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: Man U to get a clean sheet against Spurs at EVEN money (Betfair)
Despite being billed as the big clash in this Saturday’s action, this fixture looks like it is going to be somewhat of an anti climax. Spurs manager Harry Redknapp has declared he will play a weakened line up against the league leaders as the FA cup is not a priority for his side. Although Man U have defensive injuries they will not be troubled by a second rate Spurs side who struggle to score goals with their best team. Even money is a great price for a team who have kept 11 clean sheets in a row in the Premiership. 2pt Win
Seano’s Shouts: Sri Lanka to beat Pakistan 2.24 (Betfair) and Middlesbrough and Portsmouth Double 9/2 (Sky Bet)
The three match one day series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka lies 1-1 at the moment and the decider at Lahore will test both sides metal. Sri Lanka are an emerging side with the growing partnership between Muralitharan and Mendis ominous for any opposition shaky against spin and their batting headed by a resurgent Dilshan seems to be producing more consistently. Pakistan are still in the turmoil which has plagued their cricket since Inzamam retired and questions are being asked about wicket keeper Akmal’s glove work. Sri Lanka stuttered in the first game of this tour, but now they are settled and I think they are a much better outfit than the Paskitani team. 1pt win
Saturday also sees two struggling Premiership sides take on lower league opposition as Portsmouth host Swansea and Middlesbrough go away to Wolves. Pompey got a good draw against Spurs and seem to be consolidating after Defoe’s acrimonious departure. Wolves have been impressive in the Championship this year and currently lead the table by five points, leading the bookies to notch them up as 11/8 favourites against Southgate’s men. I think in both cases here the Premiership sides are far too long, they may be struggling of late but are still superior sides to their opponents. With Skybet you can take a 9/2 double which I think is worthwhile. 1pt win
Horse: Punchestown to win the 15:45 at Cheltenham at 1.87 (Betfair)
I don’t normally tip odds on shots but in a weekend of sparse value the horse represents the best shot. Punchestown has an established reputation as a top runner with trainer Nicky Henderson eying the big prize money at Cheltenham tomorrow. It’s a competitive field with Lough Derg and Blaizing Bailey providing stiff opposition, but expect the Long Walk Hurdle winner to prevail. 2pt win
Outsider: Steven Gerrard to be Sports Personality of the Year at 60 (Betfair)
2009's Sports Personality of the Year looks like it will be far less competitive than last year with the lack of athletic prominence that always dominates this award. Favourite is currently Andy Murray followed by Lewis Hamilton, the earlier needing to win a grandslam to contend, the latter to win another world title (which proved to be insufficient in 2008).
Gerrard has had a great season so far and has helped Liverpool to their first serious title challenge for a couple of decades. If Liverpool can win the title or the Champions League be sure that Stevie G will be right in contention. Even so I am sure he will shorten from 60 for a good lay later on in the year. 1pt win
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