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: Double Chelsea and Arsenal to win 2.16/1(Skybet)
Arsene Wenger’s team have seen a revival in form since strikers Van Persie and Adebayor have come back to fitness, reflected by their dramatic 2-1 win over Chelsea the weekend before last. Gareth Southgate’s men have struggled at home, drawing to ailing Newcastle and West Ham and losing to Bolton in their last three appearances on home soil. With a second string side employed midweek, Wenger’s men will be all guns blazing on Saturday.
Despite the fact that they have a worse home record than Fulham a somewhat stuttering Chelsea side should prevail of London rivals West Ham. The Hammers have looked poor in recent weeks, and are proving to be ripe relegation candidates. Chelsea defeated CFR Cluj in the week at Stamford Bridge, no doubt helped by the addition of Didier Drogba up front who may start this Sunday. Scolari’s men will be far too strong for West Ham and should cruise to an easy win. 2pt Double
Seano’s Shouts: Lay Liverpool to beat Hull at 1.39 and back them to win the Champions League at 12.5 (Betfair)
My shouts this week seem to present an odd juxtaposition, where I urge you that Liverpool can win the Champions League but not beat Hull City at home. In reality, it makes quite a lot of sense as Hull have a tremendous away record which is only pipped by Everton, Chelsea and Liverpool. They defeated Arsenal 2-1 and narrowly lost 4-3 to Man United at Old Trafford, showing that they have troubled the big boys in their own back garden. Liverpool are likely to be without main man Torres, leaving Kuyt up front alone unless Benitez tries out of favour Keane. 1.39 is a short price as Hull could eek out a draw. 2pt Lay
I am sure I don’t have to explain to readers of this column Liverpool’s Champions League pedigree under Rafa Benitez, as most of you probably know a Liverpool fan who reminds you most days. This year’s competition is extremely open with the bigger sides troubled by injury and inconsistent form. Liverpool have a better side than they have had in recent times and Torres will be back to full match fitness after the winter break. 12.5 is a golden back to lay opportunity. 2pt win
Horse: Katchit to win the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham 10/1 (VC)
Last year’s winner of the champion hurdle should go well on a track that he favours. Although he has failed to win in two starts he approached last year’s victorious run in similar circumstances. Will have a great chance and 10/1 may not survive past the ante post betting. 1pt win
OUTSIDER: West Indies to win the 1st test Vs New Zealand 19/1(Betfair)
After two days New Zealand sit at 226/4 as the second day at the University Oval has been washed out. Despite the loss of time, this game will not result in a draw, with the rain comes moisture that is going to juice up an already green wicket. So far the West Indies have been wayward with the ball, but upon resumption they will have five overs before the new ball is available, which Taylor and Powell looked dangerous with first time around. If they can bowl New Zealand out for under 350 they stand a great chance as wicket taker Vettori will be negated by the green pitch. 19/1 is a huge price as one session's good cricket will give the backer a lay of 4-5 points. 1pt win
I wonder what odds you could've got on the big four all drawing!
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