Sheff Utd - Derby

The Blades find themselves in a deep mud at 23rd place which is, at least for me, completely unexpected. Micky Adams is their fourth manager this season(!) and they’re without a win in 12 games. United lost their midweek six pointer at Scunthorpe on a shocking way after they had 2-0 lead. Adams’ storming after the game is probably a (final) try to wake up the squad and Derby should be the best possible opportunity for three points. 

The Rams are facing the plenty of problems on and off the pitch and are in a free fall. They are winless in last eight games losing five of them and haven’t scored in last three. Defender Roberts and midfielder Bailey are in doubt, while striker Jammie Ward cannot play against his parent club. But real trouble is a place goalkeeper. Stephen Bywater is out, as well as his substitution Saul Deeney (shoulder), so young Frank Fielding will step in and face lots of pressure. Derby are winless in last four meetings with the Blades (both home and away), losing three of them.

After stayed empty handed at Scunny, this is definitely make or break for United. Another defeat would likely send them in League One. I think they’ll have enough to pass the visitors, but wouldn’t exclude the possibility of a draw and take -0.25 at very nice odd.

Bet: Sheff Utd
Odd: 2.00 Stan James
Stake: 7/10
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Norwich - Sheff Utd

Again, just a pick.
Later I'll wrote explanations for both games. So if you're interested in reasoning, come back little later. Cheers.

Bet: Norwich -0.5
Odd: 1.91 Canbet
Stake: 8/10

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Saturday's results and statistic update

Trend of weird results in England continues. I'm glad I didn't touch Charlton or Arsenal at very good odds. It's a pity Brum didn't convert some of the chances, but considering all shocks yesterday I accept minimal loss as a good day.

Leeds - Sheffield United  1-0  WON

Birmingham - Wigan  0-0  LOSS

Statistic:

September
Profit: -4.98 units Yield: -5.72%

Season
Profit: +20.38 units Yield: +10.11%

See all bets

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Leeds – Sheffield United

Leeds collected 10 points in the opening 7 rounds which isn’t bad, but in my opinion their displays are over the recent results. They lost in local derby (vs. Barnsley 2-5) in the game that came just 3 days after very hard home encounter against Swansea (2-1, after 0-1 at half time). In the previous round, they overplayed Doncaster, also on the road, but drew at the end. They’ve been showing a plenty of fighting spirit. Two times came from behind, but they’re also the only side in Championship that committed 100 fouls. They should continue the trend from League One when Elland was a fortress and in any game at home, Leeds will be favorite. Simon Grayson has no injury concerns and it will be first time when he can pick from a full squad. Loanee left-back, George McCartney, will probably has his debut.

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Blades sacked his manager, Kevin Blackwell, after home defeat vs. QPR 0-3. Harsh decision, in my opinion, as Rangers seem to be the strongest league club. And United this year won’t be able to repeat the ambitions from previous seasons (play-off). Blackwell’s successor, Gary Speed (ex Leeds player), has been trying to implement his own style of play. Which means battle in whole game, very few goals conceded (three clean sheets in five games), but also very few goals scored (3 goals in those 5). They have lots of problems in creating the chances and they really suffer with the absence of Darius Henderson in the attacking line. Skipper and central-defender, Chris Morgan, is still sidelined. I think their only advantage will be history that says Blades haven’t lost vs. Leeds in the last seven encounters.

 

Leeds will start aggressively and will be keeping that pace during all 90 minutes. I expect their good performances finally change into good results. Blades carry the same style of play and that’s the way how Leeds like opposition to play. Sheffield also obviously lack in quality this season. Blackwell’s departure was a big mistake, Speed won’t stay too long. Home win with some caution.

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Bet: Leeds -0.25
Odd: 1.82  Pinnacle
Stake: 9/10

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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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Sheffield United - Scunthorpe

Sheffield United are 10^th, seven points far from play-off zone. They have had two problems recently. Their sensationally bad run on the road. Seven consecutive defeats (one goal scored) and two draws in last two games. And injury crisis that forced them to loan players. But, situation has been improved on that field as skipper and key defender Chris Morgan returns to the squad after suspension. Boss Blackwell was forced to play with just one player in attack, Richard Cresswell (4 goals in last 3 home games). For today’s game two important players will have a late fitness test, key striker Darius Henderson and another striker Henri Camara. I expect Henderson from the start. Blades last time lost at home 2^nd November (0-1 vs. Newcastle) and since than have 8 wins and 3 draws. Also, they have kept clean sheets in eight of their last 11 home league games.

 

Scunny are 20^th with five points more than clubs in relegation zone (have a game in the hand) and it seems they’re on the good way too keep the status. They’ve noticed two crucial wins in last two rounds against direct opponents from the bottom, Plymouth and Peterborough. However, it is fair to say one of those was hit by injury crisis and second is far worst in the Championship. Also, their record on the road is not something that should be proud with. They’ve noticed just 12 points (just Posh are worse) and conceded 42 goals (the biggest number in the league). Major concern for manager Adkins is condition of best player and key striker, Gary Hooper after his injury. Interesting thing is Adkins removed his main man from the squad for match vs. Newcastle on the road, as he kept him from potential injury and for more important games. I won’t be surprised to see same thing again.

 

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.

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Championship - Champions League

I've spent several hours reading, searching, thinking, making conclusions… At the end couldn’t find a good pick for tonight and I’m really annoyed. With the experiences from my past mistakes, won’t force myself to make a big bet anyway. But, will be 2 smaller.

Nottingham Forest - Sheffield United
This will be a shocking bet, but I am actually going to back United here.
Forest have 2 away defeats in a row. Before that, hardly won at home vs. Wednesday. They’re playing very well, but also have very young squad and recent result crisis can have a bigger impact. 
United are hard working side. Have injury problems in back line, but it seems they used to cope with it. Against Bristol, news was very dangerous Camara in front. Henderson has returned his old shape, as well.
4.5 for away win?! This will be a tight game. One good cross at the start would be enough to make 1.8 for a home win ridiculous. I’m still thinking between X2 and dnb 2. 

Milan – Manchester United
I don’t wan to offense anybody, but I really hate Italian football, with all those time wasting, faking, arguing with referee… My opinion is they simply can not cope with English clubs.
Yes, Milan have Ronaldinho who likes to play like a kid. Pato is great, agree. Seedorf and Becks could make some excellent individual efforts. But, they also have Dida at the goal, slow midfield with Gattuso and Ambrosini and even slower defense line. Also, their years won’t be an advance.
United miss Ronaldo. They avoid to admit, but have a problem with Vidic. Some rumors say, Rio is in the same row. But, they’re second English team (with one point behind Chelsea) and that fact must be respected. Also, Rooney is in a life’s shape. I guess Sir Alex will set defensive formation and try to kill Italians with some counter attack. 
I have little doubt again, dnb or clear away win. Think, it would be dnb 2.

There’s no way I’ll back Derby this season, anytime, against anybody and with any odds. Matter of principle. In fact, I refuse to bet on any game in which Derby are involved. Won’t regret even if they win 3-0 tonight, one bet more or less. Too much nerves have lost.

Will prepare for a pint and tv coverage.
See you tomorrow.

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Saturday's beauty

Sheff Utd 2 - 0 Bristol City

Sheffield United shrugged off a slow start to maintain their push for the Championship play-offs at Bristol City's expense.
Chris Iwelumo showed some promising early touches on his City debut, but United gradually grew in authority. 
City keeper Dean Gerken pulled off some excellent saves, but was powerless to stop Henri Camara's vicious second-half effort from nestling in the top corner. 
Darius Henderson nodded in Jamie Ward's cross on the hour to seal the points. 
The win, United's first in five games, leaves the Blades a point adrift of sixth-placed Leicester City, who have played two games fewer. 
City, meanwhile, are without a victory since mid-January and have now conceded 13 goals in their last six games.
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell:
"I thought everyone played really, really well. 
"We used the ball intelligently and moved well off it. When you see us go out and look like that then it makes you realise our biggest problem this season is going to be keeping everybody fit. 
"If we can do that then we've got every chance. 
"We are trying to build something and the boys have shown out there what they can do." 
Bristol City manager Gary Johnson:
"We didn't do enough to give ourselves a chance to win the game and the the first goal killed us. 
"Our confidence is a bit low at the moment and it just seemed to drain - that's where we are. 
"We've been drawing a lot, especially away from home, and now we're getting our fair share of defeats. 
"But we've got two home games now and hopefully we can get a bit of confidence going with our fans behind us."

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Coventry 1 - 0 QPR

Gary Deegan's early strike was enough to stretch Coventry's unbeaten run to five matches, while QPR are now nine games without a win in any competition. 
Deegan struck his first goal for the club early on, a shot into the bottom corner that left Rangers goalkeeper Carl Ikeme rooted to the spot. 
QPR pressed either side of half time, with Lee Cook forcing Keiren Westwood to save from a free-kick. 
Cook also flashed a shot across the goal, but the visitors could not level. 
Coventry manager Chris Coleman:
"I anticipated that it wasn't going to be a classic but we got the job done. 
"We said to them at half-time that it might be one of those games where we just had to dig in and get a result. 
"This win puts us within six points of the top six and eight points off the bottom three so we are on the up." 
QPR manager Mick Harford:
"You run out of words to say when you are on a run like this because you don't get the rub of the green. 
"You are always under pressure as a manager. You are judged on results. I would prefer to play poorly and win, that's what we need to do at the moment. 
"I don't think we deserved to lose because they had one shot on target in the whole game and it took a deflection. It's my job to pick the players up but the spirit is good."
www.bbc.co.uk

Sheffield United – Bristol City

Blades have had a turbulent season so far. As a play-off contenders had a weak start, then faced the injury crisis and noticed 8 games without a win. Overcoming the injuries reflected in positive run, but recently they again have some important players out. First goalie, Mark Bunn, broke his hand (Ian Bennett is decent substitution). Rock in the defense line, Chris Morgan, and fellow center-half Marcel Seip are out and that’s the main problem. As a result of these missings, United conceded 6 goals on two away games (WBA 1-3 and Watford 0-3). Then home draw vs. Derby 1-1 and unlucky defeat in the last round, on the road vs. Preston 1-2. Boss Kevin Blackwell was fuming on referees, accusing them for wrong decisions that ended in a defeat. However, Blackwell said, it wasn’t a players’ fault and the atmosphere in a dressing room hasn’t been spoiled. Beside mentioned players, Blackwell will miss midfielder James Harper. Only the current top three clubs have a better home record than the Blades.

City lie at the middle of the table, at 13th place, with the same distance from play-off and relegation zone. Their previous record and recent shape suggest they’ll stay there where are now. They have just a single win (Preston at home 4-2, before Ferguson’s appointment) in past eleven games and noticed just one point. Their main problem currently is scoring goals, they scored just once in last five competitive games (Coventry at home 1-1). Major cause is absence of key striker (and probably the best player), Nicky Maynard. For today’s clash, manager Gary Johnson will also miss winger Jamal Campbell-Ryce, another striker Danny Haynes and defender Jamie McAllister. City have conceded nine goals in injury time this season - more than any other Championship team (interesting fact is United have scored more goals in injury time than any other club - six).

I see United in play-off zone at the end of the season. They definitely have a quality for that, but if they want to reach it simply have to win games like this. They’re playing well recently, have huge attacking potential and their home ground is a fortress. Home win

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Instict was correct

Preston North End 1 - 4 Barnsley

0 - 1 A.S.d. Franca  8.min.
1 - 1 D. Welbeck  27.min.
1 - 2 M. Hart (o.g.)  41.min.
1 - 3 A. Gray  69.min.
1 - 4 J. Rodriguez  90.min.

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Watford 3 - 0 Sheffield United

1 - 0 T. Cleverley  39.min.
2 - 0 H. Helguson  55.min.
3 - 0 D. Cowie  74.min.
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Some thoughts

Preston should win tonight.In fact considering everything that I've read,there's not a single reason not to be.Except...Well,except my instict.And I rate it as,for example,missings of best scorer and goalie.It's obvious home win,but something simply doesn't fit.I haven't posted this earlier,'cause don't want to ruin someone's work (another top post neo!).Follow your own insticts.

My initial thoughts were to back Sheff.Utd..Hornets are awfull and that's it about them.Blades,in my opinion will finish in play-off.Injuries are past,but they have two very important missings for tonight.Key defenders,Kilgallon and Wallker.While Kilgallon's departure is also good thing for the club(again in my opinion),unexpected yesterday's departure of second one is a blow.Second thing,odds on Utd. have been raising fast.I doubt bookies know anything that I don't,but in combination with first reason it's enough to stay beside.

Well,not picks but thoughts.Maybe it could be useful for someone.

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Profit!

Sheff Wed 0 - 2 Swansea

Darren Pratley's two goals condemned Sean McAuley to a losing start as Sheffield Wednesday caretaker boss.
The midfielder took just five minutes to put Swansea in charge, Gorka Pintado laying the ball on for Pratley to take in his stride and beat Lee Grant. 
Wednesday rallied and it took a good save from Dorus de Vries to keep out Jermaine Johnson's fierce shot. 
But the Owls then struggled and Pratley struck a second goal, meeting Nathan Dyer's low cross at the near post. 
Wednesday parted company with Brian Laws last weekend but McAuley was unable to inspire an improvement as Swansea maintained their push for promotion. 
The Owls are now winless in the last 10, having lost the last six and face the harsh reality of relegation if they do not make drastic improvements.
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QPR 1 - 1 Sheff Utd
New Queens Park Rangers manager Paul Hart saw his side draw with Sheffield United in his first game in charge.
Mikele Leigertwood opened the scoring for the home side with a right-footed strike from the edge of the area after just two minutes. 
Toni Kallio set up Richard Cresswell to fire home from close range for the equaliser six minutes later. 
Ben Watson headed against the crossbar in injury-time for the home side but both teams had to settle for a point. 
QPR manager Paul Hart:
"I thought we played extremely well. In the second half we were excellent, it was wave after wave. 
"I work with players to try to help them improve. I'm here to steady the ship. 
"I think this is a great club and it's a privilege to be working here." 
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell:
"We talked about it in the week, it's not the time to be playing a team when a new manager walks through the door. 
"The players have got to show them what we are about. 
"All the talk was about QPR but my players were very resilient and did a professional job."
www.bbc.co.uk

QPR - Sheffield United

Paul Hart will have his debut as a manager, but also will have to cope with bad shape of his players, injury worries and strong opponent. Rangers are in run of five games without a win, three defeat and two draws. More disturbing is a fact till the previous round their performances didn’t look as top club’s at all. At Monday against WBA on the road, Rangers were defending whole hour than took a lucky lead after an own-goal. With a wind in the back score another and were keeping the lead till 94^th minute when conceded for a draw. So, their shape is far from promotion chasers and with not so good dressing room atmosphere, Hart will have a difficult job to make a harmony in the team. Also, he will hand a number of players late fitness tests (didn’t precise who, but defender Matt Connolly is one of them). Key midfielder Akos Buzsaky is expected to miss out again with a knee problem. But, good news full-back Gary Borrowdale should return after missing Monday's draw and midfielder Steven Reid is also close after two weeks out with a hamstring injury. Goalkeeper Radek Cerny will be available despite jarring his ankle attempting a goal-kick against and striker Angelo Balanta is fit after a groin injury.Midfielders Gavin Mahon, Lee Cook and Martin Rowlands (all knee) are long-term absentees.

 

Before the season started, Blades were considered as one of the clubs that should fight for a direct promotion. Thankfully to injury crisis that was shaking the club in October, United noticed eight games without a win and dropped in the bottom half of the table. But as the players started to recover, United started to collect the points, have made a run of six games without a defeat (four wins and two draws) and have kept clean sheets in four of the last five. Currently hold eighth place and with a win today would make a break into top six. However, boss Kevin Blackwell also has some injury concerns and also refused to name them. The most important is condition of key striker Darius Henderson who missed the last three matches, but it seems he’ll appear today. Midfielder Nick Montgomery is back in contention after serving a one-match ban.

 

QPR have a quality for a top challenge for sure, perhaps syndrome of new manager will make some good impact, but problem with them is they don’t look as a squad. Most of their goals came after individual efforts, while defense line looks shaky and have been leaking a lot. They deserved this odd just for stopping WBA. Blades are permanently improving the shape and results and I expect them in top six very soon if not today. They also gain a style of play that doesn’t suit to QPR who also will have some problems with their passing play on the bad pitch. Pinnacle offer 3.09. Dnb 2 look safe, away win as a gamble.

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Barnsley 2-2 Sheff Utd

Darius Henderson scored two penalties to earn Sheffield United a draw at south Yorkshire rivals Barnsley and end a run of four straight defeats.
The Blades saw keeper Ian Bennett and defender Matt Kilgallon join their long injury list before Anderson de Silva's thunderbolt put Barnsley ahead. 
Henderson levelled after Luke Steele was adjudged to have fouled Ched Evans. 
Daniel Bogdanovic headed Barnsley back in front, but Henderson struck again when Adam Hammill tripped Kyle Walker.
Barnsley manager Mark Robins:
"To only draw a game like that after we've played so well is difficult to take. 
"We played really well. We passed the ball well and controlled the game for large parts. 
"It was a good game, a decent derby game. They've had a couple of chances, they've hit the woodwork, but they've been given the two penalties." 
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell:
"I'm proud of the lads, but another game and two more injuries. 
"You can see we are chasing round having put square pegs in round holes. 

"My biggest praise is for Derek Geary who's been out for 18 months, knee rebuilt and I've had to put him in."

www.bbc.co.uk

Barnsley - Sheffield United

Changing the manager now seems as an excellent move for Barnsley’s chairman Patrick Cryne. New man in charge, Mark Robins, brought some improvement, new players on-loan deals and team has been noticing good run of results and escape from a danger zone. They have four wins in last six Championship rounds. In one moment, they had three competitive defeats in a row (Nottingham Forest 0-1 away, Bristol City 2-3 home and Man.Utd. 2-0 away in the cup game), but successfully got back on track with last weekend’s win on the road against Peterborough (2-1). Although they used to be the strugglers (in last three Championship seasons ended as 20^th, 18^th and 20^th), they’re also known as a good home team and they have been noticing much better results at their Oakwell. Boss Robins will be without defender and skipper, Stephen Foster, while all others are fit and available.

 

This season so far looks as a nightmare for the lads from Bramall Lane. During the transfer market, team management kept almost the same squad from previous season and Blades were in the group of serious contenders for promotion. Then started problems with injuries that caused a worst run of results in past decade. United are seven games without a win (five defeats and two draws) and four consecutive defeats on the road. Currently, manager Kevin Blackwell struggling to put a team together! He asked for permission for additional number of on-loan players, but was refused from Football Association. Things went even worse last weekend as defender, skipper and a rock in defense line (defense that btw. conceded 17 goals in mentioned seven games), Chris Morgan got a suspension in home 0-1 defeat against Newcastle. Also, another two defenders, Kyle Walker and Jordan Stewart have joined the injury list. Blackwell will likely set his, last season favorite, 4-5-1 formation with alone Henderson in front.

 

High odds for home win definitely have the value. Away side has advantages only in club’s reputation and in statistics that say Blades haven’t suffered a defeat from Barnsley in last six encounters. Home side is respectable opponent to all league squads and their shape is going in raising path. I’ll cover a draw just because it isn’t a weekend game. So, 1 dnb.

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Saturday summary

Preston 2 - 2 Middlesbrough

Billy Jones scored a last-minute header to snatch a point for Preston.
Middlesbrough dominated the opening half and took the lead when Gary O'Neil, who had already been denied by Andy Lonergan, scored with a free-kick. 
Paul Parry levelled with a neat finish from a tight angle after Brad Jones has parried Jon Parkin's header. 
Adam Johnson restored Boro's lead with a low shot into the bottom corner and Rhys Williams hit the post but Jones converted a Ross Wallace free-kick. 
The match may well be Colin Cooper's only game in charge of Boro before the club make a permanent appointment as successor to Gareth Southgate. 
On the evidence of the first-half, Boro should have taken all three points from the encounter. 
The visiting team, encouraged by considerable away support, created a series of decent openings. 
But Preston rallied after the break and their perseverance was rewarded with their late equaliser - although the draw means that North End drop out of the top six. 
Preston manager Alan Irvine:
"I'm not over-happy. We have got a point, but I look for more than just a result. There are a lot of things we will need to take out of that game and improve upon. 
"We were poor in the first half. I was praying for half-time to come to address some of the issues that needed addressing. 
"I thought we got the response almost from the kick-off in the second half. We then started to stretch the game out a bit better than we had in the first half. 
"They deserve enormous credit for keeping going. It's a fantastic quality to have." 
Middlesbrough caretaker manager Colin Cooper:
"Unfortunately it comes a bit too much of a coincidence when you concede two to three late goals. 
"We should be sitting fairly close to the top of the table with the points that have gone begging. 
"Hopefully we will learn and not make mistakes in a game that we should have won comfortably."

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Sheff Utd 3 - 4 Cardiff 
Hat-trick hero Peter Whittingham is mobbed by his Cardiff team-mates
Cardiff went second in the Championship in a dramatic, action-packed game.
Jay Bothroyd seized on a rebound to put Cardiff ahead, but Mark Hudson's back-header let Darius Henderson equalise. 
Peter Whittingham's penalty restored Cardiff's lead after Matthew Kilgallon fouled Bothroyd, only for Henderson to strike again with a looping header. 
Whittingham sealed the win, converting a flick-on then poking in his hat-trick, only for James Harper's late goal to give the Blades forlorn hope. 
Even after Harper struck in the 90th minute to make it 4-3, there was still time for the home side to carve out another chance and they thought they had equalised. 
But Stephen Quinn's effort was ruled out for off-side, much to Cardiff's relief as they leap-frogged West Bromwich Albion to become Newcastle's main Championship challengers.
Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell:
"Things are tough at the moment, but the squad players that came in gave me a great shift and I can't knock them. 
"It was a good performance and on another day it would have been enough to get us a point. 
"It's tough when you are losing your experienced players and until we get them back it will be tough. 
"But I think we deserved more than we got out of the game, that's for sure and the players showed terrific spirit to keep coming back." 
Cardiff City manager Dave Jones:
"The first half was a bit crazy... so I'm sure Kevin [Blades boss Blackwell] will be disappointed with his defending as much as I am with ours. 
"I just felt every time we got our noses in front we went and did something stupid. 
"But our fourth goal today you won't see many better, our moving, our passing, our crispness and the finish. 
"And well deserved for Whitts [Whittingham] to get his hat-trick... it was a tough game."
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Tottenham 0 - 1 Stoke

Glenn Whelan struck late to earn Stoke victory over Spurs, who will ruefully look back at missed chances.
Aaron Lennon's curling shot was well kept out by Steve Simonsen, while Peter Crouch's header was acrobatically cleared off the line by James Beattie. 
Niko Kranjcar's drive hit the foot of the post as Spurs pressed. 
But Spurs, hit by an early injury to Jonathan Woodgate and a late one to Lennon, were stunned when Whelan smashed in an angled shot to win it. 
England winger Lennon was forced off with 10 minutes to play, leaving Spurs to finish the match with 10 men as they had already used all their substitutes. 
And as Tottenham were stretched, Stoke took advantage to pull off a smash and grab they barely deserved.
The match marked the first anniversary of Harry Redknapp taking over as Spurs boss, and there is no doubt he has transformed the club. 
A year on from his appointment, Redknapp has taken the Londoners from relegation candidates to a side that would go top of the table with victory against Stoke. 
It should have been extra incentive for Tottenham to turn on the style against opposition who had won only one of their last five Premier League matches.
But instead, they failed to make the most of their greater possession and territory and got hit with a sucker punch. 
They will also be frustrated by the injury to Woodgate, who managed only a 13-minute cameo in his first start of the season.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp on injured Aaron Lennon walking off with 14 minutes left:
"I hoped he could stay on but he couldn't. I told him we'd only have 10 men and could he play on, but he said his ankle was too sore. 
"I don't want to cause an issue. It's not about England - he's got big games coming up for Tottenham." 
Stoke boss Tony Pulis:
"It was probably our best result because we were playing against a top, top side. They have all the ammo you need to win games and they will still probably have a great season. 
"For this football club, we have to be in the Premier League for three years before we push on. We are still living in portacabins at the training ground."
www.bbc.co.uk

Sheffield United - Cardiff City

After they made an encouraging start to this campaign, Sheffield United's results have come up short in recent weeks and Blades find themselves on 13th place. They noticed last win in steel-city derby (3-2) more than a month ago. Since then, two home draws (Ipswich 3-3, stoppage time equalizer and Doncaster 1-1) and three away defeats (Swansea 1-2, Scunthorpe 1-3 and Blackpool 0-3). Main reason for this sinking is recent injury crisis, ten regular players are sidelined and Blades currently can not resist against any opponent in second tier. Also, fact they have 13 new players comparing with previous season shouldn’t be forgotten. To make the things even worse, took care the only forward Darius Henderson who got a knock and he’s doubtful for the game. Club have signed free-agent striker, Henri Camara, he will probably start the match, but his fitness isn’t on proper level and the question is how much he can really help. While they’ll have a lots of problems to score against tough side as Cardiff surely is, defense line looks extremely shaky conceding six goals in last two encounters. Considering their current situation, I’m absolutely sure they would accept one point today.

The Blue Birds hold the third place on the table with just a point less than league leaders WBA. After the good start of the season, club fell in injury crisis and noticed five competitive defeats in six games! When injury list started to decrease, results became brighter. Cardiff have three wins (Derby 6-1, Watford 4-0 and Coventry 2-0) and a draw (Crystal Palace 1-1) in last four games. But, the most important thing is manager Dave Jones should have a strong squad to choose from, with a lot of his players now available again. His “key of the keys” Ross McCormack is fully fit and ready, defender Kevin McNaughton, midfielder Mark Kennedy and striker Warren Feeney are also available. Only missing player is midfielder Kelvin Etuhu who could be fit and back in training after the next international break. Excellent striker Michael Chopra is the leading scorer in the division with 11 goals, and United face another goal threat in midfielder Pete Whittingham, who has scored six times in the Welsh side's last five matches. Win at Bramall Lane would boost team confidence and maybe launch them on the top. 

I don't agree with the bookies that favor the home side and see the value here. Even if United don’t have injury problems (injury catastrophe sounds more appropriate), Cardiff would be at least equal. Instead more reasons for away win, I'll say few words about my concerns here. It’s a derby clash which usually means very nervous game. Cardiff have three players sent off so far, which is the most by any club. Many recovered players at visitors’ side could make a damage to the team balance that have noticed good run even without them. Also, home ground and the fact the both sides wouldn’t be unhappy with undecided outcome force me to cover a draw instead going on clear away win. Dnb is arround 2.20, even +0.25 on Cardiff is well paid.

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One more later.

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Blackpool - Sheffield United

With Saturday’s win against Plymouth (2-0), Blackpool extended their incredible run of five straight competitive wins at home (nine without a defeat) and just two goals conceded (ten scored). Squad that possess a decent quality and small stadium with fanatic fans made from Bloomfield Road a place that nobody likes to visit. With a single goal in both periods, Blacpool left Plymouth without a chance and in some period it looked they were doing the job in “second gear”. Winning streak gave them safety, at home play without too much respect and surely won’t be afraid of Championship giants (already beat Newcastle, 2-1). Defenders Danny Coid, Ian Evatt, and strikers Daniel Nardiello, Gary Taylor-Fletcher and Stephen McPhee are all long term absentees for the hosts. Talented winger Ishmel Demontagnac made his comeback from injury against Plymouth and although he was sent off for violent conduct in a reserve match last week, his three-match ban does not yet come into play and he could feature. So, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway should start with the same side that beat Plymouth.

Blades came in the recent season as one of the main contenders for promotion. Squad that wasn’t changed too much during the transfer market possesses enough quality to fight against the best clubs in the second tier. But, problems came very soon. Currently, United are without a win in four games and have lost their last three away matches. Also, the fact they conceded eight goals in those three games (Coventry City 2-3, Swansea City 1-2, Scunthorpe United 1-3) sounds incredible when we talk about last season best defense line in Championship. Problem started, as usual, when one of the central defensive duo Morgan- Kilgallon is missing. First Chris Morgan got an injury. Recovered, but then Matthew Kilgallon fell in the “contract negotiation crisis”. Recently, he requested a transfer. Meanwhile, injury list has been growing. Manager Kevin Blackwell (his position is very insecure these days, btw.) couldn’t count on 10 first-team players for Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Scunthorpe - and could only name six substitutes on the bench! New name on the list is defender Andrew Davies, while team morale is needless to say very low. Kevin Blackwell will probably set his last season favorite 4-5-1 formation and expectations are tight game is in front, with small number of goals.

United’s only advantage are club’s reputation and the fact they’re unbeaten in eight league games against Blackpool (five wins, three draws). Home side has a clear advantage and only limitation for me is the fact this is the mid-week game. I take “draw no bet” option with the high stake (Pinnacle 1.77) and home win (again Pinnacle 2.52) as a gamble.

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Saturday

Stoke 1 - 0 Sunderland

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Dave Kitson's strike just before half-time earned Stoke victory against Sunderland at the Britannia Stadium.
The former Reading player guided his effort past Craig Gordon after a scramble in the area. 
Stoke had the best of the chances, with Liam Lawrence twice having his goalbound shots blocked - first by goalkeeper Gordon then Phil Bardsley. 
Sunderland striker Darren Bent went close with a 20-yard shot and Bardsley forced a save from Thomas Sorensen. 
The match was a fairly tepid affair until the last 10 minutes of the first half. 
The efforts worthy of a mention were that of Kitson's, a snapshot over the bar from eight yards, and Bent's angled shot at the other end which was bravely blocked by Ryan Shawcross.
Apart from those half-chances, Sunderland had dealt relatively well with Rory Delap's long throw-ins while Shawcross and Abdoulaye Faye had nullified the double threat of Bent and Kenwyne Jones. 
But with the interval approaching, clear chances increased in frequency.
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Sheff Utd 2 - 2 West Brom

West Brom went top of the Championship despite a late penalty from David Cotterill salvaging a point for Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
Roman Bednar gave the Baggies the lead after the break with a glancing header. 
Ched Evans quickly levelled with another fine header before Bednar turned Matthew Kilgallon and fired home in style to restore the advantage. 
But Shaun Cummings brought down Darius Henderson in the dying moments, allowing Cotterill to steal a point.
www.bbc.co.uk

Sheffield United - WBA

United are noticing very promising start of new campaign in Championship. It seems elimination from Burnley in last play-off didn’t discourage the team and lads with eight points from four introducing rounds are announcing another battle for promotion. The Blades made two draws, opening 0-0 vs. Middlesbrough away and unlucky 1-1 against Leicester at home. Two wins came from the encounters against Watford (2-0) at home and Reading (3-1) on the road. United put excellent display at Madejski and after first 20 minutes (when they conceded a goal) took a game in own hands and score three times for a big win. Team has an iron defense and very strong midfield, but little lack in attacking line, as new signing Ched Evans still hasn’t started to repay 3 mill. pounds investment. However, that problem is more obvious against weaker rivals that are focused on defense. After missing the Reading game with tonsillitis, key midfielder Brian Howard is doubtful. The same situation is with on-loan winger Keith Treacy who limped off at Madejski. Home side is undefeated in last nine league games at their Bramall Lane (six wins and three draws).

After relegation from Premier, the Baggies seem decisive to make an immediate return. Boss Roberto Di Matteo has good reason to feel encouraged after club collected ten points from four games. Opening draw against another “ex Premier” – Newcastle (1-1) was an introduction to three consecutive league wins. Two on the road (Nottingham Forest 1-0 and Peterborough United 3-2) and one at home (Ipswich 2-0). In last game, against Roy Keane’s side, West Brom looked superior. Two easy hits, missed penalty and full domination during the entire game are probably just a small piece of their potential. But two away victories have been noticed with a slight touch of luck, as Forest and Peterborough missed a bunch opportunities to get at least a point. West Brom have a lots of problems with injuries. Defenders Gianni Zuiverloon and Neil Clement, midfielders Filipe Teixeira and James Morrison and striker Ishmael Miller are long time sidelined. With a key midfielder Jonathan Greening’s departure to Fulham, team obviously lost some of their quality. This, however don’t reflect on team’s results, so far. For this game, midfielder Chris Brunt has a problem with a calf strain and is not expected to play, while defender Gonzalo Jara is set to miss out as he awaits international clearance.

British press predict a tough game with small number of goals, as United have some problems in attack, while WBA have injury problems and certainly would be satisfied with a goalless draw. I think, in fact I’m sure United will not lose this, they possess more than enough quality for another big win, feel WBA’s luck are running out and simply follow my instinct. Betfair offer 2.58, Pinnacle 2.50. Clear home win.

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