy now has the potential to match him.

His composure was fantastic, he didn’t seem tense or agitated, but almost in a trance at times which, from what I’ve heard was a tactic that he decided to go with pre-tournament after reported sessions with his sports psychologist, Bob Rotella. He didn’t even talk to Bryson DeChambeau (his partner on the final round) – again another tactic, which seemed to work in his favour.

I think we’re going to now see some of the best golf of his career over the next couple of years – he’ll be riding this wave for a good few weeks and this momentum could take him into the PGA Championship, with him being around 5/1 (and obviously the favourite) to win.

Tuchel Progressive But England Have Work To Do

I have to admit, I was definitely intrigued about new England manager Thomas Tuchel’s first two games in charge. Obviously the most important take-away is that we got six points, scored goals and didn’t concede.

Afterall, both games were at home and, against minnows in the grand scheme of things. I guess there were no shocks in terms of how both teams were going to set up against us either, so it was important that Tuchel had a plan and selected the right players to execute it.

True to form, the media, I think, has been a bit overly harsh on him after these two performances – look at other successful managers – especially at club level. It took Jurgen Klopp at least 12 months to more or less successfully implement the style of play he wanted at Liverpool with the roots of the right team.

The difference with Tuchel, is that he has the players to pick and choose from (club managers need transfer windows), though club managers work with their players on a daily basis.

Also, compared to Gareth Southgate, it is clear that Tuchel is a lot more switched on from a tactical perspective. Yes, both teams we played set up with a low-block – that much pre-game was always going to be the case. But choosing the right players, in the right roles and applying the right tactics and methodology was key.

You could see what Tuchel wanted his players to do – at times we did it well, so the foundation is there – this is something I’m encouraged by, and maybe what the media missed – especially those outlets that aren’t as tactically aware. But, it was clear for me to see that in order to combat the low-block, there was an emphasis on quick passing, movement and interchanging – something that Spain does very well – but they have the personnel.

Positives To Take From These Games

I also think we have the personnel, or at least have the potential to. When you factor in the crop of players that Tuchel has to choose from to fit into his vision – especially talents in the youth teams, then I think we have a bright future under the German manager.

It could be too soon to see us win the World Cup under him playing his style, but if we continue to be progressive and get to a respectable stage, then I could definitely see us winning the European Championship with him in charge (off the back of being offered a longer contract).

One of the highlights for me was the inclusion of Reece James and Tuchel’s decision to start his former player (who he managed at Chelsea), proved to be a masterstroke against Latvia. His free-kick was sublime and he had a very good game overall I thought.

Morgan Rogers was also a shining light on his debut against Latvia and he looks the type of intelligent player that Tuchel likes and will fit into his system very well – his versatility in particular is something that I think England fans will definitely take to. He can play anywhere in the front ‘quadrant’ and I reckon him maybe as an inside forward, Cole Palmer in the hole, Jude Bellingham as an eight and two others (you’d probably say Harry Kane up top for now – given his form) could be very nice to see.

Declan Rice for me also continued to prove why he’s invaluable. When Bellingham went off, his instinct to create the second goal was irrepressible – making a driving run into space to pass it across goal for Kane to convert was an example of his intelligence and in a nutshell, seemed to demonstrate the type of football Tuchel wants us to play.

There are for me, many other positives to take from these two games. Dan Burn showcasing how effective he can be in an England shirt – especially aerially, Myles Lewis-Skelly looks to be a cert for me at left-back for the foreseeable future and bagged on his debut against Albania. Eberechi Eze proved that he can be a game-changer against tougher opposition – also netting a debut goal against Latvia when he came on.

So yeah, there is definitely work to do but, you can see how Tuchel wants us to play and I’m encouraged by this – England fans should be as well.

Looking Ahead To This Year’s US Masters

I’ve got to admit, it’s been a while since I thought about golf, but it suddenly occurred to me that the US Masters is gradually creeping up on us.

I have fond memories of the US Masters over the last 25 years or so (now I really feel old!). Especially when you consider the names that were involved back then. I don’t think there has ever been as strong or as competitive a chasing pack on the world number one as there was back then.

Tiger Woods of course was undisputed, but there were about 12 or 15 very good golfers just behind him, all of whom were very capable.

As memory serves, the US Masters teed up some of the best golf from this generation that I have seen. Sunday’s were always a treat. Watching the BBC coverage of Augusta in stunning full bloom, the dry-tonged, quick-witted Peter Allis for company and Ken Brown providing the analysis. Probably some of the best sporting coverage the BBC has been responsible for.

Notable Names Involved This Year

Despite my nostalgic musings though, this year’s edition still has considerable viewing magnetism.

World number one and reigning champion, the USA’s Scottie Scheffler is expected to feature along with number two Rory McIlroy, who will be hoping that he can finally pull on the much-coveted Green Jacket. I can’t actually believe that this is the only major that he is yet to win, so he could even be worth a bet on the nose and looks decent value with 17/2 odds.

I didn’t realise that three out of the world’s top five are from the US. Number three being Xander Schauffele (I used to get him and Scheffler mixed up!) and at number five, Collin Morikawa.

In previous years, I always got great value backing Justin Rose in another market, who generally finished in the top 10 fairly consistently.

While his outright odds of about 110/1 could be fairly pointless, I would still be tempted to stick a couple of quid on him for a top five finish at about 33/2 – afterall, he knows the course and if he’s confident, this could be great value. Even his top 10 odds of 13/2 aren’t too bad. I think the bookies obviously know that he is capable of this, hence these odds, though Augusta is a course where you need to be confident from the start. You need focus, good weather and obviously a little bit of luck.

On occasion there has been a name that has come out of nowhere to win, upsetting the odds and, based on the course, this is a possibility.

If previous winner, Jordan Spieth rediscovers his best form, then his 33/1 or so odds, could prove to be a nice little bet. Obviously, he knows the course well and has played some of his best golf at Augusta.

The Magic Of The FA Cup Was Present In More Ways Than One For The Fourth Round

For many people the FA Cup is a welcome change to the regular season – especially if you’re a fan of a club who is struggling, or in mid-table mediocrity, lower down the football pyramid.

Over the years, I remember many great shocks and giant-killings during the third and fourth rounds, with lower league minnows causing an upset against Premier League clubs.

Me being a (whisper it quietly) Leeds United fan, I remember all too well, our shock smash-and-grab at Old Trafford way back in 2010, when we were flying high in League One and the Red Devils finishing just one point behind Premier League winners Chelsea that season.

It is also worth noting that this was a long time before VAR was introduced into the sport and me referencing that particular game is actually a good tie-in to this, because Jermaine Beckford’s goal in some ways could have caused VAR controversy at the time, had he been a second or so late with his run off Wes Brown, who was the last man.

Incidentally, VAR was absent for the most recent fourth round of FA Cup matches, which added extra opportuntiy for teams – especially overwhelming underdogs, to try and pry an extra advantage.

What Incidents Stuck Out?

Indeed, I think the Leyton Orient tie at home against Manchester City gave the League One side a great chance against a side that is still having teething problems rediscovering their form and who would have had more than one eye on their next game – a crucial Champions League play-off tie at home against Real Madrid.

And, a giant-killing did look possible after just 16 minutes, after a stunning 50-yard strike from midfielder Jamie Donley, which thundered off the crossbar onto a helpless Stefan Ortega and into the net. If you were one of those who had bet on the number of bookings in this game, then you may (or may not) have been fortunate that the absence of VAR ruled out a foul from Sonny Perkins on City debutant Nico Gonzalez who went off injured. Had VAR been active, this would almost certainly have resulted in a free-kick and a likely booking.

Leicester City were also victims of the absence of VAR less than 24 hours earlier as they lost 2-1 against Manchester United at Old Trafford, after a controversial 94th minute goal courtesy of former player Harry Maguire, who appeared to be offside. There would likely have been many who had bet on the possible outcome of the away side winning on penalties and, had VAR been active, this could have been the result.

I know many have complained about VAR being used in matches and that it is unnecessary, though I’d be interested to see how many of those fans who complained about it, were its victim during the FA Cup fourth round.

It will certainly be interesting to see whether this returns for the next round, especially with a place in the quarter-final at stake.

Arsenal Could Win The Champions League This Season

If you were going to pick a trophy for Arsenal to win this season, realistically, I doubt many ardent football fans would choose the Champions League. There is a small chance they could overturn their deficit in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle United, after a good result against Tottenham and they are probably the closest challengers for the Premier League after Liverpool – though this still looks unlikely.

However, where I think they stand a great chance of delivering silverware is in the Champions League. Over the years we have seen clubs with weaker squads win Europe’s elite competition and upset the odds – Chelsea in 2012 against Bayern Munich would certainly be an example.

I was also surprised to see that they are currently joint second-favourites (with Real Madrid at 6/1) and marginally behind Liverpool at 4/1 who will likely be concentrating firmly on the Premier League.

For me, it makes sense – barring a major slip-up, they are unlikely to finish outside of the top four in the Prem and, if I was Mikel Arteta, I would be thinking “let’s concentrate all of our efforts on the CL and revisit the PL next season after a summer of strengthening”.

What’s that – “the January transfer window is open”, I hear you say? Yes, that’s right. It is no secret that Arsenal need an elite number nine and they are heavily linked with some top talent. While it is unlikely there will be a major frontline signing this month, they could still add some decent and affordable firepower that will help to alleviate reliance up front on the likes’ of Gabriel Jesus.

What we know about Arsenal is that they are more than capable of creating chances and look defensively solid (the latter being a major ingredient of any PL club in the CL against European teams who play a different brand of football).

Surprisingly, they are also currently third in the CL league table, behind Barcelona and Liverpool. Unlike most season’s Arsenal have to really ‘get going’ and, impressively, despite this, they also sit second in the PL, have made it to the Carabao Cup semi-final and were marginally edged out on penalties against a resurgent Manchester United in the FA Cup third round.

Champions League Is A Great Opportunity

I would say, essentially, the pressure is off for Arsenal and there is definitely more to come from them this season. As such, I think they could provide fans with some of their best football in the Champions League and if Arteta says “lads, go out there, do what I know you are capable of, have fun and lets give the fans something to enjoy” before each CL match, they could spring a surprise.

Yes, one or two additions in this window would definitely help the cause – and I do believe they will strengthen – nothing eye-catching, but with very capable squad players that can make a contribution (a la Leandro Trossard a couple of years ago). Remeber, you saw it here first!

Why I’m Backing Arsenal To Sign A Striker In January

For at least the last three seasons, one thing that has been clear about Arsenal – and which has likely cost them the Premier League title on more than one occasion, is that they are lacking a prolific frontman.

I just don’t really understand Mikel Arteta. It is obvious to pretty much everyone apart from him that this is what has hampered the club’s challenge consistently and something that should have been fixed at least a couple of seasons ago.

Personally, I think Gabriel Jesus’ time at the club could well be numbered – indeed there isn’t really a position for him – at least that is suited to the English top flight. He isn’t an out and out striker – at least not against Premier League defenders, while he doesn’t have the vision to be a number 10 and, certainly at Arsenal, at least, he would be third choice at best to slot in as what would be a rather ineffective wide player.

The signing of Kai Havertz left many nonplussed the previous summer – especially for the fee, though it did begin to make sense slightly when Arteta started playing him in midfield as a forward-thinking number eight, arriving late into the penalty area, until that experiment seemed to fail.

To give credit to the German though, he began to adapt to the number nine/false nine role (at least a lot better than Jesus), for a time and, incredibly he appears to be Arsenal’s only realistic goal-scoring option through the middle right now.

Gunners Screaming A Striker In January

With the transfer window approaching, Manchester City faltering and, despite incredible form from Liverpool, they are due a bad patch, if Arteta can sign a striker, this could make a huge difference.

It’s got to be ‘now or never’ for Arteta and, following news of Marcus Rashford’s situation at Manchester United, where there seems to be a mutual understanding that his time is up, this would not be a bad signing. In need of a new challenge, knows where the goal is and would thrive off the number of chances that Arsenal creates, in addition to being the main man, this could be an excellent move for both parties.

Juventus hitman, Dusan Vlahovic is another natural option, after the Serbian was linked two years ago, prior to leaving Fiorentina for Turin and he could be devastating for the Gunners, having a similar effect that Diego Costa had for Chelsea a decade ago. A predator in the penalty area, prolific and physical with a proven goal-scoring record, he would be exactly what Arsenal need, if they can justify the rather modest £40 million reported fee. However, a straight swap deal involving Jesus might just suit all parties, with the Brazilian possibly more suited to the Serie A.

There were thoughts that Arsenal would hold out until the summer to try again for Benjamin Sesko, after he opted to extend his contract at RB Leipzig, though with director of football, Edu, having left, it could be that their priorities and targets have changed.

Why I Am Backing Chelsea To Win The Premier League

The Premier League often throws up a number of surprises and despite Manchester City winning the competition for the last four seasons, it hasn’t always been as straightforward. A couple of seasons ago, Arsenal looked nailed on to win it, especially at Christmas when they had a commanding lead.

This season, Liverpool have surprised everyone – after Jurgen Klopp’s departure at the end of the last campaign, I really didn’t expect them to challenge for the title again for at least a couple of years. However, with just one defeat they have taken a surprising lead at the summit.

Over the last few weeks though, there has been one club that has been quietly going about their business and it seems that things are gradually falling into place. I am of course, talking about Chelsea, who after a turbulent last few years finally seem to have got their act together.

What Have Been The Difference Makers For Chelsea?

Many were intrigued, including me, when the club opted to hire Enzo Maresca as their new manager at the end of last season. Despite being unproven in the Premier League, the talented, young Italian manager won the Championship with Leicester City last season, playing just the type of football, Chelsea’s owners crave.

Coming in with a limited transfer budget, Maresca has, more or less, had to work with what was already there, with Chelsea spending over £1 billion since Todd Boehly took over the club. The biggest emphasis was on trimming the squad and wage budget and it now seems a lot more balanced.

Towards the end of last season, there were some promising signs though. One of these was the emergence of Cole Palmer who is swiftly developing into one of the league’s standout players.

The 22-year-old took a big risk when asking to leave Manchester City in search of regular football, though his decision to back himself is paying dividends. Arguably, England’s next big hope, Palmer has turned into a goal machine. Already this season he has 11 goals in 15 Premier League appearances and has earned a reputation as a serial match winner.

Chelsea also look a lot more solid this season and, although they do still concede they have complemented this with a prolific goal-scoring record. The rest of the club’s exciting attacking talent – many of them new signings – are also starting to gel. In particular, Nicolas Jackson is one that is gradually beginning to realise his potential and is forming a great relationship with Palmer in attack, while he has eight goals in 14 league matches this term so far.

Despite a slow start (which included a long-term injury), even this season, Christopher Nkunku is beginning to show his class. The Frenchman has a lot of potential and I think he could be a key contributor to the second half of the season.

Fernandez Flourishing Under His Namesake

Argentine (Enzo) Fernandez has had somewhat of an interesting start to his Chelsea career. Joining the club following his country’s World Cup win, in which he played a key part, he took a while to settle, while he was embroiled in scandal last summer, after he was filmed being involved in controversial chants about the France squad, that included some of his Blues’ teammates. Following an apology to his teammates and under the guidance of Maresca, in addition to the split from his partner, Fernandez is now starting to show his class and is making a case for him being the first name on the team sheet.

On paper, Chelsea have one of the best midfields in the league, especially with the combative Moises Caicedo and the precocious talent of Romeo Lavia. With strengthe in depth out wide and an increasingly solid defensive platform, these are just a few of the reasons why I am backing Chelsea to win the Premier League. Liverpool will no doubt go through a bad patch as most clubs do and, they have the distraction of the Champions League as well.

Nanny State Strikes Again With £5 Per Spin Slot Limit

Players in the UK can now only wager a maximum of £5 per spin on their favourite slots.

However, there is more to this. That limit is for players aged 25 and over, with a £2 per spin maximum limit being imposed for 18 to 24-year old’s.

Imposed by the DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sport), in a bid to combat and reduce gambling addiction, it also said that taxes for gambling companies operating in the UK would also be increased to provide aid to gambling addiction charities.

Though, this may present a potential problem which could backfire in a massive way. There are many people who gamble in the UK that are in control of their spending, have significant levels of disposable income and are financially comfortable but are drawn to slots because they have been able to wager whatever (within reason) they want per spin.

This has especially been the case for high rollers, who often gamble 10s of thousands of pounds per month.

Nothing has actually been mentioned about whether there will be limits imposed on high-rollers, though if this is the case then it could well end up costing gambling companies thousands per month in revenue.

Could It Lead To Operators Withdrawing?

The UK gambling industry is one of the most lucrative markets in the world, however, this latest restriction could have a significant impact.

Those operators that rely solely on slots as their main product offering could witness a considerable effect and may feel that it is more profitable to focus on other markets that don’t have slot limits, such as the US.

A move such as this could definitely become a serious consideration for operators over the next 12 months, depending on how much they are affected by this latest restriction.

What the government perhaps also haven’t thought about either, is that if it leads to a mass exodus of the UK market, then it will lose billions of pounds in taxable revenue that it generates from gambling companies on a yearly basis.

Essentially, it is ‘playing poker’ with professionals who have made billions in the industry and the UK government with this latest move probably, right now, does not hold all of the cards.

Big brands that are synonymous in the UK market, have already started to gain traction in the increasingly growing and lucrative US market and they could well see this latest move by the government as one step too far and decide to withdraw their services.

Operators could also use this as a tactic to get the government to reconsider its stance on this latest restriction, though, there still would need to be a compromise. It isn’t like gambling companies don’t do anything to help with responsible gambling and addiction, with many of them donating generously to charity each year, as well as having schemes in place such as self-exclusion.

Maybe, just maybe, this will be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.