I have taken a new job recently in Marketing, and with my new creative hat on, I have decided to tackle the problems in the Premiership.
Make no mistake, the product is now appallingly bad. At least 10 teams (including my own, Fulham), should be cast adrift to make for a more interesting spectacle.
I don't have much time for Americans generally, but they have embraced the concept of equality through their draft system and understand that scarcity is a good thing.
If the Premiership wants to survive it needs to follow the Paul Browneprint for the future and cut back on the number of teams in the elite.
The current format is a busted flush, that encourages survival above all else - and the product is overpriced, overhyped and almost at the end of its lifecycle - unless someone has the balls to take a long term view instead of milking the golden tit then football as we all know it will implode within the next 10 years...
Monday 26 November 2007
McClaren bows out in disgrace
Paying big money to PR Guru's is no guarantee of public affection (just look at Team McCann) especially when you are inherently unpopular and ineffective.
Steve McClaren drafted in Max Clifford to act as a personal spin doctor and he may have slightly improved his image along the way, but even Clifford must have choked when he saw the Ginger Bald denier under a brolly at Wembley last week.
It is common knowledge that Brian Barwick's number 1 was totally out of his depth, had a weak CV and was part of Sven's management team that should have been swept away.
But to turn up with an umbrella was just totally unforgiveable, obviously a ginger combover is quite precious and it goes well with a ruddy red complexion that no doubt will turn as purple as Sir Alex in a couple of years.,
Some people are just beyond help and McClaren falls into that category - no talent, no style and no balls, good riddance - hopefully this experience will wipe that inance grin off your face
Steve McClaren drafted in Max Clifford to act as a personal spin doctor and he may have slightly improved his image along the way, but even Clifford must have choked when he saw the Ginger Bald denier under a brolly at Wembley last week.
It is common knowledge that Brian Barwick's number 1 was totally out of his depth, had a weak CV and was part of Sven's management team that should have been swept away.
But to turn up with an umbrella was just totally unforgiveable, obviously a ginger combover is quite precious and it goes well with a ruddy red complexion that no doubt will turn as purple as Sir Alex in a couple of years.,
Some people are just beyond help and McClaren falls into that category - no talent, no style and no balls, good riddance - hopefully this experience will wipe that inance grin off your face
Wednesday 21 November 2007
DISGRACE...
Lets hope the £Millionaires enjoy themselves this evening....
A poor team, with a poor manager have failed to qualify from a poor group..
Unfortunately the best technical players that should have played for England have been thrown out of the system..
Pick an Athlete if u want, but the time has come to pic someone who can actually control the ball
A poor team, with a poor manager have failed to qualify from a poor group..
Unfortunately the best technical players that should have played for England have been thrown out of the system..
Pick an Athlete if u want, but the time has come to pic someone who can actually control the ball
1-2
Soft penalty, thank you ref..
FAT FRANK has scored without the aid of a deflection...
30 mins to go can we get the 2-2 draw required?
I would roll over for £1million for 45 mins work would you??
FAT FRANK has scored without the aid of a deflection...
30 mins to go can we get the 2-2 draw required?
I would roll over for £1million for 45 mins work would you??
Under my Umbrella
Ella Ella, under my umbrella. don't want your combover to get wet Mr Maclaren
Manager is a joke like most of those I have encountered in my life..
Manager is a joke like most of those I have encountered in my life..
Maclaren end of
Barry and Wright Phillips off, Beckham and Defoe on..
Having a laugh, balance? fitnesss? never mind......
Beckham may deliver to Crouch, but in all honesty we are out
Having a laugh, balance? fitnesss? never mind......
Beckham may deliver to Crouch, but in all honesty we are out
Fantasy Manager
Because we have an IDIOT in charge of the National team, I will have to sort out the nation's qualification hopes at Half Time.
Get rid of FAT FRAND LAMPARD......
Bring on Defoe..
If we can nick 1 goal we have half a chance....
GET RID OF FAT FRANK
Get rid of FAT FRAND LAMPARD......
Bring on Defoe..
If we can nick 1 goal we have half a chance....
GET RID OF FAT FRANK
Ha Ha
Motson is praying that Andorra do us a favour against Russia!!
England are a disgrace, at least I can claim to be half Irish!
England are a disgrace, at least I can claim to be half Irish!
Well what can u say
The whole nation knew,anyone who read this blog... it's criminal..
Brian Barwick, Steve Maclaren you are an embarrassment
We are now praying for bad weather to stop play...
At least any traders who followed my advice are raking it in...
Brian Barwick, Steve Maclaren you are an embarrassment
We are now praying for bad weather to stop play...
At least any traders who followed my advice are raking it in...
Nervous times
The Scotsman I met today fancies Croatia, the Scouser I met today is worried about England, the Racing Post backs Croatia...
Confidence in the country is remarkably low as we face the most important game since the defeat to Portugal in the abortive World Cup campaign..
The rain is lashing down in NW London and we have a manager that is beyond incompetent..if the weather keeps on the game could well be called off...
Since I have kicked the nicotine addiction I have been ridiculously positive, but the test against Croatia has been giving me nightmares for a few nights. Hopefully we can do enough to qualify and the FA grow a pair and get rid of Maclaren
If we had to win the game I would be more confident...come 9.45pm we could be crying into our beers...
Come on England...
Confidence in the country is remarkably low as we face the most important game since the defeat to Portugal in the abortive World Cup campaign..
The rain is lashing down in NW London and we have a manager that is beyond incompetent..if the weather keeps on the game could well be called off...
Since I have kicked the nicotine addiction I have been ridiculously positive, but the test against Croatia has been giving me nightmares for a few nights. Hopefully we can do enough to qualify and the FA grow a pair and get rid of Maclaren
If we had to win the game I would be more confident...come 9.45pm we could be crying into our beers...
Come on England...
Tuesday 20 November 2007
Patriotic Punt gathers pace
Punters are getting stuck into England at skinny prices to beat Croatia and ensure Qualification for Euro 2008..
England have been fairly reliable in recent times at Wembley and with Croatia already qualified you can see some logic behind getting with England at 1.63.
But under Steve Maclaren, nothing is straightforward. Remember the defeat in Zagreb when Maclaren inexplicably played 3-5-2 and wingbacks..
Latest rumours from the England camp is that tubby error prone stopper Paul Robinson will make way for Scott Carson. A gamble perhaps, but Carson looks a solid prospect and will surely fight with Ben Foster for the Number 1 spot in Austria/Switzerland.
With Peter Crouch likely to lead the line, I think that England could struggle to breakdown Croatia, and a lay of England seems like the sensible trade.
Maclaren won't want to leave the backdoor open, and will send out his overpaid England players with a negative attitude - avoid defeat at all costs.
So I would expect a tight first half from England, and the initiative may actually be given to a Croatian side that doesn't need an invitation to unlock a packed defence..
It is certainly going to be a tense night for England supporters, but laying England may be the route to in play profits.
England have been fairly reliable in recent times at Wembley and with Croatia already qualified you can see some logic behind getting with England at 1.63.
But under Steve Maclaren, nothing is straightforward. Remember the defeat in Zagreb when Maclaren inexplicably played 3-5-2 and wingbacks..
Latest rumours from the England camp is that tubby error prone stopper Paul Robinson will make way for Scott Carson. A gamble perhaps, but Carson looks a solid prospect and will surely fight with Ben Foster for the Number 1 spot in Austria/Switzerland.
With Peter Crouch likely to lead the line, I think that England could struggle to breakdown Croatia, and a lay of England seems like the sensible trade.
Maclaren won't want to leave the backdoor open, and will send out his overpaid England players with a negative attitude - avoid defeat at all costs.
So I would expect a tight first half from England, and the initiative may actually be given to a Croatian side that doesn't need an invitation to unlock a packed defence..
It is certainly going to be a tense night for England supporters, but laying England may be the route to in play profits.
Monday 19 November 2007
Lucky Maclaren must make a point
So just a draw required against Croatia on Wednesday to ensure another summer of hype for the England national team.
Even the incompetent Maclaren and a makeshift side should be able to deliver that result against a side that has already qualified (and who lost against Macedonia in a mudbath in the weekend).
Michael Owen's absence is as predictable as it is annoying (if he was one of his own thoroughbred horses in training he would have been shot by now) and England need to look at a more reliable alternative.
At Wembley England have been fairly reliable in recent months, and with any other manager in charge I would have no worries about England's qualification..
Can the ginger bald denier deliver??
Even the incompetent Maclaren and a makeshift side should be able to deliver that result against a side that has already qualified (and who lost against Macedonia in a mudbath in the weekend).
Michael Owen's absence is as predictable as it is annoying (if he was one of his own thoroughbred horses in training he would have been shot by now) and England need to look at a more reliable alternative.
At Wembley England have been fairly reliable in recent months, and with any other manager in charge I would have no worries about England's qualification..
Can the ginger bald denier deliver??
Bruce confirms relegation trio
Derby are doomed, and the appointment of Steve Bruce at Wigan has condemned the Latics and loathesome Birmingham to relegation..
Apparently Wigan went after Bruce after recommendations from Sir Alex Ferguson, but it is not a wholehearted, aggressive captain they were after. Nearly anybody would be an improvement on the hapless Chris Hutchings (how he ever got the job in the 1st place is a joke), but Wigan look to be spiralling downwards, and without Heskey and Henri Camara are limited up front and porous at the back.
Birmingham are a laughing stock, odious supporters, a stalled takeover bid and dildo salesmen in charge of the club (thank you Simon Jordan).
Assistant, Eric Black has been credited with the success at St Andrews in the last 12 months, and a protracted battle over his future could well damage both his current employees and Wigan.
As a Fulham fan I think the appointment of Bruce is good news
Apparently Wigan went after Bruce after recommendations from Sir Alex Ferguson, but it is not a wholehearted, aggressive captain they were after. Nearly anybody would be an improvement on the hapless Chris Hutchings (how he ever got the job in the 1st place is a joke), but Wigan look to be spiralling downwards, and without Heskey and Henri Camara are limited up front and porous at the back.
Birmingham are a laughing stock, odious supporters, a stalled takeover bid and dildo salesmen in charge of the club (thank you Simon Jordan).
Assistant, Eric Black has been credited with the success at St Andrews in the last 12 months, and a protracted battle over his future could well damage both his current employees and Wigan.
As a Fulham fan I think the appointment of Bruce is good news
Thursday 15 November 2007
Sweet FA
Personally I couldn't stand Adam Crozier when he was in charge of the FA.
The man raking in the cash whilst his Post Office workers strike, reminded me of Peter Mandelson, a rodent screwing his rent boy on our taxes...
But at least Crozier knew his own mind and picked a successful manager to take the England national team forward
His successor, Brian Barwick, who looks like a sweaty bus driver if ever I saw one has taken the position to a new low..
Make no mistake, Maclaren is his man - a man with the weakest CV in world football - pleading for his future after failing to deliver even the basic requirement is an embarrassment...
Just walk away the lot of you..
The man raking in the cash whilst his Post Office workers strike, reminded me of Peter Mandelson, a rodent screwing his rent boy on our taxes...
But at least Crozier knew his own mind and picked a successful manager to take the England national team forward
His successor, Brian Barwick, who looks like a sweaty bus driver if ever I saw one has taken the position to a new low..
Make no mistake, Maclaren is his man - a man with the weakest CV in world football - pleading for his future after failing to deliver even the basic requirement is an embarrassment...
Just walk away the lot of you..
Beckham return the final insult
The world has obviously gone mad..
How on earth can David Beckham win his 98th cap against Austria tomorrow night?
The one time football icon has made more appearances with Tom Cruise on the red carpet than on the pitch in the last few months.
But Steve Maclaren is picking his team with the help of the tabloids and bizarrely included a half fit, past it, poseur in his starting 11..
When the ineveitable comes to pass on Saturday (Russia are 1/2 to prevail in Israel), the Maclaren era will be looked at dispassionately and the ginger bald denier will hopefully never get another job in football..
The relative failures of Sven (the viagra driven Swede at least guaranteed qualification) now seem like total success, as Maclaren has plummeted new depths..
The whole thing is a total dogs dinner
How on earth can David Beckham win his 98th cap against Austria tomorrow night?
The one time football icon has made more appearances with Tom Cruise on the red carpet than on the pitch in the last few months.
But Steve Maclaren is picking his team with the help of the tabloids and bizarrely included a half fit, past it, poseur in his starting 11..
When the ineveitable comes to pass on Saturday (Russia are 1/2 to prevail in Israel), the Maclaren era will be looked at dispassionately and the ginger bald denier will hopefully never get another job in football..
The relative failures of Sven (the viagra driven Swede at least guaranteed qualification) now seem like total success, as Maclaren has plummeted new depths..
The whole thing is a total dogs dinner
Wednesday 14 November 2007
Players back Maclaren
Gerrard and Owen have backed Steve Maclaren to keep the England job..
Well what a surprise, the overpiad players who should have had the ability and motivation to stroll through a ridiculously easy group backing a manager who would look out of place in the 2nd tier of English football.
Just how far out of touch are the FA and English players?
Well what a surprise, the overpiad players who should have had the ability and motivation to stroll through a ridiculously easy group backing a manager who would look out of place in the 2nd tier of English football.
Just how far out of touch are the FA and English players?
Tuesday 13 November 2007
A joy to watch
No, i'm not talking about the Fulham side that Lawrie Sanchez has put together for my 'viewing pleasure'..more of them later..
I'm actually referring to the side that Arsene Wenger has assembled at Arsenal, without a doubt the most enjoyable watch in world football...
You can keep your Barcelona, Real Madrid and Man Utd, they are not a patch on the post Henry Arsenal..
I watched them demolish a very poor and unambitious Reading side on Monday night, with Emmanual Adebayor leading the line supported by the mercurial talents of Fabregas, Hleb and Rosicky and once again they were a joy to watch..
Lets hope such enterprise is rewarded with some trophies, as Wenger once again enhances his reputation..
Reading look like a poor side and will be one of the bottom 8 scrapping for survival come next May..
I'm actually referring to the side that Arsene Wenger has assembled at Arsenal, without a doubt the most enjoyable watch in world football...
You can keep your Barcelona, Real Madrid and Man Utd, they are not a patch on the post Henry Arsenal..
I watched them demolish a very poor and unambitious Reading side on Monday night, with Emmanual Adebayor leading the line supported by the mercurial talents of Fabregas, Hleb and Rosicky and once again they were a joy to watch..
Lets hope such enterprise is rewarded with some trophies, as Wenger once again enhances his reputation..
Reading look like a poor side and will be one of the bottom 8 scrapping for survival come next May..
Ooi Maclaren $*!$ Off
The most incompetent national manager in English football history somehow thinks he should be given more time in his lucrative role as England boss..
And unsurprisingly bungling buffoons at the FA ( yes thats you Mr Barwick) are all rushing to back their man..
Maclaren has failed miserably, yet the ginger bald denier with the weakest CV in international football thinks he should be trusted..
Well I never found 1 England fan that supported the appointment and now 100% of the fanbase want him out..
Do the decent thing Maclaren and walk.
And unsurprisingly bungling buffoons at the FA ( yes thats you Mr Barwick) are all rushing to back their man..
Maclaren has failed miserably, yet the ginger bald denier with the weakest CV in international football thinks he should be trusted..
Well I never found 1 England fan that supported the appointment and now 100% of the fanbase want him out..
Do the decent thing Maclaren and walk.
Monday 8 October 2007
QPR v Norwich
After a long break from trading, I have decided to get involved in the Championship clash at Loftus Road tonight.
QPR are already cut adrift at the bottom of the table, but have made some interesting loan signings in recent weeks, and their strike pair of Rowan Vine and Ben Sahar look to have enough about them to find the back of the net against Norwich.
I have taken 2 early positions - backing QPR at 2.42 and over 2.5 goals at 2.00..
Hopefully I can get my trading bandwagon back on the road tonight.
QPR are already cut adrift at the bottom of the table, but have made some interesting loan signings in recent weeks, and their strike pair of Rowan Vine and Ben Sahar look to have enough about them to find the back of the net against Norwich.
I have taken 2 early positions - backing QPR at 2.42 and over 2.5 goals at 2.00..
Hopefully I can get my trading bandwagon back on the road tonight.
Sanchez under pressure
Lawrie Sanchez looks under pressure at Fulham after another home defeat on the weekend against Pompey.
And if you are quick their may be an arb available by backing him at 33/1 with Coral to be the next manager to leave his post (can curretly lay at 27.00 on Betfair)
Despite spending heavily in the summer, Fulham have endured their worst ever Premiership start and sit in the bottom 3.
Sanchez quickly dismantled the squad that he inherited from Chris Coleman, and the sale of Zat Knight and Papa Bouba Diop leave Fulham looking lightweight and lacking height.
A brittle defence, horrendous away record and a 2nd divsion manager leave Fulham susceptible to the drop and they are worth an interest at 3.30 on Betfair
And if you are quick their may be an arb available by backing him at 33/1 with Coral to be the next manager to leave his post (can curretly lay at 27.00 on Betfair)
Despite spending heavily in the summer, Fulham have endured their worst ever Premiership start and sit in the bottom 3.
Sanchez quickly dismantled the squad that he inherited from Chris Coleman, and the sale of Zat Knight and Papa Bouba Diop leave Fulham looking lightweight and lacking height.
A brittle defence, horrendous away record and a 2nd divsion manager leave Fulham susceptible to the drop and they are worth an interest at 3.30 on Betfair
Thursday 19 July 2007
Football Trader is back!
Well after a nice break, the Football Trader is back and raring to go..
My first move on returning from my holidays was to invest in Setanta Sports, and I now have a whole host of live football to trade on in the new season.
In addition to my Sky Sports subscription I now have most of the European Leagues covered off for my trading and will not be short of a match to follow in the new season.
Discipline is the watchword for the new season, and even a small profit of c. £10 per match will deliver my profit targets of £200 per month.
Will be updating any ante post activity over the next few days
My first move on returning from my holidays was to invest in Setanta Sports, and I now have a whole host of live football to trade on in the new season.
In addition to my Sky Sports subscription I now have most of the European Leagues covered off for my trading and will not be short of a match to follow in the new season.
Discipline is the watchword for the new season, and even a small profit of c. £10 per match will deliver my profit targets of £200 per month.
Will be updating any ante post activity over the next few days
Wednesday 4 July 2007
Good night
Should have quit trading tonight after 20 minutes!
Bolivia have scored with the last kick of the first half to take a 2-1 lead and blow my trades out of the water.
Think I will have to take the losses on the chin and retire hurt for the night before I inflict any more damage to my bankroll!
Bolivia have scored with the last kick of the first half to take a 2-1 lead and blow my trades out of the water.
Think I will have to take the losses on the chin and retire hurt for the night before I inflict any more damage to my bankroll!
Raining goals in Venezuela
What is it about trading with bigger stakes?
My record when trading with small stakes has been brilliant in the last couple of months, but as soon as I start risking more of my bankroll things seem to go wrong.
Pizarro quickly equalised Moreno's strike to level things for Peru as the goals just keep flowing in the Copa America.
My lay of over 2.5 goals at 1.81 is now struggling as the price has rightly tumbled to 1.17.
I am always loathe to take a loss unless I really have to, and with 5 minutes till half time I am still hopeful that I can stay invested for a little longer without another goal going in.
At least Peru are back in the game, so total meltdown should be avoided!
My record when trading with small stakes has been brilliant in the last couple of months, but as soon as I start risking more of my bankroll things seem to go wrong.
Pizarro quickly equalised Moreno's strike to level things for Peru as the goals just keep flowing in the Copa America.
My lay of over 2.5 goals at 1.81 is now struggling as the price has rightly tumbled to 1.17.
I am always loathe to take a loss unless I really have to, and with 5 minutes till half time I am still hopeful that I can stay invested for a little longer without another goal going in.
At least Peru are back in the game, so total meltdown should be avoided!
Moreno Strikes for Bolivia
Ex Middlesboro striker Jaime Moreno has given Bolivia the lead in the first Copa America match of the night.
It took 24 minutes to break the deadlock, and whilst I had traded out small amounts of my liability on over 2.5 goals I am now struggling to realise a decent profit on the night.
I layed at 1.81 and the price hit 2.18 just before the goal went in. Currently trading at 1.52 I need to sit tight for the next few minutes and hope that more goals don't follow quickly.
My back of Peru is not looking great either, as Bolivia have been far the better side so far.
It took 24 minutes to break the deadlock, and whilst I had traded out small amounts of my liability on over 2.5 goals I am now struggling to realise a decent profit on the night.
I layed at 1.81 and the price hit 2.18 just before the goal went in. Currently trading at 1.52 I need to sit tight for the next few minutes and hope that more goals don't follow quickly.
My back of Peru is not looking great either, as Bolivia have been far the better side so far.
Tuesday 3 July 2007
Peru v Bolivia
The goals have flowed in the Copa America so far with another 10 in 2 games last night.
Traders on Betfair have reacted to the number of high scoring matches by chalking up some fairly short prices in the over 2.5 goals markets.
Take Peru v Bolivia tonight, I have just layed over 2.5 goals at 1.82 and the price has contracted even further in the last few minutes.
To me the skinny prices available look like an over reaction and hopefully I can make the most of it if there are no early goals.
My discipline has been pretty good so far in this tournament and I have managed to take regular small profits over the last couple of nights.
I have upped my stakes a little tonight and in the past that has been a recipe for disaster, but I could do with raising some spending money for my holiday next week
With sleep deprivation starting to kick in, i'm hoping for a dull opening 20 minutes and an all green position early on so I get get a relatively early night.
Looking at the match odds, Peru are odds on favorite. Purely because my first World Cup memory was Cubillas destroying Scotland in the '78 world Cup, the fact that I have always liked their kit and they were one of the 1st Subbuteo teams I ever owned I am going to have a small bet on them to knock Bolivia out of the competition.
It is also intersting to get another look at Claudio Pizarro before he joins up with Chelsea.
I will update later if I get the chance
Traders on Betfair have reacted to the number of high scoring matches by chalking up some fairly short prices in the over 2.5 goals markets.
Take Peru v Bolivia tonight, I have just layed over 2.5 goals at 1.82 and the price has contracted even further in the last few minutes.
To me the skinny prices available look like an over reaction and hopefully I can make the most of it if there are no early goals.
My discipline has been pretty good so far in this tournament and I have managed to take regular small profits over the last couple of nights.
I have upped my stakes a little tonight and in the past that has been a recipe for disaster, but I could do with raising some spending money for my holiday next week
With sleep deprivation starting to kick in, i'm hoping for a dull opening 20 minutes and an all green position early on so I get get a relatively early night.
Looking at the match odds, Peru are odds on favorite. Purely because my first World Cup memory was Cubillas destroying Scotland in the '78 world Cup, the fact that I have always liked their kit and they were one of the 1st Subbuteo teams I ever owned I am going to have a small bet on them to knock Bolivia out of the competition.
It is also intersting to get another look at Claudio Pizarro before he joins up with Chelsea.
I will update later if I get the chance
Monday 2 July 2007
Man City farce continues
The longest drawn out managerial appointment in recent years is still rumbling on at Man City.
Sven is trading at 1.13 on Betfair, but reports tonight suggest he is mulling over other options in Spain as Thai investor Shinawatra still hasn't managed to take full control of the club.
Ladbrokes have already paid out Sven backers, but my money is still tied up with William Hill and Betfair.
The Copa America continues tonight, with USA v Paraguay and Argentina v Columbia. Unfortunately my lack of sleep is beginning to catch up on me though and I look like being a non runner for tonight's games.
I'm hoping a couple of cans of Stella may perk me up but I may have to have a night of from trading this evening.
Sven is trading at 1.13 on Betfair, but reports tonight suggest he is mulling over other options in Spain as Thai investor Shinawatra still hasn't managed to take full control of the club.
Ladbrokes have already paid out Sven backers, but my money is still tied up with William Hill and Betfair.
The Copa America continues tonight, with USA v Paraguay and Argentina v Columbia. Unfortunately my lack of sleep is beginning to catch up on me though and I look like being a non runner for tonight's games.
I'm hoping a couple of cans of Stella may perk me up but I may have to have a night of from trading this evening.
Sunday 1 July 2007
Robinho class hides Brazil's flaws
Brazil got their Copa America tournament off and running with what in the end was a comfortable victory againts Chile.
Victory was assured thanks to a hat trick from Robinho ,which glossed over what in truth was a pretty pedastrian performance from Brazil.
A decent start to my evening of trading, as small backs of over 1.5 goals and over 2.5 goals resulted in a small profit (+33.00).
Mexico take on Ecuador in the second game of the night, and I have a small fancy that Ecuador can cause an upset.
They were by far the better side in a 2-3 defeat against Chile and have enough about them to be competitive against Mexico.
I have backed the draw at 3.35 and had a little interest in Ecuador at 4.00, now I just have to try and stay wake to trade the match properly
Victory was assured thanks to a hat trick from Robinho ,which glossed over what in truth was a pretty pedastrian performance from Brazil.
A decent start to my evening of trading, as small backs of over 1.5 goals and over 2.5 goals resulted in a small profit (+33.00).
Mexico take on Ecuador in the second game of the night, and I have a small fancy that Ecuador can cause an upset.
They were by far the better side in a 2-3 defeat against Chile and have enough about them to be competitive against Mexico.
I have backed the draw at 3.35 and had a little interest in Ecuador at 4.00, now I just have to try and stay wake to trade the match properly
Friday 29 June 2007
Christmas comes early for Santa Cruz
Maybe Chelsea have signed the wrong South American from Bayern Munich?
Roque Santa Cruz has helped himself to a hattrick for Paraguay against a poor Columbian side and it would be a big surprise if Premiership scouts are not circling around the big front man.
Paraguay now lead 4-0, as the goals continue to flow in the Copa America.
I had a small interest earlier in the evening, backing Columbia (what a terrible bet!) and over 2.5 goals and have come away with a very small profit.
That profit has been invested in a golfer in the French Open Golf who I am relaibly informed is decent value (Robert-Jan Derksen).
As I type Paraguay are now 5-0 up as Columbia have imploded
Roque Santa Cruz has helped himself to a hattrick for Paraguay against a poor Columbian side and it would be a big surprise if Premiership scouts are not circling around the big front man.
Paraguay now lead 4-0, as the goals continue to flow in the Copa America.
I had a small interest earlier in the evening, backing Columbia (what a terrible bet!) and over 2.5 goals and have come away with a very small profit.
That profit has been invested in a golfer in the French Open Golf who I am relaibly informed is decent value (Robert-Jan Derksen).
As I type Paraguay are now 5-0 up as Columbia have imploded
Paraguay v Columbia
Just got back after a 4-0 drubbing at the snooker club, and have watched the last 15 minutes of the Copa America clash between Paraguay and Columbia.
Have seen a missed penalty (Columbia) and a goal from Roque Santa Cruz as Paraguay lead 1-0.
My discipline has been weakened by a few beers and I have had a couple of trades on over 2.5 goals and Columbia.
Hopefully I can make a winning start to the competition and stay awake long enough for the Argentina v USA match which comes up later
Have seen a missed penalty (Columbia) and a goal from Roque Santa Cruz as Paraguay lead 1-0.
My discipline has been weakened by a few beers and I have had a couple of trades on over 2.5 goals and Columbia.
Hopefully I can make a winning start to the competition and stay awake long enough for the Argentina v USA match which comes up later
Thursday 28 June 2007
Thursday Update
I will keep this short, as for some reason www.blogger.com has been playing up in recent days. After typing in epic posts and publishing them to this blog, they just fail to appear for some reason.
Anyway, a quick look at my Betfair P&L for June shows a profit of £105.83 for the month so far.
I haven't really had much to trade on throughout the month and have deliberately steered clear of what looks like becoming an epic Copa America.
Technology permitting, I will try and post my early thoughts on the tournament later tonight.
I have set up a camp bed in my front room, so that I can doze on and off and still keep half an eye on proceedings!
The Ecuador v Chile match last night was really entertaining and Brazil having already lost to Mexico will not get an easy ride against the supposed minnows in the group.
Anyway, a quick look at my Betfair P&L for June shows a profit of £105.83 for the month so far.
I haven't really had much to trade on throughout the month and have deliberately steered clear of what looks like becoming an epic Copa America.
Technology permitting, I will try and post my early thoughts on the tournament later tonight.
I have set up a camp bed in my front room, so that I can doze on and off and still keep half an eye on proceedings!
The Ecuador v Chile match last night was really entertaining and Brazil having already lost to Mexico will not get an easy ride against the supposed minnows in the group.
Wednesday 27 June 2007
Ecuador v Chile
Not sure what the commentators are taking, but they see to have little clue about what is happening in the game.
A free kick for Ecuador and a yellow card for Chile's Jorge Vargas was called initially as a dive, then a penalty and only at the 3rd time of asking did they realise that it was a free kick on the edge of the box.
Craig Brown the 'expert summariser' thinks the match is being played at a low tempo, not sure what game he is watching?
The opening 15 minutes have been throughly enjoyable, and as I type Valencia from Wigan has given Ecuador the lead.
Expect a few more goals in this one, and if I was trading I would be getting stuck into what looks like an open affair
A free kick for Ecuador and a yellow card for Chile's Jorge Vargas was called initially as a dive, then a penalty and only at the 3rd time of asking did they realise that it was a free kick on the edge of the box.
Craig Brown the 'expert summariser' thinks the match is being played at a low tempo, not sure what game he is watching?
The opening 15 minutes have been throughly enjoyable, and as I type Valencia from Wigan has given Ecuador the lead.
Expect a few more goals in this one, and if I was trading I would be getting stuck into what looks like an open affair
Wednesday update
The Copa America tournament opened last night and to be honest I was expecting some cagey football played at a slow tempo with plenty of histrionics from the players and officials.
How wrong can you be.
Peru and Uruguay served up a highly entertaining clash, with outsiders Peru captained by new Chelsea recruit Pizarro recording a deserved win.
The 3-0 scoreline may have flattered the Peruvians a little, but they did have a perfectly good goal disallowed in the 1st half and held firm against Uruguayan pressure in the 2nd half.
I didn't manage to stay awake to wtach the hosts Venezuela draw 2-2 with Bolivia, but from the highlights I have seen it looked like another good match.
My plan is to keep a watching brief in the early stages of the tournament as my new found discipline means that I am going to reduce the number of events I trade on, but trade with larger stakes.
Ecuador v Chile and Brazil v Mexico are tonights games, and once again I will be trying to stay wake long enough to watch at least the 1st match. Unfortunately the Brazil game is the 2nd game on so won't kick off to 1.30am UK time
How wrong can you be.
Peru and Uruguay served up a highly entertaining clash, with outsiders Peru captained by new Chelsea recruit Pizarro recording a deserved win.
The 3-0 scoreline may have flattered the Peruvians a little, but they did have a perfectly good goal disallowed in the 1st half and held firm against Uruguayan pressure in the 2nd half.
I didn't manage to stay awake to wtach the hosts Venezuela draw 2-2 with Bolivia, but from the highlights I have seen it looked like another good match.
My plan is to keep a watching brief in the early stages of the tournament as my new found discipline means that I am going to reduce the number of events I trade on, but trade with larger stakes.
Ecuador v Chile and Brazil v Mexico are tonights games, and once again I will be trying to stay wake long enough to watch at least the 1st match. Unfortunately the Brazil game is the 2nd game on so won't kick off to 1.30am UK time
Tuesday 26 June 2007
Copa America
With Henmania once again taking over the country, there has been little if any football to trade on in recent days.
However, tonight we have the start of the Copa America, and if you are a night owl like me the thought of Uruguay v Peru at 11.00pm and Venezuela v Bolivia at 1.15am is very appealing (ok I know I am a sad case!)
After my experiences in the recent Euro U21 tournament I have learnt not to get involved in the opening round of games but it is always good to do some background work on the teams before betting blind.
If I manage to keep away long enough I will post my thoughts on the Copa America over the next few days.
Onto matters closer home, Man City seem to have finally secured a new boss. Sven has succumbed to the dubious charms of the former Thai prime minister and at last the FA have got the promiscuous Swede off the payroll.
Not the greatest result for my trading on Betfair where I have a £40 loss on the book, but if William Hill honour their prices (I managed to nick a bit of 4/1 last week when their prices were clearly out of line with other bookies) I should make a small profit overall.
However, tonight we have the start of the Copa America, and if you are a night owl like me the thought of Uruguay v Peru at 11.00pm and Venezuela v Bolivia at 1.15am is very appealing (ok I know I am a sad case!)
After my experiences in the recent Euro U21 tournament I have learnt not to get involved in the opening round of games but it is always good to do some background work on the teams before betting blind.
If I manage to keep away long enough I will post my thoughts on the Copa America over the next few days.
Onto matters closer home, Man City seem to have finally secured a new boss. Sven has succumbed to the dubious charms of the former Thai prime minister and at last the FA have got the promiscuous Swede off the payroll.
Not the greatest result for my trading on Betfair where I have a £40 loss on the book, but if William Hill honour their prices (I managed to nick a bit of 4/1 last week when their prices were clearly out of line with other bookies) I should make a small profit overall.
Thursday 21 June 2007
Thursday Update
I didn't get the chance to post yesterday as I was looking after my daughter and my washing machine decided to blow up.
However, I did manage to keep my eye on the England match vs Holland and that remarkable penlaty shoot out.
For me 2 England players have shone throughout the tournament, Taylor has been immense at the back and Ashley Young suddenly looks like a player worth £9m, I would expect big things from that pair in the Premiership next season.
Onto other issues, and there was a massive error on William Hill's website yesterday afternoon which I think I have managed to take advantage of (surely the flimsy palpable error rule cannot be enforecd here?) On the next Man City manager market they were offering 4/1 on Sven with Chris Coleman as their 5/4 favourite.
The price was totally out of line with other bookies, so I filled my boots and took advantage of the blatent arb, by laying off on Betfair. Sven is now an odds on chance, but there are still a number of hurdles to clear before the promiscuous Swede settles in Manchester.
Assuming that the Thai takeover is completed and rubberstamped, does Sven actually want the job? A mid -table (at best Premiership outfit may not appeal to Sven and you would have thought he would have had enough of the English media by now.
His wage demands will also be massive, so I would not be getting involved at silly prices.
I have been opposing Chris Coleman for the last few weeks, and have made my feelings pretty clear on this blog that he would not get the job, but unfortunately didnt have the balls to lay him big style at relatively small prices (c.3/1) and he is now available to back at 16/1.
My biggest winner on the book at the moment is still Jean Tigana who I have been backing at fancy prices for a few weeks now and have a large green position on. Unfortunately the momentum that was built up on the weekend fuelled by newspaper rumours has stopped and unless Sven officially turns down the job it is going to be hard to make a decent profit from the tooth pick chewing Frenchman.
Finally, thank to Englands qualification for the semi final (they cannot compete in the Olympics in 2008), we have a bonus match tonight from the U21 Championships, and it should be a cracker.
Italy and Portugal will fight it out for that Olympic place and hopefully will put on a cracking show. Not an easy one to trade on until I see how serioulsy they take this game, but should be able to offer some in running advice in the early stages.
However, I did manage to keep my eye on the England match vs Holland and that remarkable penlaty shoot out.
For me 2 England players have shone throughout the tournament, Taylor has been immense at the back and Ashley Young suddenly looks like a player worth £9m, I would expect big things from that pair in the Premiership next season.
Onto other issues, and there was a massive error on William Hill's website yesterday afternoon which I think I have managed to take advantage of (surely the flimsy palpable error rule cannot be enforecd here?) On the next Man City manager market they were offering 4/1 on Sven with Chris Coleman as their 5/4 favourite.
The price was totally out of line with other bookies, so I filled my boots and took advantage of the blatent arb, by laying off on Betfair. Sven is now an odds on chance, but there are still a number of hurdles to clear before the promiscuous Swede settles in Manchester.
Assuming that the Thai takeover is completed and rubberstamped, does Sven actually want the job? A mid -table (at best Premiership outfit may not appeal to Sven and you would have thought he would have had enough of the English media by now.
His wage demands will also be massive, so I would not be getting involved at silly prices.
I have been opposing Chris Coleman for the last few weeks, and have made my feelings pretty clear on this blog that he would not get the job, but unfortunately didnt have the balls to lay him big style at relatively small prices (c.3/1) and he is now available to back at 16/1.
My biggest winner on the book at the moment is still Jean Tigana who I have been backing at fancy prices for a few weeks now and have a large green position on. Unfortunately the momentum that was built up on the weekend fuelled by newspaper rumours has stopped and unless Sven officially turns down the job it is going to be hard to make a decent profit from the tooth pick chewing Frenchman.
Finally, thank to Englands qualification for the semi final (they cannot compete in the Olympics in 2008), we have a bonus match tonight from the U21 Championships, and it should be a cracker.
Italy and Portugal will fight it out for that Olympic place and hopefully will put on a cracking show. Not an easy one to trade on until I see how serioulsy they take this game, but should be able to offer some in running advice in the early stages.
Tuesday 19 June 2007
Jewell backed for City job
ex -Wigan boss Paul Jewell has halved in price this evening in the next Man City manager market.
Jewell was my initial fancy to get he job (tipped up on this blog on May 14th) and has been trading at above 20/1 for the last couple of weeks. His price plummeted to 7/1 about 30 minutes ago and has since bounced to 10/1.
The names being bandied around for this job are amongst some of the most sought after managers in Europe, but I have always had major suspicions about the proposed Thai take-over and even if this prolonged drama eventually goes ahead, the Man City job is hardly the most glamorous post.
When the City board get back in the real world, Jewell could be a realistic target and would be a better option than Chris Coleman.
Jewell was my initial fancy to get he job (tipped up on this blog on May 14th) and has been trading at above 20/1 for the last couple of weeks. His price plummeted to 7/1 about 30 minutes ago and has since bounced to 10/1.
The names being bandied around for this job are amongst some of the most sought after managers in Europe, but I have always had major suspicions about the proposed Thai take-over and even if this prolonged drama eventually goes ahead, the Man City job is hardly the most glamorous post.
When the City board get back in the real world, Jewell could be a realistic target and would be a better option than Chris Coleman.
Sunday 17 June 2007
Trading Update
It's always much easier to talk up successes rather than focusing on trading failures, so I have had a quick look at my P&L for the month so far.
When I started trading on a regular basis in March, my intial target was to make a small profit and get away from giving away any money to various bookmakers.
I know I have a good knowledge of football and think that I can a read a match well in running and after showing a bit of ability at picking winners and more importantly some discipline
I set an arbitrary target of £200 a month profit.
Reading some other blogs from traders who are both more serious and experienced than me, I have picked up a number of tips, but the one that stays with me is in this game you should close out losing trades early and protect your bankroll at all costs.
What I have learnt this month is that when I trade well in a disciplined manner the profits roll in, the actual amounts of money are relatively small (£30 - £40 A night) but it soon adds up. When I lose my discipline it is easy to lose £40-£50-£60 in an evening and undo a lot of hard work.
I am doing ok this month (+£159.33 in June). I should be doing much better given the amount of winning trades that I have made, but any profits are more than welcome.
I suppose the moral of my story is that it is not that difficult to make small and regular profits from trading but it is easier to lose larger amounts through loose and indiscplined trading.
Small and regular profits never used to be that appealing to me, but a growing bankroll and more cash withdrawals than deposits have sold me on the idea.
There is a huge difference between being a punter and being a trader, and I think I am on the verge of morphing into a successful trader - hopefully my punting days are over!
When I started trading on a regular basis in March, my intial target was to make a small profit and get away from giving away any money to various bookmakers.
I know I have a good knowledge of football and think that I can a read a match well in running and after showing a bit of ability at picking winners and more importantly some discipline
I set an arbitrary target of £200 a month profit.
Reading some other blogs from traders who are both more serious and experienced than me, I have picked up a number of tips, but the one that stays with me is in this game you should close out losing trades early and protect your bankroll at all costs.
What I have learnt this month is that when I trade well in a disciplined manner the profits roll in, the actual amounts of money are relatively small (£30 - £40 A night) but it soon adds up. When I lose my discipline it is easy to lose £40-£50-£60 in an evening and undo a lot of hard work.
I am doing ok this month (+£159.33 in June). I should be doing much better given the amount of winning trades that I have made, but any profits are more than welcome.
I suppose the moral of my story is that it is not that difficult to make small and regular profits from trading but it is easier to lose larger amounts through loose and indiscplined trading.
Small and regular profits never used to be that appealing to me, but a growing bankroll and more cash withdrawals than deposits have sold me on the idea.
There is a huge difference between being a punter and being a trader, and I think I am on the verge of morphing into a successful trader - hopefully my punting days are over!
Real Madrid secure title
What a night! The Spanish league lived up to all the hype with a thrilling climax.
Real Madrid have done it the hard way all season, but have once again come from behind when they looked dead and buried.
On loan Arsenal striker Juan Antonio Reyes has scored a brace and a bizarre og from Greek midfielder Bassinas has secured the title for Real Madrid.
Another decent night for the Football Trader as I read the Real Madrid comeback nicely (see previous post).
Shame that the football season is well and truly coming to a close just as I am starting to get the hang of this trading game!
Hopefully the U21 Championship, the Copa America and the run up to the new domestic season can keep the profits rolling in.
I will still be updating this blog regularly over the coming weeks and hope to keep delivering the best and most up to date tipping service on the internet.
All I need now is for Jean Tigana to be appointed as the new Man City manager!
Real Madrid have done it the hard way all season, but have once again come from behind when they looked dead and buried.
On loan Arsenal striker Juan Antonio Reyes has scored a brace and a bizarre og from Greek midfielder Bassinas has secured the title for Real Madrid.
Another decent night for the Football Trader as I read the Real Madrid comeback nicely (see previous post).
Shame that the football season is well and truly coming to a close just as I am starting to get the hang of this trading game!
Hopefully the U21 Championship, the Copa America and the run up to the new domestic season can keep the profits rolling in.
I will still be updating this blog regularly over the coming weeks and hope to keep delivering the best and most up to date tipping service on the internet.
All I need now is for Jean Tigana to be appointed as the new Man City manager!
Real Stutter
Well I mentioned in my earlier post that we would be in for thrills and spills in the Spanish football, and Mallorca are threatening to ruin Real Madrid's big night.
An early strike by Varela has thrown the title race wide open and as we stand Barca would be crowned champions.
As we have seen all season, it is almost impossible to write off Real Madrid, but an injury to Ruud van Nistelrooy has blunted the strike force of the champions elect.
There are plenty of chances to hopefully profit from tonight's match (hopefully!). Rel Madrid's price has drifted significantly and the over 2.5 goals market has also recovered after hitting a low of 1.20 following the opening goal .
Currently Madrid do not look capable of turning this around, but i'm sure Capello's HT team talk will stir his troops and hopefully give the Football Trader another profitable evening.
I'm going to start backing Madrid with small stakes, current price is 2.24
An early strike by Varela has thrown the title race wide open and as we stand Barca would be crowned champions.
As we have seen all season, it is almost impossible to write off Real Madrid, but an injury to Ruud van Nistelrooy has blunted the strike force of the champions elect.
There are plenty of chances to hopefully profit from tonight's match (hopefully!). Rel Madrid's price has drifted significantly and the over 2.5 goals market has also recovered after hitting a low of 1.20 following the opening goal .
Currently Madrid do not look capable of turning this around, but i'm sure Capello's HT team talk will stir his troops and hopefully give the Football Trader another profitable evening.
I'm going to start backing Madrid with small stakes, current price is 2.24
BIg Night of Trading
It is crunch time for England in the Euro U21 Championships and the moment of truth for Real Madrid as La Liga comes to a thrilling climax.
For England it is simple, if they beat group winners Serbia they will qualify for the semi finals and meet hosts Holland in the last 4.
Serbia have made 9 changes for this match and given England's greater need I expect them to get the 3 points required.
In Spain, Real Madrid have to beat Mallorca at the Bernabeu to secure the League title.
On paper the task seems easy enough, but La Liga has produced so much entertainment in recent weeks I can't help but feel there will be some thrills and spills on the final day of the season.
In early trading, I have backed England at 1.55 and layed over 2.5 goals in the Madrid match at 1.57.
I am sure there will be plenty of in running trading, which I will try and update if I get the chance on what could be a beathless evening
For England it is simple, if they beat group winners Serbia they will qualify for the semi finals and meet hosts Holland in the last 4.
Serbia have made 9 changes for this match and given England's greater need I expect them to get the 3 points required.
In Spain, Real Madrid have to beat Mallorca at the Bernabeu to secure the League title.
On paper the task seems easy enough, but La Liga has produced so much entertainment in recent weeks I can't help but feel there will be some thrills and spills on the final day of the season.
In early trading, I have backed England at 1.55 and layed over 2.5 goals in the Madrid match at 1.57.
I am sure there will be plenty of in running trading, which I will try and update if I get the chance on what could be a beathless evening
Saturday 16 June 2007
Early Trading
I will be away from my trading chair for most of today, attending my daughters 'fun-day' and will also be out tonight, so my trading will be limited.
So I have got in early on the Portugal v Israel U21 match.
The Portuguese have been disappointing in the tournament and look like going out whatever the result tonight.
However they finally sprung to life against the Dutch in the 2nd half on Wednesday, and should have more than enough to beat a limited Israel.
I have backed Portugal at 1.57 and had a speculative interest in a 2-0 win.
So I have got in early on the Portugal v Israel U21 match.
The Portuguese have been disappointing in the tournament and look like going out whatever the result tonight.
However they finally sprung to life against the Dutch in the 2nd half on Wednesday, and should have more than enough to beat a limited Israel.
I have backed Portugal at 1.57 and had a speculative interest in a 2-0 win.
Tigana to Man City?
It would be the greatest touch of my fledgling trading career if Jean Tigana is appointed as the next Man City manager.
I had a couple of speculative punts at massive prices on www.betfair.com and detailed them on this blog
When reviewing my positions this morning Tigana's price has started to move south on the back of a piece in today's Daily Mirror which claims that Tigana is now in the frame for the job.
With his former skipper Chris Coleman heading the market, it would not be a surprise to see the 2 ex Fulham boys take over at Eastlands.
That could be a dream ticket for Man City fans. Tigana worked wonders at Fulham, bringing in the likes of Saha and Malbranque, but also improving existing players beyond recognition.
I had a couple of speculative punts at massive prices on www.betfair.com and detailed them on this blog
When reviewing my positions this morning Tigana's price has started to move south on the back of a piece in today's Daily Mirror which claims that Tigana is now in the frame for the job.
With his former skipper Chris Coleman heading the market, it would not be a surprise to see the 2 ex Fulham boys take over at Eastlands.
That could be a dream ticket for Man City fans. Tigana worked wonders at Fulham, bringing in the likes of Saha and Malbranque, but also improving existing players beyond recognition.
Friday 15 June 2007
Quiet Friday Night
Nothing to trade on this evening unfortunately, after 2 successive winning days.
I keep a regular eye on the next Man City manager market and tonight it is Chris Coleman who is favourite at a short price 2.82.
As mentioned on this blog previously, I would be astounded if City appoint Coleman. To replace one inexperinced young manager with another one would be a massive gamble
It has been widely quoted that they are after a 'top'manager who can not only move the 1st team forward but who can also develpp their academy. If that is the job description, then Coleman is definitely not their man.
As a Fulham fan, I have seen at close hand the managerial career of the Welshman.
Coleman inherited a high quality but underperforming squad when Jean Tigana was dismissed and his undoubted motivational skills got the best out of them for 18 months including the clubs highest finish in their history.
But in the last couple of seasons the quality just fell away (not helped by the forced sales of at least 5 top players). Fulham simply could not win away from home and most Fulham matches were dour affairs with negativity and fear the watchwords of the final days of the Coleman regime.
Cookie is a top bloke and has the abilty to be a decent manager, but he let himself down with his reliance on a backroom staff that was below the required standard.
If Man City were serious about turning around their fortunes they could do worse than looking at Coleman's former boss Jean Tigana.
A Tigana / Coleman partnership could be the dream ticket.
I have layed Coleman at 3.20
I keep a regular eye on the next Man City manager market and tonight it is Chris Coleman who is favourite at a short price 2.82.
As mentioned on this blog previously, I would be astounded if City appoint Coleman. To replace one inexperinced young manager with another one would be a massive gamble
It has been widely quoted that they are after a 'top'manager who can not only move the 1st team forward but who can also develpp their academy. If that is the job description, then Coleman is definitely not their man.
As a Fulham fan, I have seen at close hand the managerial career of the Welshman.
Coleman inherited a high quality but underperforming squad when Jean Tigana was dismissed and his undoubted motivational skills got the best out of them for 18 months including the clubs highest finish in their history.
But in the last couple of seasons the quality just fell away (not helped by the forced sales of at least 5 top players). Fulham simply could not win away from home and most Fulham matches were dour affairs with negativity and fear the watchwords of the final days of the Coleman regime.
Cookie is a top bloke and has the abilty to be a decent manager, but he let himself down with his reliance on a backroom staff that was below the required standard.
If Man City were serious about turning around their fortunes they could do worse than looking at Coleman's former boss Jean Tigana.
A Tigana / Coleman partnership could be the dream ticket.
I have layed Coleman at 3.20
Thursday 14 June 2007
Sven on his way to Man City
I haven't bothered following Big Brother this summer, preferring to follow the drama that is unfolding at Man City.
They are still managerless and despite having a wish list that contains some of the finest gaffers in Europe, they seem no nearer to an appointment.
Checking the markets on www.betfair.com this evening, and now ex England boss Sven is the market leader.
I am very sceptical about the whole situation at City, I advised about a week ago to oppose Juande Ramos (too good) and Chris Coleman (too similar to Stuart Pearce) and it looks like my recommendations will be correct.
I have withdrawn financially from this market altogether for a small loss, but wish I had just been brave and stuck with my initial pick of Paul Jewell who must be bored of his self imposed break from football by now.
As I have mentioned before, whoever takes over at City has a tough job on their hands and I expect most of the big names in Europe to steer clear unless major funds are available
They are still managerless and despite having a wish list that contains some of the finest gaffers in Europe, they seem no nearer to an appointment.
Checking the markets on www.betfair.com this evening, and now ex England boss Sven is the market leader.
I am very sceptical about the whole situation at City, I advised about a week ago to oppose Juande Ramos (too good) and Chris Coleman (too similar to Stuart Pearce) and it looks like my recommendations will be correct.
I have withdrawn financially from this market altogether for a small loss, but wish I had just been brave and stuck with my initial pick of Paul Jewell who must be bored of his self imposed break from football by now.
As I have mentioned before, whoever takes over at City has a tough job on their hands and I expect most of the big names in Europe to steer clear unless major funds are available
Good Times
Let the good times roll!
The U21 tournament started poorly for the Football Trader with a couple of shocking nights, but I have more than made up for that over the last 2 evenings.
I was on over 2.5 goals in the England v Italy match as advised earlier, and at HT started opposing England at short prices.
An Italian victory would have been the best case scenario for my trading, but a draw was also a decent result and I have won £100+ on the night.
England must now beat Serbia to qualify for the semi finals, and I am confident that they have enough about them to do the business.
Hope you have been following the Football Trader as he gives the best trading tips on the Euro U21 tournament
The U21 tournament started poorly for the Football Trader with a couple of shocking nights, but I have more than made up for that over the last 2 evenings.
I was on over 2.5 goals in the England v Italy match as advised earlier, and at HT started opposing England at short prices.
An Italian victory would have been the best case scenario for my trading, but a draw was also a decent result and I have won £100+ on the night.
England must now beat Serbia to qualify for the semi finals, and I am confident that they have enough about them to do the business.
Hope you have been following the Football Trader as he gives the best trading tips on the Euro U21 tournament
Italy to come back?
With England leading 2-1 and Italy facing elimination from the tournament, it is all Italy in the 2nd period.
I have used my earlier profits to side with Italy at big prices.
If they can sneak another goal in the next 10-15 minutes then it could be a very profitable night for the Football Trader
I have used my earlier profits to side with Italy at big prices.
If they can sneak another goal in the next 10-15 minutes then it could be a very profitable night for the Football Trader
U21 European Championships
I advised a back of over 2.5 goals in the England v Italy clash, little did I think that it would have already copped after just 37 minutes.
We have a cracking game in store as Italy stare elimination in the face and both defences look porous.
More goals will surely follow in the 2nd half as the U21 tournament has suddenly come to life.
My trading on the tournament is begiining to show a small profit after a shocking start.
I am goingto hang loose till HT and have a scout around for some value. I already have profits from the over 2.5 goals market and i'm sitting on an all green position on the match odds.
I will update my recommendations at half time
We have a cracking game in store as Italy stare elimination in the face and both defences look porous.
More goals will surely follow in the 2nd half as the U21 tournament has suddenly come to life.
My trading on the tournament is begiining to show a small profit after a shocking start.
I am goingto hang loose till HT and have a scout around for some value. I already have profits from the over 2.5 goals market and i'm sitting on an all green position on the match odds.
I will update my recommendations at half time
England U21 v Italy U21
I missed the first 15 minutes of the England game, but have turned on to see Leroy Lita miss 2 of the best chances you will ever see.
England seem to be totally dominant at the moment making a mockery of their status as outsiders in the match. But the key thing is that they have failed to take advantage of the chances.
A good open game is in prospect and I am having a small interest in over 2.5 goals at 3.10.
Hopefully when I have watched a bit more of the game I will have some better advice
England seem to be totally dominant at the moment making a mockery of their status as outsiders in the match. But the key thing is that they have failed to take advantage of the chances.
A good open game is in prospect and I am having a small interest in over 2.5 goals at 3.10.
Hopefully when I have watched a bit more of the game I will have some better advice
Part Timer
Having been virtually stuck to my trading chair for the last few nights, I have decided to venture out tonight and go for a couple of beers with a female friend (it's not a date!)
Even I thought that using Serbia U21 v Czech republic U21 as an excuse was a step too far.
Hopefully I will be back in time for England's crucial match against Italy If their friendly at Wembley (3-3) is anything to go by we should be in for a good match.
I will not be trading until later, but will update as soon as decide on my trades.
Even I thought that using Serbia U21 v Czech republic U21 as an excuse was a step too far.
Hopefully I will be back in time for England's crucial match against Italy If their friendly at Wembley (3-3) is anything to go by we should be in for a good match.
I will not be trading until later, but will update as soon as decide on my trades.
Wednesday 13 June 2007
U21 Tournament comes to life
Holland booked their place in the semi final with an entertaining 2-1 win against Portugal.
A first half penalty from Babel handed Holland the lead at the interval and I steamed into the over 2.5 goals market at Half Time.
The pacy NAC Breda striker Rigters doubled the lead with a neat near post finish after good work from the excellent Royston Drenthe.
Portugal suddenly sprung to life and a stunning free kick, curled in left footed by playmaker Veloso halved the arrears.
Unfortunately Portugal may pay the penalty for their negative approach in the opening stages of the tournament and could well be eliminated even if they beat a poor Israeli side in their final game.
A decent night for the Football Trader, as I backed Holland to win, Ryan Babel to score and over 2.5 goals.
My trading on the U21 championships is back on track and I will be listening to my own advice in future and not getting involved in the first round of group matches in major tournaments.
A first half penalty from Babel handed Holland the lead at the interval and I steamed into the over 2.5 goals market at Half Time.
The pacy NAC Breda striker Rigters doubled the lead with a neat near post finish after good work from the excellent Royston Drenthe.
Portugal suddenly sprung to life and a stunning free kick, curled in left footed by playmaker Veloso halved the arrears.
Unfortunately Portugal may pay the penalty for their negative approach in the opening stages of the tournament and could well be eliminated even if they beat a poor Israeli side in their final game.
A decent night for the Football Trader, as I backed Holland to win, Ryan Babel to score and over 2.5 goals.
My trading on the U21 championships is back on track and I will be listening to my own advice in future and not getting involved in the first round of group matches in major tournaments.
Over 2.5 goals?
Well, the plan was to leave the football alone and watch the final of The Apprentice, but I figure you should strike when you are hot.
So after trading the Holland v Portugal match well so far, I have decided to get involved in the over 2.5 goals market.
Portugal will be forced to push on in the 2nd half or they are out of the tournament and the Dutch look good on the break.
A back of over 2.5 goals at 3.00 this looks like good value
So after trading the Holland v Portugal match well so far, I have decided to get involved in the over 2.5 goals market.
Portugal will be forced to push on in the 2nd half or they are out of the tournament and the Dutch look good on the break.
A back of over 2.5 goals at 3.00 this looks like good value
Holland 1 -0 Portugal
Ryan Babel has scored for Holland from the penalty spot to give the Dutch a deserved lead.
Hope you followed the Football Traders recommendations (see post below) and backed Babel to find the net.
I am going to trade out for a profit on my back of Holland, put my feet up and watch the final of the Apprentice
Hope you followed the Football Traders recommendations (see post below) and backed Babel to find the net.
I am going to trade out for a profit on my back of Holland, put my feet up and watch the final of the Apprentice
Euro U21 Championships
Belgium got the evening off to a positive start for the Football Trader, as the impressive Lille striker Kevin Mirallas struck late for the 10 men to secure a 1-0 win.
I wanted to back Belgium prior to kick off but work and family commitments meant that I wasn't able to get on.
Just as I was about to get involved, Belgium were reduced to 10 men by a ridiculously fussy referee who was desperate to liven up what has been a poor tournament so far.
But after watching a toothless Israel huff and puff for another 15 minutes I decided to follow my instinct and back the Belgians anyway.
So a small profit rolls onto the Holland v Portugal match which on paper should be one of the best group games.
Portugal were poor in their opening game, and Nani will be looking to put on a show for the watching Man Utd fans.
I liked the way Holland kept possession in their first match and in Drenthe and Babel have 2 of the best players of the tournament so far.
With a full house in Gronigen behind the hosts I am going to have a small back of Holland, and expect the physicl presence of Ryan Babel to unsettle Portugal and will have a small bet on him to get on the scoresheet
I wanted to back Belgium prior to kick off but work and family commitments meant that I wasn't able to get on.
Just as I was about to get involved, Belgium were reduced to 10 men by a ridiculously fussy referee who was desperate to liven up what has been a poor tournament so far.
But after watching a toothless Israel huff and puff for another 15 minutes I decided to follow my instinct and back the Belgians anyway.
So a small profit rolls onto the Holland v Portugal match which on paper should be one of the best group games.
Portugal were poor in their opening game, and Nani will be looking to put on a show for the watching Man Utd fans.
I liked the way Holland kept possession in their first match and in Drenthe and Babel have 2 of the best players of the tournament so far.
With a full house in Gronigen behind the hosts I am going to have a small back of Holland, and expect the physicl presence of Ryan Babel to unsettle Portugal and will have a small bet on him to get on the scoresheet
Monday 11 June 2007
A goal at last!
Serbia have taken a shock lead in Nijmegen against tournament favourites Italy.
Thankfully from a trading perspective it gives me a chance to green out my earlier back of Serbia and give me the first bright spot of a tough few days.
The commentators on Sky - Rob Palmer and ex Arsenal striker Alan Smith - have been drooling over Italy, but for me they have been disappointing so far.
I expect them to up the tempo in the last 20 minutes so we should at last get some entertainment
Thankfully from a trading perspective it gives me a chance to green out my earlier back of Serbia and give me the first bright spot of a tough few days.
The commentators on Sky - Rob Palmer and ex Arsenal striker Alan Smith - have been drooling over Italy, but for me they have been disappointing so far.
I expect them to up the tempo in the last 20 minutes so we should at last get some entertainment
Serbia U21 0-0 Italy U21
If the U21 tournament is a glimpse at the future of football, we had better get used to not seeing many goals.
35 minutes into the Serbia v Italy match and we are still goalless, and we have now gone over 5 hours without a goal in this tournament.
Serbia have surprised Italy with some good pssession football, and in Bosko Jankovic have a talisman that could trouble England later in this group.
I have had a very smal interest in Serbia at a big price, but am not expecting much with my track record in recent days..
Will we ever get a goal?
35 minutes into the Serbia v Italy match and we are still goalless, and we have now gone over 5 hours without a goal in this tournament.
Serbia have surprised Italy with some good pssession football, and in Bosko Jankovic have a talisman that could trouble England later in this group.
I have had a very smal interest in Serbia at a big price, but am not expecting much with my track record in recent days..
Will we ever get a goal?
Lita misses crucial chance
Not easy this trading lark! You get yourself into a good position and then your selected team let you down majorly.
An England penalty with just 3 minutes remaining has been spurned by Reading striker Leroy Lita, who couldn't even hit the target from 12 yards.
A goal would have repaired the damage done on the opening night of the tournament, but, I just can't seem to get the right side of a result in this U21 championship so far.
A goalless draw does England no favours, as they face favourites Italy next game up and will probably have to beat Serbia in their final group game to progress.
An England penalty with just 3 minutes remaining has been spurned by Reading striker Leroy Lita, who couldn't even hit the target from 12 yards.
A goal would have repaired the damage done on the opening night of the tournament, but, I just can't seem to get the right side of a result in this U21 championship so far.
A goalless draw does England no favours, as they face favourites Italy next game up and will probably have to beat Serbia in their final group game to progress.
England U21 0-0 Czech Rep. U21
A 4.00pm work meeting over ran significantly and I have just managed to get back into the trading chair.
It doesn't look i've missed much as England and the Czech Republic are still goalless with only 15 minutes to go.
I have had a small back of England at 3.75, but the way my tournament has started I am not expecting much!
The tournament has only yielded 1 goal in almost 3 matches now so traders who lay over 2.5 goals are having a field day - I wish I had just stuck to my normal principles.
The Racing Post suggested backing over 2.5 goals in the 2nd match of the day Italy v Serbia, but I think I will be sitting that one out unless England oblige in the latter stages
It doesn't look i've missed much as England and the Czech Republic are still goalless with only 15 minutes to go.
I have had a small back of England at 3.75, but the way my tournament has started I am not expecting much!
The tournament has only yielded 1 goal in almost 3 matches now so traders who lay over 2.5 goals are having a field day - I wish I had just stuck to my normal principles.
The Racing Post suggested backing over 2.5 goals in the 2nd match of the day Italy v Serbia, but I think I will be sitting that one out unless England oblige in the latter stages
Sunday 10 June 2007
FT: Portugal 0 -0 Belgium
Not a great start to the Euro U21 championships. 2 fairly dull games, which only produced 1 goal between them.
Belgium deserved to beat an over rated Portuguese side whose big name players failed to turn up.
Trading on opening night of a tournament is not the smartest thing to do, but in trying to nick a small profit I have come away with 2 losing trades.
Backing Portugal looked like a mistake after about 10 minutes of their match with Belgium and I should have cut my losses early on.
England take to the stage tomorrow night against the Czech Republic, and if if they can progress from a tough looking section they will have seen little to fear in Group A.
Belgium deserved to beat an over rated Portuguese side whose big name players failed to turn up.
Trading on opening night of a tournament is not the smartest thing to do, but in trying to nick a small profit I have come away with 2 losing trades.
Backing Portugal looked like a mistake after about 10 minutes of their match with Belgium and I should have cut my losses early on.
England take to the stage tomorrow night against the Czech Republic, and if if they can progress from a tough looking section they will have seen little to fear in Group A.
Portugal 0-0 Belgium
Belgium were big outsiders against Portugal, but their physical approach has unsettled the Portuguese.
Big names Nani and Manuel Fernandes have failed to deliver in the 1st 45 minutes and Portugal are fortunate to be on level terms at the break.
Belgian centre forward Mirallis has been extremely impressive leading the line on his own ably supported by Martens, Blondel and the abrasive Vertonghen.
Trading on reputation is a dangerous game which I used to my advantage in La Liga earlier in the season when opposing Barca and Real Madrid, so I should have steered clear of backing Portugal this evening.
Never mind, I am still in the game and hopefully Portugal can't get any worse in the 2nd period.
Belgium have put a lot of effort in so far, pressing all over the pitch, flying into tackles and playing at a high tempo - hopefully from a trading perspective they will tire in the 2nd half - but make no mistake they have been good to watch and have some talented players who we will hear more of on the European scene in the next few years.
Big names Nani and Manuel Fernandes have failed to deliver in the 1st 45 minutes and Portugal are fortunate to be on level terms at the break.
Belgian centre forward Mirallis has been extremely impressive leading the line on his own ably supported by Martens, Blondel and the abrasive Vertonghen.
Trading on reputation is a dangerous game which I used to my advantage in La Liga earlier in the season when opposing Barca and Real Madrid, so I should have steered clear of backing Portugal this evening.
Never mind, I am still in the game and hopefully Portugal can't get any worse in the 2nd period.
Belgium have put a lot of effort in so far, pressing all over the pitch, flying into tackles and playing at a high tempo - hopefully from a trading perspective they will tire in the 2nd half - but make no mistake they have been good to watch and have some talented players who we will hear more of on the European scene in the next few years.
Potugal U21 v Belgium U21
The 2nd game of the U21 Euro Championships takes place this evening from Gronigen, as Portugal take on Belgium.
Man Utd new boy Nani starts for Portugal and it will be interesting to get my first real look at him.
Holland eased through the first game in this group, but I expect a bit more from the Portuguese and will be looking to get with them in running (currently available to back at 1.78).
Man Utd new boy Nani starts for Portugal and it will be interesting to get my first real look at him.
Holland eased through the first game in this group, but I expect a bit more from the Portuguese and will be looking to get with them in running (currently available to back at 1.78).
U21 European Championships
Hosts Holland take on Israel in the opening match of the U21 tournament from Herenveen.
At half time the hosts have a 1-0 lead after Maduro struck at the far post from a free kick.
I am not going to get heavily stuck into trading the opening games of the competition until I have had a chance to scout all the teams involved.
Just to give me a little interest, I have had a small back of over 2.5 goals at 2.52.
Israel have sat fairly deep in the first 45 minutes but hopefully they will open up as they go in search of an equaliser in the 2nd period.
I will be giving regular updates throughout the tournament, so keep your eye on The Football Trader for the best betting tips on the U21 Euro Championships
At half time the hosts have a 1-0 lead after Maduro struck at the far post from a free kick.
I am not going to get heavily stuck into trading the opening games of the competition until I have had a chance to scout all the teams involved.
Just to give me a little interest, I have had a small back of over 2.5 goals at 2.52.
Israel have sat fairly deep in the first 45 minutes but hopefully they will open up as they go in search of an equaliser in the 2nd period.
I will be giving regular updates throughout the tournament, so keep your eye on The Football Trader for the best betting tips on the U21 Euro Championships
Saturday 9 June 2007
2-2 all round
They called it a desmond or a beer drinkers degree when I graduated from university with a 2-2, but 2-2 has more significance in La Liga, as the best League in the world draws to a frenetic climax.
The Premeirship pundits on Sky have been caught up in the hyperbole surrounding the English game for too long, conveniently ignoring the fact that they have a tarnished product that rarely sparks to life.
Well the Spanish League has no such problems as this remarkable season gets better every week.
The bare facts of tonight's matches are that all 3 of the top teams failed to win, so effectively it is as you were.
Real Madrid now just have to beat Mallorca next week to secure the title for the first time in 4 years. Hope you followed the Football Traders recommendation on the 13th May when I gave a strong tip for Madrid to win the League http://footballtrader.blogspot.com/2007/05/real-madrid-great-value-for-spanish.html
As we have seen so many time in this run in, Madrid did it the hard way, twice coming from behind to secure 2-2 draw with Zaragoza which for long periods didn't look like it would be enough.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy struck twice to cancel a brace from Gabbi Milito.
A win for Barcelona would have effectively handed them the title and despite falling behind to Espanyol they clawed their way back to lead 2-1.
If you haven't already seen it, have a look at Lionel Messi's equalising goal, he clearly punched it home to emulate fellow Argentinian Diego Maradona.
With time running out, Barca's suspect home form came back to bite them and Raul Tamudo broke their hearts with 2 minutes remaining - to be honest justice has been done.
Sevilla couldn't eke out the win that would have put them level on points with Real and Barca, so they stay 2 points behind and have just a slim chance of usurping the big boys in the race for La Liga.
From a trading perspective, i've lost a grand total of £4 on the night, which is a small price to pay for another great evening's entertainment
The Premeirship pundits on Sky have been caught up in the hyperbole surrounding the English game for too long, conveniently ignoring the fact that they have a tarnished product that rarely sparks to life.
Well the Spanish League has no such problems as this remarkable season gets better every week.
The bare facts of tonight's matches are that all 3 of the top teams failed to win, so effectively it is as you were.
Real Madrid now just have to beat Mallorca next week to secure the title for the first time in 4 years. Hope you followed the Football Traders recommendation on the 13th May when I gave a strong tip for Madrid to win the League http://footballtrader.blogspot.com/2007/05/real-madrid-great-value-for-spanish.html
As we have seen so many time in this run in, Madrid did it the hard way, twice coming from behind to secure 2-2 draw with Zaragoza which for long periods didn't look like it would be enough.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy struck twice to cancel a brace from Gabbi Milito.
A win for Barcelona would have effectively handed them the title and despite falling behind to Espanyol they clawed their way back to lead 2-1.
If you haven't already seen it, have a look at Lionel Messi's equalising goal, he clearly punched it home to emulate fellow Argentinian Diego Maradona.
With time running out, Barca's suspect home form came back to bite them and Raul Tamudo broke their hearts with 2 minutes remaining - to be honest justice has been done.
Sevilla couldn't eke out the win that would have put them level on points with Real and Barca, so they stay 2 points behind and have just a slim chance of usurping the big boys in the race for La Liga.
From a trading perspective, i've lost a grand total of £4 on the night, which is a small price to pay for another great evening's entertainment
Spanish Shocker
Approaching half time and Real Madrid are trailing 1-0
A penalty from Milito for Zaragoza after Ivan Helguera first handled and then bundled over Aimar. Despite the protests the referee could have awarded 2 penalties.
Barcelona also fell behind as Espanyol skipper Raul Tamudo struck in the local derby, but Lionel Messi has restored parity at the Nou Camp
No goal news from Sevilla as yet.
Not the worst night from a trdaing perspective. I layed over 2.5 goals at 1.74 and started trading out at 2.34 for a small profit.
I have decided to reinvest my small profit on a Real Madrid comeback at 3.80, but am going to sit back and enjoy the football without trading much more on the match.
A penalty from Milito for Zaragoza after Ivan Helguera first handled and then bundled over Aimar. Despite the protests the referee could have awarded 2 penalties.
Barcelona also fell behind as Espanyol skipper Raul Tamudo struck in the local derby, but Lionel Messi has restored parity at the Nou Camp
No goal news from Sevilla as yet.
Not the worst night from a trdaing perspective. I layed over 2.5 goals at 1.74 and started trading out at 2.34 for a small profit.
I have decided to reinvest my small profit on a Real Madrid comeback at 3.80, but am going to sit back and enjoy the football without trading much more on the match.
Beckham starts for Madrid
David Beckham starts for Real Madrid after shaking off an ankle injury.
With so much at stake, I expect a nervy evening at Zaragoza tonight and have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.74.
Hopefully I can escape an early goal and trade out for a small profit in-running.
Will update during the game as this fascinating evening in Spain progresses
With so much at stake, I expect a nervy evening at Zaragoza tonight and have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.74.
Hopefully I can escape an early goal and trade out for a small profit in-running.
Will update during the game as this fascinating evening in Spain progresses
La Liga returns
The penultimate round of La Liga matches take place this evening, and unfortunately for traders and fans of Spanish football they have decided that all 3 title challengers will play simultaneously.
So instead of a bonanza of 3 live matches back to back we have to make do with just the one live match.
Real Zaragoza host Real Madrid in what could be a title decider. If Madrid take the 3 points on offer they will almost be over the line - requiring just a home win in their final game of the season against Mallorca.
Zaragoza will be no pushover however, they have a good home record with only 2 defeats all season and could severly dent the hopes of Fabio Cappello's team.
Barcelona have a home match with local rivals Espanyol and look likely to maintain the pressure on Real Madrid with another home win.
Sevilla have also managed to keep themselves in the race and travel to Mallorca tonight for a must win match.
I will be looking more closely at these matches later this evening and will give my recommended trades.
So instead of a bonanza of 3 live matches back to back we have to make do with just the one live match.
Real Zaragoza host Real Madrid in what could be a title decider. If Madrid take the 3 points on offer they will almost be over the line - requiring just a home win in their final game of the season against Mallorca.
Zaragoza will be no pushover however, they have a good home record with only 2 defeats all season and could severly dent the hopes of Fabio Cappello's team.
Barcelona have a home match with local rivals Espanyol and look likely to maintain the pressure on Real Madrid with another home win.
Sevilla have also managed to keep themselves in the race and travel to Mallorca tonight for a must win match.
I will be looking more closely at these matches later this evening and will give my recommended trades.
Next Man City Manager
What is going on in the Man City managerial stakes?
Claudio Ranieri got sick of waiting for the Thai takeover to materialise and took the Juventus job -a far more attractive proposition.
Ex Fulham boss Chris Coleman has now been backed into favouritism on www.betfair.com which is a very surprising development.
Having been linked with every big name manager in world football, I would be amazed if City replaced Pearce with Coleman.
2nd in the market is Sevilla boss Juande Ramos, and once again it would be a major shock if they tempted the Spaniard to Eastlands. Sevilla have guaranteed Champions League football next season, and if Ramos does decide to leave I think he will have bigger fish to fry than a relegation battle with Man City.
So if the 2 market leaders are unlikely to secre the job who will be in the hot seat fro next season?
My initial pick of Paul Jewell is still in the hunt and I have heard a few whispers that Mark Hughes may be tempted (although i'm not sure how reliable this source is).
Over £500,000 has now been matched on this long drawn out market and we don't seem any nearer to a conclusion.
Claudio Ranieri got sick of waiting for the Thai takeover to materialise and took the Juventus job -a far more attractive proposition.
Ex Fulham boss Chris Coleman has now been backed into favouritism on www.betfair.com which is a very surprising development.
Having been linked with every big name manager in world football, I would be amazed if City replaced Pearce with Coleman.
2nd in the market is Sevilla boss Juande Ramos, and once again it would be a major shock if they tempted the Spaniard to Eastlands. Sevilla have guaranteed Champions League football next season, and if Ramos does decide to leave I think he will have bigger fish to fry than a relegation battle with Man City.
So if the 2 market leaders are unlikely to secre the job who will be in the hot seat fro next season?
My initial pick of Paul Jewell is still in the hunt and I have heard a few whispers that Mark Hughes may be tempted (although i'm not sure how reliable this source is).
Over £500,000 has now been matched on this long drawn out market and we don't seem any nearer to a conclusion.
Thursday 7 June 2007
France v China in Toulon final
The best side in the competition France progressed to the final at the expense of Portugal and will face China in the final.
Not a great evening of trading tonight, I started off laying over 1.5 goals which actually yielded a profit, but I started laying France at skinny odds.
One goal from Portugal would have done the business, but they didn't have the quality in forward positions to get on the scoresheet.
Never mind, you can't win them all and the loss on the night is only small fry.
Not a great evening of trading tonight, I started off laying over 1.5 goals which actually yielded a profit, but I started laying France at skinny odds.
One goal from Portugal would have done the business, but they didn't have the quality in forward positions to get on the scoresheet.
Never mind, you can't win them all and the loss on the night is only small fry.
The Traders curse
No sooner had I posted my last blog entry, and France took the lead. Not a great start to the evening, but at least I am only in for small stakes!
Portugal will have to come out in the 2nd half to try and turn around the deficit, so I have now layed France at 1.25.
A few after work beers don't really help sensible trading but a Portuguese goal could turn my evening around.
Come on Portugal
Portugal will have to come out in the 2nd half to try and turn around the deficit, so I have now layed France at 1.25.
A few after work beers don't really help sensible trading but a Portuguese goal could turn my evening around.
Come on Portugal
Toulon Tournament
In the U20 tournamnent from Toulon favourites France are taking on Portugal.
Portugal have a good pedigree at youth level, but have failed to impress so far in this tournament despite progressing to the semi final stage.
China await the winners of this all European tie and I have a feeling that a defensive Portuguese side can keep the number of goals to a minimum.
I have had a small lay of over 1.5 goals at 1.85 and hope to trade out for a profit in running
Portugal have a good pedigree at youth level, but have failed to impress so far in this tournament despite progressing to the semi final stage.
China await the winners of this all European tie and I have a feeling that a defensive Portuguese side can keep the number of goals to a minimum.
I have had a small lay of over 1.5 goals at 1.85 and hope to trade out for a profit in running
Wednesday 6 June 2007
Beckham inspires England
An average night for the Football Trader as David Beckham has supplied the ammunition that they have been sadly lacking over the past 2 years.
A brilliant finish by Joe Cole in the first half has been embroidered by Peter Crouch and Michael Owen both set up magnificently by the boy Beckham.
Any regular readers of this blog will know that I have been leading the calles for the recall of Goldenballs and his performance tonight more than justifies that inclusion.
His substitution on 67 minutes will probably be the end of his international career, but thanks for the memories Becks
From a trading perspective, I will be showing a small profit on the night having underestimated the cutting edge in the England side.
Another example of how more discipline could lead to greater profits - my initial recommendation - a lay o over 2.5 goals at 1.87 was sittin pretty after 30 minutes when I was trading out small style at 2.76.
Hopefully mistakes will equal lessons learned for next season
A brilliant finish by Joe Cole in the first half has been embroidered by Peter Crouch and Michael Owen both set up magnificently by the boy Beckham.
Any regular readers of this blog will know that I have been leading the calles for the recall of Goldenballs and his performance tonight more than justifies that inclusion.
His substitution on 67 minutes will probably be the end of his international career, but thanks for the memories Becks
From a trading perspective, I will be showing a small profit on the night having underestimated the cutting edge in the England side.
Another example of how more discipline could lead to greater profits - my initial recommendation - a lay o over 2.5 goals at 1.87 was sittin pretty after 30 minutes when I was trading out small style at 2.76.
Hopefully mistakes will equal lessons learned for next season
Estonia 0 -1 England
England have put in a decent first half performance and a goal late in the half by Joe Cole has given them an advantage at the break.
My trading has gone ok, although I could definetly done without the goal.
My major trade of the night was laying over 2.5 goals, and the price moved rapidly in my favour after a goalless first 30 minutes.
I traded out in bits and pieces but still left myself with a small liability on over 2.5 goals, but credit to Joe Cole for a great turn and finish.
My back of 2-0 England is looking more solid, and I have taken some of my stake back in running (backed at 6.00, currently available to lay at 3.55)
A couple of other small trades on under 1.5 goals and the draw are looking dodgy now, but the main thing is to decide on my strategy for the 2nd half.
I am sitting on an average profit for the night if I close out all of my positions, which is quite tempting at the moment - but if I can get another 10 -15 goalless minutes in the 2nd half I will be in an even better position.
Will probably take a half way position and green out my positions where possible and then wade in again in the 2nd half.
My trading has gone ok, although I could definetly done without the goal.
My major trade of the night was laying over 2.5 goals, and the price moved rapidly in my favour after a goalless first 30 minutes.
I traded out in bits and pieces but still left myself with a small liability on over 2.5 goals, but credit to Joe Cole for a great turn and finish.
My back of 2-0 England is looking more solid, and I have taken some of my stake back in running (backed at 6.00, currently available to lay at 3.55)
A couple of other small trades on under 1.5 goals and the draw are looking dodgy now, but the main thing is to decide on my strategy for the 2nd half.
I am sitting on an average profit for the night if I close out all of my positions, which is quite tempting at the moment - but if I can get another 10 -15 goalless minutes in the 2nd half I will be in an even better position.
Will probably take a half way position and green out my positions where possible and then wade in again in the 2nd half.
England to struggle?
Well I managed to get back into the trading chair just in time for the National Anthems, and have just reviewed my early positions in the Estonia v England match.
Overall I have a fairly negative view of England, whilst I think they will win the match and bag the necessary 3 points I can't see them being that comfortable.
I have gone low on goals and backed England for a 2-0 win.
I will update in running
Overall I have a fairly negative view of England, whilst I think they will win the match and bag the necessary 3 points I can't see them being that comfortable.
I have gone low on goals and backed England for a 2-0 win.
I will update in running
International Update
Will be struggling to trade regularly today as I have my daughter staying over tonight.
For some reason, she is more interested in CBeebies than Faroe Islands vs Scotland but hopefully I will have her safely tucked up in bed prior to the England game..
I didn't catch any of the Faroes vs Italy, but a 2-1 reverse suggests that the Islanders can put up some stubborn resistance against the Scots this evening.
Scotland beat a disappointing Austria last week, but have struggled in previous trips to Toftir.
I am tempted to lay Scotland at 1.21, but the fact that i can't keep a close check on the game is holding me back.
As for England, I have alreday advised a lay of over 2.5 goals and have that in the book at 1.87.
I could trade out for a small profit already as the price has drifted to 1.90 (how I wish I had a huge bankroll!), but I will stay invested for the first 10 or 15 minutes as even if England score early it is hard to see them cutting loose
Hopefully I will be able to spot some value nearer to kick off and in running, and will update during the game if I spot any value.
For some reason, she is more interested in CBeebies than Faroe Islands vs Scotland but hopefully I will have her safely tucked up in bed prior to the England game..
I didn't catch any of the Faroes vs Italy, but a 2-1 reverse suggests that the Islanders can put up some stubborn resistance against the Scots this evening.
Scotland beat a disappointing Austria last week, but have struggled in previous trips to Toftir.
I am tempted to lay Scotland at 1.21, but the fact that i can't keep a close check on the game is holding me back.
As for England, I have alreday advised a lay of over 2.5 goals and have that in the book at 1.87.
I could trade out for a small profit already as the price has drifted to 1.90 (how I wish I had a huge bankroll!), but I will stay invested for the first 10 or 15 minutes as even if England score early it is hard to see them cutting loose
Hopefully I will be able to spot some value nearer to kick off and in running, and will update during the game if I spot any value.
Tuesday 5 June 2007
Football Trader on Fire
Sometimes when you are the trading chair, you just have one of those nights when everything you touch turns to gold.
After backing China against Ghana in the Toulon tournament earlier this evening, and trading them further in running as they came from a goal behind to secure victory I got the feeling that June was going to get off to a flying start.
I got involved early in the England U21 v Slovakia U21 international and layed over 2.5 goals at 1.70.
I also had a small involvement on an England 3-0 win and any unquoted scoreline (which is basically anything over 3-0).
I traded my way out of my over 2.5 goals lay before Richardson gave England the lead from the penalty spot after 35 minutes, and then started backing over 2.5 goals quite heavily.
When the 2nd goal went in ( a deflected strike from captain Reo Coker) I was sitting pretty and also managed to get on the over 3,5 goals market at 4.00
At 2-0 England missed 2 gilt edged chances through Derbyshire and Lita and I began to worry that a great situation wasn't going to cop.
I needn't have worried, Taylor poached from close range and then Huddlestone struck a beauty, before Lita made it 5-0.
A profit of £155.00 on the night is a decent return for watching 2 games and it has to be said the U21 side is good to watch.
I will be following their progress closely in the U21 European Championshio Finals that start on the weekend
After backing China against Ghana in the Toulon tournament earlier this evening, and trading them further in running as they came from a goal behind to secure victory I got the feeling that June was going to get off to a flying start.
I got involved early in the England U21 v Slovakia U21 international and layed over 2.5 goals at 1.70.
I also had a small involvement on an England 3-0 win and any unquoted scoreline (which is basically anything over 3-0).
I traded my way out of my over 2.5 goals lay before Richardson gave England the lead from the penalty spot after 35 minutes, and then started backing over 2.5 goals quite heavily.
When the 2nd goal went in ( a deflected strike from captain Reo Coker) I was sitting pretty and also managed to get on the over 3,5 goals market at 4.00
At 2-0 England missed 2 gilt edged chances through Derbyshire and Lita and I began to worry that a great situation wasn't going to cop.
I needn't have worried, Taylor poached from close range and then Huddlestone struck a beauty, before Lita made it 5-0.
A profit of £155.00 on the night is a decent return for watching 2 games and it has to be said the U21 side is good to watch.
I will be following their progress closely in the U21 European Championshio Finals that start on the weekend
Half Time Update
So far, so good in the U21 friendly.
The 1st goal, a penalty converted by the cousin of Big Brother 8 contestant Charley has given England a half time lead, but I was well out of the over 2.5 goals market before the goal went in.
England are good value for their lead against a limited Slovakian side and I would expect another couple of goals to follow in the 2nd half.
Lets hope the full side can dominate Estonia in a similar fashion tomorow night
The 1st goal, a penalty converted by the cousin of Big Brother 8 contestant Charley has given England a half time lead, but I was well out of the over 2.5 goals market before the goal went in.
England are good value for their lead against a limited Slovakian side and I would expect another couple of goals to follow in the 2nd half.
Lets hope the full side can dominate Estonia in a similar fashion tomorow night
England U21 vs Slovakia U21
England's youngsters play their final warm up game before travelling to Holland for the Euro 2007 U21 Championship against Slovakia at Carrow Road tonight.
England are hot favourites to record a comfortable win, and the prices on www.betfair.com reflect that.
I am going to take a chance and lay over 2.5 goals at 1.70 and hope to trade out for a profit in the early stages.
England are hot favourites to record a comfortable win, and the prices on www.betfair.com reflect that.
I am going to take a chance and lay over 2.5 goals at 1.70 and hope to trade out for a profit in the early stages.
Good start to the evening
Despite going a goal down in the first half, China produced a winning 2nd half performance to progress to the semi final of the Toulon U20 tournament.
They now look like a decent shout to progress to the final ( semi final vs against Ivory Coast) where champions elect France will probably await (they play Portugal in the semi final).
Hope you followed the Football Trader's recommendation and backed China at a decent price.
They now look like a decent shout to progress to the final ( semi final vs against Ivory Coast) where champions elect France will probably await (they play Portugal in the semi final).
Hope you followed the Football Trader's recommendation and backed China at a decent price.
China U20 vs Ghana U20 - 1-1
Chen Tao the Chinese captain has scored an equaliser with a magnificent free kick from fully 30 yards to get my evening of trading off to a good start.
I'm sure a few English scouts are keeping a watching brief on this game and will have been impressed by flashes of brilliance from the Chinese skipper and number 10
Clottey gave Ghana a 1st half lead, but some judicious laying of Ghana at short prices has helped me green out my position following the Chinese equaliser.
I'm sure a few English scouts are keeping a watching brief on this game and will have been impressed by flashes of brilliance from the Chinese skipper and number 10
Clottey gave Ghana a 1st half lead, but some judicious laying of Ghana at short prices has helped me green out my position following the Chinese equaliser.
China U20 vs Ghana U20
An evening of Youth football awaits this evening as we kick off with the final round of group games from the Toulon U20 tournament.
China need just a draw to progress, but the way they disposed of a talented Dutch outfit a few days ago they look good value to win in 80 minutes - I have had a small back at 3.10.
China have started well in the opening 5 minutes and hopefully they can oblige to provide some funds for the 2nd game of the night as England U21 take on Slovakia U21's in their final warm up game before the Euro U21 Euro Championships in Holland.
I will be updating througout the evening
China need just a draw to progress, but the way they disposed of a talented Dutch outfit a few days ago they look good value to win in 80 minutes - I have had a small back at 3.10.
China have started well in the opening 5 minutes and hopefully they can oblige to provide some funds for the 2nd game of the night as England U21 take on Slovakia U21's in their final warm up game before the Euro U21 Euro Championships in Holland.
I will be updating througout the evening
Monday 4 June 2007
Estonia v England (1)
An early scan of the markets for the Estonia v England market throws up a some interesting trading opportunities.
Estonia have yet to score a goal in the qualifying section so far and England are more negative under McClaren than they were during Sven's reign.
So I am surprised by the prices on offer in the over/under 2.5 goals market. I have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.84 as I can't see many goals in the match.
Even at my most optimistic, I can't see England winning by any more than 2-0, and would expect the under 2.5 goals recommendation to pay dividends, especially given the insurance of being able to trade out for a profit in running
Estonia have yet to score a goal in the qualifying section so far and England are more negative under McClaren than they were during Sven's reign.
So I am surprised by the prices on offer in the over/under 2.5 goals market. I have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.84 as I can't see many goals in the match.
Even at my most optimistic, I can't see England winning by any more than 2-0, and would expect the under 2.5 goals recommendation to pay dividends, especially given the insurance of being able to trade out for a profit in running
Man City in limbo
Long time jolly Claudio Ranieri is out of the running to replace Stuart Pearce at Man City after plumping for the more attractive option of Juventus.
Almost £500,000 has been matched on www.betfair.com with former Liverpool and Lyon gaffer Gerard Houillier now heading the market at 6.20.
The market has provided few clues so far, with my initial pick Paul Jewell yo-yoing significantly before coming in for some recent support (22.00).
Billy Davies has also been supported and is now 2nd favourite at 9.00.
I am staying out of the market for now, as their seems to be no clues as to the next Man City manager - whoever takes up the job has a difficult task to improve their fortunes and it could be a season of struggle ahead for City
Almost £500,000 has been matched on www.betfair.com with former Liverpool and Lyon gaffer Gerard Houillier now heading the market at 6.20.
The market has provided few clues so far, with my initial pick Paul Jewell yo-yoing significantly before coming in for some recent support (22.00).
Billy Davies has also been supported and is now 2nd favourite at 9.00.
I am staying out of the market for now, as their seems to be no clues as to the next Man City manager - whoever takes up the job has a difficult task to improve their fortunes and it could be a season of struggle ahead for City
Sunday 3 June 2007
England to miss Euro 2008?
Group E of the Euro 2008 qualifying campaign got a whole lot tougher for England on the weekend as Croatia and Israel both registered away wins and Russia steamrollered minnows Andorra.
With the trip to Tallinn looming on Wednesday, Steve McClaren needs to produce a victory regardless of the performance.
England just do not look right under McClaren, and although they should scrape an unconvincing win on Wednesday, I just don't fancy them to pick up the required points in home clashes with Israel, Russia and Croatia to secure a comfortable qualification.
Croatia managed a single goal victory in Estonia and are now 1.16 to qualify and their home game with Russia on Wednesday looks like being the pivotal game in this section.
With 2 games against Russia still to come, I would take Guus Hiddink to out fox Steve McClaren every day of the week and think there is some value in laying England for qualification at 1.88
With the trip to Tallinn looming on Wednesday, Steve McClaren needs to produce a victory regardless of the performance.
England just do not look right under McClaren, and although they should scrape an unconvincing win on Wednesday, I just don't fancy them to pick up the required points in home clashes with Israel, Russia and Croatia to secure a comfortable qualification.
Croatia managed a single goal victory in Estonia and are now 1.16 to qualify and their home game with Russia on Wednesday looks like being the pivotal game in this section.
With 2 games against Russia still to come, I would take Guus Hiddink to out fox Steve McClaren every day of the week and think there is some value in laying England for qualification at 1.88
Tuesday 29 May 2007
Football Season draws to a close
Not much football left to trade on this season..
A few internationals, the closing 2 rounds of games from La Liga and the Copa America will all come under the Football Trader's microscope in the coming weeks as I try to finish the season off on a high.
But without regular fixtures to trade on, I will be spending some more time trying to sort out my trading strategy for the new season.
This will focus on 3 key areas..
1) Money Management & Staking Strategy
For this topic, I will be leaning heavily on the excellent book by Joseph Buchdahl - Fixed Odds Sports Betting
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_ss_w_h_/203-0263407-0892745?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Fixed+Odds+Sports+Betting&Go.x=16&Go.y=10
My money management and bankroll have been all over the place this season and i'm sure with some rules in place I can squeeze more profit from winning selections.
2) Discipline
I have tried to trade on every game that I have watched, from the Conference to the Champions League, and whilst this has given me a decent understanding of how the in running football markets work on Betfair, I'm not sure if it is the best strategy going forward.
Would I be better making 5 big trades a week or maintain my current methods of spreading my risk around a large number of relatively small trades?
3) Football knowledge
I will be keeping a close eye on the movements in the transfer market, and hope to take some early poistions on pre-season prices where I expect to find some decent value.
I will also be maintaining my interest in the Spanish League, as I look to get an edge on some of my fellow traders
I will be updating on these topics regularly, so please check out my blog and feel free to add your thoughts !
A few internationals, the closing 2 rounds of games from La Liga and the Copa America will all come under the Football Trader's microscope in the coming weeks as I try to finish the season off on a high.
But without regular fixtures to trade on, I will be spending some more time trying to sort out my trading strategy for the new season.
This will focus on 3 key areas..
1) Money Management & Staking Strategy
For this topic, I will be leaning heavily on the excellent book by Joseph Buchdahl - Fixed Odds Sports Betting
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_ss_w_h_/203-0263407-0892745?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Fixed+Odds+Sports+Betting&Go.x=16&Go.y=10
My money management and bankroll have been all over the place this season and i'm sure with some rules in place I can squeeze more profit from winning selections.
2) Discipline
I have tried to trade on every game that I have watched, from the Conference to the Champions League, and whilst this has given me a decent understanding of how the in running football markets work on Betfair, I'm not sure if it is the best strategy going forward.
Would I be better making 5 big trades a week or maintain my current methods of spreading my risk around a large number of relatively small trades?
3) Football knowledge
I will be keeping a close eye on the movements in the transfer market, and hope to take some early poistions on pre-season prices where I expect to find some decent value.
I will also be maintaining my interest in the Spanish League, as I look to get an edge on some of my fellow traders
I will be updating on these topics regularly, so please check out my blog and feel free to add your thoughts !
Monday 28 May 2007
Derby back in the big time
A goal from ex-Celtic midfielder Stephen Pearson has shot Derby County back to the Premiership .
Congratulations to Billy Davies who has steered the unfancied Rams to promotion.
A decent afternoon's work for The Football Trader who tipped up Derby pre-match and also the lay of over 2.5 goals - hope some of you were on.
Profits of +£47.19 may be small fry for a lot of traders, but it keeps my run going and gives me a monthly profit to date of +£267.52
Congratulations to Billy Davies who has steered the unfancied Rams to promotion.
A decent afternoon's work for The Football Trader who tipped up Derby pre-match and also the lay of over 2.5 goals - hope some of you were on.
Profits of +£47.19 may be small fry for a lot of traders, but it keeps my run going and gives me a monthly profit to date of +£267.52
Half Time Update
No goals in the opening period of the play off final at Wembley.
WBA dominated the early exchanges, but Derby created the best chance of the half when Paul Peschisildo should have done better with just the keeper Kiely to beat.
The game has been enjoyable enough, without ever really hitting the heights of some of the previous play off finals.
Trading in the 1st half has not been too bad, I have managed to guarantee a profit on the over/under 2.5 goals market.
I am still onside with Derby, and if they can start hitting Steve Howard more frequently I may end the match with a decent profit.
One other market that I have entered slowly is over 1.5 goals, and the price is now 2.42 which I am going to hammer into (1 goal will guarantee a decent profit).
Will update at full time
WBA dominated the early exchanges, but Derby created the best chance of the half when Paul Peschisildo should have done better with just the keeper Kiely to beat.
The game has been enjoyable enough, without ever really hitting the heights of some of the previous play off finals.
Trading in the 1st half has not been too bad, I have managed to guarantee a profit on the over/under 2.5 goals market.
I am still onside with Derby, and if they can start hitting Steve Howard more frequently I may end the match with a decent profit.
One other market that I have entered slowly is over 1.5 goals, and the price is now 2.42 which I am going to hammer into (1 goal will guarantee a decent profit).
Will update at full time
Play off money is down
On paper WBA look to have the stronger team, but I have followed up my gut feeling by backing Derby to win in 90 minutes at 3.52.
I have also layed over 2.5 goals at 2.14 and hopefully I can green out my position if we get the cagey start that I would expect.
Derby have sprung a surprise in their team selection by including Paul Peschisolido up front alongside main man Steve Howard, hopefully the ex-Fulham man can do the Football Trader a favour.
Will try and update in running as the game progresses
I have also layed over 2.5 goals at 2.14 and hopefully I can green out my position if we get the cagey start that I would expect.
Derby have sprung a surprise in their team selection by including Paul Peschisolido up front alongside main man Steve Howard, hopefully the ex-Fulham man can do the Football Trader a favour.
Will try and update in running as the game progresses
Derby v West Brom
The most financially important club game in the world kicks off at a sodden Wembley this afternoon, as Billy Davies and Tony Mowbray go head to head in the race for the Premiership.
The new stadium has been well used in recent weeks, and it will be interesting to see how the pitch holds up to the heavy rain that has been falling in NW London for the last 48 hours.
One disappointment already is that at least 10,000 corporate seats will be left empty as the FA lead by Brian Barwick once again show their incompetence.
From a personal point of view, i'm not really keen on either side playing today, but for trading on the match I have a little feeling that underdogs Derby may prevail.
Billy Davies has done a great job at Pride Park, and his Derby team will be well organised and play to their strengths. Key man Steve Howard will be the focal point for The Rams, and if he plays well it could be their day.
If Derby fail to go up, Billy Davies may find himsef in the Premiership anyway - he has been backed to be the next Man City manager (5th in the betting at 19.00).
I will give an update on my trades before the big kick off
The new stadium has been well used in recent weeks, and it will be interesting to see how the pitch holds up to the heavy rain that has been falling in NW London for the last 48 hours.
One disappointment already is that at least 10,000 corporate seats will be left empty as the FA lead by Brian Barwick once again show their incompetence.
From a personal point of view, i'm not really keen on either side playing today, but for trading on the match I have a little feeling that underdogs Derby may prevail.
Billy Davies has done a great job at Pride Park, and his Derby team will be well organised and play to their strengths. Key man Steve Howard will be the focal point for The Rams, and if he plays well it could be their day.
If Derby fail to go up, Billy Davies may find himsef in the Premiership anyway - he has been backed to be the next Man City manager (5th in the betting at 19.00).
I will give an update on my trades before the big kick off
Sunday 27 May 2007
Fame at last!
A long day in the trading chair was made worthwhile by the result in the Sevilla v Zaragoza match.
I had to take a big loss on the chin in the play off final between Blackpool and Yeovil, when the 3rd goal that I required never materialised, but my luck trading on horse races continued with McCoy (Super Sensation at Fontwell) and Kinane (Timarwa at the Curragh) both bringing home winners to keep my bankroll ticking over.
With the help of the Horses and Sevilla, I have managed to break through my target figure of £200 profit per month.
Hopefully I can hang onto the profit in the remaining few days of the month, with Derby v WBA looming large tomorrow.
As well as my modest profits, I have managed to break through the 1000 pageview mark for the month on this blog, so thanks to anyone who has taken the time to read my ramblings - hopefully some of you have managed to profit from my recommendations.
One final stroke of my ego came when I realised that I have been included in the following website http://www.blogtop40.com/jobs/24 in place 16 and hopefully heading into the top 10!
Good luck to all follow traders/bloggers
I had to take a big loss on the chin in the play off final between Blackpool and Yeovil, when the 3rd goal that I required never materialised, but my luck trading on horse races continued with McCoy (Super Sensation at Fontwell) and Kinane (Timarwa at the Curragh) both bringing home winners to keep my bankroll ticking over.
With the help of the Horses and Sevilla, I have managed to break through my target figure of £200 profit per month.
Hopefully I can hang onto the profit in the remaining few days of the month, with Derby v WBA looming large tomorrow.
As well as my modest profits, I have managed to break through the 1000 pageview mark for the month on this blog, so thanks to anyone who has taken the time to read my ramblings - hopefully some of you have managed to profit from my recommendations.
One final stroke of my ego came when I realised that I have been included in the following website http://www.blogtop40.com/jobs/24 in place 16 and hopefully heading into the top 10!
Good luck to all follow traders/bloggers
Profits flow again
A goal from ex Portsmouth loanee Alessando for Real Zaragoza has turned my day around.
With the help of 4 cans of Stella, my bankroll was all in , as trading was replaced with blatant gambling.
Heavily invested in over 2.5 goals and a relatively large lay of Sevilla, I was staring down the barrel of a major losing day.
Zaragoza's goal direct from a corner (may go down as an og for Dani Alves) allowed me to green out my position on the match odds market , and when Russian Kherzakhov put Sevilla back in front, my day of hard graft (!) has paid dividends.
Kanoute has scored in injury time to make up for a shocking penalty miss to give Sevilla a 3-1 win and keep them just 2 points behind the big 2.
A daily profit of £24.45 keeps the bankroll growing and gives me a monthly profit to date of £220.33
With the help of 4 cans of Stella, my bankroll was all in , as trading was replaced with blatant gambling.
Heavily invested in over 2.5 goals and a relatively large lay of Sevilla, I was staring down the barrel of a major losing day.
Zaragoza's goal direct from a corner (may go down as an og for Dani Alves) allowed me to green out my position on the match odds market , and when Russian Kherzakhov put Sevilla back in front, my day of hard graft (!) has paid dividends.
Kanoute has scored in injury time to make up for a shocking penalty miss to give Sevilla a 3-1 win and keep them just 2 points behind the big 2.
A daily profit of £24.45 keeps the bankroll growing and gives me a monthly profit to date of £220.33
Sevilla Lead 1-0
Profitable trading on football is all about timing, and whilst I was congratulating myself for locking in a profit on the over/under 2.5 goals market, hesitation (& greed) may have cost me on the match odds market.
I had layed Seville at 1.69 and the price to back them was approaching evens when Luis Fabiano struck for the title chasers, to put my trade in trouble.
Hoping to get to HT without any further damage, and then re-assessing the situation
I had layed Seville at 1.69 and the price to back them was approaching evens when Luis Fabiano struck for the title chasers, to put my trade in trouble.
Hoping to get to HT without any further damage, and then re-assessing the situation
Sevilla v Zaragoza(2)
Thanks to Rob Palmer the Sky commentator for reminding me of the best example of handbags that I have ever seen on a football pitch in this reverse fixture earlier this season.
Fabiano must be the worst boxer that I have ever seen!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zmg4CXSgdY
No goals after 5 minutes, hopefully the game can meander along with not much action for the next 15 minutes
Fabiano must be the worst boxer that I have ever seen!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zmg4CXSgdY
No goals after 5 minutes, hopefully the game can meander along with not much action for the next 15 minutes
Sevilla v Zaragoza
The pressure is on Sevilla to get the 3 points tonight against Real Zaragoza, so I have layed Sevilla at 1.68, as I expect some nerves tonight.
I have also layed over 2.5 goals at 1.82.
Hopefully I will be ale to trade out of both markets early on for a profit, but the way my luck has been today, Sevilla will probably score within the 1st 5 minutes
Sevilla have been one of the most enjoyable teams to watch this season, so I intend to sit back and watch as opposed to trading regularly in running.
Anything less than 3 points will end the title dreams of Juadne Ramos' men, so we should be in for a great match.
I have also layed over 2.5 goals at 1.82.
Hopefully I will be ale to trade out of both markets early on for a profit, but the way my luck has been today, Sevilla will probably score within the 1st 5 minutes
Sevilla have been one of the most enjoyable teams to watch this season, so I intend to sit back and watch as opposed to trading regularly in running.
Anything less than 3 points will end the title dreams of Juadne Ramos' men, so we should be in for a great match.
Just can't maximise profits
I just can't seem to hit a match with 3 goals in recent weeks.
I have an all green position on the over 2.5 goals market in the Nastic v Ath. Madrid match, but once again sitting waiting for the all important 3rd goal looks like proving fruitless.
Never mind, looking forward to watching Sevilla later this evening, and still a chance to improve on my trading so far today.
I have an all green position on the over 2.5 goals market in the Nastic v Ath. Madrid match, but once again sitting waiting for the all important 3rd goal looks like proving fruitless.
Never mind, looking forward to watching Sevilla later this evening, and still a chance to improve on my trading so far today.
Torres Double
A brace for Fernando Torres, the 2nd from the penlaty spot and his 14th League goal of the season has piled the misery on already relegated Gimnastic.
Maxi Rodrigues was upended in the box and Torres comfortably slotted home the spot kick.
Things seem (hopefully) to be turning around for the Football trader with over 30 minutes left to get another goal to gain a maximum profit.
I will trade out for a profit in the next few minutes in the over 2.5 goals market, but need to squeeze as much profit as possible from the last few games of the season!
Maxi Rodrigues was upended in the box and Torres comfortably slotted home the spot kick.
Things seem (hopefully) to be turning around for the Football trader with over 30 minutes left to get another goal to gain a maximum profit.
I will trade out for a profit in the next few minutes in the over 2.5 goals market, but need to squeeze as much profit as possible from the last few games of the season!
La Liga (Part 1)
Gimnastic have been relegated by other results today and face Athletico Madrid in the first of tonight's La Liga matches.
I watched Ath. Madrid concede 6 against Barcelona last weekend with some laughable defending but it looks like they will be more secure this evening.
An early goal from Fernando Torres has given the away side a 1-0 lead.
Thanks to a naive error of answering my mobile to someone I have been avoiding for the last 6 months, I have missed most of the 1st half, but at least it kept me out of my favourite market (over 2.5 goals) which would have moved against me.
I have got involved now with a small back of over 2.5 goals at 2.28.
After losing a relatively large amount on the Blackpool v Yeovil play off match, I managed to claw back some money by backing a couple of winning horses, with the short priced Timarwa esepcially impressive at the Curragh.
Keeping my fingers crossed for goals if I am to maintain a fairly decent run in recent days.
I watched Ath. Madrid concede 6 against Barcelona last weekend with some laughable defending but it looks like they will be more secure this evening.
An early goal from Fernando Torres has given the away side a 1-0 lead.
Thanks to a naive error of answering my mobile to someone I have been avoiding for the last 6 months, I have missed most of the 1st half, but at least it kept me out of my favourite market (over 2.5 goals) which would have moved against me.
I have got involved now with a small back of over 2.5 goals at 2.28.
After losing a relatively large amount on the Blackpool v Yeovil play off match, I managed to claw back some money by backing a couple of winning horses, with the short priced Timarwa esepcially impressive at the Curragh.
Keeping my fingers crossed for goals if I am to maintain a fairly decent run in recent days.
Blackpool win promotion
Congratulations to Blackpool who deservedly won the play off final against Yeovil.
Not a great start for the Football Trader though, as any sort of challenge from Yeovil failed to materialise and their season ended in a damp squib.
I fully expected a 3rd goal in the match and got involved with about 30 minutes to go, but except for a golden opportunity for Marcus Stewart (or Stooowart according to co-commentator Gary Birtles) I never looked likely to profit.
Never mind, I will have to play with small stakes in tonight's La Liga clashes.
Not a great start for the Football Trader though, as any sort of challenge from Yeovil failed to materialise and their season ended in a damp squib.
I fully expected a 3rd goal in the match and got involved with about 30 minutes to go, but except for a golden opportunity for Marcus Stewart (or Stooowart according to co-commentator Gary Birtles) I never looked likely to profit.
Never mind, I will have to play with small stakes in tonight's La Liga clashes.
Blackpool v Yeovil
Was just logging on to my laptop as Kiegan Parker curled a fabulous right footed shot into the top corner to give Blackpool a 2-0 lead.
Have had a small lay of Blackpool at 1.08 in the hope that Yeovil can get the next goal and force a bit of pressure.
I would expect at least 1 more goal in the match as the Glovers must push forwad to try and salvage their season, so have also had a smal interest in the over 2.5 goals market at 1.42, and will continue to invest in this for the next 10 minutes or so.
2 Spanish matches coming up later tonight as I try and break my target of £200 profit per month.
Have had a small lay of Blackpool at 1.08 in the hope that Yeovil can get the next goal and force a bit of pressure.
I would expect at least 1 more goal in the match as the Glovers must push forwad to try and salvage their season, so have also had a smal interest in the over 2.5 goals market at 1.42, and will continue to invest in this for the next 10 minutes or so.
2 Spanish matches coming up later tonight as I try and break my target of £200 profit per month.
Saturday 26 May 2007
Barca scrape through
An early goal by Ronadinho was enough to give Barcelona all 3 points against Getafe.
The buck tooth Brazilian turned from hero to villain when he was sent off for rataliation after 40 minutes. Ronaldinho will now miss the last 2 games of he season.
Despite some scares for Barca, they have kept up the pressure on Real Madrid as the 2 heavyweights of La Liga go toe to toe.
An average day for the Football Trader with a profit of £22.49 on the day. My running total so far for May stands at +£195.88.
I will try and work out how to post a screen print of my account at the end of the month to validate my profit figures.
The buck tooth Brazilian turned from hero to villain when he was sent off for rataliation after 40 minutes. Ronaldinho will now miss the last 2 games of he season.
Despite some scares for Barca, they have kept up the pressure on Real Madrid as the 2 heavyweights of La Liga go toe to toe.
An average day for the Football Trader with a profit of £22.49 on the day. My running total so far for May stands at +£195.88.
I will try and work out how to post a screen print of my account at the end of the month to validate my profit figures.
Too many early goals!
Once again an early goal has put me on the back foot, as Ronaldinho struck for Barca after just 2 minutes of their clash with Getafe.
Not sure if it is just end of season matches, but I have never known so many goals within the 1st 10 minutes of matches.
After 35 minutes Barca have somehow failed to add to their lead, so I should just about be able to get out of my pre-match trade (a lay of over 2.5 goals) unscathed.
Looks like a days worth of trading will end in a small profit.
Not sure if it is just end of season matches, but I have never known so many goals within the 1st 10 minutes of matches.
After 35 minutes Barca have somehow failed to add to their lead, so I should just about be able to get out of my pre-match trade (a lay of over 2.5 goals) unscathed.
Looks like a days worth of trading will end in a small profit.
Madrid win again
Goals from Ramos, Raul and Van Nistlerooy look like keeping Real Madrid on course for the Spanish title .
3-1 up with 15 minutes to go and Madrid have piled the pressure on Barca once again.
I have had a quick look through the Barca v Getafe markets and I have decided to lay over 2.5 goals at 1.61 - once again if there are no early goals I will hope to get out for a profit in the 1st half.
Will round up my trading activities later this evening, but it looks like a profitable day unless I mess up majorly in the final game of the night
3-1 up with 15 minutes to go and Madrid have piled the pressure on Barca once again.
I have had a quick look through the Barca v Getafe markets and I have decided to lay over 2.5 goals at 1.61 - once again if there are no early goals I will hope to get out for a profit in the 1st half.
Will round up my trading activities later this evening, but it looks like a profitable day unless I mess up majorly in the final game of the night
Beckham starts for Madrid
Real Madrid face Deportivo at the Bernabeu as the live Spanish football just keeps on coming.
Devid Beckham starts wide on the right and they are hot favourites to take the 3 points (available to back at 1.21)
With the match odds being far too short for my bankroll, I have decided to revert to my old strategy that served me so well in March.
I have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.72 and hope to lock in a profit after 10-15 minutes.
Will try and update in running, but these Spanish games tend to be very eventful and don't always give enough time to trade and blog simultanously
Devid Beckham starts wide on the right and they are hot favourites to take the 3 points (available to back at 1.21)
With the match odds being far too short for my bankroll, I have decided to revert to my old strategy that served me so well in March.
I have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.72 and hope to lock in a profit after 10-15 minutes.
Will try and update in running, but these Spanish games tend to be very eventful and don't always give enough time to trade and blog simultanously
Forlan brace ends Valencia's title hopes
Diego Forlan and Jan Dahl Tomasson, 2 strikers derided during brief spells in the Premiership have shared Villarreal's 3 goals this evening to end the title hopes of Valencia.
Another cracking match from La Liga, as the Spanish League once again proves to be the best in the world.
From a trading perspective, I somehow managed to salvage a small profit from a desperate position.
I managed to at last get back on the right side of the over 2.5 goals market for the first time in what seems like weeks, after backing over 2.5 goals a couple of times in the 2nd half to smash myself out of a potential loss.
I had also backed Valencia to win, but managed to neutralise my position by having a small bet on Villarrreal at 8 when the scores were level.
I am happy to be a lucky trader as opposed to a good one, so I hope my luck holds as we move onto the Bernabeu for Real Madrid v Deportivo
Another cracking match from La Liga, as the Spanish League once again proves to be the best in the world.
From a trading perspective, I somehow managed to salvage a small profit from a desperate position.
I managed to at last get back on the right side of the over 2.5 goals market for the first time in what seems like weeks, after backing over 2.5 goals a couple of times in the 2nd half to smash myself out of a potential loss.
I had also backed Valencia to win, but managed to neutralise my position by having a small bet on Villarrreal at 8 when the scores were level.
I am happy to be a lucky trader as opposed to a good one, so I hope my luck holds as we move onto the Bernabeu for Real Madrid v Deportivo
Spanish Update
I have become a huge fan of La Liga in recent months, and the entertainment on offer means it is virtually impossible to update this blog in running whilst keeping an eye on the moves in the market.
I have had a couple trades on the Valencia match so far, one of which looks like a nailed on loser.
Despite mentioning earlier that I fancied goals in this match, I tried to nick a few quid by laying that outcome, but an great finish by Diego Forlan has levelled the scores at 1-1 and leaves me with the option of taking a loss now or hanging in a bit longer to minimise the damage.
I have also had a small back of Valencia at 2.02.
Will try and update my trades, but may have to wait until full time before I get time!
I have had a couple trades on the Valencia match so far, one of which looks like a nailed on loser.
Despite mentioning earlier that I fancied goals in this match, I tried to nick a few quid by laying that outcome, but an great finish by Diego Forlan has levelled the scores at 1-1 and leaves me with the option of taking a loss now or hanging in a bit longer to minimise the damage.
I have also had a small back of Valencia at 2.02.
Will try and update my trades, but may have to wait until full time before I get time!
Villa for Valencia
David Villa from the penalty spot has given Valencia the lead at home to Villarreal.
The match is being played at a great tempo and it looks like more goals may follow, although the over 2.5 goals quote looks a bit skinny to me at 1.77.
I want to get involved but will wait a while until the price drifts a bit further.
I am trying to work out the TV coverage tonight, but it looks like we could have 3 Spanish games back to back tonight! Another evening stuck in the trading chair beckons.
The match is being played at a great tempo and it looks like more goals may follow, although the over 2.5 goals quote looks a bit skinny to me at 1.77.
I want to get involved but will wait a while until the price drifts a bit further.
I am trying to work out the TV coverage tonight, but it looks like we could have 3 Spanish games back to back tonight! Another evening stuck in the trading chair beckons.
Valencia v Villareall
The 1st of tonight's Spanish matches has kicked off earlier than normal and caught me on the hop slightly.
Valencia must claim all 3 points if they are to maintain their outside chance of winning the title, and at the Mestalla they are a formidable outfit.
I haven't had much of a chance to check out the markets so will have to update later when I have made my decisions.
Valencia must claim all 3 points if they are to maintain their outside chance of winning the title, and at the Mestalla they are a formidable outfit.
I haven't had much of a chance to check out the markets so will have to update later when I have made my decisions.
Small Profits
A late goal from Celtic to win the Scottish FA Cup Final has dug me out of a potential hole.
I backed Celtic at HT and then went in again at various prices during the 2nd half, and just when it looked like I had done my money, French right back Perrier Doumbe struck a fortuitous winner to keep my day on track.
As advised Bristol Rovers took the glory at Wembley to secure promotion to the 3rd division.
Hope anybody reading this profited from the Bristol Rovers and Celtic advice even if the Football Trader didn't make the most of my own advice!
However a small profit on the day so far +£15.32 is not to be sniffed at, and I still have a double header of Spanish action to come.
Will post Spanish tips later
I backed Celtic at HT and then went in again at various prices during the 2nd half, and just when it looked like I had done my money, French right back Perrier Doumbe struck a fortuitous winner to keep my day on track.
As advised Bristol Rovers took the glory at Wembley to secure promotion to the 3rd division.
Hope anybody reading this profited from the Bristol Rovers and Celtic advice even if the Football Trader didn't make the most of my own advice!
However a small profit on the day so far +£15.32 is not to be sniffed at, and I still have a double header of Spanish action to come.
Will post Spanish tips later
Trading Update
What I am winning on one market, I am losing on another market!
Bristol Rovers have turned things around thanks to 2 clinical finishes from Richard Walker and I am in profit in the match odds market. Unfortunately my timing on the over 2.5 goals market was not sharp enough.
So overall it looks like a fairly neutral result for the Football Trader based on current trades .
I will keep an eye on the game, but am also getting involved in the Scottish Cup Final which is goalless at half time.
Celtic at 1.66 to beat Dunfermline in 90 minutes looks decent value, so I have waded into that and also had a speculative lay of under 2.5 goals at 1.29.
Will update at full time
Bristol Rovers have turned things around thanks to 2 clinical finishes from Richard Walker and I am in profit in the match odds market. Unfortunately my timing on the over 2.5 goals market was not sharp enough.
So overall it looks like a fairly neutral result for the Football Trader based on current trades .
I will keep an eye on the game, but am also getting involved in the Scottish Cup Final which is goalless at half time.
Celtic at 1.66 to beat Dunfermline in 90 minutes looks decent value, so I have waded into that and also had a speculative lay of under 2.5 goals at 1.29.
Will update at full time
Shrewsbury take early lead
A goal after 3 minutes has given Shrewsbury the edge in the play off final, and damaged my trade on Bristol Rovers.
But every cloud has a silver lining, and I think I have found some vlaue in the over /under 2.5 goals market.
Straight after the goal I managed to lay over 2.5 goals at 1.47 which I think could lead to profits if I can get out within the next 15 minutes without another goal
But every cloud has a silver lining, and I think I have found some vlaue in the over /under 2.5 goals market.
Straight after the goal I managed to lay over 2.5 goals at 1.47 which I think could lead to profits if I can get out within the next 15 minutes without another goal
Bristol Rovers v Shrewsbury
The play off finals normally produce one of the best weekends of the football season, and we kick off this afternoon with the 4th division final.
Bristol Rovers, backed by 40,000 fans are favourites to progress against Shrewsbury, and if they can maintain their recent form, the Gas look like a good thing. So I have backed Rovers at 2.44 (£12.00).
Expect a clash of styles in today's match, Shrewsbury will bomb the ball forward while Rovers will try and build off their bulky front men - Walker and Lambert.
I'm hoping for goals, but will stay out of the over/under 2.5 goals market in the early stages to see how the match pans out.
Bristol Rovers, backed by 40,000 fans are favourites to progress against Shrewsbury, and if they can maintain their recent form, the Gas look like a good thing. So I have backed Rovers at 2.44 (£12.00).
Expect a clash of styles in today's match, Shrewsbury will bomb the ball forward while Rovers will try and build off their bulky front men - Walker and Lambert.
I'm hoping for goals, but will stay out of the over/under 2.5 goals market in the early stages to see how the match pans out.
Beckham back in England Squad
As predicted by the Football trader almost a month ago (29/4) David Beckham has been handed a recall to the England squad for the friendly vs Brazil and the Euro '08 qualifier against Estonia.
Goldenballs has been playing well in a resurgent Madrid side, and with concerns about the fitness and form of Lennon and Wright-Phillips, Steve McClaren has buckled under media pressure.
Whether Beckham will actually be selected to start the games is open to question, but it would be a fitting tribute to the former England captain to be involved in the 1st international at the new Wembley Stadium.
Anyone who watched the England B international last night againt Albania would have seen Beckham's heir apparent David Bentley stake a major claim for the wide right role, and he now looks like getting an exended run in the full squad.
Goldenballs has been playing well in a resurgent Madrid side, and with concerns about the fitness and form of Lennon and Wright-Phillips, Steve McClaren has buckled under media pressure.
Whether Beckham will actually be selected to start the games is open to question, but it would be a fitting tribute to the former England captain to be involved in the 1st international at the new Wembley Stadium.
Anyone who watched the England B international last night againt Albania would have seen Beckham's heir apparent David Bentley stake a major claim for the wide right role, and he now looks like getting an exended run in the full squad.
Saturday Trading
The last decent weekend of football trading for this season gets underway today at Wembley, as Bristol Rovers take on Shrewsbury in the 4th Division play off final.
Then later this evening we have more from La Liga, as heavyweights Real Madrid and Barcelona both have winnable home games in their dual for the title.
Hopefully I can make the most of these games to boost up my trading profits for May
At this point I have a little confession to make, with the lack of football on in recent days, I have been straying into other sports, most notably Horse Racing with some surprisingly good results (must be beginners luck!).
A quick look at my Betfair P&L for the month to date, shows the following..
Horse Racing (+£139.71)
Snooker (+£90.18)
Football (-£44.50)
Specials (-£12.00)
Giving me trading profits for May (so far) of +£173.39.
I really need to get my Football trading in green for the month, given that it is supposed to be my specialiasm - so will be showing a bit more discipline for the rest of the month.
Then later this evening we have more from La Liga, as heavyweights Real Madrid and Barcelona both have winnable home games in their dual for the title.
Hopefully I can make the most of these games to boost up my trading profits for May
At this point I have a little confession to make, with the lack of football on in recent days, I have been straying into other sports, most notably Horse Racing with some surprisingly good results (must be beginners luck!).
A quick look at my Betfair P&L for the month to date, shows the following..
Horse Racing (+£139.71)
Snooker (+£90.18)
Football (-£44.50)
Specials (-£12.00)
Giving me trading profits for May (so far) of +£173.39.
I really need to get my Football trading in green for the month, given that it is supposed to be my specialiasm - so will be showing a bit more discipline for the rest of the month.
Friday 25 May 2007
Next Man City Manager
Man City do no seem in a particular hurry to appoint a new manager. Nearly £200,000 has been matched on www.Betfair.com on this market so far.
Claudio Ranieri has headed the market for over a week now, but the longer the appointment takes the more he drifts.
Currently available at 2.72, my fellow blogger at www.cloningarteta.blogspot.com seems to have read the market correctly by laying the Tinkerman at skinny odds.
There does seem to be some money for Lyon boss Gerarrd Houillier who is now clear second favourite at 5.2
I have had a small involvement with Paul Jewell and Jean Tigana at fancy prices, but also will make a small profit if favourite Ranieri is installed at Eastlands.
With the departure of Distin and the likely exit of Joey Barton whoever takes the job will do well to keep City away from the relegation scrap next season
Claudio Ranieri has headed the market for over a week now, but the longer the appointment takes the more he drifts.
Currently available at 2.72, my fellow blogger at www.cloningarteta.blogspot.com seems to have read the market correctly by laying the Tinkerman at skinny odds.
There does seem to be some money for Lyon boss Gerarrd Houillier who is now clear second favourite at 5.2
I have had a small involvement with Paul Jewell and Jean Tigana at fancy prices, but also will make a small profit if favourite Ranieri is installed at Eastlands.
With the departure of Distin and the likely exit of Joey Barton whoever takes the job will do well to keep City away from the relegation scrap next season
Wednesday 23 May 2007
Milan prove that cheats prosper
AC Milan take the glory in the Champions League, but their victory is tainted by misdemeanours off the pitch.
Along with West Ham staying in the Premiership, Milan's triumph leaves a bad taste in the mouth.
My trading on the night wasn't too bad, I was well involved with Liverpool lifting the trophy but managed to get out of jail with my involvement in the over 2.5 goals market.
So I managed to avoid meltdown thanks to Dirk Kuyts' late goal and recorded a small profit of £5.16 on the day.
Along with West Ham staying in the Premiership, Milan's triumph leaves a bad taste in the mouth.
My trading on the night wasn't too bad, I was well involved with Liverpool lifting the trophy but managed to get out of jail with my involvement in the over 2.5 goals market.
So I managed to avoid meltdown thanks to Dirk Kuyts' late goal and recorded a small profit of £5.16 on the day.
Lucky Milan have HT advantage
Liverpool will trudge off at half time in Athens wondering how they find themselves 1-0 down at the interval.
Their game plan has worked well, and they have controlled proceedings for long periods, but a deflected free kick has undone all of their good work.
Probably the worst possible outcome from a trading perspctive was a Milan goal, although I have managed to limit the damage with some of the subsidiary markets.
I backed 0-0 for £18 at 6.5 and managed to get out for a small profit (+£3.80) before the first goal went in.
In the early stages the over 2.5 goals market was over reacting massively and I got involved laying under 2.5 goals at 1.44 with a liability of £50.35 - I could get out for a profit now and will consider my options in the next few minutes.
I have also layed Milan to win the cup at 1.71 - liability of £39.60 which unless Liverpool score looks like a loser.
The 2nd half should be a classic encounter as Liverpool now have to go for it, expect Crouch to be introduced in the next 15 minutes.
In Rafa I trust!
Their game plan has worked well, and they have controlled proceedings for long periods, but a deflected free kick has undone all of their good work.
Probably the worst possible outcome from a trading perspctive was a Milan goal, although I have managed to limit the damage with some of the subsidiary markets.
I backed 0-0 for £18 at 6.5 and managed to get out for a small profit (+£3.80) before the first goal went in.
In the early stages the over 2.5 goals market was over reacting massively and I got involved laying under 2.5 goals at 1.44 with a liability of £50.35 - I could get out for a profit now and will consider my options in the next few minutes.
I have also layed Milan to win the cup at 1.71 - liability of £39.60 which unless Liverpool score looks like a loser.
The 2nd half should be a classic encounter as Liverpool now have to go for it, expect Crouch to be introduced in the next 15 minutes.
In Rafa I trust!
Champions League Final
The plunge on AC Milan seems to have abated slightly, I layed them to lift the cup at 1.69 yesterday and they are now available to lay at 1.72.
I have gone in again at that price as my bullish attitude on Liverpool has survived a day of questioning in the office.
I am leaving the 90 minute markets alone at the moment, as I expect a cagey match with few goals - however i'm sure I will get involved when the action gets under way.
I have gone in again at that price as my bullish attitude on Liverpool has survived a day of questioning in the office.
I am leaving the 90 minute markets alone at the moment, as I expect a cagey match with few goals - however i'm sure I will get involved when the action gets under way.
Tuesday 22 May 2007
AC Milan v Liverpool
Punters have been smashing into Milan to lift the famous jug eared trophy on Wednesday evening.
The Italians clearly should not even have been in the competition after their part in the Serie A match fixing scandal. Their 44 point deduction was reduced to 30 points on appeal to conveniently allow them entry into the Champions League.
An impressive semi final performance against big match bottlers Man Utd seems to have clouded the judgement of traders.
I have layed AC Milan at 1.69 for a small liability and with less than 24 hours to kick off I am very bullish about Liverpool's chances.
Benitez has the tactical nous to exploit an ageing Milan side who have been carried to the final by the goalscoing exploits of the sublime Kaka.
I will be getting stuck in more tomorrow, but if you are thinking of trading on the match, take the time to check out the press kit provided by the excellent Uefa website.
http://www.uefa.com/printoutfiles/competitions/ucl/2006/e/e_300099_pk.pdf
To me the key is in the forward positions, in '05 Milan had the movement and finishing ability of Crespo and Shevchenko in '07 they will rely on one of Inzaghi (surname offside) or Gilardino (surname anonymous).
If Benitez can organise his side to keep Kaka quiet and move the influential Gattuso out of central areas I fully expect Liverpool to record their 6th win
The Italians clearly should not even have been in the competition after their part in the Serie A match fixing scandal. Their 44 point deduction was reduced to 30 points on appeal to conveniently allow them entry into the Champions League.
An impressive semi final performance against big match bottlers Man Utd seems to have clouded the judgement of traders.
I have layed AC Milan at 1.69 for a small liability and with less than 24 hours to kick off I am very bullish about Liverpool's chances.
Benitez has the tactical nous to exploit an ageing Milan side who have been carried to the final by the goalscoing exploits of the sublime Kaka.
I will be getting stuck in more tomorrow, but if you are thinking of trading on the match, take the time to check out the press kit provided by the excellent Uefa website.
http://www.uefa.com/printoutfiles/competitions/ucl/2006/e/e_300099_pk.pdf
To me the key is in the forward positions, in '05 Milan had the movement and finishing ability of Crespo and Shevchenko in '07 they will rely on one of Inzaghi (surname offside) or Gilardino (surname anonymous).
If Benitez can organise his side to keep Kaka quiet and move the influential Gattuso out of central areas I fully expect Liverpool to record their 6th win
Free Bet with BetHiLo
Having been concentrating my efforts on fixed odds trading on Betfair, I have neglected my interest in spread betting recently.
All credit to BetHiLo however, who keep sending me e-mails offering me a £20 refund on any losses that I incur.
If I understand the offer correctly, I can have a bet on the Champions League Final tomorrow and as long as I only risk £20 maximum loss, I will get my money back - effectively a no lose situation.
They have a massive range of markets, so choosing where to invest the free bet may be difficult!
Early contenders are the number of converted penalties (aet) 1-1.3, a £15 buy @1.3 could yield a decent profit if the match goes that far.
Other markets of interest include a buy of Gerrard goal minutes 10-13 and a sell of Milan corner supremacy at 0.25
All credit to BetHiLo however, who keep sending me e-mails offering me a £20 refund on any losses that I incur.
If I understand the offer correctly, I can have a bet on the Champions League Final tomorrow and as long as I only risk £20 maximum loss, I will get my money back - effectively a no lose situation.
They have a massive range of markets, so choosing where to invest the free bet may be difficult!
Early contenders are the number of converted penalties (aet) 1-1.3, a £15 buy @1.3 could yield a decent profit if the match goes that far.
Other markets of interest include a buy of Gerrard goal minutes 10-13 and a sell of Milan corner supremacy at 0.25
Beckham 9/4 to play against Estonia
Bet 365 have sensed the growing clamour around a recall for David Beckham, chalking up a 9/4 quote that Goldenballs will be in the starting 11 against Estonia on June 6th.
Steve McClaren will have to swallow his pride and go back on his decision to effectively end Beckham's international career if the former captain is to land the odds.
McClaren is almost friendless in the media and with the general public, and his weak position may tempt him to bow to populist pressure.
On current form, Beckham is a better bet than Lennon or Wright-Phillips and it is worth having a small interest at 9/4 just to watch the hugely out of his depth Mclaren squirm.
Steve McClaren will have to swallow his pride and go back on his decision to effectively end Beckham's international career if the former captain is to land the odds.
McClaren is almost friendless in the media and with the general public, and his weak position may tempt him to bow to populist pressure.
On current form, Beckham is a better bet than Lennon or Wright-Phillips and it is worth having a small interest at 9/4 just to watch the hugely out of his depth Mclaren squirm.
Monday 21 May 2007
Quiet on the Trading Front
Not much to get my teeth into this week, except the Champions League Final on Wednesday.
So, I will be starting work on plans for next season.
In today's Racing Post, there is an intersting article by the excellent tipster Kevin Pullein, describing how he works even harder on his betting strategy in the summer months as he reviews past performance and searches for that elusive edge.
I will be doing the same and regularly updating my thoughts on this blog, as well as finalising a more defined trading strategy and money management system.
I think I have proved to myself that I can make regular profits trading Football matches on Betfair, but can definitely improve my returns with more discipline and some more structured 'rules'
Interesting that reports today suggest that David Beckham could be recalled to the England squad for the games against Brazil and Estonia - as predicted on this blog (29th April).
One other market that I have been following is the next Man City manager - initially I waded into Paul Jewell whose price has drifted significantly. Although that appointment looks unlikely, I haven't given up all hope on that even though the Tinkerman Ranieri is a hot favourite for the job.
One other interesting candidate at a huge price is Jean Tigana (200.00) - having just left Besiktas, the Frenchman should be considered for this post after his performance as Fulham manager. I have invested the princely sum of £2 at that price!
So, I will be starting work on plans for next season.
In today's Racing Post, there is an intersting article by the excellent tipster Kevin Pullein, describing how he works even harder on his betting strategy in the summer months as he reviews past performance and searches for that elusive edge.
I will be doing the same and regularly updating my thoughts on this blog, as well as finalising a more defined trading strategy and money management system.
I think I have proved to myself that I can make regular profits trading Football matches on Betfair, but can definitely improve my returns with more discipline and some more structured 'rules'
Interesting that reports today suggest that David Beckham could be recalled to the England squad for the games against Brazil and Estonia - as predicted on this blog (29th April).
One other market that I have been following is the next Man City manager - initially I waded into Paul Jewell whose price has drifted significantly. Although that appointment looks unlikely, I haven't given up all hope on that even though the Tinkerman Ranieri is a hot favourite for the job.
One other interesting candidate at a huge price is Jean Tigana (200.00) - having just left Besiktas, the Frenchman should be considered for this post after his performance as Fulham manager. I have invested the princely sum of £2 at that price!
Sunday 20 May 2007
6 Goal Romp for Barca
Barcelona kept their hopes of retaining the La Liga title well and truly alive with a breathtaking 6-0 away win at Athletico Madrid.
Looking through the fixture lists of both Real Madrid and Barca, tonights visit to the Vicente Calderon looked like the toughest game left for either side.
Athletico Madrid unbeaten at home in 2007 were ripped apart by Barcelona, aided by some laughable goalkeeping from reserve Pichu.
Messi (2), Zambrotta, Eto'o, Ronaldinho and Iniesta did the damage, and in fairness it could have been 10.
A successful night for the Football Trader as goals flowed in both live matches tonight.
A profit of £58.50 is a decent evenings work, and gets my trading back in the Green for the month to date.
Looking through the fixture lists of both Real Madrid and Barca, tonights visit to the Vicente Calderon looked like the toughest game left for either side.
Athletico Madrid unbeaten at home in 2007 were ripped apart by Barcelona, aided by some laughable goalkeeping from reserve Pichu.
Messi (2), Zambrotta, Eto'o, Ronaldinho and Iniesta did the damage, and in fairness it could have been 10.
A successful night for the Football Trader as goals flowed in both live matches tonight.
A profit of £58.50 is a decent evenings work, and gets my trading back in the Green for the month to date.
Pingu hands Barca 3-0 HT lead
I had a small trade on over 2.5 goals on the Ath Madrid v Barca clash and then sat through a poor 38 minutes.
Suddenly Messi came to life with the opening goal after exchanging passes with Eto'o, and then Atletico's back up goalkeeper Pichu (more like Pingu) dropped 2 clangers to hand Barca a hardly deserved 3-0 HT lead.
I am £41.28 in profit for the evening so far.
Spanish League Drama
The drama just continues every week in La Liga.
Real Madrid 2-0 up and cruising against Recreativo were pegged back to 2-2, but another injury time stunner, this time from Roberto Carlos has given them all 3 points.
I watched Madrid a few times earlier this year and they looked clueless and the entertainment value was on a par with the Premiership, but in recent weeks they have gone into overdrive.
The last 3 games have yielded 17 goals, a 3-2 win v Sevilla, a 4-3 win v Espanyol and now a 3-2 win against Recreativo.
The old guard and the new guard have combined to give Madrid a great chance to secure their first title in 4 years.
A decent start for the Football Trader as well with some very small trades on the goals markets which have yielded an £11.93 profit.
The spotlight now falls on a faltering Barca side after Valencia, Sevilla and Real Madrid have all taken maximum points.
Should be a cracker from the Vincente Calderon Stadium in Madrid
Real Madrid 2-0 up and cruising against Recreativo were pegged back to 2-2, but another injury time stunner, this time from Roberto Carlos has given them all 3 points.
I watched Madrid a few times earlier this year and they looked clueless and the entertainment value was on a par with the Premiership, but in recent weeks they have gone into overdrive.
The last 3 games have yielded 17 goals, a 3-2 win v Sevilla, a 4-3 win v Espanyol and now a 3-2 win against Recreativo.
The old guard and the new guard have combined to give Madrid a great chance to secure their first title in 4 years.
A decent start for the Football Trader as well with some very small trades on the goals markets which have yielded an £11.93 profit.
The spotlight now falls on a faltering Barca side after Valencia, Sevilla and Real Madrid have all taken maximum points.
Should be a cracker from the Vincente Calderon Stadium in Madrid
Real Madrid pile pressure on Barca
I have been away from my trading desk for most of the weekend, and have just managed to wake up after the dross served up in the worst FA Cup final in living memory.
I was very confident with my recommendation of Real Madrid to win the Primera League and they currenty lead 2-1 away at Recreativo.
If they hang onto the lead, they will be just 3 wins away from an improbable title win.
Barcelona have a very tricky looking away fixture against Athletico Madrid, and any continuation of their patchy away form could signal the end of their title challenge.
I was very confident with my recommendation of Real Madrid to win the Primera League and they currenty lead 2-1 away at Recreativo.
If they hang onto the lead, they will be just 3 wins away from an improbable title win.
Barcelona have a very tricky looking away fixture against Athletico Madrid, and any continuation of their patchy away form could signal the end of their title challenge.
Saturday 19 May 2007
FA Cup Final
It is hard to pick a winner in today's Wembley showcase, and for the neutral the lack of a real underdog makes it difficult to get enthused about the match.
I'm hoping for a decent match, but won't hold my breathe.
I wouldn't be surprised to see a penalty shoot out decide the fate of the FA Cup
I'm hoping for a decent match, but won't hold my breathe.
I wouldn't be surprised to see a penalty shoot out decide the fate of the FA Cup
Thursday 17 May 2007
Defensive shambles
..has cost me tonight.
Think I will just sit back and enjoy the match as I am totally on the wrong side of this play off match.
A couple of Stella's will numb the pain of wiping out most of my small monthly profit in 40 minutes of football!
In fairness the Racing Post tipped up over 2.5 goals today but I ignored their advice.
Time for me to re-group and re-think my strategy
Think I will just sit back and enjoy the match as I am totally on the wrong side of this play off match.
A couple of Stella's will numb the pain of wiping out most of my small monthly profit in 40 minutes of football!
In fairness the Racing Post tipped up over 2.5 goals today but I ignored their advice.
Time for me to re-group and re-think my strategy
Nightmare!
Should have just left my laptop switched off tonight! Everytime I have got involved, another goal has gone in.
Have tried a speculative lay of over 3.5 goals at 1.18 (liability of £9.90).
Hopefully we can get to HT without another goal
Have tried a speculative lay of over 3.5 goals at 1.18 (liability of £9.90).
Hopefully we can get to HT without another goal
In for a penny....
Playing a dangerous game tonight..
I have increased my liabilty on over 2.5 goals to £31.82, and in the process averaged down my odds from 1.57 to 1.32.
I need another 15 minutes or so without another goal to recover from a bad start.
Fingers crossed
I have increased my liabilty on over 2.5 goals to £31.82, and in the process averaged down my odds from 1.57 to 1.32.
I need another 15 minutes or so without another goal to recover from a bad start.
Fingers crossed
Bristol Rovers take early lead
A stunning strike from Gas captain Campbell has put Bristol Robers firmly in the driving seat against Lincoln.
I have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.57 - liability of £22.80.
But as I type Ricky Lambert has virtually booked Rovers' trip to Wembley with a 2nd goal and put my trade in big trouble..
Not a great start!
I have layed over 2.5 goals at 1.57 - liability of £22.80.
But as I type Ricky Lambert has virtually booked Rovers' trip to Wembley with a 2nd goal and put my trade in big trouble..
Not a great start!
Monthly Update (+£59.94)
Before getting involved in the Lincoln v Bristol Rovers play off 2nd leg, I thought I would just post a few more details of what has been a topsy turvy month so far..
May 1st: -£24.59
May 2nd: +£6.56
May 3rd: -£10.17
May 6th: +£55.57
May 7th: +£23.63
May 8th: -£0.56
May 9th: -£50.44
May 10th: -£28.35
May 12th: +£19.12
May 13th: +£38.71
May 14th: -£19.82
May 15th: +£53.56
May 16th: -£3.28
In 13 days trading, I've had only 6 profitable days, but overall have made a small profit. Looking back through some of my trades, Iwould be at least £100 in profit if I had shown a bit more discipline.
I will start giving more details of my trades in future posts, as giving more details actually helps me to keep my discipline
May 1st: -£24.59
May 2nd: +£6.56
May 3rd: -£10.17
May 6th: +£55.57
May 7th: +£23.63
May 8th: -£0.56
May 9th: -£50.44
May 10th: -£28.35
May 12th: +£19.12
May 13th: +£38.71
May 14th: -£19.82
May 15th: +£53.56
May 16th: -£3.28
In 13 days trading, I've had only 6 profitable days, but overall have made a small profit. Looking back through some of my trades, Iwould be at least £100 in profit if I had shown a bit more discipline.
I will start giving more details of my trades in future posts, as giving more details actually helps me to keep my discipline
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