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: Lisa Snowdon to be eliminated from Strictly 2.22
Last week I misjudged the sheer amount of One show viewers that would vote for Christine Bleakley, despite her obtaining the lowest score by far she eluded the dance off. I have learnt my lesson this week and nap Lisa Snowdon to exit on Saturday. A clear top three has broken out in the competition between Rachel, Tom and Austin leaving the two other girls somewhat adrift. This week they will perform two dances which forces Lisa to have to face the difficult Cha Cha which saw Christine fall to the bottom last week.
More importantly, Lisa appears to have little likeability with voters which will definitely land her in the bottom two. If Christine’s popularity keeps her out of the dance off then Lisa will definitely lose out against one of the stronger top three. Even if she does make it, Christine’s Salsa has looked her best yet in training, and Lisa’s proliferation of dance offs will not sit easily with the judges. 2pts Win
Seano’s Shouts: Ruth Lorenzo to be eliminated from X Factor 2.18 and Simon Katich to top score in Australia 1st innings 4.5
As the competition draws to a close, the solid performers with minimal fan bases are leaving the X Factor. Rachel went last week as popular group JLS survived their first entry into the sing off. A key reason for Rachel’s eviction last week was the vital vote of Simon Cowell who cited her continued presence in the bottom two. Presuming a JLS and Ruth sing off, Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole will have the deciding votes, guaranteeing at least deadlock for JLS who are likely to have more public support. 2.18 is a tidy winner for what I see as an odds on shot. 1pt Win
After a moral sapping loss to India in their last series, Australia fought back in the first test against New Zealand to reassert their winning ethic. Integral to their victory was a stunning 131* from opener Simon Katich who will get another chance to score big again tomorrow. He has carried on his fine form from India to his home turf and the Adelaide pitch will offer less for the New Zealand attack than Brisbane. Their opponents have racked up 262/6 so be sure for Katich to bat well on this track. 1pt win
Horse: Island Flyer at 9 to win 2:40 Newbury
This Saturday sees the Hennesy Gold Cup where a highly competitive field seek glory in this prestigious race. Island Flyer has received keen interest from punters as he has sneaked in the race at bottom weight. Although the two Nicholls’ horses represent threats, I feel 8/1 is great value on a well fancied horse. 1pt win
OUTSIDER: Robinho to score first + 1-1 in Mancherster Derby 50/1
I am normally try to avoid scorecasts as all they do is entice stupid punters with big numbers and consistently take their money. But this week if you fancy a gamble, then 50/1 is worthwhile on a 1-1 and Robhino to score first. Man City have outdone their rivals more often than not in recent years and have scored consistently in the fixture. The Brazilian has scored seven of his eight premier league goals on home turf and will look to take advantage of a weakened United defence. However Man City have conceded 22 goals in 14 games and I can’t see them not conceding against the league champions. ½ pt win
N.B. All Prices from Betfair
Great headline!
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