The American League East is always one of the most competitive divisions in baseball and this year is no exception.
The Boston Red Sox are getting back to their winning ways this season. They missed the playoffs the last three seasons. New manager John Farrell has helped turnaround the fortunes of Boston’s most beloved team. However, there is help from some faces that have been around a while. Mainstays David Ortiz and Dustin Pedroia lead a balance Boston offence. The Red Sox can produce runs from the top to the bottom of their line-up. On the mound Clay Buchholz is having a season reminiscent of his 2010 breakthrough campaign. The Boston bullpen has had trouble closing out games, so that could be a concern down the road. The Red Sox have 16 games in the month of September with the Yankees, Baltimore and Tampa Bay.
Speaking of Boston’s arch rivals, the New York Yankees are not ready to concede anything to the Red Sox let alone the division. Robinson Cano is comfortable with his role as New York’s marquee star. He continues to put up some of the best all-around numbers in baseball. The rest of the offence got off to a slow start, in part due to injury, but just might have enough gas to complement Cano. The Alex Rodriguez saga gets stranger by the day and New York sure could use anything he has left in the tank. The Yankees’ starting pitching has been inconsistent, but have the talent to turn their struggles into success. CC Sabathia, Andy Pettitte, and Phil Hughes know their way around the mound. One positive as far as the starting staff is concerned is that Hiroki Kuroda has been extremely dependable. There does not get any more dependable than Mariano Rivera in the bullpen. The ageless one is still feared.
The AL East is even deeper than those two, as Baltimore and Tampa Bay look to contend. Baltimore wants to make the playoffs for the second consecutive year after its surprise run a year ago. Chris Davis is turning into MLB’s premiere power hitter. He is backed in Baltimore’s line-up by Adam Jones and J.J. Hardy. Manny Machado is also a professional hitter at such a young age and Matt Wieters can get hot at any moment. On the mound, Chris Tillman and Miguel Gonzalez are stepping up to lead the rotation. Closer Jim Johnson is having an up and down year, so that might be a concern come crunch time.
As far as Tampa Bay is concerned Evan Longoria and James Loney are spearheading the Rays’ offence. Plus Desmond Jennings is a terror on the base paths when he is on base. Tampa Bay seems to lose key pieces every year, but always put together a winning team. On the mound, Matt Moore has picked up the slack from the previously injured David Price nicely. Price still cannot be counted out from contributing down the stretch.
Toronto is the other team in AL East. The Blue Jays were a popular pick at the beginning of the season to make the playoffs. Yet, a slow start and injuries derailed their hopes. Looking to get back on track they hope to prove anything is possible in the MLB’s wackiest division.
Baseball Odds - Baseball Betting
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
NHL 2014 Preview
The NHL moves headlong into a new era with realignment beginning for the 2013-14 season. The new four-division setup will produce the new Stanley Cup champions. The Chicago Blackhawks are the defending champions and are looking to repeat.
Chicago has the Conn Smythe winner Patrick Kane back. He along with center Jonathan Toews and forward Marian Hossa help handles the scoring for the Blackhawks. Duncan Keith is a top notch defender and Corey Crawford is strong in goal. Backup goaltender Ray Emery left via free agency so Crawford will be the man for a full season.
A team that could possibly meet Chicago in the Cup final is the Pittsburgh Penguins. Pittsburgh was favoured to reach the final series last season before bowing out in the playoffs. As always the health of Sidney Crosby will factor in the Penguins success. Crosby missed 12 games in last year’s strike shortened season. Pittsburgh depth of scoring helps complement and ease the absence of Crosby. Chris Kunitz, Pascal Dupuis, James Neal, and Evgeni Malkin are all point producers.
The Boston Bruins did play Chicago for the championship last season, losing in six games. Still, the Bruins did not stand pat on their roster. Boston acquired forward Loui Eriksson from Dallas in a move that saw them give up Tyler Seguin and Rich Peverley. The Bruins also lost Nathan Horton in free agency, but returns Brad Marchand, David Krejci, and Patrice Bergeron as well as Tuukka Rask in goal.
A western conference threat to Chicago is the St. Louis Blues. St. Louis lost in the first round last season, but returns key cog Chris Stewart. Stewart led the Blues attack and is helped by Alexander Steen, Patrik Berglund, David Backes, and David Perron. Their goalie situation is solid with Brian Elliot, Jaroslav Halak, and Jake Allen.
The team that is affected most by realignment, the Detroit Red Wings, moves from the western conference to the eastern conference. Detroit gave the Blackhawks all they wanted last season, losing in seven games. The Red Wings added Ottawa forward Daniel Alfredsson, to go along with the offense of Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. Jimmy Howard remains the man in net for Detroit.
The Vancouver Canucks hope to get over the hump with new coach John Tortorella. Tortorella will have Henrik and Daniel Sedin at his disposal, but goalie Cory Schneider is gone. Vancouver may again have to depend on Roberto Luongo in net. The Canucks are in a tougher division now, but still have firepower to make some noise.
Unable last season to defend the Stanley Cup, the Los Angeles Kings will try to win it again this year. Los Angeles lost in the conference finals a season ago. It helps to have Jonathan Quick in goal and Jeff Carter scoring goals if the Kings want to win back the Cup.
San Jose is another team out west to keep an eye on. The Sharks have a good foursome in Logan Couture, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, and Joe Pavelski. Their scoring along with the net play of Antti Niemi keeps San Jose in contention.
The New York Rangers have Henrik Lundqvist in goal and good point producers in Derek Stepan, Rick Nash, and Ryan Callahan, while Anaheim, who finished second in the west last season, is led by Ryan Getzlaf.
Other teams to watch in the east are Montreal, Ottawa, Washington, Toronto, and the New York Islanders. Nashville and Edmonton out west may surprise.
Ice Hockey Odds - Ice Hockey Betting
Chicago has the Conn Smythe winner Patrick Kane back. He along with center Jonathan Toews and forward Marian Hossa help handles the scoring for the Blackhawks. Duncan Keith is a top notch defender and Corey Crawford is strong in goal. Backup goaltender Ray Emery left via free agency so Crawford will be the man for a full season.
A team that could possibly meet Chicago in the Cup final is the Pittsburgh Penguins. Pittsburgh was favoured to reach the final series last season before bowing out in the playoffs. As always the health of Sidney Crosby will factor in the Penguins success. Crosby missed 12 games in last year’s strike shortened season. Pittsburgh depth of scoring helps complement and ease the absence of Crosby. Chris Kunitz, Pascal Dupuis, James Neal, and Evgeni Malkin are all point producers.
The Boston Bruins did play Chicago for the championship last season, losing in six games. Still, the Bruins did not stand pat on their roster. Boston acquired forward Loui Eriksson from Dallas in a move that saw them give up Tyler Seguin and Rich Peverley. The Bruins also lost Nathan Horton in free agency, but returns Brad Marchand, David Krejci, and Patrice Bergeron as well as Tuukka Rask in goal.
A western conference threat to Chicago is the St. Louis Blues. St. Louis lost in the first round last season, but returns key cog Chris Stewart. Stewart led the Blues attack and is helped by Alexander Steen, Patrik Berglund, David Backes, and David Perron. Their goalie situation is solid with Brian Elliot, Jaroslav Halak, and Jake Allen.
The team that is affected most by realignment, the Detroit Red Wings, moves from the western conference to the eastern conference. Detroit gave the Blackhawks all they wanted last season, losing in seven games. The Red Wings added Ottawa forward Daniel Alfredsson, to go along with the offense of Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. Jimmy Howard remains the man in net for Detroit.
The Vancouver Canucks hope to get over the hump with new coach John Tortorella. Tortorella will have Henrik and Daniel Sedin at his disposal, but goalie Cory Schneider is gone. Vancouver may again have to depend on Roberto Luongo in net. The Canucks are in a tougher division now, but still have firepower to make some noise.
Unable last season to defend the Stanley Cup, the Los Angeles Kings will try to win it again this year. Los Angeles lost in the conference finals a season ago. It helps to have Jonathan Quick in goal and Jeff Carter scoring goals if the Kings want to win back the Cup.
San Jose is another team out west to keep an eye on. The Sharks have a good foursome in Logan Couture, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, and Joe Pavelski. Their scoring along with the net play of Antti Niemi keeps San Jose in contention.
The New York Rangers have Henrik Lundqvist in goal and good point producers in Derek Stepan, Rick Nash, and Ryan Callahan, while Anaheim, who finished second in the west last season, is led by Ryan Getzlaf.
Other teams to watch in the east are Montreal, Ottawa, Washington, Toronto, and the New York Islanders. Nashville and Edmonton out west may surprise.
Ice Hockey Odds - Ice Hockey Betting
2014 Women’s Wimbledon
The Women’s Wimbledon tournament in 2013 was expected to be a wide open competition, with a number of contenders for the title. However, nobody could have expected the events of that fortnight in London, as the tournament favourites all crashed out to lower ranked opposition, many in the first week, and Marion Bartoli emerged victorious, claiming her first ever Grand Slam title.
However, it is a big ask for Bartoli to retain her title in 2014. Although Wimbledon is her favoured Grand Slam, with her victory in 2013 adding to a final appearance in 2007 and a run to the quarter finals in 2011. Aside from Wimbledon, she only has 1 more semi-final and 2 more quarter final appearances in her Grand Slam career. Although she deserved her victory, she may find that fortune may not be on her side so much in 2014.
Sabine Lisicki was the beaten finalist, continuing her fine form at Wimbledon in recent years. She has now reached at least the quarter final stage there 4 years in a row, and is getting closer to winning her first Grand Slam title. Another player who enjoys playing at Wimbledon is Agnieszka Radwanska. After being defeated in the 2012 final, she may have thought that 2013 would be her year, but she was beaten by Lisicki in the semi-finals. She also been a quarter finalist in Australia and France recently, and perhaps a maiden Grand Slam win is on the horizon.
In 2014, there will be a number of players looking to make amends for their showing in the previous year. Serena Williams in particular will be looking to win her 6th Wimbledon crown, after losing to Lisicki in the 4th round in 2013 after being the pre-tournament favourite. However, a year is a long time in tennis, and Williams will be 32 years of age by the time the next Wimbledon tournament comes around.
Maria Sharapova suffered a second round shock in 2013, crashing out to Michelle Larcher de Brito. Despite being a regular in the latter stages of Grand Slams in recent times, she hasn’t won a Wimbledon title since 2004 and has reached just one final there since. However, her career win record at Wimbledon is almost 80%, proving that she can perform well there.
Victoria Azarenka was expected to do well in the 2013 tournament, but she was forced to retire in the second round due to a knee injury. Previous to the tournament, she had reached the semi-final stage in 5 of her last 6 Grand Slams, and been a semi-finalist in the last 2 years at Wimbledon. If she can stay fit for the 2014 tournament, she will again be one of the favourites to win.
Petra Kvitova has a great record at Wimbledon, since 2010. She was a semi-finalist that year, and followed it up with a victory in 2011. She went out at the quarter final stage in both 2012 and 2013, but Wimbledon is by far her most successful Grand Slam venue, and she will be looking to reach the latter stages again in 2014. Li Na is also a regular quarter finalist at Wimbledon, including her 2013 campaign. She has been a winner in the Australian Open before and a finalist in the French Open, and will be looking to better her previous Wimbledon appearances at the next opportunity.
Tennis Odds - Tennis Betting
However, it is a big ask for Bartoli to retain her title in 2014. Although Wimbledon is her favoured Grand Slam, with her victory in 2013 adding to a final appearance in 2007 and a run to the quarter finals in 2011. Aside from Wimbledon, she only has 1 more semi-final and 2 more quarter final appearances in her Grand Slam career. Although she deserved her victory, she may find that fortune may not be on her side so much in 2014.
Sabine Lisicki was the beaten finalist, continuing her fine form at Wimbledon in recent years. She has now reached at least the quarter final stage there 4 years in a row, and is getting closer to winning her first Grand Slam title. Another player who enjoys playing at Wimbledon is Agnieszka Radwanska. After being defeated in the 2012 final, she may have thought that 2013 would be her year, but she was beaten by Lisicki in the semi-finals. She also been a quarter finalist in Australia and France recently, and perhaps a maiden Grand Slam win is on the horizon.
In 2014, there will be a number of players looking to make amends for their showing in the previous year. Serena Williams in particular will be looking to win her 6th Wimbledon crown, after losing to Lisicki in the 4th round in 2013 after being the pre-tournament favourite. However, a year is a long time in tennis, and Williams will be 32 years of age by the time the next Wimbledon tournament comes around.
Maria Sharapova suffered a second round shock in 2013, crashing out to Michelle Larcher de Brito. Despite being a regular in the latter stages of Grand Slams in recent times, she hasn’t won a Wimbledon title since 2004 and has reached just one final there since. However, her career win record at Wimbledon is almost 80%, proving that she can perform well there.
Victoria Azarenka was expected to do well in the 2013 tournament, but she was forced to retire in the second round due to a knee injury. Previous to the tournament, she had reached the semi-final stage in 5 of her last 6 Grand Slams, and been a semi-finalist in the last 2 years at Wimbledon. If she can stay fit for the 2014 tournament, she will again be one of the favourites to win.
Petra Kvitova has a great record at Wimbledon, since 2010. She was a semi-finalist that year, and followed it up with a victory in 2011. She went out at the quarter final stage in both 2012 and 2013, but Wimbledon is by far her most successful Grand Slam venue, and she will be looking to reach the latter stages again in 2014. Li Na is also a regular quarter finalist at Wimbledon, including her 2013 campaign. She has been a winner in the Australian Open before and a finalist in the French Open, and will be looking to better her previous Wimbledon appearances at the next opportunity.
Tennis Odds - Tennis Betting
Thursday, August 8, 2013
US PGA Championship Golf 2013
The best golfers in the World will be heading to Rochester, New York from August 8th - 11th, 2013 for the final Major of the season, the USPGA Championship. Heading up the list of potential titlists this season is Tiger Woods, who will be looking to snap his long streak without a Major title. Woods has produced some sublime form over the course of 2013, heading into the warm up of the WGC Bridgestone International he was bang on top of his game and looking unstoppable again. Comfortable with the putter and at ease off the tee (although accuracy could be improved), Woods is certainly primed to make a run at the USPGA Championship again, a title which he has won four time before in his tremendous career.
But the last time that Woods stood at the top of the pile in a Major was at the US Open back in 2007. But are the stars aligning for him in Rochester? He carded top ten finishes in two of the three prior Majors for the season, and with the titles he has gained under his belt this season, all important confidence boosters for him, can he finally get himself back in the winners circle? Trading as strong favourite, he is being heavily backed to win the 2013 US PGA Championship. He took a share of eleventh away from last year's tournament and given the majestic performance that he produced at Firestone for the Bridgestone International, where he equalled his lowest ever score for a round of professional golf, he really fulfils his role as favourite.
But what about the contenders behind him in the field? There will be interest on Rory McIlroy, who was in sublime form last year on his way to winning the US PGA Championship. It was a record breaking win as well, the largest margin of victory ever in a Major as he beat David Lynn by a massive eight strokes at Kiawah Island. However, 2013 has been a struggle all through for the Northern Irishman, who just can't pull everything together. Even shot selection has been an issue for him at times, and the two time Major winner has been describing his golf as "brain dead". His performance in missing the cut at the Open Championship recently at Muirfield, won't attract too many backers, but if he can dig into the positives of his form this time last year, who knows.
Taking seven of the top nine places on the leader board last season were European golfers. So it may be worth leaning towards a strong European challenge against this time. Notable performances at Kiawah Island came in from Justin Rose, Ian Poulter, Graeme McDowell and Jamie Donaldson. Throw into the mix Lee Westwood, Luke Donald and Henrik Stenson and you have some serious threats. McDowell, Westwood and Rose have all been enjoying very strong seasons, with Rose shining the brightest when he took the US Open title earlier in the year. Is it too big of an ask to see him land two Majors in a single season? Lee Westwood keeps knocking on the door, but Ian Poulter may be a stronger option. Poulter took a T2 at The Open 2013 and also finishes T3 at last season's PGA Championship as well and could be a good dark horse. But Henrik Stenson, who has been enjoying a tremendous month of golf, and has produced well in the Majors this season, could be fantastic value.
Phil Mickelson will be hoping to make another impact after winning The Open at Muirfield in dramatic fashion. He also has history at the US PGA, winning once before and taking seven other top ten finishes, although he hasn't been in top ten since the 2008, he is carrying good form. Keegan Bradley, who won the 2011 US PGA title could be a big presence in the field. Like Tiger Woods and Henrik Stenson, he put in a great performance at Firestone for the Bridgestone International also. Bradley has a tremendous record at the US PGA in his two prior attempts, winning in his debut in 2011 and the going back for a title defence and coming close to doing that with a T3. There are a strong clutch of American players like Webb Simpson, Brandt Snedeker, Steve Stricker, Bubba Watson, Jason Dufner and Matt Kuchar are all worth considering as well for your 2013 US PGA Championship golf betting.
US PGA Championship Golf Odds - US PGA Championship Golf Betting
But the last time that Woods stood at the top of the pile in a Major was at the US Open back in 2007. But are the stars aligning for him in Rochester? He carded top ten finishes in two of the three prior Majors for the season, and with the titles he has gained under his belt this season, all important confidence boosters for him, can he finally get himself back in the winners circle? Trading as strong favourite, he is being heavily backed to win the 2013 US PGA Championship. He took a share of eleventh away from last year's tournament and given the majestic performance that he produced at Firestone for the Bridgestone International, where he equalled his lowest ever score for a round of professional golf, he really fulfils his role as favourite.
But what about the contenders behind him in the field? There will be interest on Rory McIlroy, who was in sublime form last year on his way to winning the US PGA Championship. It was a record breaking win as well, the largest margin of victory ever in a Major as he beat David Lynn by a massive eight strokes at Kiawah Island. However, 2013 has been a struggle all through for the Northern Irishman, who just can't pull everything together. Even shot selection has been an issue for him at times, and the two time Major winner has been describing his golf as "brain dead". His performance in missing the cut at the Open Championship recently at Muirfield, won't attract too many backers, but if he can dig into the positives of his form this time last year, who knows.
Taking seven of the top nine places on the leader board last season were European golfers. So it may be worth leaning towards a strong European challenge against this time. Notable performances at Kiawah Island came in from Justin Rose, Ian Poulter, Graeme McDowell and Jamie Donaldson. Throw into the mix Lee Westwood, Luke Donald and Henrik Stenson and you have some serious threats. McDowell, Westwood and Rose have all been enjoying very strong seasons, with Rose shining the brightest when he took the US Open title earlier in the year. Is it too big of an ask to see him land two Majors in a single season? Lee Westwood keeps knocking on the door, but Ian Poulter may be a stronger option. Poulter took a T2 at The Open 2013 and also finishes T3 at last season's PGA Championship as well and could be a good dark horse. But Henrik Stenson, who has been enjoying a tremendous month of golf, and has produced well in the Majors this season, could be fantastic value.
Phil Mickelson will be hoping to make another impact after winning The Open at Muirfield in dramatic fashion. He also has history at the US PGA, winning once before and taking seven other top ten finishes, although he hasn't been in top ten since the 2008, he is carrying good form. Keegan Bradley, who won the 2011 US PGA title could be a big presence in the field. Like Tiger Woods and Henrik Stenson, he put in a great performance at Firestone for the Bridgestone International also. Bradley has a tremendous record at the US PGA in his two prior attempts, winning in his debut in 2011 and the going back for a title defence and coming close to doing that with a T3. There are a strong clutch of American players like Webb Simpson, Brandt Snedeker, Steve Stricker, Bubba Watson, Jason Dufner and Matt Kuchar are all worth considering as well for your 2013 US PGA Championship golf betting.
US PGA Championship Golf Odds - US PGA Championship Golf Betting
Boxing Wladimir Klitschko v Alexander Povetkin
Wladimir Klitschko will put his WBO, IBF, IBO, and WBA “super” heavyweight titles on the line against Alexander Povetkin. Klitschko will come into the fight 60-3 and on an 18-fight winning streak. He has not lost since 2004. Povetkin has never lost. The 26-0 Povetkin holds the WBA “regular” heavyweight title. Klitschko will have four inches on the smaller Povetkin and he generally outweighs him by somewhere in the neighbourhood of 15 pounds.
The two had been scheduled to fight twice in the past. In 2008, an injured foot caused Povetkin to back out of the fight. Then in 2010, a fight had been set, but Povetkin backed out because he felt he was not ready. It is easy to feel inadequate when going up against Klitschko. He and his brother Vitali have dominated the heavyweight division for much of the past 10 years. The younger Wladimir is now 37 years old. Still, age has not begun to show on Klitschko. He stopped Francesco Pianeta in the sixth round this past May to retain his titles. Klitschko uses his jab effectively not just to set up his power punches, but to keep his opponents at a safe distance. Some of his more effective power punches are the left hook and straight right hand. They have helped Klitschko score a knockout in 51 of his 60 wins. Klitschko is also a well-rounded fighter. The late Emanuel Steward helped him improve his defence.
Even in all of his greatness, if hit right, Klitschko has shown that he might not hold up. All three of his losses have occurred via TKO. So does Povetkin has a chance to dethrone Klitschko? Can his aptitude to get inside and work the body work against Klitschko? Povetkin is an aggressive fighter and might not be able to get through the Klitschko jab. Povetkin’s power is a matter of debate, but he has stopped 18 of the 26 fighters he has faced – included in that are three out of the last four. In his last outing he only needed three rounds to dispatch previously undefeated, but rarely tested Andrzej Wawrzyk. Fighting Klitschko will be a big step up in competition.
So far in his career, Povetkin signature wins are over an aging Chris Byrd, Eddie Chambers, Ruslan Chagaev, and a bulked-up cruiserweight in Marco Huck. It is safe to say that a fight with Klitschko is a different experience than any of the aforementioned bouts. Still, there is one bit of competition that both Povetkin and Klitschko have in common. Both fighters won Olympic gold medals. Klitschko won a super heavyweight gold for the Ukraine in the 1996 Olympics. Povetkin won a super heavyweight gold for Russia in the 2004 Olympics.
Is Povetkin the one to finally beat Klitschko? Or is Klitschko the guy to hand Povetkin his first loss. The fight will take place in Povetkin’s native Russia in October. Povetkin will be 34 years old when he get in the ring. The outcome of the fight will continue Klitschko’s reign or mark a shift in the heavyweight division
Wladimir Klitschko v Alexander Povetkin Odds - Wladimir Klitschko v Alexander Povetkin Betting
The two had been scheduled to fight twice in the past. In 2008, an injured foot caused Povetkin to back out of the fight. Then in 2010, a fight had been set, but Povetkin backed out because he felt he was not ready. It is easy to feel inadequate when going up against Klitschko. He and his brother Vitali have dominated the heavyweight division for much of the past 10 years. The younger Wladimir is now 37 years old. Still, age has not begun to show on Klitschko. He stopped Francesco Pianeta in the sixth round this past May to retain his titles. Klitschko uses his jab effectively not just to set up his power punches, but to keep his opponents at a safe distance. Some of his more effective power punches are the left hook and straight right hand. They have helped Klitschko score a knockout in 51 of his 60 wins. Klitschko is also a well-rounded fighter. The late Emanuel Steward helped him improve his defence.
Even in all of his greatness, if hit right, Klitschko has shown that he might not hold up. All three of his losses have occurred via TKO. So does Povetkin has a chance to dethrone Klitschko? Can his aptitude to get inside and work the body work against Klitschko? Povetkin is an aggressive fighter and might not be able to get through the Klitschko jab. Povetkin’s power is a matter of debate, but he has stopped 18 of the 26 fighters he has faced – included in that are three out of the last four. In his last outing he only needed three rounds to dispatch previously undefeated, but rarely tested Andrzej Wawrzyk. Fighting Klitschko will be a big step up in competition.
So far in his career, Povetkin signature wins are over an aging Chris Byrd, Eddie Chambers, Ruslan Chagaev, and a bulked-up cruiserweight in Marco Huck. It is safe to say that a fight with Klitschko is a different experience than any of the aforementioned bouts. Still, there is one bit of competition that both Povetkin and Klitschko have in common. Both fighters won Olympic gold medals. Klitschko won a super heavyweight gold for the Ukraine in the 1996 Olympics. Povetkin won a super heavyweight gold for Russia in the 2004 Olympics.
Is Povetkin the one to finally beat Klitschko? Or is Klitschko the guy to hand Povetkin his first loss. The fight will take place in Povetkin’s native Russia in October. Povetkin will be 34 years old when he get in the ring. The outcome of the fight will continue Klitschko’s reign or mark a shift in the heavyweight division
Wladimir Klitschko v Alexander Povetkin Odds - Wladimir Klitschko v Alexander Povetkin Betting
Boxing Juan Manuel Marquez v Timothy Bradley
Timothy Bradley and Juan Manuel Marquez are set do battle in a ring in Las Vegas’ Thomas & Mack Center come October and the fight has created an apparent anomaly. One fighter is the WBO welterweight champion. That same fighter is undefeated and yet he is the underdog. Bradley still has the gift decision over Manny Pacquiao that gave him his title and kept his record perfect hanging over his head. Pacquiao clearly beat Bradley, but Bradley was awarded the decision. Bradley’s only fight since that June 2012 showing was a slugfest unanimous decision over Ruslan Provodnikov. Bradley showed heart in the contest, surviving the first and second rounds and getting knocked down in the 12th round.
Like Bradley, Marquez’s last time in the ring was a memorable one as well. Fighting Pacquiao for the fourth time, Marquez finally got a victory over his rival. He knocked Pacquiao out in chilling fashion in the sixth round. This came on the heels of losing twice and drawing to Pacquiao. The win sent Marquez’s record to 55-6-1 with 40 of those win by K.O. Marquez has improved his physique at the age of 39 and he will be 40 when he meets Bradley. He looked amazingly in shape in the win over Pacquiao. He also won the WBO junior welterweight in April of 2012. Marquez is seeking to become the first Mexican fighter to win championships in five divisions.
If Bradley is going to beat Marquez, it would be surprising if it is by knockout. Of his 30 victories, only 12 are by knockout. His eighth round stoppage of Joel Casamayor is his only sign of power in his last 13 fights, though he did bust up the face of Provodnikov. Bradley is going to have to outbox Marquez. He will have to use his jab effectively and pick good spots to come over the top with his right hand. If he has Marquez reeling, he also has a great left hook that could inflict more damage. Bradley will also have to be aware of Marquez’s power.
The elder Marquez now brings a lot of power to the table, just ask Pacquiao. Bradley likes to be aggressive. That could set up Marquez for his counter right hand, the same one he used to floor Pacquiao. Throughout his career Marquez has been known as a counter puncher who could change the tempo of fights with his combinations. Will that Marquez show up or will he rely strictly on his power against Bradley? It could be troublesome to rely strictly on his power, because Bradley has shown that he can take a beating and get up from knockdowns. Marquez might have to win his share of the exchanges if he wants to win the fight.
Marquez is the favourite and is considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Bradley is still looking for the respect from the public. He can get that by beating Marquez. Marquez can get a historic fifth division title by beating him.
Juan Manuel Marquez v Timothy Bradley Odds - Juan Manuel Marquez v Timothy Bradley Betting
Like Bradley, Marquez’s last time in the ring was a memorable one as well. Fighting Pacquiao for the fourth time, Marquez finally got a victory over his rival. He knocked Pacquiao out in chilling fashion in the sixth round. This came on the heels of losing twice and drawing to Pacquiao. The win sent Marquez’s record to 55-6-1 with 40 of those win by K.O. Marquez has improved his physique at the age of 39 and he will be 40 when he meets Bradley. He looked amazingly in shape in the win over Pacquiao. He also won the WBO junior welterweight in April of 2012. Marquez is seeking to become the first Mexican fighter to win championships in five divisions.
If Bradley is going to beat Marquez, it would be surprising if it is by knockout. Of his 30 victories, only 12 are by knockout. His eighth round stoppage of Joel Casamayor is his only sign of power in his last 13 fights, though he did bust up the face of Provodnikov. Bradley is going to have to outbox Marquez. He will have to use his jab effectively and pick good spots to come over the top with his right hand. If he has Marquez reeling, he also has a great left hook that could inflict more damage. Bradley will also have to be aware of Marquez’s power.
The elder Marquez now brings a lot of power to the table, just ask Pacquiao. Bradley likes to be aggressive. That could set up Marquez for his counter right hand, the same one he used to floor Pacquiao. Throughout his career Marquez has been known as a counter puncher who could change the tempo of fights with his combinations. Will that Marquez show up or will he rely strictly on his power against Bradley? It could be troublesome to rely strictly on his power, because Bradley has shown that he can take a beating and get up from knockdowns. Marquez might have to win his share of the exchanges if he wants to win the fight.
Marquez is the favourite and is considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Bradley is still looking for the respect from the public. He can get that by beating Marquez. Marquez can get a historic fifth division title by beating him.
Juan Manuel Marquez v Timothy Bradley Odds - Juan Manuel Marquez v Timothy Bradley Betting
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Boxing Manny Pacquiao v Brandon Rios
Manny Pacquiao returns to the ring in November to take on Brandon Rios. Pacquiao, long considered one of the best fighters in the world, will come into the fight on a two-fight losing streak. He was virtually robbed of a decision against Timothy Bradley and he was knocked out cold by Juan Manuel Marquez. It was the Bradley fight in which he lost his WBO welterweight title. Pacquiao, who is now 34-years-old, will be looking to get his career back on track. After years of failed attempts to get a Pacquiao versus Floyd Mayweather fight to happen and with Marquez fighting Bradley, Pacquiao’s team chose Rios as his next opponent.
Rios will be making the move from the 140-pound junior welterweight limit to the 147-pound welterweight class and he will be coming into the ring with a 31-1-1 record. His only loss occurred his last time out when he dropped a unanimous decision to Mike Alvarado. That was after Rios stopped Alvarado in the seventh round in a previous fight. Despite coming up in weight class, Rios could be potentially a dangerous opponent for Pacquiao. Of Rios 31 wins, 23 have come via knockout. In fact, 11 out of his last 13 fights have been stopped because of KO/TKO. It will be interesting to see how Rios very aggressive and heavy pressure style works with Pacquiao. Rios will try to work from the inside and throw his trademark uppercut. If he makes a mistake and Pacquiao tags him with a good shot, Rios’ chin once again will be tested. That might be a good thing for him though, as the 27-year-old has never been knocked out in a fight.
Pacquiao (54-5-2) has knockout power, but that has not shown in recent years. The last time Pac-Man’s punches caused a fight to be stopped early was back in 2009 when he defeated Miguel Cotto. For his career he has 38 knockouts. Pacquiao has seemed to have lost a step and some quickness and his past few bouts. It remains to be seen how he will recover from losing in such devastating fashion to Marquez. Still, Pacquiao has a hall-of-fame type jab and he may be able to use that to thwart the oncoming Rios. But, what strategy will he try to use? Will he try to use his experience or will he throw caution to wind and trade punches with Rios? Pacquiao is the favourite, but is that based on his reputation and prior history?
Fighters usually become vulnerable as they get older and Pacquiao, who has been a fitness marvel in his career, will try to avoid that. Rios jumps into the welterweight waters with one of the biggest fish in the game. Just how much weight will he carry and how will he carry it? One interesting fact about the fight is that it will take place in Macau, China. It will be Pacquiao’s first fight outside the United States in seven years. Rios has only fought in the United States and Mexico, fighting two fights in Mexico the last being in 2009. The question of just how much Pacquiao has left will be answered when he meets Rios in China.
Manny Pacquiao v Brandon Rios Odds - Manny Pacquiao v Brandon Rios Betting
Rios will be making the move from the 140-pound junior welterweight limit to the 147-pound welterweight class and he will be coming into the ring with a 31-1-1 record. His only loss occurred his last time out when he dropped a unanimous decision to Mike Alvarado. That was after Rios stopped Alvarado in the seventh round in a previous fight. Despite coming up in weight class, Rios could be potentially a dangerous opponent for Pacquiao. Of Rios 31 wins, 23 have come via knockout. In fact, 11 out of his last 13 fights have been stopped because of KO/TKO. It will be interesting to see how Rios very aggressive and heavy pressure style works with Pacquiao. Rios will try to work from the inside and throw his trademark uppercut. If he makes a mistake and Pacquiao tags him with a good shot, Rios’ chin once again will be tested. That might be a good thing for him though, as the 27-year-old has never been knocked out in a fight.
Pacquiao (54-5-2) has knockout power, but that has not shown in recent years. The last time Pac-Man’s punches caused a fight to be stopped early was back in 2009 when he defeated Miguel Cotto. For his career he has 38 knockouts. Pacquiao has seemed to have lost a step and some quickness and his past few bouts. It remains to be seen how he will recover from losing in such devastating fashion to Marquez. Still, Pacquiao has a hall-of-fame type jab and he may be able to use that to thwart the oncoming Rios. But, what strategy will he try to use? Will he try to use his experience or will he throw caution to wind and trade punches with Rios? Pacquiao is the favourite, but is that based on his reputation and prior history?
Fighters usually become vulnerable as they get older and Pacquiao, who has been a fitness marvel in his career, will try to avoid that. Rios jumps into the welterweight waters with one of the biggest fish in the game. Just how much weight will he carry and how will he carry it? One interesting fact about the fight is that it will take place in Macau, China. It will be Pacquiao’s first fight outside the United States in seven years. Rios has only fought in the United States and Mexico, fighting two fights in Mexico the last being in 2009. The question of just how much Pacquiao has left will be answered when he meets Rios in China.
Manny Pacquiao v Brandon Rios Odds - Manny Pacquiao v Brandon Rios Betting
Boxing Jean Pascal v Lucian Bute
Two of Canada’s most popular boxers will do battle December 7. Jean Pascal will meet Lucian Bute for the fledgling WBC Diamond light heavyweight title. Bute who is most famously known for being a former super middleweight titlist is making the move up to light heavyweight. He has fought previously at light heavyweight before. Bute (31-1) is a two-time NABF light heavyweight titlist, including claiming the belt his last time out against Denis Grachev. That win for Bute was a rebound performance following the only loss of his career, a fifth round TKO thanks to the hands of Carl Froch. Still, Pascal is the naturally bigger guy and will likely carry his weight better.
Pascal (27-2-1) also has a loss to Froch and was also coming off of a loss his last time out. The defeat he was trying to put in the rear view mirror was a unanimous decision loss to Bernard Hopkins. Pascal ended up getting a 10th round unanimous decision win over Alesky Kuziemski. Just like Bute, Pascal has also held super middleweight titles. In a match up of fighters with similarities, a difference maker might be the amount of power the fighters have. Bute has a higher KO percentage, getting 24 knockouts in his 31 wins. A total of seven of those knockouts have come in his last nine fights. On the other hand, Pascal has 16 knockouts in his 27 wins. Only one of those knockouts came in his last seven fights. The argument can be made that Pascal has fought a higher quality of fighter throughout his career, but the edge in power still goes to Bute.
This piece of news might foreshadow a little of what to expect in the fight. The left handed Bute will try to stalk Pascal and catch him with his body shots and deadly left uppercut. Still, it will be interesting to see how the taller Bute will get inside of Pascal. Bute, who is 6-foot-1, has a two-inch height advantage over Pascal and will have a hard time getting inside. For his part, Pascal will try to get in position to use his left and right hooks to stem Bute’s advances. It will be important for him to navigate the ring to avoid getting into careless exchanges with Bute. While Pascal can take punches and has a very good chin, he could lose the fight on points if Bute finds too much success on the inside.
The fight will take place in Montreal. Pascal, who will be 31 years old come fight time, grew up in the Montreal area after coming from Haiti when he was 4 years old. The 33-year-old Bute, who was born in Romania, gained his Canadian citizenship last year and just like Pascal has fought the majority of his career in Montreal. It will be interesting to see whether the crowd pick a side or show equal love for both fighters.
Pascal was installed the early favourite in the fight that was supposed to happen last May, but was postponed after Bute injured his hand.
Jean Pascal v Lucian Bute Odds - Jean Pascal v Lucian Bute Betting
Pascal (27-2-1) also has a loss to Froch and was also coming off of a loss his last time out. The defeat he was trying to put in the rear view mirror was a unanimous decision loss to Bernard Hopkins. Pascal ended up getting a 10th round unanimous decision win over Alesky Kuziemski. Just like Bute, Pascal has also held super middleweight titles. In a match up of fighters with similarities, a difference maker might be the amount of power the fighters have. Bute has a higher KO percentage, getting 24 knockouts in his 31 wins. A total of seven of those knockouts have come in his last nine fights. On the other hand, Pascal has 16 knockouts in his 27 wins. Only one of those knockouts came in his last seven fights. The argument can be made that Pascal has fought a higher quality of fighter throughout his career, but the edge in power still goes to Bute.
This piece of news might foreshadow a little of what to expect in the fight. The left handed Bute will try to stalk Pascal and catch him with his body shots and deadly left uppercut. Still, it will be interesting to see how the taller Bute will get inside of Pascal. Bute, who is 6-foot-1, has a two-inch height advantage over Pascal and will have a hard time getting inside. For his part, Pascal will try to get in position to use his left and right hooks to stem Bute’s advances. It will be important for him to navigate the ring to avoid getting into careless exchanges with Bute. While Pascal can take punches and has a very good chin, he could lose the fight on points if Bute finds too much success on the inside.
The fight will take place in Montreal. Pascal, who will be 31 years old come fight time, grew up in the Montreal area after coming from Haiti when he was 4 years old. The 33-year-old Bute, who was born in Romania, gained his Canadian citizenship last year and just like Pascal has fought the majority of his career in Montreal. It will be interesting to see whether the crowd pick a side or show equal love for both fighters.
Pascal was installed the early favourite in the fight that was supposed to happen last May, but was postponed after Bute injured his hand.
Jean Pascal v Lucian Bute Odds - Jean Pascal v Lucian Bute Betting
Belgian Grand Prix
The 2013 F1 Belgian Grand Prix betting should produce some pretty interesting options. Teams will get a bit of a chance to collect themselves following the Hungarian Grand Prix, which was won by Lewis Hamilton in his Mercedes before the running of Belgian event. The rise to his first ever win in the Mercedes for the former World Champion Hamilton, was seen as a bit of a shake up on the season. For the Belgian Grand Prix which will be running on August 25th, 2013, Hamilton will now be seen by many as the main challenger to the dominance of Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel for the season. But with punters picking up some new interest in the English driver to push forward for the F1 Drivers Championship title, it may be worth only focusing on the races at hand and not looking that far ahead.
The form and prowess of Red Bull's three time World Champion Vettel cannot be overlooked of course. From the opening ten races of the season, Vettel only failed to make it onto the podium in three of them. So it is unlikely that over the remainder of the season he is going to be so far out of the points that he is going to lose his grip on his chase for his fourth world title in a row. Heading to the Belgian Grand Prix, Vettel was holding a 48 point over Hamilton in the standings, and wedged between Vettel and Hamilton, there was still the presences of Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso as well, who had the jump on Hamilton in the points standing.
Granted, Hamilton has been pushing his way further and further into contention, taking Pole Positions and the win at the Hungaroring should have been a tremendous boost of confidence for himself and the Mercedes team. So focus should be on him taking race wins, or even podium finishes before looking at him taking the F1 Drivers Championship, which is still a very long shot. Hamilton is a previous winner of the Belgian Grand Prix, taking the chequered flag first in 2010. Given the form that he carries forward from Hungary, he may be well worth backing. But heading to the next race of the 2013 season, it is German driver Vettel who is still heading the field for Hungary.
Vettel, just like Hamilton is a previous winner of the Belgian Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver won in 2011 and he took second place last season in the race. So it is unlikely that he will be too far away from a win in the next edition, because he has the car and he has the team behind him to get close. Vettel will be strong in the Pole Position and Outright Winner markets for the 2013 F1 Belgian Grand Prix. The other name who should be in the mix will be Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen who has started to come back into form. The Finnish driver has a tremendous record at the race as well, taking the title four times in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2009, so he has a great affinity with the course. The Lotus could be the one to spring a surprise here.
Belgian Grand Prix Odds - Belgian Grand Prix Betting
The form and prowess of Red Bull's three time World Champion Vettel cannot be overlooked of course. From the opening ten races of the season, Vettel only failed to make it onto the podium in three of them. So it is unlikely that over the remainder of the season he is going to be so far out of the points that he is going to lose his grip on his chase for his fourth world title in a row. Heading to the Belgian Grand Prix, Vettel was holding a 48 point over Hamilton in the standings, and wedged between Vettel and Hamilton, there was still the presences of Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso as well, who had the jump on Hamilton in the points standing.
Granted, Hamilton has been pushing his way further and further into contention, taking Pole Positions and the win at the Hungaroring should have been a tremendous boost of confidence for himself and the Mercedes team. So focus should be on him taking race wins, or even podium finishes before looking at him taking the F1 Drivers Championship, which is still a very long shot. Hamilton is a previous winner of the Belgian Grand Prix, taking the chequered flag first in 2010. Given the form that he carries forward from Hungary, he may be well worth backing. But heading to the next race of the 2013 season, it is German driver Vettel who is still heading the field for Hungary.
Vettel, just like Hamilton is a previous winner of the Belgian Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver won in 2011 and he took second place last season in the race. So it is unlikely that he will be too far away from a win in the next edition, because he has the car and he has the team behind him to get close. Vettel will be strong in the Pole Position and Outright Winner markets for the 2013 F1 Belgian Grand Prix. The other name who should be in the mix will be Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen who has started to come back into form. The Finnish driver has a tremendous record at the race as well, taking the title four times in 2004, 2005, 2007 and 2009, so he has a great affinity with the course. The Lotus could be the one to spring a surprise here.
Belgian Grand Prix Odds - Belgian Grand Prix Betting
World Series MLB
The 2013 Major League Baseball Worlds Series will take place in late October. Teams from both the American League and National league look to make the Fall Classic that pits the respective leagues’ winners against each other. Last year the San Francisco Giants swept the Detroit Tigers four games to zero in the best-of-seven series to claim the world title. Nearly halfway through the season and Detroit was the favourite to not only get back to the World Series, but to win it.
The Tigers have quality pitching and hitting. Justin Verlander is the big name on the mound. The 6-foot-5, 225 pound Verlander is a strikeout machine generally registering more strikeouts than innings pitched. Still the Tigers have more than the former Cy Young Award winner on the mound. Anibal Sanchez, Max Scherzer, and Doug Fister are all quality starters. At the plate for Detroit is the all-everything Miguel Cabrera. Cabrera led the AL in batting average, home runs, and RBI last season (the Triple Crown) and is in the running to win the Triple Crown again this season.
Other teams with good odds to win the World Series are fellow American League standouts Texas, Oakland, and Boston. The Texas Rangers lost star outfielder Josh Hamilton, but are still making noise out in the AL West. Adrian Beltre, Mitch Moreland, and Nelson Cruz have picked up the slack for Hamilton leaving. On the mound for Texas, Yu Darvish is one of the AL’s best. The Oakland A’s, who edged out Texas for the division last season, is in contention again this season. Oakland third baseman Josh Donaldson is having a strong second year. He, Brandon Moss, and Yoenis Cespedes are carrying the A’s offence. They are backed by strong pitching from a resurgent Bartolo Colon. After starting the season 0-2, the 40-year-old Colon has been one of the most effective pitchers in all of baseball. The Boston Red Sox are getting back to their winning ways this season. Mainstays David Ortiz and Dustin Pedroia lead a balance Boston offence, while Clay Buchholz is having a season reminiscent of his 2010 breakthrough campaign.
Pittsburgh, Atlanta, St. Louis, and Cincinnati are all teams to watch as well. They are also National League clubs. The Pittsburgh Pirates have gotten good pitching this season. Starter Jeff Locke and closer Jason Grilli have been especially good, while Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez, and Starling Marte have hit the ball well. The Atlanta Braves have been winning thanks to a strong start by Justin Upton and great play from Freddie Freeman. They also have balanced starting pitching and a great bullpen.
The St. Louis Cardinals made it to the NL Championship last season before losing. Helping their cause this year are starting pitchers Adam Wainwright, Shelby Miller, and Lance Lynn. Also, the bat of Carlos Beltran remains live as he spearheads the Cardinals offence. The Cincinnati Reds have plenty of offence of their own. Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, Brandon Phillips, and Shin-Soo Choo are capable hitters. Plus Johnny Cueto, Mike Leake, and Mat Latos are the beginning of a good starting rotation, while Aroldis Chapman is feared coming out of the bullpen.
Other teams to watch as possible World Series winners are the New York Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks and Baltimore Orioles just to name a few.
World Series MLB Odds - World Series MLB Betting
The Tigers have quality pitching and hitting. Justin Verlander is the big name on the mound. The 6-foot-5, 225 pound Verlander is a strikeout machine generally registering more strikeouts than innings pitched. Still the Tigers have more than the former Cy Young Award winner on the mound. Anibal Sanchez, Max Scherzer, and Doug Fister are all quality starters. At the plate for Detroit is the all-everything Miguel Cabrera. Cabrera led the AL in batting average, home runs, and RBI last season (the Triple Crown) and is in the running to win the Triple Crown again this season.
Other teams with good odds to win the World Series are fellow American League standouts Texas, Oakland, and Boston. The Texas Rangers lost star outfielder Josh Hamilton, but are still making noise out in the AL West. Adrian Beltre, Mitch Moreland, and Nelson Cruz have picked up the slack for Hamilton leaving. On the mound for Texas, Yu Darvish is one of the AL’s best. The Oakland A’s, who edged out Texas for the division last season, is in contention again this season. Oakland third baseman Josh Donaldson is having a strong second year. He, Brandon Moss, and Yoenis Cespedes are carrying the A’s offence. They are backed by strong pitching from a resurgent Bartolo Colon. After starting the season 0-2, the 40-year-old Colon has been one of the most effective pitchers in all of baseball. The Boston Red Sox are getting back to their winning ways this season. Mainstays David Ortiz and Dustin Pedroia lead a balance Boston offence, while Clay Buchholz is having a season reminiscent of his 2010 breakthrough campaign.
Pittsburgh, Atlanta, St. Louis, and Cincinnati are all teams to watch as well. They are also National League clubs. The Pittsburgh Pirates have gotten good pitching this season. Starter Jeff Locke and closer Jason Grilli have been especially good, while Andrew McCutchen, Pedro Alvarez, and Starling Marte have hit the ball well. The Atlanta Braves have been winning thanks to a strong start by Justin Upton and great play from Freddie Freeman. They also have balanced starting pitching and a great bullpen.
The St. Louis Cardinals made it to the NL Championship last season before losing. Helping their cause this year are starting pitchers Adam Wainwright, Shelby Miller, and Lance Lynn. Also, the bat of Carlos Beltran remains live as he spearheads the Cardinals offence. The Cincinnati Reds have plenty of offence of their own. Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, Brandon Phillips, and Shin-Soo Choo are capable hitters. Plus Johnny Cueto, Mike Leake, and Mat Latos are the beginning of a good starting rotation, while Aroldis Chapman is feared coming out of the bullpen.
Other teams to watch as possible World Series winners are the New York Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks and Baltimore Orioles just to name a few.
World Series MLB Odds - World Series MLB Betting
Shanghai Masters Snooker
The 2013 Shanghai Masters will be the third ranking even of the 2013/14 season with a massive purse of £80,000 going towards the winner. The Shanghai Grand Stage will again the host of this snooker world ranking event and it is Scotland's John Higgins who will be out to defend his title. This will also be the second world ranking tournament held in china this year, following up on the Wuxi Classic back in June. There was a run to the final of the Wuxi Classic for John Higgins as well, stringing together some good form before he was stopped in the showcase match 10-7 by Australia's Neil Robertson. After not making it then to Australia for the Goldfields Open, the second ranking event of the year, the Scot will be keen to get back in the driving seat. However, last year's win was his first at the Shanghai Masters and no player has yet managed to defend their title at the event since being introduced in 2007.
Last year's losing finalist Judd Trump will again be one of the strongest names in the market. He will take some favouritism heading to China, despite not having won this event before. But he could be motivated after only missing out a deciding frame in last year's final. He will have extra to prove in China as well because his visit to the Wuxi Classic earlier this year ended in a shock first round defeat against home talent Li Hang. He missed out on the Australian Goldfields Open too but may use his memories from the Shanghai Grand Stage to get himself towards the title this time around.
England's Mark Selby is one of the front runners as well alongside Trump and Robertson in 2013 Shanghai Masters betting. Selby has won the Shanghai Masters before, taking the title in 2011, and it was another deciding frame which settled it, this time against Mark Williams. Selby showed some decent form at the 2013 Australian Goldfields Open where he was stopped in the semi finals by eventual winner Neil Robertson. That was a vast improvement from the first ranking event of the season, the Wuxi Classic, where he lost his qualifying match against Andrew Pagett.
The other obvious name to take into serious consideration is that of Neil Robertson, who has been pounding out consistent snooker for most of the year. He posted a title against John Higgins at the Wuxi Classic this year and posted a 147 break as well during the qualifying stage. Then at the Goldfields Open, Robertson went to the final there, but was upset by Marco Fu 9-6 on that occasion. But again, it all points to Robertson being bang on top of his game on ranking tournaments, and will be heavily backed for this one, especially after his win in China earlier this year, and he also won the China Open at the back end of last season as well. Trending pretty well out east.
Selby, Trump and Robertson do look to be at the head of the game at the moment, and tagging along on their coat tails is John Higgins. The rest of the field is playing a big of catch up, but of course, while those are the strongest bets you can take, the value will come in long shots like Ding Junhui on his home soil, and others like Graeme Dott and Barry Hawkins. Ali Carter, Ronnie O'Sullivan and Dominic Dale are the only other players to have won the Shanghai Masters besides Higgins and Selby.
Shanghai Masters Odds - Shanghai Masters Betting
Last year's losing finalist Judd Trump will again be one of the strongest names in the market. He will take some favouritism heading to China, despite not having won this event before. But he could be motivated after only missing out a deciding frame in last year's final. He will have extra to prove in China as well because his visit to the Wuxi Classic earlier this year ended in a shock first round defeat against home talent Li Hang. He missed out on the Australian Goldfields Open too but may use his memories from the Shanghai Grand Stage to get himself towards the title this time around.
England's Mark Selby is one of the front runners as well alongside Trump and Robertson in 2013 Shanghai Masters betting. Selby has won the Shanghai Masters before, taking the title in 2011, and it was another deciding frame which settled it, this time against Mark Williams. Selby showed some decent form at the 2013 Australian Goldfields Open where he was stopped in the semi finals by eventual winner Neil Robertson. That was a vast improvement from the first ranking event of the season, the Wuxi Classic, where he lost his qualifying match against Andrew Pagett.
The other obvious name to take into serious consideration is that of Neil Robertson, who has been pounding out consistent snooker for most of the year. He posted a title against John Higgins at the Wuxi Classic this year and posted a 147 break as well during the qualifying stage. Then at the Goldfields Open, Robertson went to the final there, but was upset by Marco Fu 9-6 on that occasion. But again, it all points to Robertson being bang on top of his game on ranking tournaments, and will be heavily backed for this one, especially after his win in China earlier this year, and he also won the China Open at the back end of last season as well. Trending pretty well out east.
Selby, Trump and Robertson do look to be at the head of the game at the moment, and tagging along on their coat tails is John Higgins. The rest of the field is playing a big of catch up, but of course, while those are the strongest bets you can take, the value will come in long shots like Ding Junhui on his home soil, and others like Graeme Dott and Barry Hawkins. Ali Carter, Ronnie O'Sullivan and Dominic Dale are the only other players to have won the Shanghai Masters besides Higgins and Selby.
Shanghai Masters Odds - Shanghai Masters Betting
England Cricket V Australian Dominance
With England's cricket side looking favourites to take control of the Ashes series during the summer, if they secure victory there, how much fight will the Australians have in them for the rest of the Tour? Of course, all the prominence, excitement and build up has been on the famous Ashes series, with England looking to keep their hands on that important little urn. After winning the first two of the five tests, there was something of a fight back from the Australians in the third Test, but with the tourists needing to win all three of the five tests to get the Ashes back, they remained heavy underdogs to secure a famous comeback. It will only be a short time before the end of the year when the two old rivals go head to head again for the next Ashes Series, this time on Australian turf.
However, before all of that happens, there is more to the Summer Ashes Tour than just the five main matches between England and Australia. The Test Series has taken some heavy bets on the outcome, but there will also be a T20 Series and One Day International Series between the two sides to come. So even if England wrap up the Test Series early and even if they put the Australians to the sword in the series by a heavy score line, there will be chances for the Tourists to get some kind of revenge in the other formats. Australian's Test betting line up has been heavily critiqued, but will they flourish in the T20 or ODI series against England?
It could all come down to confidence. If Australia fail to get a win on the board at all in the Test series, their morale would expectedly be low, and England's tails would be massively up. However, England, even on their own soil are such an unpredictable and, it has to be said, laborious One Day International side that the Aussies could just throw everything at and cause an upset. The Australians are trading as underdogs in each of the other series as well, because England should be happier on their own flatter tracks, where their swing bowlers can gain some huge advantages. But again, the batting plans in England's One Day International game has looked a bit flawed to say the least.
England did play Australia at the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy in the group stage and won the match convincingly by 48 runs in the end. England went on to lose the final against India at Edgbaston. There will be a five match ODI series to come, starting on the 6th of September. Before that, and naturally following on from the 5th and final Test of the Ashes series, will be the two match Twenty20 International series. The first one, on August 29th will be a day/night affair, with the second just two days later during the afternoon. Being too unpredictable to call on both sides, it does offer some value in backing a Cricket betting option available on England to Beat Australia in all three home series (Tests, T20, ODI) this year. The price on that? A hefty 7/1, and the biggest question mark may just be over those Twenty20 meetings.
England V Australian Cricket Odds - England V Australian Cricket Betting
However, before all of that happens, there is more to the Summer Ashes Tour than just the five main matches between England and Australia. The Test Series has taken some heavy bets on the outcome, but there will also be a T20 Series and One Day International Series between the two sides to come. So even if England wrap up the Test Series early and even if they put the Australians to the sword in the series by a heavy score line, there will be chances for the Tourists to get some kind of revenge in the other formats. Australian's Test betting line up has been heavily critiqued, but will they flourish in the T20 or ODI series against England?
It could all come down to confidence. If Australia fail to get a win on the board at all in the Test series, their morale would expectedly be low, and England's tails would be massively up. However, England, even on their own soil are such an unpredictable and, it has to be said, laborious One Day International side that the Aussies could just throw everything at and cause an upset. The Australians are trading as underdogs in each of the other series as well, because England should be happier on their own flatter tracks, where their swing bowlers can gain some huge advantages. But again, the batting plans in England's One Day International game has looked a bit flawed to say the least.
England did play Australia at the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy in the group stage and won the match convincingly by 48 runs in the end. England went on to lose the final against India at Edgbaston. There will be a five match ODI series to come, starting on the 6th of September. Before that, and naturally following on from the 5th and final Test of the Ashes series, will be the two match Twenty20 International series. The first one, on August 29th will be a day/night affair, with the second just two days later during the afternoon. Being too unpredictable to call on both sides, it does offer some value in backing a Cricket betting option available on England to Beat Australia in all three home series (Tests, T20, ODI) this year. The price on that? A hefty 7/1, and the biggest question mark may just be over those Twenty20 meetings.
England V Australian Cricket Odds - England V Australian Cricket Betting
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)