» April 19th, 2006

BLUES CAN BREAK RED BLOCKADE AT bet365's 11/10

Chelsea v Liverpool

Sa Apr 22 – 5.15 pm ko (BBC1)

As usual with these two teams, a tight low-scoring game looks on the cards, but its Chelsea who are fancied to prevail at the bet365 price of 11/10 (Liverpool 12/5, 2/1 the Draw). That doesn't look a bad price considering that Chelsea have won five of the last nine encounters in the last two seasons, compared to the Red's solitary triumph in May 2005, and they probably have more potential match winners on the pitch than Liverpool. Of course, the Reds won't be easy to break down at Old Trafford, but Chelsea are fancied to nick his by one goal and progress to the final.

In the bet365 First Goalscorer market, the in-form Didier Drogba gets the nod at 5/1, especially as they'll give you your money back if he scores the last goal in the game instead. It's not difficult to envisage this game being really tight leading up to the interval, so the same firm's 4/1 about the Draw / Chelsea double result market also looks tempting. Once the game goes live, don't forget to check out their Live In-Play Console, which offers up to 14 dynamic markets on the game.

Live Game Picks:
Chelsea @ 11/10
Didier Drogba to score first @ 5/1
Draw / Chelsea @ 4/1

BORO TO NAIL HAMMERS AT 13/10

Middlesbrough v West Ham

Su Apr 23 – 4.00 pm ko (SS1)

Not forgetting the 'other' semi final, which promises to be at least as entertaining as the match at Old Trafford, with both teams likely to go for each other's throats straight from the whistle. Both teams are much better going forward than they are sitting back, which should give the neutrals amongst us plenty of excitement, and a decent bet to boot in the shape of over 2.5 goals at 10/11. Both sides have averaged two goals per game in the FA Cup this season, and this game is likely to be no exception. As for the winner, Boro just get the nod at 13/10, with their quality winger James Morrison a good shout to score first at bet365's 11/1 (3/1 Anytime).

Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.90
James Morrison to score first @ 11/1

IT'S ALL IN THE STARS AT 8/1 FOR SCOTTISH NATIONAL

This weekend, the flat takes a back seat as the jumpers are in action up at Ayr for the last National of the season. It's been a tough season already for many of the runners in Saturday's Scottish National (3.30), so it should pay to stick with those runners who have had a relatively light campaign so far, and the Paul Keane-trained All In the Stars will be fresher than most. Connections have laid their horse out for the race all season after showing progressive form, and their decision to bypass Cheltenham and Aintree could reap dividends at a tasty bet365 price of 8/1. He's already shown that he's suited to a flat track and a test of stamina, and proved that he can mix it with the best over fences by slamming Vodafone Gold Cup winner Horus (3rd) at Wincanton last time out.

Scottish National Pick: All In the Stars @ 8/1

On the same card, Wellbeing looks a good bet to take the Scottish Champion Hurdle (2.50). He was top-class on the flat and, although he took a while to get the hang of things over jumps, his latest impressive Aintree win confirms him as a future star, and the 19lb rise in the weights is unlikely to stop him going in again. Jack The Giant was beaten a short head by the selection last time out at Newbury in receipt of just 5lb, and he looks the answer to the opening novice hurdle (1.50). As well as taking advantage of some cracking bets on the card, bet365 customers can go one better by having a free bet(s) on the live Channel 4 racing from Ayr and Newbury. Simply back a winner at 4/1 or more in a live Channel 4 race and they'll give you a free bet to the same stake (up to £50) on the next bet365 Channel 4 Race.

GLOVER TO HUMBLE HIS RIVALS AT 28/1

Houston Open

Th Apr 20 – 21.00 (SS2)

Fr Apr 21 – 21.00 (SS2)

Sa Apr 22 – 20.00 (SS2)

Su Apr 23 – 20.00 (SS2)

This week's event is being played on a brand new course (Redstone GC, Humble, TX), which unfortunately means there's no course form to go on. However, it's safe to assume that at just under 7,500 yards long, the course is going to suit the long-hitters, which is why the main pick this week is Lucas Glover (tenth in total driving this season). With four top-ten efforts and seven top-25 finishes in 11starts, Glover's had the 'winner waiting to happen' look for some time now and, at the bet365 price of 28/1, he has to be thereabouts.

Despite having no course form to go on, a good record in Houston is still desirable as it shows an ability to play in the prevailing course and weather conditions, and that means Gary Owen must come into the reckoning at a tasty bet365 price of 40/1. Last year's Houston Open represented his best chance to win on the Tour before the Bay Hill Invitational last month (finished fourth after holding the final round lead during the front nine), and a return to Houston should see him back into he mix. He's worth backing each-way in bet365's outright market, but mustn't be missed at 11/2 to be Top European.

At the same odds, the massive-hitting Camillo Villegas also makes plenty of appeal, having twice made the frame this year in his rookie year. He missed the cut last week at Hilton Head, where the emphasis was on accuracy off the tee, but this week's set-up will be much more to his liking. Don't forget, once the event tees off, bet365 will still be taking plenty of bets via their In-Play Console found on their homepage. The advice here is to back your selection before they reach the intimidating 15th, the longest of the par fives at a mere 607 yards!

The Houston Open Three Off The Tee... Lucas Glover @ 28/1 (19/1 EWO), Davis Love @ 16/1, Stewart Cink @ 20/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» April 20th, 2006

WIZARDS WIN DATE WITH CAVS BUT PISTONS ARE FAVS AT 11/10...

bet365 latest Championship prices...
Pistons 11/10, Spurs 13/5, Suns 8/1, Heat Mavericks 9/1, others on bet365 website

Washington beat Detroit 96-80 on the final day of the NBA regular season to clinch the No.5 seed, and will open the playoffs against the fourth-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers when post-season action begins on Saturday April 22nd. Meanwhile, the top-seeded Pistons (and bet365's Championship favourites at 11/10) will open Sunday night against the eighth seeds Milwaukee. In the West, Kobe Bryant scored 35 points to claim his first NBA scoring crown as the Lakers beat New Orleans 115-95 to enter the play-offs riding a five-game victory streak. The Lakers, back in the post-season after a one year absence, take on the Phoenix Suns in a first-round clash featuring two of the league's top MVP candidates, Bryant and Suns guard Steve Nash.

To celebrate the start of playoff action, bet365 are offering customers bonuses of up to 50% on their parlays. Plus, once the games tip-off, be sure to check out their live betting service, available through the In-Play console found on their homepage.

IT'S TOUGH AT THE TOP FOR JOHNSON

In bet365's Nextel Cup Championship betting, series leader Jimmie Johnson remains favourite at 4/1 but, after finishing out of the top-10 in two of his last three races, the pack are closing in on him. Four drivers, Matt Kenseth (11/2), Kasey Kahne (10/1), Mark Martin (12/1) and defending series champion Tony Stewart (6/1), are now within 100 points of the No.48 Hendrick Motorsports driver. Kenseth has had four top-three finishes in the last six events and is just 15 points behind, while Kahne joined Johnson as the only multiple winners this season after his victory in the Samsung/Radio Shack 500 on April 9th.

STEWART LOOKS FRESH AT bet365's 6/1

Subway Fresh 500, Phoenix International Speedway

Sa Apr 22 – 8:00 pm (FOX)

bet365 latest Subway Fresh 500 prices...
Tony Stewart 6/1, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Matt Kenseth 7/1, Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson 9/1, others on bet365 website

The next race is on Saturday night under the lights of the Phoenix International Speedway, and Tony Stewart is strongly fancied to win his second race of the season. Stewart is a previous winner at this track in 1999, and has fared well since with five top-10 finishes in eight starts. He gets the checkered flag this week at bet365's 6/1, with Matt Kenseth (7/1) the most likely driver to follow him down Victory Lane.

Nigel's Checkered Flag... Tony Stewart @ 6/1

BROTHER DEREK IS bet365's DERBY FAVOURITE AT 11/4

bet365 latest Kentucky Derby prices...
Brother Derek 11/4, Lawyer Ron 5/1, Barbaro 7/1, Sweetnorthernsaint 7/1, Bob and John, Sinister Minister 10/1, others on bet365 website

The 132nd running of the Kentucky Derby, otherwise known as the Run for the Roses, takes place at Churchill Downs on Saturday 6th May, and Brother Derek deserves his place at the head of the bet365 market at 11/4. The Dan Hendricks-trained front-running colt was a most impressive winner of the Santa Anita Derby on April 8th, looking value for more than his three-and-a-quarter-length victory. It is not easy to oppose him, but he won't have things all his own way out in front, and better value could be had by backing a couple against him.

Lawyer Ron, a 5/1 chance with bet365, has made great progress recently, winning his sixth successive race when cruising home in the Arkansas Derby last time out. He's bound to be popular on the day due to his trainer Bob Holthus' popularity in the area, and he could be challenging for favouritism on the day. Meanwhile, Sweetnorthernsaint is another going the right way after taking the Illinois Derby in some style, and there could be further improvement to come. He rates a sold each way bet at bet365's 7/1 (1/4 odds 1.2.3) for this ten furlong contest, although Tote customers are also assured of some extra value as the firm are adding bonus payments to all winning bets placed on the Tote board - 10% Win / Place / Show, 15% Exotics.

GLOVER TO HUMBLE HIS HOUSTON RIVALS AT 28/1

Th Apr 20 – 4:00 pm ET (USA)

Fr Apr 21 – 4:00 pm ET (USA)

Sa Apr 22 – 3:00 pm ET (CBS)

Su Apr 23 – 3:00 pm ET (CBS)

This week's event is being played on a brand new course (Redstone GC, Humble, TX), which unfortunately means there's no course form to go on. However, it's safe to assume that at just under 7,500 yards long, the course is going to suit the long-hitters, which is why the main pick this week is Lucas Glover (tenth in total driving this season). With four top-ten efforts and seven top-25 finishes in 11starts, Glover's had the 'winner waiting to happen' look for some time now and, at the bet365 price of 28/1, he has to be thereabouts.

Despite having no course form to go on, a good record in Houston is still desirable as it shows an ability to play in the prevailing course and weather conditions, and that means Gary Owen must come into the reckoning at a tasty bet365 price of 40/1. Last year's Houston Open represented his best chance to win on the Tour before the Bay Hill Invitational last month (finished fourth after holding the final round lead during the front nine), and a return to Houston should see him back into he mix. He's worth backing each-way in bet365's outright market, but mustn't be missed at 11/2 to be Top European.

At the same odds, the massive-hitting Camillo Villegas also makes plenty of appeal, having twice made the frame this year in his rookie year. He missed the cut last week at Hilton Head, where the emphasis was on accuracy off the tee, but this week's set-up will be much more to his liking. Don't forget, once the event tees off, bet365 will still be taking plenty of bets via their In-Play Console found on their homepage. The advice here is to back your selection before they reach the intimidating 15th, the longest of the par fives at a mere 607 yards!

The Houston Open Three Off The Tee... Lucas Glover @ 28/1, Gary Owen @ 40/1, Camillo Villegas @ 40/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times EST (unless otherwise noted) and are subject to change. Check local listings.

» April 12th, 2006

UNITED QUICK OFF THE BLOCKS AT TASTY 2/1

Man United v Sunderland

Fr Apr 14 – 7.45pm ko (PremPlus)

Last week, we cashed in by taking the 11/10 on United to beat Arsenal, and the Red Devils can again be a route to profit when they play Sunderland on Good Friday. There is likely to be nothing 'good' for the Black Cats in this game, and a score line of 3-0 or even 4-0 (at 11/2 and 7/1 respectively) looks about right. However, a safer bet could be on United to score most of their goals in the first half at a very tasty bet365 price of 2/1. In their last four Premiership matches at home, nine of Man United's twelve goals have been scored in the first half, which underlines the fact that they are invariably quick off the blocks at the Theatre Of Dreams.

United to score most goals in first half @ 2/1

ROONEY 11/10 TO OUTSCORE OWEN IN GERMANY

In bet365's first goal scorer market on the game, Wayne Rooney is priced at 3/1 to open the scoring. Remember, bet365 will give you your money back if he scores the last goal in the game instead, but there could be even better value in backing Cristiano Ronaldo at 11/2 (6/4 to score anytime), as the Portuguese playmaker's pace looks sure to exploit the Black Cats woeful defence. Looking further ahead to the World Cup and, after all that's been written over the past few days regarding a rift between Rooney and Michael Owen, bet365 make the United striker 11/10 to outscore his England strike partner in Germany.

TROTTERS CAN KEEP IT TIGHT AT 13/5

Bolton v Chelsea - Sunday April 9th, 4.00pm ko, live on Sky Sports 1.

This looks a particularly tough game to call, so the value could lie with backing the draw at bet365's 13/5. It's true that the Trotters appear to be going backwards, but they're particularly hard to break down at the Reebok – just ask Arsenal, Liverpool and Spurs - while Chelsea's away form has been decidedly shaky recently. The Blues have only beaten West Brom in their last seven away matches and, while that run includes the trip to Barca, they have also drawn away to Everton, Aston Villa and Birmingham, and lost to Fulham and Middlesbrough. All in all, this match looks sure to be tight and, while Chelsea are the most likely winners, the draw is the advice. Also, don't forget to check out bet365's 14 dynamic In-Play markets on this game (kick off 12.45pm).

Bolton to draw @ 13/5

HOME FORM MAKES ROVERS THE BET AT 9/4

Blackburn v Liverpool - Sunday April 16th, 2.30pm ko, live on Sky Sports 1.

In Sunday's meeting between Blackburn and Liverpool, the advice is again to oppose the visitors. Mark Hughes' side have already beaten both Arsenal and Man United at Ewood Park, and their two defeats came against mid-table Newcastle and Everton, showing that they're capable of producing their best performances against the better teams. They're worth a bet at 9/4, but have a saver on the 1-1 draw at 11/2 as, despite their impressive 11-3-2 home record, they invariably concede a goal per game.

However, the bet of the weekend has to be on Rovers getting a quarter-ball start (currently 1.925), as you'll only lose if Liverpool win the game. bet365's Asian Handicap betting consistently provides excellent value as they bet to 102%, while their Premiership Accumulator Bonus pays out up to 60% more on accas including top-flight teams. Why go anywhere else for your footy bets!

Live Game Picks:
Blackburn @ 9/4
Blackburn to Draw @ 11/2
Blackburn (+1/4) @ 1.925

NATIONAL SCARE FOR BET365

As always, the Grand National was a thriller, and for bet365, it was very nearly an expensive one! Joint favourites Clan Royal (5/1) and Hedgehunter (5/1) had been well-backed throughout the week and both had a chance of glory coming off the final fence. However, the strong running of Numbersixvalverde (11/1) saved the day, although there were lots of winning each-way bets after the joint favourites came home 2nd and 3rd! A fifth-placed finish for Risk Accessor (66/1) was also great news for the bet365 customers who backed the fifth horse past the post in the big race – as they got paid out at 1/4 odds thanks to bet365's generous place terms.

DOIRE A DUN DEAL AT 3/1

The National hero could bid to complete back-to-back victories in the Irish equivalent at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday (3.50). However, he'll do well to beat the improving seven-year-old, Dun Doire, whose rating wasn't big enough for him to get into the National, but whose connections will be eyeing his prize as some sort of compensation. A bet365 price of 3/1 might not seem that generous considering the competitive nature of the race, but there's likely to be even more to come over this stamina-sapping trip of 3m 5f. If he runs to form, he's almost sure to win, but best of the rest could be Our Ben (14/1). Willie Mullins' novice has enjoyed a good season, and will be fresher than most having not run since falling, uncharacteristically, in the Royal & Sun Alliance Chase at the Festival.

Irish Grand National Picks: Dun Doire @ 3/1 & Our Ben @ 14/1 (Each-way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4)

RED CAN BE EASTER DELIGHT

Regular bet365 customers will be aware by now that they've replicated their popular Channel 4 offer to include two Feature races every day. To take advantage, simply back a winner at 4/1 or more in a bet365 Feature race and they'll give you a free bet to the same stake (up to £50) on the next bet365 Feature Race. Why go anywhere else for your horse racing bets? Of course, the offer still applies to all Channel 4 races, which means that there are potentially seven free bets this weekend at Kempton, Haydock and Carlisle.

At the former track, the Ed Dunlop-trained Red Racketeer looks the one to pay for the Easter expenses by winning the Rosebery Handicap (3.15). The trainer can do no wrong at the moment, and the selection should be primed to win at the first time of asking this season. In the 2.45 race, a big field looks assured but it could pay to stick with those who have already run this year, and the improving Ludovico looks capable of landing his hat-trick here against some ring-rusty rivals.

EBDON RIGHT ON CUE AT 28/1

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP - Live on BBC Interactive

starting Saturday, April 15th – LIVE BETTING AVAILABLE

bet365 latest World Snooker prices...
Ronnie O'Sullivan 5/2, John Higgins 7/2, Shaun Murphy 13/2, Stephen Hendry 8/1. Mark Williams, Matthew Stevens 14/1, others on bet365 website

After the Masters and the Grand National, another great betting event cues off this Saturday 15th April, as the Snooker World Championships gets under way in Sheffield. For the next 17 days, bet365's snooker punters, who are now deprived for all but 9 weeks of the year, will get to feast on a massive range of pre-match markets and drool over our live In-Play service, which sees prices changing in real-time and (thanks to the BBC's interactive service) covers every game in progress. But after last year's shock winner Shaun Murphy at 150/1, who's going to have the nerves to win in the City of Steel?

The draw has been kind to the defending champion Shaun Murphy, who has a couple of straightforward-looking opening games, and he looks assured of at least getting through to the quarter finals. However, at this stage, he could well surrender his crown to 2001 champion Peter Ebdon. Like Murphy, Ebdon has hardly been setting the green baize alight this year, but he always comes into his own in these longer pressure cooker matches and, as clearly the second-best player in his quarter. He looks great each-way value at bet365's 28/1 (over four times the price of Murphy at 13/2), especially considering the indifferent form of some of the world's top players going into this event.

If Ebdon gets to the semi's he'll face the winner of a very tough quarter to call, with either Ken Doherty or Crucible specialist Matthew Stevens his most likely opponents. However, the best strategy is to avoid these players until we know who's emerged, and the second selection is a player from the top-half of the draw. Steven Maguire came into this event last year as world No.3 and left with his reputation intact after losing a classic opener 10-9 to O'Sullivan. His form this year has not been great (hence his generous bet365 odds of 14/1), but he's likely to come here well-prepared, and has a couple of easy matches to play himself into form.

World Championship Picks: Peter Ebdon @ 28/1 & Steven Maguire @ 14/1

STICK WITH IN-FORM OLAZABAL AT 18/1

VERIZON HERITAGE

Starting April 13th - Live on Sky all four days, starting 9.00pm

This week, we're going to play-up some of our winnings from Jose Maria Olazabal (Each-way at 28/1 and Top European at 5/1) in bet365's outright market at 18/1. That's not a bad price considering that only one of the world's top-5 is in opposition this week, and that Ollie is such great form right now, coming off the back of successive each-way finishes and a top-10 in the Players' Championship. Of course, there's a danger in siding with players who had a hard week in the Masters, but The Spaniard was only in contention for a few holes late on Sunday and, besides, every Heritage winner since 1969 has been won by a player coming on from Augusta.

Olazabal aside, that just leaves another 34 players to choose from (!), but we can whittle this list down to a more manageable size by concentrating on course form and no-one jumps off the page more than Davis Love III. The North Carolina native has had a love affair (sorry) with this event, having won it five times and, for once, he's not favourite to win this week (that honour goes to the shaky Ernie Els at 9/1). That's because his best form this year has come in matchplay, but such is his record here that he simply has to go into the staking plan at a tasty bet365 price of 16/1. The final selection goes to Stewart Cink at bet365's 20/1. Cink is a dual-winner here, and played well for tenth place at the Masters (without being in the heat of battle), his third top-15 of the year.

Don't forget, once the event tees off, you'll still be able to get a bet on at bet365 via their In-Play Console found on the homepage. The advice here is to back your selection before they reach the short 14th, as this was the toughest hole last year, averaging almost half a stroke over par.

The Verizon Heritage Three Off The Tee...Jose Maria Olazabal @ 18/1 (19/1 EWO), Davis Love @ 16/1, Stewart Cink @ 20/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

MICKELSON 150/1 TO MATCH TIGER'S SLAM

After his victory in the Masters, bet365 are now quoting Phil Mickelson at 150/1 to go on to complete the Grand Slam, and at 66/1 to emulate Tiger Woods by holding all four Majors at the same time - which he will do if he adds the US Open and the Open to his current collection of the US PGA and Masters. Since an indifferent start to the year by his standards, Mickelson has become the punters pal after hosing-up in Atlanta and now in Augusta, and is sure to attract plenty of support for the US Open, for which he gets a 6/1 quote from bet365. He's also now 10/3 second favourite to win the US Money List, behind favourite Tiger Woods at 8/15.

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» April 5th, 2006

GRAND NATIONAL HIGH FIVE FOR bet365

If recent money at bet365 is anything to go then the 2006 Grand National result will read, Clan Royal first, Garvivonnian second. The latter has been well-backed all week and is now 16/1 from 20/1, while Jonjo O'Neil's runner looks sure to go off favourite – currently 5/1 joint with Hedgehunter. Garvivonnian landed the Becher Chase back in November, the form of which amounts to little, but at least it shows he can handle the National fences. His latest run behind Forget The Past has been franked by the winners' run in the Gold Cup, and he must have sound each way prospects, especially as we're paying out down to five places here at bet365.

bet365 – each way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4.5 on the Grand National!

5/1 ROYAL – THIRD TIME LUCKY ?

As for Clan Royal, it could be a case of third time lucky in the National for the eleven-year-old, but he now looks very short in the betting considering his tendency to pull hard in his races. Besides, it's debatable whether he would have beaten impressive winner Hedgehunter last year if he hadn't been carried out by a loose horse, so there has to be better value further down the bet365 betting list.

BOTTOM WEIGHTS ARE BEST

At this stage, with a maximum field of 40, there are still doubts over whether several fancied horses will get a run. Still, we can back our selections with confidence here at bet365, as we're non-runner no bet on the big race - why go anywhere else for your National bets! Although the race is attracting more quality horses these days, the race traditionally favours horses carrying less than 11 stone (bet365 go 3/1 that the winner carries 11st or above), and the two that stand out near the bottom of the weights are Direct Access (25/1) and Ross Comm (20/1).

The former was last seen when winning the Rehearsal Chase back in December (jumped well), but has a great record fresh and a Grand National winning jockey to boot in Tony Dobbin. He looks sure to run well, while the Sue Smith-trained Ross Comm must also come into the reckoning after bouncing back to form last time out over a barely adequate 2m 4f at Bangor. The gelding was also travelling sweetly when falling at the 16th in the Hennessey in November, and will have the services of the talented Dominic Elsworth in the saddle, who rode a winner for the in-form stable at Kelso on Monday.

Grand National Picks:
Garvivonnian @ 16/1
Ross Comm @ 20/1
Direct Access @ 25/1

GINGER 20/1 FOR NATIONAL GRAND FINALE

As well as offering outstanding each way terms on the big race (1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4.5, worth repeating!), bet365 have also wasted no time in pricing up a whole gamut of 'Race Specials'. They were originally 3/1 that there would be a fifth Irish-trained winner of the race in eight years, but that's been now been cut to 2/1 (still a decent shout when you consider what they've got running!), but you can still have 20/1 about the soon-to-be-retiring Aintree legend Ginger McCain training a fifth National winner. His best shot looks to be the recently acquired Inca Trail who could surprise a few people by running well at the current bet365 price of 50/1. In the same market, the seven-strong Paul Nicholls is a 4/1 shot to train the winner, while you can have 6/1 that all the runners negotiate the first fence. Good luck.

UNITED WORTHY FAVOURITES AT EVENS

Man United v Arsenal

Su Apr 9 – 4.00 pm ko (SS1)

bet365 latest Premiership prices...
Chelsea 1/12, Man United 6/1, Liverpool 150/1

Let's hope we don't see a repeat of the boring 0-0 draw at Highbury, or the Cup Final for that matter, but that's unlikely with both teams bang in form and looking like they could beat anyone right now. Of course, Arsenal have a trip to Europe in midweek to worry about, and the result there could influence this game. If they lose to Juventus, their confidence is bound to be affected, but there's nothing to affect United's confidence right now, and they look a worthy favourite for the game at bet365's Evens (11/4 Arsenal, 11/5 the Draw).

The Red Devils have won eight games on the spin and, with home field advantage in front of 70,000 fans believing their team can still win the Premiership, you have to fancy United to win. It won't be my much, so we'll also be backing them to win by one goal at 11/4 – the 1-0 correct score pays out better at 6/1, while Louis Saha has to be the bet at 4/1 to score first, as he's playing our of his skin right now. Remember, if he scores the last goal in the game instead, bet365 will give you your money back. Also, don't forget to check out bet365's 14 dynamic In-Play markets on this game (kick off 4.00pm).

Live Game Picks:
United to beat Arsenal @ Evens
United to win by one goal @ 11/4
United to win 1-0 @ 6/1 / Saha to score first @ 4/1 – Scorecast pays out at 20/1

MANCINI BACKED AS INTER CRASH OUT

bet365 Next Permanent Newcastle Manager prices...
Martin O'Neil 15/8, Roberto Mancini 9/2, Quique Sanchez Flores 7/1, Sam Allardyce 9/1, Mark Hughes, 12/1, others on bet365 website

bet365's Next Manager markets always create massive interest, and it's not unusual to see several gambles before an appointment is made. The bet365 Next Newcastle Manager market is no exception. The latest gamble has seen Inter boss Roberto Mancini slashed into 9/2 from an earlier 33/1 (one punt of £500 at 6/1), after his team were knocked out of the champions League by Villarreal, and he could well be looking for a job over the summer.

6/4 POMPEY GOING THE RIGHT WAY

bet365 Premiership Relegation prices...
West Brom 1/4, Birmingham 1/2 , Portsmouth 8/13, others on website

The battle to escape relegation from the Premiership is hotting-up, and one of the key games this weekend looks to be Portsmouth (6/4) at home to Blackburn (7/4, 11/5 the draw). Pompey are playing their way to Premiership safety after a third successive win at the weekend, and this is one of five remaining fixtures at home for them. Here at bet365, they've emerged as favourites (8/13) to win a three-horse race with Birmingham (1/2) and West Brom (1/4) for top-flight survival. And they could take all three points from Rovers, who are challenging for European football on their home form alone (lost five straight ways, before winning at Sunderland).

Portsmouth to beat Blackburn @ 6/4

O'LEARY 10/1 TO COME AWAY WITH NO POINTS

Birmingham are making a fight of it too, and will fancy their chances of landing the odds (14/5) at Wigan on Saturday. The Latics have only won one home game in their last six, but that's probably more to do with the quality of their opposition, and Birmingham just don't compare to the likes of West Ham, United, Liverpool and Blackburn. Back Wigan to win at 10/11, and have a few quid on West Brom at 3/1 to beat a Villa side who were woeful against Arsenal last time. Here at bet365, we go 10/1 that Villa take no points from their forthcoming Birmingham derbies, and a defeat here (and against Birmingham on the 16th March), could see Doug Ellis joining an ever-growing list of people wearing “We're not fickle, we just don't like you” badges!

Wigan to beat Birmingham @ 10/11
West Brom to beat Aston Villa @ 3/1

UP TO 60% MORE FOR YOUR HITTING YOUR ACCA THIS WEEKEND

As always, if you're thinking of having an acca on the footy this weekend, make bet365 your choice of bookmaker as they'll give you a), decent odds (bet to 107% on the Premiership, and b), a bonus of up to 60% on your acca if it includes all top-flight teams. This weekend's suggested acca involves United (Evens), Wigan (10/11), Portsmouth (6/4) and West Brom (3/1), and pays out just over £400 for a tenner, including a bet365 bonus of 5%. Good luck.

THE MASTERS – BIG ONE OR BIG FIVE?

Th Apr 13 – 21.00 BST (SS2)

Fr Apr 14 – 21.00 BST (SS2)

Sa Apr 15 – 20.00 BST (SS2)

Su Apr 16 – 20.00 BST (SS2)

Enhanced bet365 odds of 11/4 on Tiger for the Masters anyone? Those odds would have looked very generous a couple of months ago after Tiger's sensational start to the year, but the World No.1 may pull out at any stage to be with his ailing father and, even if he does play, his mind could be elsewhere this week. So, at the odds, he's reluctantly passed over, but we needn't go too far down the bet365 betting list for the winner.

The recent changes to Augusta, which have seen it lengthened to over 7,400 yards, have certainly played into the hands of the big hitters, and the 'Big Five' have one important common factor – length off the tee. Therefore, it's likely that a permutation of Woods, Singh, Mickelson, Goosen and Els will be dominating the leaderboard come Sunday, but that's only what we've come to expect in the Major's. In the last 25, Woods has 15 finishes in the top-10, Els, Singh and Mickelson each has 14, while Goosen has nine top-10's, and the latter gets the outright pick this week at bet365's Enhanced Win Only price of 10/1.

TOP GOOSEN AT 10/1

After a light schedule at the start of the year, the 'Goose' looks to have timed his run to perfection. A superb second in the Players', where he was only beaten by an inspired Ames, was then followed by a solid fourth-place finish at last week's Bell South. His performance there was no surprise as he's a past winner at Sugarloaf in 2002 and, ominously, that was followed by a second-place finish in the Masters. In fact, his four-year Masters record is superb - 3rd, 13th, 13th and 2nd – and more importantly, he's a superb putter (6th in best putting stats for this season), so he looks sure to give you a good run for your money this week.

OLAZABAL SUPERIOR AT 28/1

Yet, although length off the tee is now a massive advantage here, there's still more to playing Augusta than brute strength. The same group of players tend to do well here year in year out, including Jose Maria Olazabal, who's playing some of the best golf of his career right now. The two-time Masters winner arrives here in top form after two runner-up finishes already in 2006 and, providing he can cope with the changes, he has the superior course knowledge to compete once again. He looks a solid each way bet at bet365's 33/1 (1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4.5), and a shoe-in for Top European at 5/1 - an honour he's claimed on three occasions in the past.

Top European – Olazabal @ 5/1

200/1 TAYLOR TO ENJOY HOME ADVANTAGE

If you're looking for a long-shot, then Vaughn Taylor could be the one at a massive 200/1 with bet365. He hits it miles, he's a very useful putter, and is a Georgia resident, so will enjoy home advantage this week. Ok, he's unlikely to be wearing the green jacket come Sunday, but he's certainly worth a bet at 100/1 in bet365's Top American market, as he might not even have to finish in the frame for you to collect. He also reached a land-mark birthday of 30 on March 9th, and that was promptly followed by his best finish in a full-field event this year (8th at the Players'), and there could be better to come.

Top American – Vaughn Taylor @ 100/1

BETTING AUGUSTA IN-PLAY

Of course, some of you may wish to wait until after the first round (or even later) to see who's playing well before placing your bets, and there's a certain logic to that policy. This brutal course is certainly not one on which you can play catch-up so, when placing your bets via our Live In-Play Console, it's worth bearing this in mind. Although its 21 years since the first round leader came through to triumph, the winner has come from the last group out in the final round for the last 15 years. Also, betting In-Play demands that you remember that, on the back nine, the two par five's at the 13th and 15th have always yielded plenty of birdies and eagles, so players are generally best backed before they play these holes.

The Masters Three Off The Tee … Retief Goosen @ 10/1 (EWO), Jose Maria Olazabal @ 28/1, Vaughn Taylor @ 200/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» April 6th, 2006

THE MASTERS – BIG ONE OR BIG FIVE?

Th Apr 6 – 4:00 pm EST (USA)

Fr Apr 7 – 4:00 pm EST (USA)

Sa Apr 8 – 3:30 pm EST (CBS)

Su Apr 9 – 2:30 pm EST (CBS)

Enhanced bet365 odds of 11/4 on Tiger for the Masters anyone? Those odds would have looked very generous a couple of months ago after Tiger's sensational start to the year, but the World No.1 may pull out at any stage to be with his ailing father and, even if he does play, his mind could be elsewhere this week. So, at the odds, he's reluctantly passed over, but we needn't go too far down the bet365 betting list for the winner.

The recent changes to Augusta, which have seen it lengthened to over 7,400 yards, have certainly played into the hands of the big hitters, and the 'Big Five' have one important common factor – length off the tee. Therefore, it's likely that a permutation of Woods, Singh, Mickelson, Goosen and Els will be dominating the leader board come Sunday, but that's only what we've come to expect in the Majors. In the last 25, Woods has 15 finishes in the top-10, Els, Singh and Mickelson each has 14, while Goosen has nine top-10's, and the latter gets the outright pick this week at bet365's Enhanced Win Only price of 10/1.

TOP GOOSEN AT 10/1

After a light schedule at the start of the year, the 'Goose' looks to have timed his run to perfection. A superb second in the Players', where he was only beaten by an inspired Ames, was then followed by a solid fourth-place finish at last week's Bell South. His performance there was no surprise as he's a past winner at Sugarloaf in 2002 and, ominously, that was followed by a second-place finish in the Masters. In fact, his four-year Masters record is superb - 3rd, 13th, 13th and 2nd – and more importantly, he's a superb putter (6th in best putting stats for this season), so he looks sure to give you a good run for your money this week.

OLAZABAL SUPERIOR AT 28/1

Yet, although length off the tee is now a massive advantage here, there's still more to playing Augusta than brute strength. The same group of players tend to do well here year in year out, including Jose Maria Olazabal, who's playing some of the best golf of his career right now. The two-time Masters winner arrives here in top form after two runner-up finishes already in 2006 and, providing he can cope with the changes, he has the superior course knowledge to compete once again. He looks a solid each way bet at bet365's 33/1 (1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4.5), and a shoe-in for Top European at 5/1 - an honour he's claimed on three occasions in the past.

Top European – Olazabal @ 5/1

200/1 TAYLOR TO ENJOY HOME ADVANTAGE

If you're looking for a long-shot, then Vaughn Taylor could be the one at a massive 200/1 with bet365. He hits it miles, he's a very useful putter, and is a Georgia resident, so will enjoy home advantage this week. Ok, he's unlikely to be wearing the green jacket come Sunday, but he's certainly worth a bet at 100/1 in bet365's Top American market, as he might not even have to finish in the frame for you to collect. He also reached a land-mark birthday of 30 on March 9th, and that was promptly followed by his best finish in a full-field event this year (8th at the Players'), and there could be better to come.

Top American – Vaughn Taylor @ 100/1

BETTING AUGUSTA IN-PLAY

Of course, some of you may wish to wait until after the first round (or even later) to see who's playing well before placing your bets, and there's a certain logic to that policy. This brutal course is certainly not one on which you can play catch-up so, when placing your bets via our Live In-Play Console, it's worth bearing this in mind. Although its 21 years since the first round leader came through to triumph, the winner has come from the last group out in the final round for the last 15 years. Also, betting In-Play demands that you remember that, on the back nine, the two par five's at the 13th and 15th have always yielded plenty of birdies and eagles, so players are generally best backed before they play these holes.

The Masters Three Off The Tee... Retief Goosen @ 10/1 (EWO), Jose Maria Olazabal @ 28/1, Vaughn Taylor @ 200/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

JUNIOR BACK ON TRACK AT 10/1

Samsung Radio Shack 500, Texas Motor Speedway

Su Apr 9 – 1:30 pm EST (FOX)

bet365 latest Samsung Radio Shack 500 prices...
Kasey Kahne 11/2, Greg Biffle 6/1, Jimmie Johnson, Matt Kenseth, Carl Edwards 8/1, Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Tony Stewart 10/1, Dale Earnhardt Jr 12/1 others on bet365 website

After two consecutive weeks of short track racing, the Nextel Cup Series travels to the high-speed, 1.5 mile Texas Motor Speedway. Along with Atlanta, the Fort Worth track sees some of the fastest speeds in the Series. Kasey Kahne won that race in Atlanta, and he must be top of any short-list of drivers to win this week. The two tracks are very similar in size, distance, banking and width. However, picking the winner this week is not that simple, as there is an even bigger (like most things in Texas) pool of candidates to win this week, so we'd be looking for bigger odds than the current 11/2 on Kahne.

Fortunately, at bet365, there are plenty of possible winners that fall into the 10/1 and over price range, including Dale Earnhardt Jr, who came out of the two-race short track schedule with respectable finishes of 4th and 11th. Junior is now sixth in the standings, just 50 points out of second place, and has had very good success at Texas, where he won his first race Cup race in 2000. He was also third in Atlanta this season, so he looks a good each-way bet at bet365's 12/1.

Mark Martin was one place ahead of Junior in Atlanta, and finished second in the last Texas race, so his chances are at least on a par with the rest of his Roush team-mates - Matt Kenseth (8/1), Greg Biffle (6/1), and Carl Edwards (8/1) – but his odds are more generous. A bigger long shot this week could be Robby Gordon, after his great run at Atlanta. As the checkered flag waved, the necessary fuel stop turned a potential victory into a 28th-place finish, which was hardly a reflection of his commanding performance displayed throughout the 500-mile event. He was a 125/1 shot that week and, while those sort of odds have gone, the 50/1 with bet365 looks worth taking.

Nigel's Checkered Flag … Dale Earnhardt Jr @ 12/1 & Robby Gordon @ 50/1 (Each-way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4)

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times EST (unless otherwise noted) and are subject to change. Check local listings.

» March 29th, 2006

SHOW NO MERCY WITH REDS AT A TASTY 8/15

WBA v Liverpool

Sa Apr 1 – 5.15 pm ko (PremPlus)

If West Brom are to repeat last season's great escape, it must start here and now at the Hawthorns, but they can expect no mercy from Liverpool. The Reds have got Champions League football to secure for next season and, now that they've rediscovered their goal scoring touch, they can exploit any weaknesses in the Albion defence – and there are plenty.

Liverpool's seven-goal haul against Birmingham last week contrasts sharply with the Baggies recent draw against the same side, and another hatful could be on the cards here. Back the Reds with confidence at bet365's 8/15 and fill up on the 'Over' goals at a standout 21/20. Once the game kicks off, don't forget to check out our live markets (up to 14 available) via the In-Play Console on the bet365 homepage.

Live Game Picks:
Liverpool @ 8/15
Over 2.5 Goals @ 21/20

BACK CHELSEA CLEAN SHEET AT 4/6

Liverpool go straight into our Premiership Acca this weekend, along with Chelsea to beat Birmingham at 3/10. That may be a no-brainer as far as the 90 minute market goes, but there are other less obvious betting opportunities on the clash here at bet365. After a recent 7-0 thrashing, everyone will be expecting the floodgates to open at St Andrews, but only one of the Birmingham's six Premiership home games since the turn of the year have produced more than two goals, while Chelsea don't score many on their travels. Only twice this season have they scored more than two goals, so there's more than a smidgeon of value in bet365's 'Under' price of 19/20. A safer bet is Chelsea to keep a clean sheet at 4/6, as Birmingham haven't scored in five of their last six meetings with Chelsea. The match kicks off at 12.45 (live on Sky Prem Plus), so bet365's live In-Play Console is well worth checking out.

Chelsea to keep a clean sheet @ 4/6 & Under 2.5 Goals @ 19/20

VILLA COULD SURPRISE AT 9/1

Everton's home game against Sunderland should be easy pickings for the Toffees. They may have been exposed by a 10-man Liverpool at Anfield, but they're unbeaten in four matches at Goodison Park. Take the 4/11 here at bet365, but be wary of backing Arsenal at 2/7 to beat Aston Villa. The Gunners record in domestic games close to Champions League games is poor, and Villa might come away from Highbury with one of their best results of the season – 9/1 to win, 4/1 to draw.

POMPEY ARE UP FOR IT AT 10/3

There are a couple of away teams that may pull off surprises at tasty prices this weekend, starting with Middlesbrough (12/5) at Man City. Premiership safety still isn't totally certain for Boro after Pompey's return to form, but one more win should do it, and that can come at the expense of their opponents. Stuart Pearce's side don't have much left to play for this season, and a pumped up Boro could be too good for them. Meanwhile, Portsmouth are finally looking serious about avoiding relegation, and that extra edge will make all the difference against a Fulham side who are going nowhere fast. They look a value bet at bet365's 10/3 to take all three points at Craven Cottage. We'll perm any one from the two in an Acca this weekend, knowing we're assured of some extra value with bet365's Premiership Bonus, which pays up to 60% more on such bets every weekend.

Premiership Acca: Middlesbrough / Portsmouth (perm 1 from 2); Liverpool, Chelsea and Everton – best return £309.19 (£25 stake), including a bet365 bonus of 5%

FREE BETS A FEATURE AT bet365

Last week's Lincoln tip, Cesare, was rather disappointing in the end, but neither the track nor the ground worked in his favour, so he's not one to give up on yet. Hopefully we'll return to winning ways this weekend and bag a free bet (or two) here at bet365, courtesy of their brand new racing offer. Normally, we'd have to wait until the Channel 4 cameras were in action to take advantage of bet365's 4/1 Offer, but we've now extended this to include two Feature races every day of the week. To take advantage, simply back a winner at 4/1 or more in a bet365 Feature race and we'll give you a free bet to the same stake on the next bet365 Feature Race.

KEEP HANNON'S ASSET ON YOUR SIDE

The best advice for the early weeks of the new flat season is to follow the trainers in form. Some trainers will have their horses fitter than others, and Richard Hannon is well-known for dealing with more forward types and, after some good results on the All-Weather recently, looks sure to get his turf campaign off to a flyer. During the past week, he's saddled three winners plus as many placed, and he could have the answer to Saturday's Easter Stakes (3.50) with his colt Asset. Hannon has a great record in this early season 'Classic' trial, and his runner looks to have all the credentials to win here after a creditable third to the top-class Opera Cape on his final appearance as a juvenile last year.

BACK RAJEEM TO RETURN IN TOP FORM

Clive Brittain is another trainer whose win-to-run ratio is better at this time of year, and his hat-trick seeking Rajeem could well play a leading role on her return to action in the earlier Masaka Stakes (2.45). She was last seen finishing strongly over this 1m trip at Newmarket last backend. The race is one of six shown live on Channel 4, so bet365 customers can take advantage of our 4/1 Offer, while they can also watch the race on their PC by betting £5 and clicking on the 'Live Stream' next to the race.

Weekend Flat Picks: Asset (3.50 Kempton) & Rajeem (2.45 Kempton)

LOG ON TO ROSS COMM FOR NATIONAL GLORY AT bet365'S 25/1

Not forgetting the jumps action this weekend and there's a cracking card at Uttoxeter where Vaughan in the novice hurdle and Wellbeing in the concluding handicap are the two main fancies. However, we've already got one eye on next week's Aintree meeting which gets under way on Thursday. Look out for bet365's two Feature Races each day, and check back next week for a full betting preview on the big race itself. If you're looking for an ante-post bet now, then Sue Smith's Ross Comm looks interesting at the current price of 25/1, especially as we're paying out on FIVE places! The grey is lightly raced for a ten-year-old and is on the upgrade judged on his win over a barely adequate 2m 4f at Bangor last Saturday. He looks to have a handy weight too off just 10st 5lb and, with bet365's non-runner no bet policy, you've also got the insurance that if he doesn't run for any reason, you'll get your money back.

Grand National Pick: Ross Comm @ 25/1 – Non-Runner No Bet (Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5)

ROLLINS IS SWEET AT 40/1 FOR SUGARLOAF

Bell South Classic

Th Mar 30 – 22.00 BST (SS2)

Fr Mar 31 – 22.00 BST (SS2)

Sa Apr 1 – 21.00 BST (SS2)

Su Apr 2 – 20.00 BST (SS2)

This weekend, we'll be hoping to win some betting money for next week's Masters by finding the winner of the Bell South Classic. Hopefully, that should be easier than finding last week's 'shock' winner, Stephen Ames, who was a 100/1 shot pre-tournament and surprisingly easy to back In-Play here at bet365, until he turned the event into a procession in the final round.

He takes a well-earned break, but there's no such luxury for our main selection this week, John Rollins, who can be backed at a tasty 40/1 here at bet365. While last week's track at Sawgrass demanded accuracy off the tee, Sugarloaf, this week's port of call, is more suited to long hitters, and Rollins scores heavily there. He can also point to some good course form having finished top-six in 2002 and 2003, while his recent outings suggest that he's about to enter the winner's enclosure again. An eighth place a Sawgrass was his fourth good showing of the year, after a 4th at Torrey Pines, 5th in the Nissan and 15th at Scottsdale.

He's bound to put up a good show this week, and I've also got a sneaky feeling for Tag Ridings at a massive bet365 price of 100/1. We can ignore his last two missed cuts as they were at Bay Hill and the Players', and instead concentrate on his excellent 6th here last year (14th in 2004), and a superb 5th place finish at Doral this season. We'll also be having a saver on Retief Goosen at 15/2. While he'll no doubt have one eye on the Masters, it was only an inspired Ames that prevented him from winning last week and, with his game in such good nick, he'll be wishing that Augusta was this week. A good performance here will see his odds for the Masters trimmed and, as his record in the first Major of the year is so good, we'll also be backing him at 14/1 with bet365 to win there too. Check back next week for a full betting preview of the Masters.

Bell South Classic Three Off The Tee... John Rollins @ 40/1, Tag Ridings 100/1, Retief Goosen 15/2. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» March 30th, 2006

GEORGE MASON 6/1 TO WIN THE WHOLE SHOOTIN' MATCH

This Saturday will see an enormous interest in the NCAA Final Four games. First up, George Mason will look to keep their Cinderella-story alive by advancing to the final as a No.11 ranked school against the powerful Florida team. If you watched George Mason beat Michigan State and North Carolina during the first week of the NCAA tournament, then nothing the Patriots did in Week 2 would have surprised you, including their giant-killing act over Connecticut. Now they are through to the one of the most wide open Final Four fields ever and, as none of the other semi finalists are nearly as imposing as UConn, who's to say they can't go all the way at the bet365 price of 6/1.

They'll be comfortable with their underdog tag for this Saturday's game against Florida, for which bet365 have Florida currently favoured by six points, while the Total Points has been set at 132.5 points. The bet365 money line has the Gators at 10/27, with the Patriots at 11/5. The game is due to start at 4.05pm ET, and we'll have live betting via our In-Play Console found on the homepage.

Live Game Pick: George Mason (+6.0) @ 10/11

bet365 CUSTOMERS SOLD ON TIGERS TOURNEY RUN

bet365's NCAA Men's Championship prices...
Florida 6/4, LSU 2/1, UCLA 3/1, George Mason 6/1

In the second game, two powerhouse schools clash, with both UCLA and LSU coming off big wins against No.1 seeds. UCLA beat Memphis in the Sweet Sixteen, while LSU brushed aside the mighty Duke in the round of 32 before narrowly beating Texas in OT. Those wins by the Tigers are more impressive than anything that UCLA has achieved in the competition, and they're a young team that just keeps getting better.

bet365 customers certainly agree, as we've seen a lot of early money for the Tigers, and the line for this game now has them favoured by 2 points, with the Total Points trading low at 121.5. The bet365 money line has the Tigers at 20/29, with the Bruins at 5/4. Again, we'll have live betting on this exciting match-up, so join us here at bet365 when the game starts at 8.45pm ET.

Live Game Pick: LSU (-2.0) @ 20/23

AVOID MARCH SADNESS – PLACE YOUR PARLAYS WITH bet365!

A $50 parlay on our 2 picks this weekend pays out $187.38, which includes a bet365 bonus of 5%. Whether you're betting on NCAAB or NBA, you're assured of getting more back with the bet365 Parlay Bonus, which pays out up to 50% more on successful parlays on the following 6 markets:
Point Spread, Game Total, First Half Point Spread, Second Half Point Spread, First Half Total, Second Half Total.

KASEY KAHNE LOOKS BEST WITH bet365 AT 14/1

DirecTV 500, Martinsville Speedway

Su Apr 2 – 1:30 pm EST (FOX)

bet365 latest DirecTV 500 prices...
Jeff Gordon 4/1, Jimmie Johnson 9/2, Kurt Busch 13/2, Tony Stewart 7/1, Matt Kenseth 9/1, Greg Biffle, Kevin Harvick 12/1, others on bet365 website (Each-way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4)

The NASCAR Nextel Cup Series heads to Virginia this Sunday, as drivers go head-to-head from Martinsville Speedway in the DirecTV 500. Like Bristol last week, Martinsville is another short track event where the cars must go slower and, as a result, the drivers feel more comfortable bumping into each other around the track. Last week, Kurt Busch used a bump on Matt Kenseth to race his way into the lead with four laps to go on Sunday and win the Food City 500. This week, there is even more emphasis on braking, so driver skill makes an even bigger difference to where the car ends up.

And, no driver has driven this track better in recent years than Jeff Gordon, and he's 4/1 favorite here a bet365 to win his fifth Martinsville race in seven years. Over his career, he's had twenty top-10 finishes here (14 top-5 finishes), and he's the one driver in the field who could still go close to winning in a lesser car than what he's got. He has to be top of any shortlist of drivers to win this week, but his team mate Jimmie Johnson (9/2) must also go close.

Johnson has finished no worse than 9th in his last seven races here and, after an awful run at Bristol that saw him drop into third place in the points, he should be primed to get things going again this week. Of the other current drivers, only Gibbs team mates Tony Stewart (7/1) and Bobby Labonte (33/1), Dale Jarrett (50/1), and Mark Martin (14/1) can boast of wins here, which shows just how good Jeff Gordon has been. If there is going to be a 'shock' winner, then Kasey Kahne could be the one at a standout bet365 price of 14/1. Kahne finished second in this race last year and, after five races this season, is in second place in the points standings. He's looking a much better driver of late and will be well up to the task of winning his second race of the season.

Nigel's Checkered Flag...Kasey Kahne @ 14/1

ROLLINS IS SWEET AT bet365's 40/1 FOR SUGARLOAF

Th Mar 30 – 4:00 pm EST (USA)

Fr Mar 31 – 4:00 pm EST (USA)

Sa Apr 1 – 3:00 pm EST (NBC)

Su Apr 2 – 3:00 pm EST (NBC)

This weekend, we'll be hoping to win some betting money for next week's Masters by finding the winner of the Bell South Classic. Hopefully, that should be easier than finding last week's 'shock' winner, Stephen Ames, who was a 100/1 shot pre-tournament and surprisingly easy to back In-Play here at bet365, until he turned the event into a procession in the final round.

He takes a well-earned break, but there's no such luxury for our main selection this week, John Rollins, who can be backed at a tasty 40/1 here at bet365. While last week's track at Sawgrass demanded accuracy off the tee, Sugarloaf, this week's port of call, is more suited to long hitters, and Rollins scores heavily there. He can also point to some good course form having finished top-six in 2002 and 2003, while his recent outings suggest that he's about to enter the winner's enclosure again. An eighth place a Sawgrass was his fourth good showing of the year, after a 4th at Torrey Pines, 5th in the Nissan and 15th at Scottsdale.

He's bound to put up a good show this week, and I've also got a sneaky feeling for Tag Ridings at a massive bet365 price of 100/1. We can ignore his last two missed cuts as they were at Bay Hill and the Players', and instead concentrate on his excellent 6th here last year (14th in 2004), and a superb 5th place finish at Doral this season. We'll also be having a saver on Retief Goosen at 15/2. While he'll no doubt have one eye on the Masters, it was only an inspired Ames that prevented him from winning last week and, with his game in such good nick, he'll be wishing that Augusta was this week. A good performance here will see his odds for the Masters trimmed and, as his record in the first Major of the year is so good, we'll also be backing him at 14/1 with bet365 to win there too. Check back next week for a full betting preview of the Masters.

Bell South Classic Three Off The Tee … John Rollins @ 40/1, Tag Ridings 100/1, Retief Goosen 15/2. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times EST (unless otherwise noted) and are subject to change. Check local listings.

» March 22nd, 2006

EVERTON TO MAKE A POINT AT 13/5

Liverpool v Everton

Sa Mar 25 – 12.45 pm ko (PremPlus)

The pick of this weekend's Premiership football has to be the Merseyside derby, especially as both teams are playing so well right now. Liverpool's strikers have certainly found their scoring boots of late, but they could find Everton an altogether different proposition to the likes of Fulham and Birmingham. Everton have also hit form of late, having scored nine goals in the last three games, and they'll fancy their chances of nicking a goal or two. A win at 5/1 might be too much to ask from David Moye's side, but they can certainly come away with the point at 13/5 (Liverpool can be backed at 4/7). Three of the last four meetings between these two have seen them share the spoils, which is further encouragement for the bet.

Live Game Pick: Draw @ 13/5

TITLE CHASE BACK ON FOR 12/1 UNITED?

bet365's latest Premiership betting...
Chelsea 1/66, Man United 12/1 (2/9 'Without Chelsea')

A few weeks ago, it would have been inconceivable to think that Chelsea were not going to be champions again, but the signs are there that the Blues have hit the wall, having dropped 10 points from 24. On the other hand, United have won their last five to reduce the gap to 12 points and, perhaps crucially, they have a game in hand on the champions, whom they play in the penultimate game of the season. In fact, Newcastle fans will not have to be reminded that United have overhauled a 12-point deficit to win the title before, and a visit from 16/1 Birmingham this weekend is perfect for them.

Birmingham have managed just two away wins all season, and they were against West Brom and Sunderland. The Red Devils have done even better against teams now in the bottom eight and, more interestingly for betting purposes, have nailed the win / win double result on four occasions. They've also scored at least two in each of their last five games, so a punt on a scoreline of 2-0 or 3-0 looks about right.

United / United Double Result @ 2/5 & United to win 2-0 or 3-0 @ 5/1 or 6/1

SAHA SO GOOD AT 3/1

Ruud van Nistelrooy heads our First Goalscorer market on the game at 11/4, but his future at the club has come under scrutiny in recent weeks. Here at bet365, he's been well-backed to start next season at AC Milan (5/2 from 7/2), and he's not even favourite to be the top goalscorer at the club next season. That honour goes to Wayne Rooney at 5/4, closely followed by Louis Saha at 11/8, with the Dutchman at 3/1. Saha's well-taken double against Birmingham took the Frenchman's tally for a season that only started in November to 13 and, in light of that, he's a 3/1 shot to net first this weekend – money back if he scores the last goal in the game instead!

HAIL CESARE AT 7/1

The flat turf season gets under way this week and, for punters, that can only mean one thing – the annual cavalry charge that is the Lincoln Handicap. This year's race has been transferred from its usual Doncaster home to Redcar, and that might be a blessing as the effect of the draw is likely to be less pronounced here, with the majority of the field likely to tank it up the centre of the course.

With the draw out of the equation, one of the best-backed horses in recent days has been the Michael Stoute-trained King's Majesty, who is now bet365's 5/1 favourite. That's not surprising as this one looks well-handicapped and progressive and, as he needs a strong pace, should have the race run to suit. He must go well, but I just prefer the chances of Cesare who can still be backed at 7/1 with bet365. There's no doubt he's been laid out for this race, and we should not be concerned that he's not run since finishing third in a hot handicap at 'Glorious' Goodwood from a terrible draw, as he has run well after a long absence before.

GIFT IS DIVINE EACH WAY AT 16/1

The only problem with backing him now is that his trainer, James Fanshawe, also has him entered in the Doncaster Mile on Friday. That race looks less competitive than the Lincoln and, should he run there instead, we should take the hint. However, in is absence, Divine Gift looks a solid each-way alternative at a juicy 16/1 with bet365. This one was eighth in the race last year and, now under the care of Kevin Ryan, ran an excellent race to be second in the recent Lincoln 'trial' at Lingfield earlier this month. The race is live on Channel 4, but don't worry If you can't get to the TV as you can always watch the race live here at bet365. Just bet £5 and click on the 'Live Stream' next to the race.

Lincoln Handicap Picks: Cesare @ 7/1 & Divine Gift @ 16/1 (Each-way)

FREE BETS ON CHANNEL 4

Check back next week for news of a brand new racing offer from bet365, which includes free bets every day of the week, even when there's no racing on TV. However, you don't have to wait until then to win some free bets with our generous Channel 4/1 Offer. For example, the Lincoln is due off at 3.10 and, with the winner almost certain to go off at 4/1 or bigger, bet365 customers can back the winner and take advantage of a free bet to the same stake (up to £50) on the next live Channel 4 race – the 3.25 race from Newbury.

PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP – COOL HAND LUKE IS BIG AT 20/1

Th Mar 23 – 17.00 BST (SS2)

Fr Mar 25 – 17.00 BST (SS2)

Sa Mar 26 – 19.00 BST (SS2)

Su Mar 26 – 19.30 BST (SS2)

The US Tour takes a big step-up in class this week, as the top golfers in the world tee up for the players Championship from Sawgrass, widely known as the 5th Major. Fortunately for golf fans (and punters), the event gets plenty of TV coverage, and perhaps as a result, there's also plenty of betting opportunities here at bet365, including once the players tee off via our Live In-Play Console.

Naturally, when looking for the winner, the first place to look is at the head of the betting, but there are good grounds for avoiding the bigger names this week. Tiger may have won three times this year, but he's not playing at his best right now, and nor are the likes of Els, Mickelson and Goosen. Of the 'top five', the one most likely to play his game this week is Vijay Singh, but his putting woes continue to make him opposable, so the value lies further down the bet365 betting list.

The omens are good for a European win this week and, in particular, Luke Donald, who looks to have all the credentials to win at the stand-out bet365 price of 20/1 (21/1 Enhanced Win Only). The worry when supporting Donald is that he doesn't have the length off the tee, but that's no handicap on this relatively short course (just over 7,000 yards), which places more emphasis on accuracy off the tee. Just look at last years' winner – Fred Funk – one of the shortest hitters on tour, but also one of the most accurate. He also dispelled any doubts about is temperament by leading from the front to land the Honda Classic a fortnight ago, and lost nothing in defeat when second here last year. The time is right for Donald to step another level his week, closely followed by Padraig Harrington and Robert Allenby.

Harrington has to be on any short-list this week. He has a cracking record in this event, with two runner-up spots in 2003 and 2004, and this year he's been a quarter-finalist in the Matchplay, 26th at Doral and 16th in the Honda. He looks to be coming into form just at the right time, as is Allenby who was 4th last week at Bay Hill, and fourth here in 2003.

LEHMAN IS BEST OF THE YANKS AT 40/1

Even better value can be found in bet365's speciality markets. The same names generally appear in the top-20 of the leaderboard year after year and, while they're unlikely to come up trumps in the outright market, they're going to give us a great run for our money in the 'Top American' market. In particular, Tom Lehman and Jerry Kelly stand out at 40/1 and 50/1 respectively. Lehman has an outstanding record here, including tied for second last year and, arguably, he's in better form this time around. Kelly is another course specialist with three top-11 finishes in five years, so they must both be worth an interest this week.

Players Championship Three Off The Tee...Luke Donald @ 20/1, Padraig Harrington 33/1, Robert Allenby 50/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» March 23rd, 2006

ALL FOUR NO.1’s ALIVE, FOR NOW

bet365’s NCAA Men’s Championship prices...
Connecticut 9/4, Duke 9/2, Villanova 7/1, Memphis 8/1, Boston College 9/1, UCLA, Florida 10/1, others on bet365 website

There have been only four instances when all four No. 1 seeds even reached the Elite Eight, never mind the Final Four, so the odds are heavily stacked Duke, Connecticut, Villanova and Memphis advancing en masse to Indy. Still, none of the four have relinquished the favorite’s role in their respective region so, going into the Sweet 16 stage, it’s conceivable that all four could make it. However, there is plenty of competition blocking their path. Follow (and bet) on all the live action via bet365’s ‘In-Play Console’, where the odds are constantly updating in real time.

On paper, none has it easier than bet365’s outright favorites, Connecticut (9/4). The Huskies don't have anyone seeded higher than fifth left between them and the Final Four. On the other hand, Villanova (7/1) look to have the toughest assignment. Should they beat Boston College, they’ll be up against either Florida or Georgetown. Memphis (8/1) won their first two games by the most points (32), and they’re solid favorites with bet365 to reach the last eight and face either No.2 seed UCLA or No.3 Georgetown, where anything can happen. Duke (9/2) always makes the Sweet 16, but don’t always make the Final Four, not even as a No.1 seed. Seven times in the previous eight tournaments, Duke has been top seed going into a regional, and it has come up short four times. History tells us that some combination of these top four seeds is going down short of Indy.

AVOID MARCH SADNESS – PLACE YOUR PARLAYS WITH bet365!

Why go anywhere else for your March Madness parlay wagers, as you’re assured of getting more back with the bet365 Parlay Bonus. Each week, we pay out up to 50% more on successful NBA & NCAAB parlays on the following 6 markets:
Point Spread, Game Total, First Half Point Spread, Second Half Point Spread, First Half Total, Second Half Total.

PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP – COOL HAND LUKE IS BIG AT bet365’s 20/1

Th Mar 23 – 12:00 pm ET (ESPN)

Fr Mar 24 – 12:00 pm ET (NBC)

Sa Mar 25 – 2:00 pm ET (NBC)

Su Mar 26 – 1:30 pm ET (NBC)

The US Tour takes a big step-up in class this week, as the top golfers in the world tee up for the players Championship from Sawgrass, widely known as the 5th Major. Fortunately for golf fans (and punters), the event gets plenty of TV coverage, and perhaps as a result, there’s also plenty of betting opportunities here at bet365, including once the players tee off via our Live In-Play Console.

Naturally, when looking for the winner, the first place to look is at the head of the betting, but there are good grounds for avoiding the bigger names this week. Tiger may have won three times this year, but he’s not playing at his best right now, and nor are the likes of Els, Mickelson and Goosen. Of the ‘top five’, the one most likely to play his game this week is Vijay Singh, but his putting woes continue to make him opposable, so the value lies further down the bet365 betting list.

The omens are good for a European win this week and, in particular, Luke Donald, who looks to have all the credentials to win at the stand-out bet365 price of 20/1. The worry when supporting Donald is that he doesn’t have the length off the tee, but that’s no handicap on this relatively short course (just over 7,000 yards), which places more emphasis on accuracy off the tee. Just look at last years’ winner – Fred Funk – one of the shortest hitters on tour, but also one of the most accurate. He also dispelled any doubts about is temperament by leading from the front to land the Honda Classic a fortnight ago, and lost nothing in defeat when second here last year. The time is right for Donald to step another level his week, closely followed by Padraig Harrington and Robert Allenby.

Harrington has to be on any short-list this week. He has a cracking record in this event, with two runner-up spots in 2003 and 2004, and this year he’s been a quarter-finalist in the Matchplay, 26th at Doral and 16th in the Honda. He looks to be coming into form just at the right time, as is Allenby who was 4th last week at Bay Hill, and fourth here in 2003.

LEHMAN IS BEST OF THE YANKS AT 40/1

Even better value can be found in bet365’s speciality markets. The same names generally appear in the top-20 of the leaderboard year after year and, while they’re unlikely to come up trumps in the outright market, they’re going to give us a great run for our money in the ‘Top American’ market. In particular, Tom Lehman and Jerry Kelly stand out at 40/1 and 50/1 respectively. Lehman has an outstanding record here, including tied for second last year and, arguably, he’s in better form this time around. Kelly is another course specialist with three top-11 finishes in five years, so they must both be worth an interest this week.

Players Championship Three Off The Tee … Luke Donald @ 20/1, Padraig Harrington 33/1, Robert Allenby 50/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

12/1 BURTON BACK IN THE SADDLE

Ford City 500, Bristol Motor Speedway

Su Mar 26 – 1:30 pm ET (FOX)

bet365 latest Ford City 500 prices...
Greg Biffle 4/1, Matt Kenseth 9/2, Kurt Busch 15/2, Jeff Gordon 8/1, Tony Stewart 9/1, Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Burton 12/1, others on bet365 website (Each-way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4)

A ticket to see Bristol races is like none other for NASCAR fans, and this weekend over 160,000 of them will cram into the Thunder Valley track in Tennessee for the spectacle that is the Ford City 500. It’s a special race, and it takes a special sort of driver to win here. Nice guys needn’t turn up, as there’s sure to be plenty of side-by-side racing, plenty of mangled sheet metal, and even more frayed tempers by the end of the weekend.

They don’t come much tougher than Kevin Harvick (12/1), and he finally came good in this race last year after starting from 43rd on the grid. However, that was after several near misses at Bristol, and he might not be the best bet to win this week. But watch out for his Childress team-mate Jeff Burton, whose strong run at the end of last year came under the fall lights at Bristol. That run has rolled into this year, and he finally ended his winning drought by taking the Busch race at Atlanta last week. At bet35’s 12/1, he looks a great each way shot this week.

However, there is a duo from another organization that needs looking at this week, because they probably should have swept the season here last year. Matt Kenseth (9/2) dominated the fall race to give car owner Jack Roush his seventh win at Bristol, while Greg Biffle (4/1) had some failed strategy in the late stages of the spring race to allow Harvick the win. Biffle finished ninth in the end, and went on to finish third in the fall race, so he’s a worthy favorite to win this week. Best of the bet365 long -shots could be Kenny Schrader at a massive 66/1 here at bet365. His No.21 Wood Brothers Ford has always performed well at Bristol.

Nigel's Checkered Flag...Jeff Burton @ 12/1

COWBOYS GAMBLE ON OWENS SEES THEM CUT TO 20/1 FOR SUPER BOWL

bet365 Super Bowl 2007 prices...
Indianapolis 6/1, New England 8/1, Denver, Pittsburgh 10/1, Seattle, Kansas 12/1, others on bet365 website

The Dallas Cowboys signed controversial wide receiver Terrell Owens to a three year contract on Saturday, and that has had a positive effect on their Super Bowl odds here at bet365. We’ve cut them into 16/1 (from 25/1) to be champions in 2007, while the Philadelphia Eagles (who unloaded Owens), have had their odds drop from 14/1 to 20/1. Not surprisingly, the signing of outspoken Terrell Owens has sparked conversation throughout the NFL as to whether the veteran wide receiver will elevate the Cowboys' offense or burden them with his antics. However, Dallas’ HC Bill Parcell’s is renowned for his ability to communicate with players and, if he can keep TO’s ego in check, the Cowboys could well make a serious run on the title this coming season.

In other betting moves here at bet365, the Cleveland Browns have had their odds cut to 66/1 form 125/1, after they too dipped their toe quite deeply into Free Agency, signing two-time Pro Bowler and three-time Super Bowl champion Willie McGinest to a three year contract. The bet365 outright market is still headed by the Indianapolis Colts at 6/1, who are ahead of Pittsburgh (10/1) despite being routed by the Steelers in the playoffs.

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times EST (unless otherwise noted) and are subject to change. Check local listings.

» March 15th, 2006

KASBAH CAN ROCK AT 6/1

Last week, I put up L'Ami at 12/1 for the Gold Cup, and Kasbah Bliss at 9/1 for the Triumph Hurdle. Since then, nothing has happened to change my mind, and they're now trading at 10/1 and 6/1 respectively – hope you are on! The duo are both trained in France by Francois Doumen, who has been saying all along that his horses have been held up by frozen gallops, so it was a slight surprise to see them run so well at Sandown last time out.

It was a fine weight-carrying performance by L'Ami in the Racing Post Chase, and it's worth remembering that he was also a fine second to Trabolgan in the Hennessy, and that one would have gone off a clear favourite for the Gold Cup had he not succumbed to injury. He'll be staying on when others have cried enough, as will Kasbah Bliss, who powered home up the Sandown hill to win the Adonis Hurdle, a race that has thrown up the winner of the Triumph Hurdle on more than one occasion. The Gallic double still pays out at a massive 76/1 for the win here at bet365!

Plus, there's no need to worry if you're stuck in the office or can't get to a TV, you can watch the progress of your free bets (and all your Festival bets) live here at bet365. Just bet £5 and click on the live stream next to the race.

Cheltenham Ante Post Double (already advised): L'Ami @ 12/1 (Gold Cup) & Kasbah Bliss @ 9/1 (Triumph Hurdle)

FREE CHELTENHAM BETS ALL WEEK

The winner of this year's Gold Cup looks likely to go off at 4/1 or bigger, so bet365 customers smart enough to find the winner can take advantage of a free bet on the next live Channel 4 race – the Christie's Foxhunter Chase (4.00pm). Simply back a 4/1 or bigger winner of any live Channel 4 race at the Festival (there are 16 in total!), and we'll give you a free bet to the same stake (up to £50) on the next live Channel 4 race.

Make the most of your Cheltenham betting by visiting us all week.

15/8 TOON TO MAKE POOL PAY FOR LONG SEASON

Newcastle v Liverpool

Su Mar 19 – 1:30 pm ko (SS1)

Last week we cashed in by backing the 'under' goals in the Man United v Newcastle encounter at 10/11, and goals may again be hard to come by when Newcastle take on Liverpool at St James' Park. Ok, the Magpies may have been flattered last week, but they've always been strongest at home and, this time, they face an attack which has managed only six strikes in its last ten games. That will hardly strike fear into the Newcastle defence who, up until last weekend, had conceded just two goals in six matches.

For Liverpool, the signs are that their mammoth season is finally catching up with them (this will be the 53rd game of their campaign), which makes Newcastle look over-priced at 15/8 in our 90 minute market (Liverpool 11/8, Draw 9/4). In our First Goalscorer market, Nolberto Solano could be the value pick at 11/1. He's opened the scoring in the last two Newcastle home games, and scored twice against Everton to take his tally for the season to six. If he scores the last goal in the game instead, we'll give you your money back here at bet365.

Interestingly, neither team has lost after taking the lead or won after going behind in the league, so don't be afraid to go in again on our live 'In-Play Console' (up to 14 markets available), should the opportunity arise.

Live Game Picks:
Newcastle @ 15/8 / 'Under' 2.5 Goals @ 8/11

HAVE CONFIDENCE IN CITY AT EVENS

In the other Premiership games this weekend, Arsenal (3/10), Chelsea (2/5) and Bolton (1/3) look serious Premiership acca material against Charlton, Fulham and Sunderland respectively. Meanwhile, it's difficult to see Man City (Evens) or West Ham (4/5) slipping up either. City are full of confidence in front of their home fans (not lost at home this season to a side outside the top seven), while West Ham have helped themselves to ten points from their last four games at Upton Park. A four-fold on our four main fancies this weekend pays out £384.59 for a £50 stake, which includes a bet365 bonus of 5% - up to 60% available every weekend.

Premiership Picks:
Man City to beat Wigan @ Evens
West Ham to beat Portsmouth @ 4/5
4-fold on Newcastle (15/8), Arsenal (3/10), Chelsea (2/5) and Bolton (1/3) - pays £242.55 (£25 stake) – which includes a bet365 bonus of 5%

BAY HILL INVITATIONAL - CAMPBELL HAS BIG CHANCE AT 28/1

Th Mar 16 – 20.00 BST (SS2)

Fr Mar 17- 20.00 BST (SS3)

Sa Mar 18 – 19.30 BST (SS2)

Su Mar 19 – 19.30 BST (SS2)

Tiger Woods is going for his fourth win of the year at this week's Bay Hill Championship, a tournament he's won four times in the past, and he'll take all the beating again this week. The question for bettors here at bet365 is whether they want to take the current price of 9/4 or wait until the event goes live, when he's almost certain to be bigger on our 'In-Play Console'. There's also the fact that six of the world's top ten take him on this week, so there must be some value further down our betting list.

With neither Vijay Singh or Ernie Els (both priced at 12/1), at the top of their games right now, the dangers to Woods are likely to come from the 16/1 shots and better, and one player who could take advantage of any slip-up from the favourite is Chad Campbell, at a standout bet365 price of 28/1. He has plenty of good course form in his favour – winner in 2004 and 8th last year – and has looked better than ever this year with a win in the Bob Hope Classic, and a second in the Sony Open.

He goes into our portfolio of bets along with Zach Johnson (also 28/1), whose two appearances here have yielded two top-tens. He could well make it third time lucky this week, judging on his third place finish in the World Matchplay and a solid 15th at Doral. Best of the long-shots could be Lucas Glover at a massive bet365 price of 50/1. His lack of course experience is the reason for the inflated odds, but in his six strokeplay events this year, he's finished in the top-10 on four occasions, and has already won on the Tour when Tiger was in the field (2005 Funai Classic)!

Bay Hill Invitational Three Off The Tee...Chad Campbell 28/1, Zach Johnson 28/1, Lucas Glover 50/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» March 16th, 2006

NCAAB FINAL FOUR 2006 - BEAT THE BUZZER WITH bet365

March Madness is finally here, and it's sure to be a 20-day orgy of buzzer beaters and bracket busters, culminating in the NCAA men's basketball championship game on Monday, April 3. Follow (and bet) on all the live action via bet365's 'In-Play Console', where the odds are constantly updating in real time. Of course, serious bettors at bet365 will be getting excited at the prospect of picking pointspread winners, and we've already highlighted the fact that following the bigger teams blind could be the quick way to the 'poor house' (and madness!). Public teams, like Duke, are always going to get heavily backed, and that will be factored into the pointspread. Hence, the other team is going to be a bigger price, in order to attract equal money on both sides, so the bet365 underdog could be worth a second glance when making your picks in the coming weeks.

DEFENCE, DEFENCE, DEFENCE

Another factor for bet365 customers to consider over the coming weeks is defence. That is, teams are far more likely to display all-out defence for 40-minutes (compared to the regular season), as games are far more likely to be close and meaningful, especially as the tourney gets close to the championship game. Taking Duke as an example from last season, the Blue Devils fell below their regular season scoring average (78ppg) in all three of their ACC tourney games, and all but one game went under the total. In fact, they went under the total in four of six games in the ACC and NCAA tournaments…get the drift?

CONNECTICUT CHALKED UP AT 5/

bet365's NCAA Men's Championship prices...
Connecticut 5/2, Duke 16/5, Villanova 7/1, Texas 9/1, North Carolina 10/1, Memphis 12/1, Ohio St 14/1, Michigan St 18/1, Illinois 20/1, others on bet365 website

Connecticut have been chalked up as 5/2 favourites in bet365's NCAA Men's championship betting, followed by Duke at 16/5. The fact that these two top the betting is a no-brainer, but what of the challengers? The tough-minded Villanova Wildcats (7/1) and Texas Longhorns (9/1) are next best. However, both North Carolina and Kansas are two very young teams who have made great strides since the beginning of the campaign, and could be worth backing at bet365's 10/1 and 40/1 respectively. Good luck and enjoy the madness.

AVOID MARCH SADNESS – PLACE YOUR PARLAYS WITH bet365!

While we'll be backing our NCAA tourney picks in singles (as every serious bettor should), it will be hard to resist a speculative parlay wager along the way, especially as we're assured of getting more back with the bet365 Parlay Bonus. Each week, we pay out up to 50% more on successful NBA & NCAAB parlays on the following 6 markets:
Point Spread, Game Total, First Half Point Spread, Second Half Point Spread, First Half Total, Second Half Total.

NASCAR – 5/1 JOHNSON OFF TO A FLYING START

Golden Corral 500, Atlanta Motor Speedway

Mar 19 – 1:00 pm ET (FOX)

bet365 latest Golden Corral 500 prices...
Jimmie Johnson 5/1, Carl Edwards 7/1, Greg Biffle, Tony Stewart 8/1, Matt Kenseth 9/1, Jeff Gordon 10/1, others on bet365 website (Each-way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4)

So far this season, Jimmie Johnson is doing everything right. The Hendrick Motorsports driver now has two victories (including the big one in Daytona) and a second-place finish, and he'll go into this week's race in Atlanta full of confidence that he can keep the run going.

This week's track is identical to Charlotte, and Johnson is the most prolific driver there. He can also point to a second-place finish in this race last year, so he's a worthy favourite at the bet365 price of 5/1 to win this week. Of course, the racing is much closer in Atlanta and the margin of victory always slim, so he won't have it all his own way. Also respected this week, is the winner of the last two Atlanta races, Carl Edwards, who comes in at 7/1 behind Johnson. Edwards has made a slow start to the year by his standards, but chances are he'll be fine this week.

Of the rest, Mark Martin, could also go well, and might be worth a look at bet365's 12/1. Martin is a two-time Atlanta winner (albeit the last time in 1994), but he did finish fourth and third in the two races on the track last year, and the chassis that he's bringing with him finished second in the fall race at Texas and fifth at Charlotte.

Also keep an eye on Matt Kenseth (9/1) who, apart from Johnson, is the hottest driver on the circuit. Kenseth was only second to Johnson last week after a late caution flag gave the winner the chance to catch and pass him in a two-lap overtime sprint to the finish. He doesn't have a win in Atlanta but has won on similar tracks in Charlotte and Texas, and his team is dialled in right now.

Nigel's Checkered Flag...Matt Kenseth @ 9/1

F1– SPEED 7/2 TO FINISH IN THE POINTS

Malaysian GP

Live betting - Mar 19 – 1:30 am ET

Half a world way from NASCAR, Scott Speed (that's his real name!) became the first American since 1993 to compete in a Formula One race when finishing a respectable 13th in the opening race of the season in Bahrain. Speed made his debut in a car that no-one expected to be competing for wins, podium finishes, or even points, but he still managed to beat F1 veterans Ralf Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello, and former world champion Jacques Villeneuve. For this week's race in Malaysia he's a top-priced 7/2 with bet365 to finish in the points (top-six), and an unlikely 200/1 to win behind race favourite Fernando Alonso at 21/10. The race is live from 1.30 am ET, and bet365 customers can get in on the action by betting live via our In-Play Console.

BAY HILL INVITATIONAL - CAMPBELL HAS BIG CHANCE AT 28/1

Th Mar 16 – 3:00 pm ET (USA)

Fr Mar 17 – 3:00 pm ET (USA)

Sa Mar 18 – 2:30 pm ET (NBC)

Su Mar 19 – 2:30 pm ET (NBC)

Tiger Woods is going for his fourth win of the year at this week's Bay Hill Championship, a tournament he's won four times in the past, and he'll take all the beating again this week. The question for bettors here at bet365 is whether they want to take the current price of 9/4 or wait until the event goes live, when he's almost certain to be bigger on our 'In-Play Console'. There's also the fact that six of the world's top ten take him on this week, so there must be some value further down our betting list.

With neither Vijay Singh or Ernie Els (both priced at 12/1), at the top of their games right now, the dangers to Woods are likely to come from the 16/1 shots and better, and one player who could take advantage of any slip-up from the favourite is Chad Campbell, at a standout bet365 price of 28/1. He has plenty of good course form in his favour – winner in 2004 and 8th last year – and has looked better than ever this year with a win in the Bob Hope Classic, and a second in the Sony Open.

He goes into our portfolio of bets along with Zach Johnson (also 28/1), whose two appearances here have yielded two top-tens. He could well make it third time lucky this week, judging on his third place finish in the World Matchplay and a solid 15th at Doral. Best of the long-shots could be Lucas Glover at a massive bet365 price of 50/1. His lack of course experience is the reason for the inflated odds, but in his six strokeplay events this year, he's finished in the top-10 on four occasions, and has already won on the Tour when Tiger was in the field (2005 Funai Classic)!

Bay Hill Invitational Three Off The Tee...Chad Campbell 28/1, Zach Johnson 28/1, Lucas Glover 50/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times EST (unless otherwise noted) and are subject to change. Check local listings.

» March 8th, 2006

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL BETTING PREVIEW

GIVE HEURES THE TIME AT 8/1

The action gets under way on Tuesday when the Irish 'banker', Sweet Wake, attempts to justify short-priced favouritism (currently 5/2 at bet365) in the Supreme Novice Hurdle. Of course he can win, but his price is surely based on all the hype surrounding him, and he looks a favourite to take on. While market leaders have a good record in this race in recent years, the Irish often used to take this race with their second string, and that makes the four-year-old Quatre Heures of interest at the bet365 price of 8/1, especially as he gets a handy 8lb allowance. He's also entered in the Triumph Hurdle (for which he gets a bet365 quote of 12/1), but bet365 customers can back him for the former now safe in the knowledge that they'll get a run for their money, or their stake returned to their balance!

Supreme Novice Hurdle Pick: Quatre Heures @ 8/1

AL EILE LOOKS CHAMPION PICK AT 10/1

The Irish also have strong hand in the Champion Hurdle, where Brave Inca's sound claims are reflected in his cramped odds (7/4). He'll have the greatest jockey (A P McCoy) to help him get up the Cheltenham hill, but he's already had some hard races this season, while Al Eile looks to be peaking at the right time, and he looks a solid each-way alternative to the jolly at bet365's 10/1. The selection finished seventh in the race last year as a five-year-old, and looks a much stronger horse this year, so there is every reason to think he can find the necessary improvement to win. It's certainly a race not to miss, but don't worry if you're stuck in the office or can't get to a TV, as you can watch all the action live here at bet365. Just place a bet of £5 and click on the live stream next to the race.

Champion Hurdle Pick: Al Eile @ 10/1

WINNING TEAM NOT SHY OF ANOTHER SUCCESS AT 8/1

Martin Pipe doesn't look to have as strong a challenge on paper as in past years, but he can still make his presence felt in the novice chase department. Don't Be Shy represents the powerful Pipe / David Johnnson combo responsible for four of the last eight Arkle Trophy winners, and he looks a good bet at bet365's 8/1 to carry on the tradition. Since going over fences he's done little wrong, running a creditable second to Green Tango (who must have a great chance in the Grand Annual off 10st 7lb) on his chase debut at Hereford, before hacking up over two and a half miles at Haydock. His latest win came at Grade 2 level over two very smart and experienced chasers in Armaturk and Mister McGoldrick, giving his form a rock-solid look.

Arkle Trophy Pick: Don't Be Shy @ 8/1
Grand Annual Pick: Green Tango @ 9/2

CHASE THE 6/1 FLYER

Pipe can also be on the mark with Commercial Flyer in the Sun Alliance Chase. This one made a winning start over fences at Taunton last month and, as a half-brother to high-class chaser Our Vic, he could be anything. Snap up the 6/1 now. Pipe's Contraband (20/1) could run well in the Champion Chase, where the front two in the bet365 betting – Kauto Star (inexperienced) and Moscow Flyer (too old) - are worth taking on. However, at this stage, for the winner I can't decide between Fota Island (9/2) and Central House (8/1). The former would be the selection on good ground, so let's wait and see. If either wins, we could be looking at a free bet on the next live Channel 4 race, the Coral Cup, but read on to find out more.

Sun Alliance Chase Pick: Commercial Flyer @ 6/1
Champion Chase Pick: Fota Island (good ground) / Central House

KASBAH CAN ROCK AT 6/1

Last week, I put up L'Ami at 12/1 for the Gold Cup, and Kasbah Bliss at 9/1 for the Triumph Hurdle. Since then, nothing has happened to change my mind, and they're now trading at 10/1 and 6/1 respectively – hope you are on! The duo are both trained in France by Francois Doumen, who has been saying all along that his horses have been held up by frozen gallops, so it was a slight surprise to see them run so well at Sandown last time out.

It was a fine weight-carrying performance by L'Ami in the Racing Post Chase, and it's worth remembering that he was also a fine second to Trabolgan in the Hennessy, and that one would have gone off a clear favourite for the Gold Cup had he not succumbed to injury. He'll be staying on when others have cried enough, as will Kasbah Bliss, who powered home up the Sandown hill to win the Adonis Hurdle, a race that has thrown up the winner of the Triumph Hurdle on more than one occasion. The Gallic double still pays out at a massive 76/1 for the win here at bet365!

Cheltenham Ante Post Double (already advised): L'Ami @ 12/1 (Gold Cup) & Kasbah Bliss @ 9/1 (Triumph Hurdle) – non-runner no bet

FREE CHELTENHAM BETS ALL WEEK

The winner of this year's Gold Cup looks likely to go off at 4/1 or bigger, so bet365 customers smart enough to find the winner can take advantage of a free bet on the next live Channel 4 race – the Christie's Foxhunter Chase. Simply back a 4/1 or bigger winner of any live Channel 4 race at the Festival (there are 16 in total!), and we'll give you a free bet to the same stake (up to £25) on the next live Channel 4 race.

Make the most of your Cheltenham betting by visiting us all week.

PROFIT FROM LOW-SCORING AFFAIRS

Man United v Newcastle

Su Mar 12 – 1.30 pm ko – (SS1)

bet365's match prices...
Man United 2/5, Newcastle 6/1, Draw 3/1

After looking like relegation candidates, Newcastle have been enjoying a revival under Glenn Roeder, but United (at 2/5) are fancied to end that run here. In the last 10 meetings between these two sides, the Red Devils have won eight times, and they currently have strength in depth that Newcastle must envy. In bet365's Total Goals market, the 'over' price looks to be based on the fact that eight of the last ten matches between these two have resulted in three goals or more. However, Newcastle have conceded only one since Roeder took charge, so the value lies with backing the 'under' at 10/11. Live betting available via our 'In-Play' Console.

Arsenal v Liverpool

Su Mar 12 – 4.00 pm ko (SS1)

bet365's match prices...
Arsenal 6/5, Liverpool 2/1, Draw 11/5

This could be another low-scoring affair, as it's hard to see Arsenal fashioning too many scoring opportunities against a team that which has kept a clean sheet in 19 Premiership games this season. At the same time, it's now 10 matches since Liverpool have scored more than one goal in any Premiership game, and their two goals at Bolton in January was the only time they've scored more than once away from Anfield. In our 90-minute market, Arsenal can be backed at 6/5, with Liverpool at 2/1 but, with goals at a premium, the pre-match value lies with the draw at 11/5, although there may be even more value in bet365's 14 dynamic In-Play markets.

Live Game Picks:
Man United @ 2/5 / 'Under' 2.5 Goals @ 10/11
Arsenal to draw @ 11/5 / 'Under' 2.5 Goals @ 4/7

R0VERS TOO GOOD FOR VILLAINS @ 4/5

United are a confident selection to go into our Premiership Acca this weekend, along with Blackburn (4/5), Charlton (Evens) and Everton (5/6). Blackburn were unlucky not to come away with a point (at least!) against Spurs last Sunday, and should return to winning ways here. Charlton are not obvious punting material taking on a resurgent Boro, but the Teesiders will surely have one eye on their UEFA Cup fixture next week, and the Addicks (who are unbeaten in five at the Valley) can take advantage of any lack of focus. Everton are a force to be reckoned with at home (won their last three), and they look a good bet to see off Fulham. The Cottagers have won nine of their last ten homes, but they continue to struggle away from home (just three draws in 14 games so far!). A £25 acca on our four selections pays out a tasty £242.55, which includes a bet365 Premiership Acca Bonus of 5% (up to 60% more every weekend).

Premiership Acca
4-fold on Man United (2/5), Blackburn (4/5), Charlton (Evens) and Everton (5/6) - pays £242.55 (£25 stake) – which includes a bet365 bonus of 5%

HONDA CLASSIC – 40/1 FREDDIE READY FOR FIRST WIN

Th Mar 9 – 21.00 BST (SSX)

Fr Mar 10 – 21.00 BST (SSX)

Sa Mar 11 – 20.00 BST (SS2)

Su Mar 12 – 20.00 BST (SS2)

Mo Mar 13 – 14.00 BST (SS3)

In contrast to last week's event, the Honda Classic is thin on big names (just one of the world's top-10 in the field), so this represents a good opportunity for a player to record their first US Tour victory. The last four winners of this event were registering their maiden wins in America, and my idea of the most likely first time winner is Fredrik Jacobsen, who looks an each-way steal at the bet365 stand-out price of 40/1 (but get on quick!). The Swede took some time out after the birth of his first child last year, but the 'nappy-factor' looks to have restored his competitive juices for this season judged on an excellent fourth at Doral last week. He was also fourth in this event in 2004, so the 40/1 really does stand out this week.

At the same bet365 price, Carl Pettersson must also come into calculations this week. He was another to excel when this course was used for the first time two years ago, holding the half-way lead after shooting 63-68. He did wilt over the weekend, but he's a much better player now and won his last event in Florida (2005 Chrysler Championship). His form now is good too – finished 7th against a much stronger field in the Nissan Open, and was only beaten a shot by eventual runner-up Davis Love in the 2nd round of the World Matchplay Championship.

Tiger may have won 'ugly' last week (finished bogey-bogey), but Camilo Villegas played beautiful golf tee to green to finish tied for second, and he must have a great chance of going one better this week. In the end, it was his short putting which let him down, but it was still an assured performance from the Columbian Tour rookie, whose swashbuckling style has already earned him plenty of support from the galleries. The same can be expected this week in Palm Beach, which is just down the road from Doral, while his ability to hit the ball a long way will come in handy on a course which measures over 7,400 yards. The fancy prices on him are now gone (40/1 this week, 175/1 last week!), but he could be worth a look in our live In-Play market once the event gets under way

Honda Classic Three Off The Tee...Fredrik Jacobson 40/1, Carl Pettersson 40/1, Camilo Villegas 40/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times are subject to change. Check local listings for TV coverage on these event.

» March 9th, 2006

BEAT THE BUZZER WITH bet365

March Madness is finally here, and it's sure to be a four-week orgy of buzzer beaters and bracket busters, culminating in the NCAA men's basketball championship game on Monday, April 3. Follow (and bet) on all the live action via bet365's 'In-Play Console', where the odds are constantly updating in real time. Of course, serious bettors at bet365 will be getting excited at the prospect of picking pointspread winners, and we've already highlighted the fact that following the bigger teams blind could be the quick way to the 'poor house' (and madness!). Public teams, like Duke, are always going to get heavily backed, and that will be factored into the pointspread. Hence, the other team is going to be a bigger price, in order to attract equal money on both sides, so the bet365 underdog could be worth a second glance when making your picks in the coming weeks.

DEFENCE, DEFENCE, DEFENCE

Another factor for bet365 customers to consider over the coming weeks is defence. That is, teams are far more likely to display all-out defence for 40-minutes (compared to the regular season), as games are far more likely to be close and meaningful, especially as the tourney gets close to the championship game. Taking Duke as an example from last season, the Blue Devils fell below their regular season scoring average (78ppg) in all three of their ACC tourney games, and all but one game went under the total. In fact, they went under the total in four of six games in the ACC and NCAA tournaments…get the drift?

CONNECTICUT FAVORITE AT 5/2

bet365's NCAA Men's Championship prices...
Connecticut 5/2, Duke 16/5,, Villanova 7/1, Texas 9/1, North Carolina 10/1, Memphis 12/1, Ohio St 14/1, Michigan St 18/1, Illinois 20/1, others on bet365 website

Connecticut have been chalked up as 5/2 favorites in bet365's NCAA Men's championship betting, followed by Duke at 16/5. The fact that these two top the betting is a no-brainer, but what of the challengers? The tough-minded Villanova Wildcats (7/1) and Texas Longhorns (9/1) are next best. However, both North Carolina and Kansas are two very young teams who have made great strides since the beginning of the campaign, and could be worth backing at bet365's 10/1 and 40/1 respectively. Good luck and enjoy the madness.

AVOID MARCH SADNESS – PLACE YOUR PARLAYS WITH bet365!

While we'll be backing our NCAA tourney picks in singles (as every serious bettor should), it will be hard to resist a speculative parlay wager along the way, especially as we're assured of getting more back with the bet365 Parlay Bonus. Each week, we pay out up to 50% more on successful NBA & NCAAB parlays on the following 6 markets:
Point Spread, Game Total, First Half Point Spread, Second Half Point Spread, First Half Total, Second Half Total.

STEWART SEEKS JACKPOT IN VEGAS AT 11/2

Su Mar 12 – 4:00 pm ET (FOX)

bet365 latest UAW Daimler Chrysler 400 prices...
Tony Stewart 11/2, Jimmie Johnson 13/2, Matt Kenseth 7/1, Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle 8/1, Kasey Kahne 10/1, others on bet365 website (Each-way 1/4 odds, 1.2.3.4)

The drivers head to Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Sunday for the UAW-Daimler Chrysler 400, and the smart money at bet365 is going on Roush Racing's five current drivers. That's no surprise, since the team have won five of the eight races at the track, and they're in better shape now than they've ever been.

The quintet is headed by Tony Stewart at 11/2 in bet365's outright betting. Stewart has made a relatively poor start to the year, but we're only two races in, and he was one of the strongest drivers in California until coming to grief with engine trouble inside the final 35 laps of the 250 lap race. He may have never won in Vegas, but he's come close (2nd in 2000, and three other top-5 finishes), and will be bringing with him the same chassis that dominated the California race.

Greg Biffle (8/1) was also going well in that California race until succumbing to engine trouble, and his team is likely to run similar this week, along with fellow Roush drivers, Carl Edwards (8/1), Mark Martin (10/1) and new-boy Jamie McMurray (12/1). In fact, expect to see all five finish in the top-10 this week, along with the Busch brothers, Kyle (12/1) and Kurt (18/1), who both finished in the top here last year. The best of the rest looks to be Jimmie Johnson (13/2). Johnson's No.48 Chevrolet has thrived recently, pulling off an amazing win in Daytona and a second-place finish in California. That's three wins among nine top-10's in his last dozen starts!

Nigel's Checkered Flag...Tony Stewart @ 11/2

HONDA CLASSIC – 40/1 FREDDIE READY FOR FIRST WIN

Th Mar 9 – 4:00 pm ET (USA)

Fr Mar 10 – 4:00 pm ET (USA)

Sa Mar 11 – 4:00 pm ET (NBC)

Su Mar 12 – 4:00 pm ET (NBC)

In contrast to last week's event, the Honda Classic is thin on big names (just one of the world's top-10 in the field), so this represents a good opportunity for a player to record their first US Tour victory. The last four winners of this event were registering their maiden wins in America, and my idea of the most likely first time winner is Fredrik Jacobsen, who looks an each-way steal at the bet365 stand-out price of 40/1 (but get on quick!). The Swede took some time out after the birth of his first child last year, but the 'nappy-factor' looks to have restored his competitive juices for this season judged on an excellent fourth at Doral last week. He was also fourth in this event in 2004, so the 40/1 really does stand out this week.

At the same bet365 price, Carl Pettersson must also come into calculations this week. He was another to excel when this course was used for the first time two years ago, holding the half-way lead after shooting 63-68. He did wilt over the weekend, but he's a much better player now and won his last event in Florida (2005 Chrysler Championship). His form now is good too – finished 7th against a much stronger field in the Nissan Open, and was only beaten a shot by eventual runner-up Davis Love in the 2nd round of the World Matchplay Championship.

Tiger may have won 'ugly' last week (finished bogey-bogey), but Camilo Villegas played beautiful golf tee to green to finish tied for second, and he must have a great chance of going one better this week. In the end, it was his short putting which let him down, but it was still an assured performance from the Columbian Tour rookie, whose swashbuckling style has already earned him plenty of support from the galleries. The same can be expected this week in Palm Beach, which is just down the road from Doral, while his ability to hit the ball a long way will come in handy on a course which measures over 7,400 yards. The fancy prices on him are now gone (40/1 this week, 175/1 last week!), but he could be worth a look in our live In-Play market once the event gets under way.

Honda Classic Three Off The Tee... Fredrik Jacobson 40/1, Carl Pettersson 40/1, Camilo Villegas 40/1. Each-way 1/4 odds 1.2.3.4.5

Please be aware that prices are subject to change. All times EST (unless otherwise noted) and are subject to change. Check local listings.