CL betting, Barcelona - Man Utd

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Last time, Ferguson tried to keep it tight and lost it pretty easily. Now, he says he’ll attack Barca. I expect something between, but certainly an open game. Guardiola will probably put Mascherano in central defence (to be shown a card is 2.30 at Paddy Power), idea is to protect from Chicharito’s speed. Then SAF could put Berbatov to get advantage in the air... I’ll stop on open game. First thought was to go on over 2.5 with very nice odds (currently 2.38 at 188bet), but it could be tricky if in the final scoreline at one moment is 1-1 where both sides could reduce a risk. In situation where United won’t be so defensive and Barca hopefully won’t have very bad day, I expect both sides to score.

A gamble would be Hernandez to score first. Mexican fella is star of the future (if not now) and I expect him to play an important role tonight.

Bet: Both to score
Odd: 2.05 Unibet
Stake: 8/10

Gamble: Hernandez to score 1st
Odd: 10.00 William Hill
Stake: 1/10 
pi 
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Man Utd - Chelsea

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No need for a big philosophy here. 2-0 correct result.

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Bet: Man Utd -0.25
Odd: 2.01 Canbet
Stake: 7/10
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Latest results and statistic update

Manchester United - Arsenal 1-0 WON
Birmingham - Newcastle PP
Leeds - QPR 2-0 LOST
Ipswich - Leicester 3-0 LOST 

Updated statistic and list of bets.

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Man Utd - Arsenal

United maybe haven’t been impressive, but it’s mainly because their away games as they won just once (with six draws)! However, they’re well known slow starters and I think their performances will be only better. At home, they’ve noticed 7 wins and a draw (2-2 vs. WBA) with 24-6 goal difference. Also, I wouldn’t compare CL group games with Premiership. In my opinion only real weakness is position of right-back and Rafael who lacks in experience (and quality, probably). Personally, I’d rather like to see Gary Neville. United have won four of last five competitive games against Arsenal. No injury concerns for Ferguson.

Public opinion is Arsenal are better than ever. Ok. In previous seasons, they wasted enough points to quit the challenge for the title even in this part of the season. However, they’ll face some problems at Old Trafford. They have bad record against top Premiership clubs (especially against Man Utd and Chelsea). My impression is players are too light weighted (great speed though) which makes them physically inferior in tackles and midfield battle. Than defence, that looks really shaky sometimes. Some info says Szczesny, third choice goalkeeper, will have advantage over Fabianski. At the end it’s not the same without Fabregas. Whatever Wenger has been talking, he’s not fit. In last nine visits to Trafford, the Gunners have noticed seven defeats (one draw and one win). 

I was thinking about goals tonight, but Ferguson will probably set 4-5-1 formation (with Rooney on the wing) that should keep the game tight and Gunners far from the goal. United have an obvious aerial superiority and they’ll be very dangerous from set-pieces. I’ll be simple. Home win, Vidic to score, 2-0 correct score.

Bet: Man Utd -0.5
Odd: 1.95 Digibet
Stake: 8/10

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Manchester United - Valencia

United haven’t impressed in CL games at Old Trafford, this season. One draw 0-0 (vs. Rangers) and one unconvincing win over Turkish side Bursa. They need only a point here for the first spot in the group (which should be important). But, the fact that makes this bet attractive is Utd’s schedule. They didn’t play for the weekend at Blackpool and next game (hard one tough, vs. Arsenal) is at next Monday (range is 16 days). My opinion is Ferguson will name very strong squad for the game (he already made such announcement) to keep the players in shape and to keep winning mentality. Last thing he needs is deja vu of Besiktas in previous season.

I find it hardly to believe Valencia carry any serious hope tonight. With a win they would be first, yes. But it’s easier to believe, they’ve already given up from it. Bunch of players are out of squad. Moya, Navarro, Joaquin, Vicente, Stankevicius, Topal, Manuel Fernandes  and Bruno all stayed at Spain. Boss Emery brought to England goalie Cesar and defender Mathieu, but it does remain to see will they start the game.

I don’t think Utd will gamble with this one and have no problem to accept offered price. Rooney should strive to regain some of the lost confidence (and probably lost nerves with Bervatov’s five hits and all the talks about it) and I expect him on a score sheet. As yesterday, home win is pure logic for me.

Bet: Man Utd -1ah
Odd: 1.98 Canbet
Stake: 8/10

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Manchester United - Blackburn

United are not impressive whole season due to six draws of seven away games. But since other top teams wasted too much of points, they have same number as first placed Chelsea. At Old Trafford, they’re always impressive. Six wins and only one draw (famous 2-2 vs. WBA), with 17-5 goal difference. They’ve also stabilized the defence line, keeping five clean sheets in last seven competitive games. They have scored at least twice in 12 of last 14 games and won last five home games against Rovers (four of them were with 2 or more goals margin). Fletcher and Scholes are doubts, Rio and Vidic are rested and return into contention.

Rovers look in a good shape as they won three of last four Premier games (Wigan and Villa at home and Newcastle away). However, some facts will be against them today at Trafford. First, under Allardyce, Blackburn are very poor travellers (this season 2W-1D-4L, previous 3W-5D-11L, season before that 4W-4D-11L). Second, they’re physically very strong, like when ball is in the air and set pieces are their strength. But have plenty of problems against the top teams, to cope with their technique. Also, tradition shouldn’t be overlooked. They haven’t won Utd in last nine occasions (losing seven of that).

There’re some signs Utd are moving into higher gear.  Maybe it’s my instinct more than clear facts, but I think this will be easier than most of the people expect. Odds are better than usual. Correct score 2-0, 3-0.

Bet: Man Utd -1.5
Odd: 2.00 Canbet
Stake: 8/10

Probably one more bet. 
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Glasgow Rangers - Manchester United

My break did last more than I planned, since a got some nasty cold. A little bit annoyed for missing Hudders last night. However, rest is over…

Rangers are in an interesting position. With 5 points, they need to match Valencia’s result tonight (or to make better) and then in the last round to beat Bursa and cheer for United against Spanish side. On the other hand, they have almost secured spot for Europa League since Bursa can hardly show some hidden, top class quality and won both games. Walter Smith has plenty of problems with his back line. Beside they’re leaking goals recently (five in last three league games), injury list causes a serious headache to him. Regular defenders Bougherra and Webster are sidelined (as well as defensive midfielder Edu), while Sasa Papac is in serious doubt. Smith likes to play 5-4-1 formation, but if Papac is unfit he’d be with only four fit defenders. Striker Kyle Lafferty is also missing.

United are in very good position, as one point would guarantee 2^nd spot. However, if somehow lose tonight, they’ll have to beat Valencia at Trafford for progress. No, I don’t think Ferguson will make a such gamble. Win tonight and don’t think on CL for a while is his idea, more probably. Vidic and Rio will both be rested (according to him), Rooney will take some part in the game. Little weird from him to leave both central defenders on the bench. Before few years I wouldn’t believe in this, but Darren Fletcher will also be rested in a Champions League game. However, players are used to play in rotation system and I don’t see a big problem for them in this. And tonight’s squad maybe won’t be so weakened because the importance of the game and the fact next PL game is at home against Blackburn. United are unbeaten in 11 European games on the road (8 wins and 3 draws).

Rangers will continue playing in Europa League and it’s probably crystal clear even for Smith and the Glasgow lads. That, further in my assuming, will cause a little bit more daring formation from Smith to decrease the pressure on defense line. Which, further, causes Utd will rip them off. First conceded goal will open them up and make them vulnerable for counter attacks. Away win with 2-3 goals margin.

Bet: Man Utd -1ah
Odd: 2.26 10bet
Stake: 7/10

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Still think about Valencia and -1.75ah (will post if decide to bet on it), but I won’t be on Spurs tonight. All world is on a home win with handicap and over. Too much money is in the game and I really wouldn’t be too surprised to see 1-0 win. 

Van der Sar and statistic update

At the same minute Van der Sar decided to make a joke and Robert Koren made a first attempt on goal for Hull (from 30 yards). Unfortunately both situations ended with goals and something that should have been entertaining Saturday and money collecting turned into a serious disaster. Only light in the dark was Wednesday that played a game just as I expected and made a job done. I don't celebrate too much when win and don't moan when lose, but disturbing thing is entire list of results looks really shocking and it lasts for the couple weeks. However, better days are coming. Thanks for visiting and sorry for a bad run.


Manchester United - WBA  2-2  LOSS
Leicester - Hull  1-1  LOSS
Yeovil - Sheffield Wednesday  0-2 WON

Statistic:

October
Profit: -18.36 units Yield: -28.25%

Season
Profit: +1.82 units Yield: +0.61%

See all bets

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Manchester United - WBA

After just 7 rounds, United are already in position to chase rivals for the top and gap looks pretty decent (5 points from Chelsea). Current, third position is a result of away games where Devils all four finished with a draw. Second reason is shocking performances from Wayne Rooney who thankfully to happenings outside the pitch can’t back on the track. However, this is a nice opportunity for him to return some self confidence and score one-two times. United won 11 and drew 1 of last 12 games against WBA. They have 13 wins of last 14 home games and 11 of those 13 were with 2 or more goals margin. Only defeat was suffered from Chelsea and both wins by 1 came against Liverpool. Opponents like WBA are in the group of routine games. Despite recent talks, Hargreaves won’t make his comeback today and only doubtful is Giggs.

The Baggies have been noticing their best start in Premier (considering their previous appearances, that is not too much). However, 6^th place on the table (!), their home performances (no defeat in  four games) and excellent away win at Emirates call on caution. Di Matteo’s team carries a nice passing football and don’t hesitate to use any sign of disrespect. Like they did against Arsenal. On the other hand, that attitude can bring them a trouble, like it was at Stamford (0-6). As they didn’t care about that defeat (won vs. Sunderland 1-0 in the next game), I think they won’t about the game like Man Utd away is. Regardless of the today’s result, they will stay focused on home games and direct rivals from the bottom. WBA could be without striker Odemwingie and midfielder Jerome Thomas who are in doubt.

Odds here are a little bit higher than usual. International brake couldn’t make a serious problem as it’s removed for Tuesday. Champions League game is at next Wednesday, but I don’t see Bursa as a kind of opponent for who Sir Alex will dramatically change the squad in Premier. Five points less than Chelsea should be valid reason for maximum seriousness at Old Trafford and I expect another convincing win. 3-0 correct score.

Bet: Man Utd -1.75
Odd: 2.03 Expekt
Stake: 8/10

Gamble: Correct score 3-0
Odd: 7.50 888sports
Stake: 1/10  

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Manchester United - West Ham

United drew at Craven Cottage when already noted 3 points. Two times lead, wasted penalty and 88th minute equalizer made Fergie raging after the game. Main target was defense line that should reacted much better before both goals. Additional thing that makes him nervous is Chelsea and their 12 goals in just 2 games. West Ham game should be a response to those who don’t believe. Rooney is in the team after a stomach bug and he’ll try to back on the track after 13 games without a goal. This is a nice opportunity for raising self confidence. Paul Scholes will probably be rested and replaced with Michael Carrick. United have won 11 of their last 12 league matches at Old Trafford and scored 3.25 goals per game in average. Against West Ham won their last five matches and scored 14 goals in those.

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The Hammers started the campaign in a manner that should announce another bleak season. Two defeats and 6 goals conceded. And while opening loss vs. Villa wasn’t so unexpected, real shock came in the second game with 1-3 home defeat vs. Bolton (side that is well known with defending approach to away games). Team doesn’t look dangerous, midfielders can’t cope and in defense anarchy rules. Considering the funds that have been invested in the squad, despite part of that was hardly wasted (can’t not to think about Diamanti), management probably expects more than a fight for avoiding relegation and Grant could be the first manager in Premier to face exit door. Skipper and main man at the back line, Matthew Upson, should return to the side. West Ham are without an away win in the league since the first day of last season.

 

Situation guarantees a deadly serious approach from United. Proud is damaged, Chelsea are on the top and no European games for a while. I predict a high scoring victory.

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Bet: Man Utd -2ah 
Odd: 1.79 Canbet
Stake: 9/10
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One more probably.
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Man Utd - Newcastle

Personally, I can’t see any value in the offered odds. It’s the opening game and I wouldn’t take Community shield (or friendlies) result too serious. And to be honest, I have no idea what to expect from Newcastle this season. They should avoid relegation, but their capabilities are unknown for me. United are slow starters, same manager through the years and same pattern. They won just one of previous 3 opening games (Birmingham last year, 1-0 at home), other 2 finished with a draws (2008.- Newcastle 1-1 and 2007.- Reading 0-0). So, three unders. Taking some high handicap (-1.75 valued 1.91, or over 2.5 at 1.60) would be like a coin flip. Doesn’t worth for me. NO BET.

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PL thoughts and a bet

Utd will win,I’m pretty sure.But, at 1.45 it doesn’t worth. And whenever I think about -1ah got a picture of Neville vs. Bale on the flank and lost my appetite.
Bolton shouldn’t be at 1.50 against anybody.

My only bet from Premier is Arsenal game. End of their title ambitions wasn’t at Wigan, but after Spurs’ game when Wenger said “It’s all over”. Tragically for them they still had a chance. Don’t think they’re in a better mood today. Will have Fabianski at goal once again. He’s a disaster, is conceding flukes and makes all defense unsafe and nervous. Today will have to cope against Tevez-Bellamy-Adebayor. Citizens like to play against top sides. Only then they’re motivated. Which means dangerous. They won’t play for 4th spot, they’ll play to beat Arsenal away. Wouldn’t go so far to back their win, but see goals on both sides. Odds around 1.65-1.70 are not so great, but I’ll take it. Over.

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Friday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manager Rafael Benitez intends to take striker Fernando Torres with him to Juventus if he opts to leave Liverpool and take charge of the Italian club.(the Sun) 
Manchester City are lining up a £50m bid for the Spain international and could offer an incredible £200,000 a week to lure him to Eastlands.(Guardian) 
But Benitez says Torres, who is 12 months into a four-year contract at Anfield, is not for sale.(The Times) 
Juventus are hoping to lure Arsenal right-back Bacary Sagna to the Stadio delle Alpi if the Gunners sign Ajax defender Gregory Van der Wiel.(Daily Mail) 
The Italians are also considering using goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and midfielder Felipe Melo to lure Robin van Persie to Turin.(Daily Mirror) 
Meanwhile, the Gunners have joined a growing list of Premier League clubs interested in the signature of Everton teenager Jack Rodwell. However, the Merseyside club are set to increase the midfielder's wages to ensure he stays at Goodison Park.(The Times) 
Manchester City are keen to tie up a deal for Germany international Mesut Ozil before the 22-year-old Werder Bremen midfielder has the chance to make a name for himself at the World Cup.(The Independent) 
Brazil striker Luis Fabiano has hinted Manchester United would be his destination of choice if he leaves Sevilla in the summer.(Daily Express) 
Hamburg defender Jerome Boateng is set to join brother Kevin-Prince, the Portsmouth midfielder, in English football with a move to Manchester City.(Daily Mail) 
West Brom are preparing a move for out-of-favour Stoke striker Tuncay, but will face competition from Fenerbahce.(Daily Star) 
Newcastle manager Chris Hughton has warned fans it will be difficult to recruit big names to St James' Park in the summer.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United want to beat local rivals Manchester City to the signing of teenage Nigerian midfielder Ramon Azeez.(Daily Mail) 
Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart, who has spent this season on loan at Birmingham, is a £10m target for Arsenal.(Daily Star) 
Blackburn striker Jason Roberts is seeking to clarify his future at Ewood Park as boss Sam Allardyce targets a move for Lech Poznan striker Robert Lewandowski.(Daily Mirror) 
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish is eyeing a move for Cardiff striker Jay Bothroyd after long-term target Roman Pavlyuchenko rediscovered his form at Tottenham.(Daily Mail) 
Caretaker manager Neil Lennon has told Celtic's board that he would like to sign two strikers, one of them being Scunthorpe United's Gary Hooper, who has been targeted by Wolves and Hull City. (the Times) 
Rangers' hopes of signing James McArthur were dealt a blow when it emerged that Birmingham City are showing an interest in the Hamilton Accies midfielder. (The Herald)
Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish has rejected speculation linking his club with Dundee United's Garry Kenneth, but Blackpool are keeping tabs on the defender. (Daily Record) 
Aberdeen have made contract offers to Kilmarnock forward Kevin Kyle and to Dons on-loan Plymouth attacker Steven MacLean. (the Press & Journal) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Everton manager David Moyes has rejected speculation that he may be in line to take over from Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson when the Scot retires.(Daily Record) 
Tottenham and England winger Aaron Lennon could be set to return from a four-month injury lay-off against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday. (Daily Mirror) 
England boss Fabio Capello is desperate to take Tottenham's Ledley King to the World Cup despite the defender's recurrent injury problems.(Daily Mirror) 
Nottingham Forest manager Billy Davies will quit the City Ground and take up the reins at Celtic if his Championship side fail to win promotion to the Premier League. (Daily Mirror) 


AND FINALLY

France legend Zinedine Zidane will be the star signing in this year's Soccer Aid football match on 6 June at Old Trafford. The former Real Madrid star will be among a group of stars playing for the Rest of the World team against a team of celebrities.(the Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Thursday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Manchester United are lining up a £20m summer move for Tottenham defender Gareth Bale, whom they first tried to sign from Southampton three years ago.(Daily Express) 
United striker Dimitar Berbatov could be on his way to AC Milan in a summer swap deal with Dutch striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar going the opposite way.(Caughtoffside.com) 
Swansea boss Paulo Sousa could be the man to replace Hull's management consultant Iain Dowie at the KC Stadium.(Daily Mail) 
And Cardiff manager Dave Jones is a shock contender to replace Gianfranco Zola as West Ham manager, should the Italian leave the club in the summer.(Daily Mirror) 
Belgian international midfielder Jelle van Damme, who has just won a second consecutive league title with Anderlecht, says an unnamed English club has made a "concrete" offer for him, with Fulham thought to be interested.(Daily Mirror) 
Aston Villa are interested in signing West Ham striker Carlton Cole to partner Gabriel Agbonlahor up front, as a replacement for John Carew who could move to Fulham.(Caughtoffside.com) 
Liverpool are lining up a bid for Rangers' £8m-rated teenage defender Danny Wilson, with the youngster being loaned back to the Gers next season.(Caughtoffside.com) 
Arsenal are interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Rene Adler, who is Germany's number one keeper but recently suffered a broken rib.(imscouting.com) 
Real Madrid look set to beat Chelsea and Manchester United to the signature of Benfica's Argentine winger Angel di Maria.(imscouting.com) 
Birmingham manager Alex McLeish has started the ball rolling on a £1m bid for Dundee United defender Garry Kenneth. (The Sun)


OTHER GOSSIP

Celtic's 38-year-old caretaker manager Neil Lennon says he is ready to take the job on permanently.(Daily Telegraph) 
And Walter Smith has hinted Ally McCoist could soon take over from him as Rangers manager, saying his assistant is "as ready as he's ever going to be" to become a manager.(Daily Telegraph) 
Stoke manager Tony Pulis is fed up with the long journeys his reserves have to face and wants to play local friendlies instead.(Daily Mail) 
Fabio Capello is buoyed by the news that Manchester United defender Wes Brown is back in training and could face Tottenham on Saturday.(Daily Mail) 
Hull chairman Adam Pearson has launched a blistering attack on predecessor Paul Duffen, accusing him of "moral irresponsibility" for his running of the Premier League strugglers.(Daily Mail) 
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez says their marathon trek to Madrid for their Europa League semi-final has been a positive experience as it has brought the team closer together.(the Times) 
Ross County manager Derek Adams faces being banned for the dugout for the Scottish Cup final as he is awaiting the results of an appeal against an eight-game touchline suspension. (Daily Mail)
English Football League commercial director Stewart Thomson has emerged as a front-runner to replace Gordon Smith as Scottish Football Association chief executive. (Daily Record) 

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AND FINALLY

Portsmouth's £119m list of debts includes £40 owed to Pukka Pies and 20p to Qatar Airways.(The Sun) 
Tottenham claim they are owed £1m by Pompey over a deal to sign goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, despite the move never going through as the player opted to join Stoke instead of Spurs.(The Sun) 
A list of Manchester United's corporate customers has been posted on the internet by anti-Glazer protesters much to the anger of officials.(Daily Mail) 
www.bbc.co.uk

Champions League 7.4.

Man Utd - Bayern

Yes it was two flukes in Munich, but it happens when the team is under a heavy pressure. Bayern's win was clear and deserved for me. Both Utd's right-backs had a nightmare night. First Neville, handed the ball and Germans scored (I actually counted on his experience, but he reacted like an amateur). Evra's reaction before second goal was sensational, in my opinion. He repeated the same vs. Chelsea. Tonight will face recovered Robben. So, why we should expect tougher defense line tonight?

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On the other hand, no chance I'll ever bet against United at Old Trafford at any price. German's defense is not much better (if it is even better). Sir Alex stated they'll play for 1-0 win. Sure they will. He also stated Rooney and Rio are absolutely fit, before Bolton. I think Utd's biggest chance is opening 15 minutes when Bayern will be under highest pressure. One scored goal then could give a big advantage to the hosts.

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Can not bet on result after second half in Germany. And one man is not the team (as Vidic said), but Rooney is not an ordinary man and Berbatov really annoys me. Despite not so good odds, over 2.5 in this game is best bet for me. And won't suggest anyone to follow me, but have some feeling we could see extra time tonight. Gamble on Man Utd to win after penalty shoot out at 26.00!

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Bordeaux - Lyon

Actually I was about to back Lyon with DNB counting on their experience (same word again) playing at this level of competition. But, two facts discouraged me in that intention. First, two goals difference for Lyon wasn't fully deserved. Second, visitors will miss three very important players Lisandro Lopez, Jean II Makoun and Sidney Govou (Bafetimbi Gomis is fit). Since I'm really not an expert for French football (or its fan) and despite I can see another high scoring game, I'm giving up from this one. No bet!

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Bayern Munich 2-1 Man Utd

Ivica Olic grabbed an injury-time winner as Bayern Munich drew first blood in their Champions League quarter-final with Manchester United.
United had taken the lead after just 66 seconds when Wayne Rooney volleyed in six yards out from Nani's free-kick. 
But Franck Ribery's deflected free-kick set up a dramatic finale, rounded off by Olic's cool run and finish after a defensive error by Patrice Evra. 
United's misery was made complete when Rooney limped off with an ankle injury. 
And the England striker's injury could yet prove to be the major story of the night, with the 24-year-old apparently in severe pain after turning over on his ankle in the build-up to Bayern's winner. 
Either way, it was a poor night for United, who failed to build on Rooney's opener, allowing Bayern to take control of a tie now nicely poised ahead of the second leg at Old Trafford on 7 April.
Sir Alex Ferguson's side will comfort themselves in the knowledge that they have that away goal, but should Rooney be missing in a week's time it is clear United have plenty of work to do to combat a Bayern side who are likely to be buoyed by the return of key winger Arjen Robben after a calf problem.And while United must wait and see if he is fit to start the second leg or, indeed, Sunday's Premier League match with Chelsea, England coach Fabio Capello will also undoubtedly be interested in news on the severity of the frontman's injury.

www.bbc.co.uk

Bayern Munchen - Manchester United

Bayern  are approaching the finish of the season with hopes they can win the title and to progress as far as it is possible in CL. At Saturday will face Schalke in something like league final. In CL they turned the corner in Turin with a sensational win over Juve. But, after recent happenings in Italian club, I’m wondering in a real value of that achievement. In previous round, they knocked Fiorentina with two not so convincing performances. Boss van Gaal has serious problems with his key players. Robben (14 goals) suffered an injury at Saturday and was substituted. Many mind-games regarding his appearance, but I think we can’t expect his maximum anyway. Ribery has an ankle injury. He’ll surely appear, but I question his dedication to this game as he already “changed the club”, also he couldn’t be proud on his recent form. Key striker, Mario Gomez has just recovered from an injury and I don’t think he’s fully fit. And probably real key man, native Bavarian Schweinsteiger, is suspended. Wouldn’t write them off from tonight’s game, but those four are best players in my opinion.

 

As the season comes to end, United have been improving their performance and have noticed seven competitive wins in a row. With a return of Rio and Vidic got the iron in defence line and with Rooney in a sensational shape they can hope in a successful finish. As Bayern, they’ll also face main contender for domain title, Chelsea at Saturday. Sir Alex was gambling vs. Bolton, resting Ferdinand and Rooney and both are fit. No other injury concerns. United haven’t lost any of previous 16 away games in CL! Ferguson will probably set his favorite formation is such occasions, 4-5-1 and hope for another 1-0 win.

 

For me, visitors are clear favorites for progress. They’re technically and tactically better, in a better shape and have more self-confidence. I definitely can not fully exclude a probability of a scoring draw. Ferguson would be satisfied, I think. But on the other hand, I don’t think Bayern have a chance to win. Odds are not so high, but worth a shot. Dnb 2.

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View on hm... negative weekend

Birmingham – Arsenal

"Brum have nothing to play for, but will try to give some importance to themselves in a title race. They won’t look tired. On the other hand, this is the highest importance for the Gunners. They definitely have potential to score few. Over 2.5 for me. bet365 offer 1.88, Pinnacle 1.83."

1-1 lost!

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Tottenham Hotspur - Portsmouth

"To make a good result at White Hart Lane, team should have very strong defensive abilities. Pompey currently don’t look even competitive. Defensive line with James on goal (made a sensational error vs. Chelsea) doesn’t promise anything more than another defeat with big margin. My bet is -2 ah. Pinnacle offer 2.11."

2-0 draw

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Bolton - Manchester United

"Utd have been doing hard all season to reach the top and I can’t imagine they lose the points against Bolton. However, they’ll try to keep some energy for Champions League game and won’t suggest any big handicap. Bet is Utd -1 ah. "

0-4 win!

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Sheffield United - Scunthorpe

"Scunny will fight, they need points but feel safe as Palace continued with their free fall. On the other hand hosts are chasing play-off. They definitely have quality for that, I expect very strong squad for this game and in such occasions, Bramall Lane become a hell place for visiting teams. I predict a win with few goals margin and choose -1 ah. 2.09 at Pinnacle."

0-1 lost!

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I'm dissapointed with Gunners, but really shocked with Sheff Utd. It was, actually my main pick of the weekend. I didn't have time to post here (posted only at SoccerVista)  a gamble Blackburn 2-2 ht/ft, but at the end a negative weekend and worst week in 2010.

With a waiting for better days, more will follow.

Good luck to all.

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Bolton - Manchester United

Owen Coyle has been doing a very good job since he took over a charge in Bolton. They’ve accomplished (in my opinion) the primary mission and secure the status in Premier. They’re 8 points far from relegation zone and just wonder should happen to see them in Championship next season. He actually is doing the same thing as in Burnley, making from home pitch a fortress with lack of attention on away games. They have 4 games at home without a defeat with 4 clean sheets! It came against mainly bottom sides, however (Burnley, Wolves , Wigan and Fulham). Only clash against one of the top sides finished with easy defeat (0-2, Arsenal). Defender Gretar Steinsson is suspended, while Gary Cahill has recovered and could appear. Bolton are the only team in the Premier League who have not taken a single point off a team from the 'Big Four' this season.

 

United are approaching the final part of the season with a point more than Chelsea and I think they’ll hardly lose the points till the end. Ferguson even talked about goal difference (have same as Chelsea) as a potential decisive factor. However, the biggest benefits for Utd (beside Rooney’s sensational shape) are Rio and Vidic who play on the highest standards again. It’s also important for today’s game, as Bolton’s main weapon is set pieces (scored 21 goal, highest number in PL). They have Bayern on the corner, but I don’t expect any kind of easier approach at Reebok. The stake is too big. Man Utd have won 9 of the last 10 meetings against Bolton, and lost only one of their 10 Premier League games at Wanderers. Rooney (should be fit) has scored 6 goals in his last 4 league matches against Bolton.

 

Utd have been doing hard all season to reach the top and I can’t imagine they lose the points against Bolton. However, they’ll try to keep some energy for Champions League game and won’t suggest any big handicap. Bet is Utd -1 ah. 

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Man Utd 3-0 Fulham

Wayne Rooney scored twice as Manchester United beat Fulham to move two points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Rooney, who saw a long-range strike saved in the opening 45 minutes, slotted home from 12 yards after just 30 seconds of the second half. 
Mark Schwarzer denied Darren Fletcher but Rooney sealed the points with a low strike across goal after superb approach work from Dimitar Berbatov. 
A teasing cross from Ji-Sung Park was then headed home by Berbatov. 
Fulham might have defeated United 3-0 at home in December but Roy Hodgson's team had precious few sights of goal at Old Trafford - and the result ensured their miserable run away from Craven Cottage in the Premier League continued. 
Fulham's last league away win was at struggling Portsmouth on the opening day of the season - but with a Europa League match against Juventus and an FA Cup quarter-final looming, their priorities currently lie elsewhere. 
United's defeat at Craven Cottage remains their heaviest of the season but in the return contest Sir Alex Ferguson's team dominated territory and possession - and created the vast majority of the game's decent chances.
Berbatov was selected to start alongside the in-form Rooney and linked play effectively as United repeatedly carved open their opponents backline as they increased the pressure on Arsenal and Chelsea, although Carlo Ancelotti's team have a game in hand.

www.bbc.co.uk