Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
Craig Dobson looks at QPR's decision to sack Neil Warnock and replace him with Mark Hughes
James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
Nap: Buy Oliver Wilson's 2009 Major performance at 7pts
It is rare that I dip my toes into the turbulent pool of spread betting but Sporting Index have created a great market for a potential big win. It runs across all four of golf's Majors and rewards consistent play. The points work as follows: Win =100pts, 2nd-10th= 25pts, 10.5-20th = 10pts, 20.5-30th = 5pts, Missed Cut= -5 and all others = 0. Therefore for Wilson to be profitable he must finish with a total of 8 or higher, and profit and losses function like a normal spread market (i.e. your stake = 1unit which of course means you can lose more than your stake).
Wilson is an emerging golfer, reaching the world top 50 in 2008 and made history by being the only Ryder Cup player to qualify on the team without a win, showing his consistency. He is a great ball striker and has shown good early season form, notably with a T6th finish last week in the World Golf Championships. The key is he will not miss four cuts and finish on -20 and has a great shout at a top ten which would get an automatic profit. He went to college in Augusta so may do well at the Masters but a buy at 7pts is definitely worthwhile. Also if he achieved a maiden win, 100pts would certainly put a smile on my face. 1/2pt per unit
Seano's Shouts: India to beat New Zealand 3-0 at 9/1 and Everton and Bolton win double at 7.92
It is true that India have not won a test match in New Zealand since 1976, which is amazing considering the magnificent batting era our generation has marveled at. But India start this series a completely different side, and one that has left history in its wake more than once before. After a near clean sweep in the one day series, this rampant India side looked to demolish New Zealand in their weaker form of the game. The home side are the worst test nation in the world at the moment (other than Bangladesh) and Dhoni's men will dominate. The 9/1 will shorten after the first victory allowing a possible lay. 2pt Win
Away wins provide the best value in single match betting markets and Everton and Bolton provide a tasty double this weekend. The Toffees are in fine mettle at the moment taking 14 out of a possible 18 points in the last six games and are unbeaten in their last 18 games in all competitions. Portsmouth are struggling in the bottom half and will be hurting after losing two points in the dying seconds last week. Everton should cruise home here.
Bolton are playing bottom of the table West Brom who despite a draw with West Ham on Monday are in dire form. Bolton have been poor away from home this season but I think they will overcome a lack lustre West Brom side. 1pt Double
Horse: Mafaaz for the 19:50 at Kempton at 4.3
Mafaaz will run well on the all weather at Kempton as trainer Gosden looks to maintain his good run of form. A winner of a Kempton maiden I think he has a great chance tonight amongst weaker opposition. 1pt Win
Outsider: Justin Rose to win the Masters at 65
Justin Rose has failed to find rhythm this season but a return to a happy hunting ground at Augusta should ignite his golfing fire. He has thrown away leads in two of his three Masters appearances and averages -4 on the first day. Buoyed by the nappy factor of his first son a couple of months ago, I think 65 is too long for Rose here. 1pt Win
N.B. State of Play can now be laid 6 points to nothing for the Grand National, so if you followed my tip to back it at 32 you might want to trade back now.
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