League One betting, Crawley - Portsmouth

Crawley are on top of their confidence, they won second promotion in a row, have noticed three wins out of opening four league matches, then eliminated Millwall and Bolton from the Cup! Their results are a bit better at home where they score plenty (last season 2^nd scorers in 3^rd division, season before 1^st in 4^th). Key players were rested in midweek win against Gillingham.

Pompey are going in the opposite direction and without money they’re again top candidates for relegation. However, they’ve been putting decent fights in each of their games and their two travels produced as much as 10 goals. They’ll be missing four first teamers, midfielder Lee Williamson is a doubt.

Going to back goals in this one, rather than home win.

Bet: Over 2.5

Odd: 1.91 (WilliamHill)

Stake: 7/10

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Championship and League One betting, 25 Feb

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Portsmouth - Leeds

Portsmouth are in big financial problems that, according to Liam Lawrence, do affect the players. They have been docked ten points (dropped into relegation zone), are also in administration, lost best striker to Birmingham and will be without striker Dave Kitson! Additionally, they’ve lost five matches out of last seven.

Leeds are coming to the town with Neil Warnock in charge. At their previous trip they lost vs. last placed Coventry, but at Elland against Donny whites made a big come back and won from 0-2 to 3-2. Allegedly, Warnock made a half-time speech in the dressing room. They seem to be in completely opposite trend than Pompey.

I am taking some coverage in case of a draw, but idea is to back Leeds.

Bet: Leeds -0.25
Odd: 2.00 (Pinnacle)
Stake: 8/10
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Charlton - Stevenage

The Addicks are topping the table with seven points margin, but lately playing with their fans nerves making three draws out of last four in league. They’ll miss again striker Danny Haynes, but skipper johnnie Jackson is back. Defence line will also go to normal as right-back Solly returns to squad and Rhoys Wiggins will move to his natural position at the left side.

Stevenage lost their first game under Gary Smith, by a stoppage time goal at Notts County. Before that, they stopped Spurs at home in Cup (0-0) and this is their 3^rd tough game for only six days. They won’t have fresh legs and not like they’re not going to need them today.

I am backing Charlton here at more than acceptable odd.

Bet: Charlton
Odd: 2.10 (Ladbrokes)
Stake: 7/10
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Championship betting, Blackpool - Portsmouth 11th Feb

Blackpool are playing nice, attacking football, they’re in a play-off zone and seem to be candidates for direct promotion. They’re also undefeated in eight competitive games and have three league wins in a row.

Pompey have been struggling on and off the field. And while their money problems and unpaid wages used to have positive impact on the squad, they also have three defeats out of last four in league. In this particular case, even travelling could be a problem since they played a game at Birmingham at Tuesday, returned home and went on a long journey to north. Some important players are rated as doubts.

Blackpool and Portsmouth are two clubs in the opposite trends, I expect a nice and safe home win.

Bet: Blackpool -0.75
Odd: 2.06 (188bet)
Stake: 7/10
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Cardiff - Portsmouth

It seems Welsh lads have learnt the lesson from previous years, when in this part of the season were blowing away their promotion chances. They have three wins in a row, with a fourth would come back to the second place. They last five games produced 20 goals and Cardiff have an average of one conceded goal in home games (Pompey’s average is one scored goal per away game). Stephen McPhail is in doubt, Chopra is out. Today’s win would be the first double over Pompey since 1971.

In February and March, Portsmouth made a run of six consecutive wins (without a single goal conceded) and secured a Championship status. After that, just one win of next six encounters. In the previous round, suffered an unexpected defeat at home against Coventry. Playing at Cardiff is always a good motivation, but there won’t be any pressure. Hayden Mullins is out.

I have impression that 1.55 for a home win doesn’t represent the real risk. Expect Pompey to score and to push the game in the over. Goals for me.

Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 1.90 Expekt
Stake: 8/10
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Bets for Tuesday

Portsmouth - Burnley

Pompey are struggling as usual with all kind of problems, skipper Mokoena and striker Dave Kitson will miss again, Hughes and Brown are again out because of “ongoing contract issues” and they’re in winless streak of seven competitive games (six in league). However, their recent performances and fighting spirit promise better days. They unlucky lost at Nott Forest, then stopped Leeds at home (without same those players). Portsmouth are undefeated in 10 league matches against Burnley and have won the last four against them.

The Clarets are middle table side and they probably won’t go anywhere from the league. They’re also poor travellers as they won on the road just once of twelve encounters (seven draws though). Defender Carlisle faces a late fitness test.

Only thing that bothers me is Pompey concede too much lately, at last five in league conceded 13 goals. Anyway, I think it’s the time for their win.
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Bet: Portsmouth 0.0
Odd: 1.88 Canbet
Stake: 7/10

 Sheffield Wednesday – Yeovil

Wednesday suffered an embarrassment at East London for the weekend. Players apologised to the fans, Irvine to the fans and Mandaric, Mandaric gave support to the manager. I think they’ll strongly bounce back tonight, or it will be end of Irvine. They still have very quality players for this division and Leyton smacked them right in the mouth. I expect a response and rage on the pitch.

And Yeovil... It’s simply Yeovil.

Bet: Sheff Wed -1ah
Odd: 2.21 Canbet
Stake: 7/10

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Nottingham Forest - Portsmouth

Forest are in a great run of results. Four wins of last five competitive games (three of four in Championship) and haven’t lost at City Ground in 31 occasions! No injury worries for Billy Davies. Skipper Paul McKenna has returned in Preston after two months and came from the bench, perhaps will start today. The target is a play-off spot and I don’t worry they’ll look complacent at any moment.

Pompey have a decent squad and experienced players, but continue with struggling against the problems outside the pitch. Richard Hughes and Michael Brown are out because of “ongoing contract issues”. Dave Kitson and Greg Halford are suspended, while midfielder Lawrence should be fit. Club has brought defender Ritchie De Laet (never heard for him) on loan from Man Utd and he could be in the starting eleven. They’re winless in last five (three consecutive defeats) and in every of last four games conceded three times!

Cannot say I’m delighted with 1.65, but it seems Pompey didn’t deserve more. 2-0 correct score.

More to follow...

Bet: Nott Forest -1ah
Odd: 2.10 Pinnacle
Stake: 7/10

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Brighton & Hove - Portsmouth

Hosts are strong promotion contender from League One (holding the top). Despite Gus Poyet takes every opportunity to point how cup competitions are not important (appearances in previous rounds against Woking and FC United of Manchester can just confirm that), their 4-3-3 formation won’t be changed particularly for this game. Considering odds drop on home side, Poyet will probably name the strong squad.

Pompey are winless in last four league games (2D-2L) and conceded three times in every of last three! They simply can’t keep the clean sheet (did it just once in last 12). However, Steve Cotterill has only 14-15 players fit. This could mean he’ll name the strongest squad.

Both sides are attacking minded and although I give more chances to Portsmouth, my call is goals.

Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 2.02 bet365
Stake: 7/10

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Tottenham Hotspur - Portsmouth

Spurs are 4^th and thankfully to City’s failure against Everton, have two points advantage and they’re closest to CL spot. Second half in mid-week game vs. Fulham showed they can cope with the missings of some key players. They look very strong at home with 10 wins out of 15 games (2 draws and 3 defeats). I’m not concerned by the fact 2 of 3 defeats came from Stoke and Wolves (both were very, very lucky to win 1-0). Wolves thankfully to life display by goalie Myhill kept the clean sheet (0-0). Spurs attack in waves and look very safe and consistent. They have four competitive wins in a row at home and 3 of them were with 2 or more goals margin. Spurs’ target is Champions League, they’ll be focused and fully motivated. Very good news is Tom Huddlestone is returning to the squad. Some rumors say Defoe could play, but I don’t expect him in game except in case of negative result. Excellent Pavlyuchenko (9 goals in his last 8 appearances) is in doubt, but close to appear. Bassong, Palacios and Walker will have a late fitness test. Corluka is out along with Jenas, King and Lennon.

 

Nothing much to say about Pompey. They have no worries as they’re sure travelers to Championship. Big boost came from FA as they got a permission to sell the players before the regular transfer market. Players’ motivation will surely be higher, but on the other hand we can expect plenty of individual efforts in attempt to impress the scouts. They’re poor travelers, lost 11 out 14 games and scored just 8 goals (conceded 29). Their game against top sides all look the same, early conceded goal, heads down and few more goals till the end. They conceded 4 goals at Anfield and Emirates and 5 at Old Trafford ( 5 at home at mid week vs. Chelsea). Also, no one knows which players will appear as the injury/unavailable list looks endless. Belhadj, Ben Haim, Utaka, Boateng, Diop,Yebda, Dindane, O'Hara, Rocha, Smith. 10 players! The biggest miss is best player at the moment, Jamie O’Hara (have lost 6 out of 7 without him), who can not play against his parent club. Grant was disabled in intention to save the club from relegation, he’ll have a chance to do something in Cup on Wembley (also vs. Spurs) and maybe he’ll try to keep his cards as a secret. That should mean nothing else than easy defeat today.

 

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.  

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Friday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Portsmouth could lose on-loan Algerian midfielder Hassan Yebda because they cannot afford the £4m it would take to buy him from Benfica.(The Daily Mirror) 
But Pompey could be in the running for former Blackburn striker Shabani Nonda, who has been released by Galatasaray on a free.(The Daily Mirror) 
Sunderland have not given up their interest in Paraguay striker Salvador Cabanas in the summer - despite the player being in hospital at the moment after being shot in the head last month.(Daily Star) 
Manchester United are interested in bringing Benfica's Brazilian Under-20 international defender David Luiz to Old Trafford.(The Daily Mail) 

OTHER GOSSIP

The Premier League could advance Portsmouth their end-of-season payment to help the club stay afloat, provided the other Premier League clubs all agree.(The Daily Mail) 
Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole is drooling over his old club's performances this season and says Wayne Rooney is in the form of his life.(The Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland, 23, feels liberated under new manager Roberto Mancini because he feels he was played out of position by previous boss Mark Hughes.(The Daily Mirror) 
West Ham co-owner David Sullivan says he is glad his mind games have worked after the team responded to talk of a pay cut with their first win of the year when they beat Birmingham on Wednesday night.(The Sun) 
Former Notts County director of football Sven-Goran Eriksson could be on his way to the World Cup as Nigeria and North Korea both want the Swede to take over as manager.(The Daily Mirror) 
Wayne Bridge has been warned he can forget about going to the World Cup if he boycotts England's next game against Egypt on 3 March.(The Independent) 
England's home weekend international fixtures could be moved to Friday nights from the autumn onwards.(Daily Express) 
Hibernian defender Sol Bamba says his Ivory Coast team-mates wanted to pull out of last month's Africa Cup of Nations after receiving death threats after the attack on the Togo team, and only the nation's president persuaded them to take part(Daily Record) 

AND FINALLY

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher says the fact their second-top scorer this season is own goals by opponents - 10 goals - is because they put opponents under so much pressure.(The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Wednesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Liverpool are on the verge of a deal to sign Milan Jovanovic on a free transfer in the summer after further talks with the Standard Liege and Serbia striker. (The Times) 
Arsenal are set to beat Tottenham in the race to sign centre-half Stefan Savic from BSK Borca after the 19-year-old Serb completed a 10-day trial with the club.(Daily Mirror) 
Barcelona vice-president Alfons Godall has stepped up the pressure on Arsenal by insisting that Gunners midfielder Cesc Fabregas will end up at the Nou Camp "sooner or later".(The Sun) 
Manchester United are still interested in Racing Santander midfielder Sergio Canales, who is also wanted by Real Madrid. (Daily Mail) 
Birmingham did not sign striker Roman Pavlyuchenko during the January transfer window because Tottenham increased their asking price to £12m at the last minute.(Daily Star) 
Manchester City are lining up a summer bid for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Javi Martinez.( imscouting.com) 
Cash-strapped Portsmouth have replaced Tottenham-bound Younes Kaboul with former Spurs defender Ricardo Rocha.(Daily Mirror) 
Pompey are also closing in on deal for Serbia defender Dusko Tosic.(Daily Mail) 

OTHER GOSSIP

England manager Fabio Capello is expected to retain Chelsea defender John Terry as his captain when the pair meet on Friday, unless there are more allegations about his private life.(Daily Mirror) 
However, Capello is concerned that more revelations will come out this weekend and will delay making a decision on Terry's captaincy until Sunday at the very earliest.(The Independent) 
And senior officials at the Football Association have told Capello that Terry should not continue as England skipper.(Daily Telegraph) 
Chelsea are ready to give Terry some time off to get him out of the media firing line, while the club employed extra security to control members of the paparazzi outside the team hotel for the Premier League match with Hull on Tuesday evening.(The Times) 
Liverpool owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr have less than six months to secure the £100m investment demanded by their creditors or they run the risk of being forced to put the club up for sale.(The Times) 
And Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has been asked about his future plans by Real Madrid.( imscouting.com) 
Former Portsmouth owner Alexandre Gaydamak will not force the cash-strapped club into administration despite Pompey missing a deadline to pay a £9.5m instalment on the £30m he claims he is owed.(The Guardian) 
Manchester United defender Gary Neville has been frozen out at Old Trafford following his touchline gesture to Manchester City's Carlos Tevez during last month's Carling Cup semi-final first leg.(The Sun) 
Stoke midfielder Matthew Etherington insists he is winning his fight to overcome a gambling addiction and has been given a pay rise by the club to help him pay off debts that spiralled to £800,000.(Daily Mail)
Tottenham defender Jonathan Woodgate is concerned that he may have to quit football as he battles to overcome the long-term groin injury that has restricted him to only three Premier League games this season.(Daily Mirror) 
Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves, who has been out injured since September 2008, could make a return to the squad for the Champions League tie with AC Milan if he completes a week of full training.(Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Burnley boss Brian Laws says he felt like X-Factor judge Simon Cowell as he auditioned new players to come to the club during the January transfer window.(Daily Mirror) 
Carlos Tevez says the infamous 'Welcome to Manchester' poster, which caused so much controversy following his move from United to City over the summer, is now on a wall at his home in Argentina. (The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk

Sunday's gossip column

BREAKING GOSSIP

Birmingham manager Alex McLeish has admitted that his chances of signing Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko are all but over. (Sunday Mercury) 
Middlesbrough are bracing themselves for a second, take-it-or-leave-it £7m bid from Manchester City for winger Adam Johnson. (Sunday Sun) 

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Spurs striker Robbie Keane could be on his way to Sunderland after Black Cats manager Steve Bruce made a £9m offer for the Tottenham forward.(News of the World) 
Keane's arrival at the Stadium of Light could signal the departure of Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones to Liverpool. (Sunday Mirror) 
Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun is set to quit Liverpool after becoming disillusioned with life at Anfield. (News of the World) 
Wolves' £4m bid for Stephen Hunt has been rejected by Hull City who say the winger is staying put. (Sunday Mirror) 
Wolves and Fulham are battling it out to sign Egypt striker Mohamed Gedo, who has impressed at the Africa Cup of Nations.(Sunday Mirror) 
Manchester United striker Michael Owen could be on his way out of Old Trafford in the summer having failed to impress manager Alex Ferguson.(Sunday Mirror) 
Manchester City are set to pip Inter Milan to the signing of Parma's £7m midfielder McDonald Mariga.(Mail on Sunday) 
Sunderland are poised to sign Crystal Palace defender Nathaniel Clyne.(Sunday Mirror) 
Wigan look to have won the race to sign Crystal Palace's £2.5m-rated striker Victor Moses.(Mail on Sunday) 
Thierry Henry looks set to leave Barcelona in the summer with the Spanish giants tracking Valencia's David Silva or Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery to fill the left side of their attack. (Mail on Sunday) 
Arsenal manager has revealed he has £30m to spend with Valencia's David Villa and Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh on his wish list.(Mail on Sunday) 
Wenger is also keeping tabs on Real Madrid winger Pablo Sarabia, who is a free agent at the end of the season. (News of the World) 
Both of Barcelona's presidential candidates have put Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas top of their wanted list.(News of the World) 
Tottenham are trying to sign Manchester United keeper Ben Foster after a move for Portsmouth stopper Asmir Begovic fell through on Saturday. (News of the World) 
Fiorentina are lining up a loan move for Tottenham striker Roman Pavlychenko.(News of the World) 
West Ham are interested in taking Spurs right-back Alan Hutton on loan. (News of the World) 
Rangers have rejected a £3.5m offer from Sunderland for Algeria defender Madjid Bougherra. (News of the World)
Celtic have upped their bid for Preston North End central defender Sean St Ledger by a third to £3m. (Sunday Mail) 
Cardiff City sources say Celtic will have to pay more than £5m if they want striker Ross McCormack. (News of the World/Sunday Herald)
Cardiff City striker Ross McCormack says he would be interested in a switch to Celtic should the club he supported as a boy make an approach. (Sunday Mail) 
Celtic are locked in talks with Real Mallorca over the transfer of defender Ivan Ramis after increasing their offer to £2m. (Sunday Mail)
Celtic are closing in on a loan deal for Fulham forward Diomansy Kamara, who worked with manager Tony Mowbray at West Brom. (Sunday Mail)


OTHER GOSSIP

Juventus have agreed terms with Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez for him to manage the Serie A club next season. (The Independent) 
Manchester City defender Wayne Bridge is set to give up his England career following the John Terry allegations. (Sunday Mirror) 
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is set to ignore interest from Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid and sign a new four-year contract worth £24m in the summer.(Sunday Express) 
Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin Van der Saar is closer than ever to his club after he was allowed three weeks off to care for his wife after she had suffered a brain haemorrhage just before Christmas.(Sunday Mirror) 
Portsmouth narrowly avoided becoming the first Premier League club to go into administration after raising vital funds from the sale of defender Younes Kaboul to Tottenham on Saturday.(Sunday Mirror) 
But Pompey chief executive Peter Storrie has revealed that the cash-strapped club are only weeks away from going bust.(News of the World) 
Striker Robin van Persie is to hand Arsenal's title push a boost with a return to fitness from his ankle injury in March rather than April or May as feared. (Mail on Sunday) 
West Ham midfielder Kieron Dyer has been given a month to prove his fitness or face being forced into retirement.(News of the World) 

AND FINALLY

Wayne Rooney is at the centre of a legal battle over his future earnings and will appear in court on Monday to defend himself against a multi-million-pound lawsuit. (Sunday Mirror)
www.bbc.co.uk

Sunday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Chelsea could make a shock move for Inter Milan star and former Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira in January.(News of the World) 
West Ham striker Carlton Cole is Arsenal's number one January target.(Sunday Mirror) 
Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas is determined to leave the Emirates Stadium in the summer, but could move to either Real Madrid or Barcelona for £45m in January.(Sunday Mirror) 
David Moyes wants to lure former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan, currently playing for Atletico Madrid, to Everton.(Daily Star) 
But Moyes will get no joy when he tries to tempt defender Steven Taylor away from Newcastle.(News of the World) 
Chelsea are keen to sign Sevilla striker Luis Fabiano in January, but may have to wait until the summer, when the 29-year-old Brazilian will be available for £24m.(News of the World) 
Both Chelsea and Sunderland are on the trail of Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson, but the 22-year-old looks set to stay at the Riverside Stadium with a new contract worth £1.5m a year.(News of the World) 
Barcelona will come in with a £30m bid for Liverpool's Javier Mascherano in January.(News of the World) 
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is therefore understandably eager to tie Mascherano to a new long-term contract, and the club have priced Barca out of a move for the Argentine captain.(Sunday Mirror) 
Manchester United are tracking 6ft 4in Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko, who may be available for £15m - but he wants to move to AC Milan.(News of the World) 
Alternatively, Dzeko is at the centre of a three-way battle between United, Arsenal and Manchester City, and is available for just £10m.(Sunday Mirror) 
But Bayern Munich believe United face a financial crisis and have no money to spend, having offered them Franck Ribery for £60m in the summer and heard nothing back.(Mail on Sunday) 
Tottenham will come in for Sunderland defender Anton Ferdinand in January or, failing that, will pursue Manchester City's Micah Richards. (Sunday Express)
New Portsmouth boss Avram Grant's first moves will be for Chelsea pair Daniel Sturridge and Juliano Belletti on loan.(News of the World) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Former Portugal star Luis Figo says England are "not among the favourites" to win the World Cup in 2010.(Mail on Sunday) 
Should manager Mark Hughes leave Eastlands, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich will block any attempt by Manchester City to bring in former Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink, whose salary as Russia coach is underwritten by the billionaire.(News of the World) 
Portsmouth's cash crisis has reached the point where the club left Aruna Dindane on the bench against Aston Villa on Tuesday because they did not have the cash to meet the £4m permanent transfer deal one more appearance would have triggered with French club Lens.
However, Pompey renegotiated the deal in time for Dindane to appear against Burnley on Saturday.(Sunday Mirror) 
The Football Association's allocation of just 4,000 tickets for England's opening World Cup game against the US will create a scramble on the black market.(Sunday Mirror) 
Mike Ashley is once again preparing an attempt to sell Newcastle United, with fresh interest from America in taking over the club.(News of the World) 
Phil Brown has been told his job as Hull boss is safe - until Christmas, at least.(Sunday Mirror) 
Aston Villa could earn a £30m sponsorship windfall if they reach the final of the Carling Cup.(Sunday Mirror) 
Everton hope to raise £7m from the sale of their old training ground, having had plans for a new stadium at Kirkby turned down.(News of the World) 

AND FINALLY

Manchester United paid magicians more than £50,000 over a two-year period, and gave a similar sum to a firm which supplies clowns. (News of the World) 
Cristiano Ronaldo had an incident-packed Saturday as he missed a penalty, scored, then was sent off as Real Madrid beat Almeria 4-2.(Mail on Sunday) 
South Africa coach Carlos Alberto Parreira believes England will be a force at the World Cup because Fabio Capello has ended the WAG culture within the squad. "When you go to war, you don't take the wife," said Parreira.(Independent on Sunday)
www.bbc.co.uk

Carling Cup

Man Utd 2-0 Tottenham

Darron Gibson stated an eloquent case for Manchester United's young brigade by scoring twice to send the holders into the Carling Cup semi-final at the expense of Spurs at Old Trafford.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had reacted angrily to criticism levelled at his emerging stars after the defeat against Besiktas that ended their 23-game unbeaten home record in the Champions League. 
Ferguson launched a passionate defence of his home-grown products and gave them another chance to impress against Spurs - and 22-year-old Gibson was the star of the show as United saw off Harry Redknapp's side in a repeat of last season's Wembley final. 
Gibson opened the scoring with an early long-range finish, then produced an even more spectacular effort just before half-time to put United into the last four on a rain-sodden Old Trafford night. 
Spurs' challenge fizzled out after a bright start, with United defender Nemanja Vidic providing experience and a formidable barrier on the rare occasions when the Londoners did threaten.
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Portsmouth 2-4 Aston Villa

Stewart Downing scored on his first start for Aston Villa as they secured a deserved victory over Portsmouth in the Carling Cup quarter-final.
Stiliyan Petrov sliced a corner into his own net to give Portsmouth the lead but a minute later Emile Heskey ran through on goal to chip Villa level. 
James Milner's drive put the visitors ahead and Downing's second-half header seemed to have settled the tie. 
A Kanu strike gave Pompey hope but Ashley Young's goal extinguished it. 
Portsmouth boss Avram Grant's last game as a manager in this competition was a defeat to Tottenham in the 2008 final during his time at Chelsea. 
However, in stark contrast to his time at Stamford Bridge, Grant is now tasked with steering a struggling side away from the Premier League relegation zone. 
To this end, Grant rested his first-choice strikers Frederic Piquionne and Aruna Dindane with Danny Webber and John Utaka coming in.
www.bbc.co.uk

Carling Cup

Since Sir Alex revealed he’ll send same youngsters to the clash against Spurs as he did vs. Besiktas, odds have been raising for a home win. 2.15 currently! Bookies forget Tottenham haven’t won at Trafford for 20 years, “Arry” will also give a chance to fringe players and those United’s youngsters are not too bad. However, I’m tempted to try with a gamble on home handicap win. That, or…

Pompey will host Villa in the second game. Good draw sent the hosts in quarter-final. Today will be without few key players and goalie David James. It is ridiculous to say after 1-4 home defeat, but Portsmouth actually didn’t look bad in the first half against United. They always create a lots of chances at home, but don’t score too much (little remind on Ipswich Town). I’m very close to back Portsmouth. But, visitors are the mystery. Martin O’Neill has been saying they’ll try to win competition, strong eleven will play… But, such talks usually means opposite. Tony Pulis, for example, talked about his wish to win the cup, the same day when he sent the reserve squad against Portsmouth (also there) and was easily demolished 0-4. 

Two gambles, same level of risk. Choose which you like. 

Two more games are tomorrow. I have one pick on my mind and maybe another gamble. 
Be aware I’m always informed about English football, if you have any questions or need info use chat-box or email.

Cheers, Dule

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Portsmouth - Manchester United

Pompey made the disaster start of the season. Returned back with away win against Wolverhampton 1-0 and a draw also on the road vs. fellow strugglers Hull. After that, two 4-0 wins at home (Stoke and Wigan in Cup) and again two defeats on the road. In last round vs. Stoke away, Kevin-Prince Boateng missed the penalty at the start of the game and tight match finished with another defeat (0-1). After the game, Paul Hart got fired. Few reasons why I think it was a mistake. First, squad simply hasn’t enough quality and even top manager couldn’t do better. Hart also made some kind of family atmosphere and players are in shock because his departure. His replacement is Avram Grant. When he was appointed in Chelsea, players started the riot because his old fashioned training and team needed some time to adjust to his way of work (some players never accepted him as a man in charge). Can’t see why in Portsmouth this should be better. And last, but not the least, first game is against furious United. Also, should be mentioned, Grant will be officially appointed after the game, caretaker will lead the team. First goalie, David James, suffered an injury during the warming-up for game against Stoke and will miss again. His place will take a substitute, Jamie Ashdown. Papa Bouba Diop, John Utaka and Steve Finnan are all battling to be fit.

After CSKA finished his game against Wolfsburg and won 2-1, Sir Alex changed the team and sent a bunch of youngsters to bring him a point and first place in the group, counting on opponent’s lack of motivation. But, the painful truth is European competition isn’t Carling Cup, Turkish side defeated United and made of them a main story in Britain. Well, history learns us Man.Utd. are the most dangerous when their dignity is hurt. I expect their response and Ferguson surely will send the hard artillery on the pitch. No European game next week and no reason for resting players and calculation. This game should be a message to Chelsea (who btw. already have a surplus of five points). Only Rio Ferdinand and John O'Shea, beside Hargreaves, are confirmed missings. Evans, Fabio and Berbatov (who should appeared against Besiktas) will have a late fitness test.

I would write-off the new manager effect here, ‘cause the players are not the least pleased with that. Portsmouth advantages will be smaller pitch (as always) where they create chances easier than on the road and maybe United’s defense line. I think it will be far from enough to resist from visitors’ revenge. I’m little cautious about the stake just because Wes Brown and his habit to make stupidities. However, Pompey look just like a victim of bad circumstances. United's win with a handicap.

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Very probably one more pick before the kick-off in England.

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Portsmouth - Stoke City

Pompey noticed the worst start in English league competition ever. Considering their performances, I think it’s fair to be said they’re unlucky to not have more points on their balance. Birmingham scored last minute penalty against them, Bolton scored last minute winner, losing six of the eight games they have lost by the single goal margin. They have two positive results in last three games, both on the road Wolverhampton 1-0 and Hull City 0-0. In the previous Cup rounds, they defeated lower division teams Hereford United (4-1 at home) and Carlisle United (3-1 away). For them cup games are the way to satisfy fans and boost the team morale. Beside cup tied Boateng, Smith, Williamson and O'Hara, all others are available and will be presented tonight.

While in Premier League Stoke play over their real capabilities, Cup competition are usually using for the resting the key players. In the previous round, they passed Championship side Blackpool 4-3 (big come back after 1-3) and in round before only managed to sneak past Orient after extra time. Also, record in the league cup is more than poor. They were knocked out by Derby last year. Rochdale the year before. Darlington the year before that, and Mansfield the previous year. League Cup definitely don’t seem as their priority. For tonight’s game, Toni Pulis, announced that he intends to rest some (no less than nine) players and even in some interview warned Stoke fans who travel to Portsmouth not to expect anything near a full strength team out tonight.

Maybe sounds little weird, but Pompey are the favorites here. With every interview, odds have been decreasing from starting 2.40 to recent 2.07 (Pinnacle), but still worth of a bet. Home win.

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Carlisle United - Portsmouth

After previous season, when they narrowly avoided relegation beating Millwall in the last round, recent campaign looks nearly the same. They have only two wins in opening eight rounds in League One (with same number of draws and four defeats), they have won only one of their last five matches and currently hold 17th place. Home shape is even more disturbing. A single win against main relegation contender, Tranmere Rovers 3-0 and three defeats. Points from Brunton Park were taking Brentford, Exeter City and Brighton & Hove Albion and interesting is it was the only away win for all these three clubs. Addition to their poor record is two consecutive league defeats, both without a scored goal. So far, only bright moments they live in Cup competition. After elimination of Oldham Athletic (1-0 at home), popular the Cumbrians caused a big shock in the previous round by winning at Bristol City (who btw. have the best home record in Championship, after Newcastle). Manager Greg Abbott will have to decide whether to make changes after weekend’s defeat, but he surely won’t be able to count on defender Simon Lakeland who remains out with a knee injury. Carlisle are playing in the third round of the League Cup for the first time in 34 years.

Portsmouth are breaking all the records in Premier League. They made six consecutive defeats at season opener (plus two from last two games in previous campaign). All started with late takeover of the club by Arab businessman Sulaiman Al Fahim that caused the most of club’s signings came in the final week of the summer transfer window. There are a bunch of new players at Fratton Park and they simply need some time to gel up. Despite the zero on their balance, pitch performances give a hope for better days. At last home game, Pompey put a decent display against Bolton, but thankfully to big errors in defence line finished empty handed. In last round at Villa Park, once again team looked fine, but same story with defensive frailties and zero remained. Manager Paul Hart somehow keeps the good dressing room atmosphere and even fans don’t lack in support. But, next game could be decisive for their future. Cup progress should boost a team’s morale, despite the missings Portsmouth have Premier league players, very competitive squad and win is very reachable. Otherwise, defeat from a third league, mediocre team can sealed their fate. Hart can not count on recent signings O'Hara, Prince-Boateng, Williamson and Smith, who all miss out due to being cup-tied after playing for their previous clubs in earlier rounds of the competition. Defenders Steve Finnan (hamstring) and Hermann Hreidarsson (foot) will probably be sidelined.

Home side already made a first class surprise in Bristol and for them every cup victory has historical weight. However, despite their certain maximum effort tonight, I don’t think they will be even near to make another upset. For the visitors, moment when this encounter comes makes this game as a battle for life and death. They’re without several keys, but the players that are coming in are more than capable to win. Pinnacle offer 2.01. Away win.

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Portsmouth 3-1 Sunderland

Sunderland remain in serious danger of relegation after relinquishing a one-goal lead to lose at Portsmouth.
The visitors took the lead against the run of play when Calum Davenport's cross was tapped in by Kenwyne Jones. 
John Utaka fired in an equaliser a minute later and then forced Phil Bardsley to bundle in an own goal that gave the home side the lead. 
Sunderland's woe was sealed late on when Utaka found substitute Armand Traore and he fired in an angled shot. 
Having earned their first point in eight matches at Bolton last week, Sunderland stuck with the same side with top scorer Djibril Cisse on the bench, their initial priority to avoid defeat as opposed to chasing victory. 
In contrast Portsmouth brought in Kanu and Utaka to form a three-man front line with Peter Crouch as they looked to celebrate Premier League safety with a flourish.
The result leaves Sunderland needing a win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Sunday to guarantee their safety. 

Portsmouth: Begovic, Johnson, Campbell, Distin, Hreidarsson, Utaka, Davis, Mullins, Hughes (Traore 46), Kanu (Kaboul 46), Crouch (Primus 90).
Subs Not Used: Ashdown, Nugent, Basinas, Belhadj. 
Booked: Utaka. 
Goals: Utaka 60, Bardsley 68 og, Traore 88. 

Sunderland: Fulop, Bardsley, Davenport, Ferdinand, Collins, Tainio (Cisse 80), Malbranque (Edwards 54), Whitehead, Leadbitter (Murphy 85), Richardson, Jones.
Subs Not Used: Colgan, Reid, Healy, McShane. 
Goals: Jones 59. 

Att: 20,398 
Ref: Alan Wiley (Staffordshire).
www.bbc.co.uk

Portsmouth - Sunderland

Excellent betting week is behind. I feel sorry 'cause major leagues are close to finish. I'm already following results and news from Scandinavia, preparing myself for summer. No reason to stop updating this blog on daily basis.

One more thing. If somebody is interested in advertising at "Football Betting (and More)", one possible way is to write analyzes. Conditions are it has to be unique and to fill some quality level. Text will be published with a link back to Your site. Anyway...

Excellent weekend for Pompey. Thankfully to Hull City (draw) and Newcastle (defeat), Portsmouth secured their Premier League status. Before that epilogue, results from past few weeks seriously threatened to damage the health of all at Fratton Park. No win in past four games and three defeats, with no goals scored (372 minutes in total) and just a single win from last seven games (Bolton Wanderers at home, 1-0)! After the previous game vs Blackburn on the road (0-2 defeat), situation became dramatic. Manager Paul Hart was accused (from the press mostly) for sending “10 defenders” on the pitch. Natural defenders Johnson and Belhadj were trying to give a support to Peter Crouch. That tactic didn’t work and now Hart has to change something. Big loss is missing of Niko Kranjcar who was organizing midfield line. Traore, Diop, Gekas and Ashdown will be sidelined, too. Noe Pamarot is available again after a suspension, while Armand Traore has recovered from a groin problem and could make his first appearance since February. But the main thing is Hull and Newcastle made all bad thoughts vanished. Lads can play a game without a pressure and celebrate third consecutive Premier League season.

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Manager Sbragia said: ”We know it is going to be tough”. Will be tough, definitely! Black Cats have 36 points, two more from the first under the line-Newcastle and one more from Hull City. These three clubs (plus Middlesbrough, 32 points) will decide about two travelers to Championship. Additional beauty is a schedule for the last round. Sunderland-Chelsea; Hull-Man Utd; Aston Villa-Newcastle; West Ham-Middlesbrough! I really don’t know who can win from those four. Too much calculations and combinations. Sunderland can relegate only if take zero, or one point from those two games and Newcastle win Villa on the road. Current shape doesn’t indicate the big possibility for Sunderland’s win on Fratton Park. They have only a single win in last eleven games (Hull City, 1-0 at home), have not netted in last three! And, on the road in 18 games scored just 12 times. New boss Ricky Sbragia brought some improvement in performance, at the last round (Bolton, on the road 0-0) team looked solid, but the attack is still the biggest problem. Full-back George McCartney could return to the squad after missing six games with a calf injury. Kenwyne Jones (his absence means Cisse will be alone in attack), Kieran Richardson and Teemu Tainio are expected to shake off knocks but Craig Gordon and Nyron Nosworthy are out. It seems the visitors’ biggest trump will be relaxed Portsmouth tonight and their “best friends” Villa at the last round. 

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When You watch the fact the home team hasn’t score in last four games, visitors in last three, then the bookies miserable offer against the goals isn’t something unexpected. On the pitch will be Crouch against Cisse and “20 defenders” on both sides! Usually, I’ll just pass by, but offer for Monday leave You decision: this game or Scandinavia. So, I predict a draw as a fair enough for both clubs and will try with a small bet. 888sport and Pinnacle offer 3.25. Draw.

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Portsmouth - Bolton

Pompey holds 14th place in Premier with four points above the relegation line, but with a game less than the opponents. In the last round they missed the opportunity to run into safe zone. Against WBA at home scored twice, but thankfully to some disaster mistakes by defence line, conceded same time for a draw at the end. The whole squad plays very well in 4-4-1-1 formation with Nico Kranjcar behind Peter Crouch. They don't feel pressure, but bad result today would put them in unenviable position. I expect attacks in the waves from the start, if their defence improve performance three points are not even in doubt. No injury problems (or suspended players) for Paul Hart, same eleven as against WBA.

Trotters hold safe 12th place, play very well and relaxed at the same time. In the last round, Chelsea underestimated them, Wanderers used that scoring three times in last 20 minutes (had a chance for 4-4) and almost made a first-class surprise and bury Chelsea's title hope. Before that, with a win against Middlesbrough (4-1 at home) they secured the Premier League place and won't have too much motivation in the rest of season. Gary Megson has some injury worries, as Danny Shittu got injured on Stamford Bridge (will be substituted by Andy O’Brien), while Joey O’Brien and Mark Davies continue their rehabilitation.

Portsmouth has an opportunity to learn from Chelsea's mistakes. Complete squad, full motivation and no pressure give me just one logic conclusion. The best odd offers Pinnacle-2.13. I have no doubt. Home win.

Will be more suggestions later, stay tuned.