Sunderland - Chelsea

Sunderland perhaps made a great deal selling Bent for 24mill, but on the other hand that left them without too much options in attack. For tonight’s game, Danny Welbeck is sidelined which should mean Asamoah Gyan will be alone in front line (new signing Muntari isn’t available). Without intention to put his qualities in doubt, he’s best as support forward and don’t think he alone is capable to seriously harm Chelsea’s back four. Sunderland have very good home record with just one defeat (Blackpool 0-2) out of 11 games. They stayed undefeated against Gunners (1-1) and Man Utd (0-0). However, against Chelsea they have unreal stats. 3-0 won at Stamford ended a run of 11 consecutive defeats (last five at home).

Chelsea started to show some signs of waking up with two league wins against Blackburn at home 2-0 and Bolton away 4-0. Torres won’t be in a team tonight, but his arrival (as well as capture of David Luiz) should be a real boost and recover of title hopes. On the other hand, failure at the Stadium of Light would end it very fast. Chelsea have the best defensive record (19 goals conceded) with Cech impressing lately, Drogba has returned something of his old shape, Anelka scored 6 goals in last 5 league games against Sunderland and I believe in their good display tonight.

Despite that very good record against Sunderland, Chelsea won four of mentioned five at Stadium of Light by one. Bearing in mind their humiliation in reverse fixture, I think it could be something more.

Bet: Chelsea -0.75
Odd: 1.98 Pinnacle, bet365
Stake: 8/10

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Sunderland - Newcastle

Sunderland are doing pretty well this season, they’re on unreal (for me, at least) 6th place and have lost only once at Stadium of Light (weird game vs. Blackpool 0-2). At home they have conceded the least number of goals in Premier (seven) and have kept clean sheets in five of their last seven league games. Three important players should return for the game. Defender Onuoha is sure, Cattermole is key man in the middle of the park and knowing his temper I have impression he’d play with one leg. Wellbeck should also take some role in the derby. At the previous game, they were humiliated with 1-5 trashing.

The Toon are also having a good season and Pardew’s era started with expected results. Wins against Liverpool, Wigan and West Ham, defeats vs. City and Spurs. Nothing much to say about them, my impression is management’s decision to sack Hughton was too harsh. We’ll see, but personally I don’t expect more than the middle of the table from Newcastle. Big problem for today is missing of Andy Carroll - top scorer with 11 goals, but they’ll also miss his defensive role at set-pieces. Midfielder Tiote is suspended.

I fancy Sunderland here. They seem to be a stronger side, are performing very well at home and should be too much for the Toon without Carroll. However, I’m taking some cover in case of a draw.

Bet: Sunderland -0.25
Odd: 1.82 Canbet
Stake: 8/10

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Results and statistic update

Wigan - Stoke 2-2 DRAW
Leeds - Crystal Palace 2-1 WON
Sunderland - West Ham 1-0 LOST
Liverpool - Aston Villa 3-0 WON

Updated statistic and list of bets.

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Sunderland - West Ham

After a sublime performance at Stamford Bridge, Sunderland took only a point from next two games. Draw against Everton at home (2-2) and defeat at Wolves (2-3). They’ve been playing nice to watch football, still without a defeat at home (resisted against Man Utd, Man City and Arsenal) and possess serious attacking power in Bent and Gyan. I was thinking about home win, first. But, here’s the problem. Steve Bruce will be missing both of his first choice centre backs, Michael Turner and Titus Bramble. In a tight game, risk would be bigger. I expect more attacking Sunderland, today. Good thing for Bruce is, another defender John Mensah declared himself fit.

The Hammers defeated Wigan in their make or break game, but shock came after it as they demolished Man Utd in Cup game. They didn’t earn any points on that, but mood in the dressing room is completely different. No reason for a fear at Stadium of Light. They don’t have a single win on the road, but actually like to visit Sunderland’s ground. Six wins there of last eight occasions. Carlton Cole is back with two goals in Cup, with Piquionne should be a real threat to the opposite defence (defence without centre backs). The Hammers have scored in each of their last 15 league games against Sunderland.

In some other moment of the season, I guess Sunderland would be a clear favourite. But today with those injuries and confident West Ham, I think they won’t keep a clean sheet. Whatever aspect of this game I try to analyze, conclusions are the same. Goals, both to score, over.

Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 2.05 Pinnacle
Stake: 7/10

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decent profit

Everton 2-0 Bolton

The simplest of Mikel Arteta free-kicks and a late Steven Pienaar strike handed Everton a seventh successive home league win as 10-man Bolton crumbled.
Bolton's Kevin Davies came closest in an uneventful first half but Tim Howard bravely saved after a flowing move. 
The game turned with the 70th-minute dismissal of Gretar Rafn Steinsson, who bundled over Yakubu as the last man. 
Arteta looped the resulting free-kick home and Leon Osman hit the post before Pienaar's powerful, decisive second. 
With both teams in good form, neither manager saw fit to make changes to their starting line-up, but Everton boss David Moyes soon found his hand forced.
Everton manager David Moyes:
"We had the best of the play and we controlled most of the ball in the first half without being able to create in the final third. 
"We needed a good Tim Howard save in the first half but we needed to be patient and we got our reward in the end. 
"It was a great pass by Steven Pienaar to get Yakubu away - scoring the goal as well was a double whammy for Bolton, and it was a great free-kick. 
"In the last few games, Mikel Arteta has been getting back to his best. He's nursing a couple of minor strains but he's so keen to keep going." 
Bolton manager Owen Coyle:
"Yakubu took a great touch across Gretar Rafn Steinsson and invited Steinsson to come onto him. If there's a collision there's not a lot of contact, but Mr Wiley deemed it a red card. 
"To rub salt into the wound, because I believe it was a contentious decision, Mikel Arteta was allowed to take the free-kick four yards closer than he should have been. 
"I don't agree with the decision and with then allowing Arteta to bring the ball forward to the arc, with the quality he's got. 
"We carried on the fight, accepting that Everton had chances, but I'm disappointed to leave with nothing. I felt we offered an awful lot to the game."
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Sunderland 3 - 1 Birmingham

Sunderland claimed their second win in three games with a hard-fought victory over a spirited Birmingham.
The Black Cats were ahead as early as the fifth minute courtesy of a neat finish from Darren Bent from six yards. 
The England striker made it 2-0 just six minutes later, finishing well after being fed in by Steed Malbranque. 
Birmingham rallied well and on the hour Cameron Jerome ran clear to pull a goal back, but late on Fraizer Campbell's sliding finish sealed the home victory. 
Having finally claimed their first win of 2010 with a 4-0 thrashing of Bolton on 9 March, Sunderland have, by the admission of manager Steve Bruce, begun to play with a greater freedom and style than at any other time during his tenure. 
One of the chief individual beneficiaries of this has been striker Bent, who has recaptured his goalscoring touch in spectacular fashion to reinvigorate Sunderland's season and boost his chances of making Fabio Capello's squad for the World Cup this summer.
www.bbc.co.uk

Sunderland - Birmingham

Sunderland made a furious start of the season announcing maybe even a battle for Europe (!), but then dropped in the crisis. Lack of results and noticed points was caused mainly with crisis of their best scorers Bent and Jones (and disaster shape on the road, of course). Recently those duo has woken up, Sunderland defeated Bolton 4-0 (three times Bent) and drew vs. Man City 1-1 (Jones) and in both games they played very well. At the same time, defense look stronger than usual (with goalie Gordon in a sensational shape), while forced midfield duo Meyler - Kieran Richardson brought more creativity than first option Cana – Cattermole had. Mentioned Cana is suspended, Cattermole is doubtful. Sunderland have lost only one of their last seven league games and see their uptrend in the finish of the season that could be ended few places upper.

 

Alex McLeish has been doing a great job in Birmingham. With limited resources and a team without big names, they hold (in my opinion) very high 8^th place. Fanatical spirit, tough defending and fast passing are their main characteristics. The biggest problem for McLeish is a small number of players in the squad which limits rotation options and has brought some fatigue. Also, defense is consisted from the players in late football years which don’t help as well. Their advantage today will be tradition, Blues usually like to play with today’s opponent. Defender Stuart Parnaby should be on the bench after recovering from an ankle injury, while midfielder Teemu Tainio is ineligible (loaned from Sunderland). Birmingham have kept 10 clean sheets this season, but have managed only one in their last nine league games.

 

I’ve been thinking a lot about this game. Sunderland  attack will have advantage against Brum’s defense, that’s for sure. Midfield looks fine for me, but my concern was a defense line. However, following their improvement (Gordon’s particularly) and foreseen uptrend in the finish, I think we’ll see a narrow home win. 888sports offer 2.25. 

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Initial thoughts for Saturday

At the first glance,two games in England shouldn’t be overlooked.
Can’t see how Newcastle can lose at Walkers.Haven’t checked team news,but even 20 injuries wouldn’t change my opinion.Odds look generous.Will decide between dnb and away win.

Everton on the road against Wigan.Good thing about Toffees is their results follow the trend.When they have injuries and start sinking,run away from them.When start improving then should be backed.They have very good dressing room atmosphere that wasn’t shook with Cup exit.Although Sunderland’s performance is really awful in these days,I think Everton definitely have enough strength to defeat Wigan.The fact first goalie for Latics will be again Stojkovic suggests a big possibility of goals.Away win and over in this one.

Again it’s my initial thoughts,take it with caution.But it worth a small bets for me. 

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Initial thoughts - Premier League

Birmingham - Chelsea 2
West Ham - Portsmouth 1
Fulham - Tottenham X
Burnley - Bolton X
Sunderland - Everton X
Manchester City - Stoke 1
Wigan - Blackburn 1
Liverpool - Wolverhampton 1

Total goals: 15

Some analyzes will follow.

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Tottenham 2-0 Sunderland

Sunderland were left to rue a host of missed chances and wasted possession as Tottenham returned to winning ways with a smash-and-grab victory.
Robbie Keane put Spurs ahead when he bundled in Peter Crouch's knock-down and Tom Huddlestone wrapped up victory with a fierce 20-yarder on 70 minutes. 
But, goals aside, Sunderland dominated, with Andy Reid striking the post and Heurelho Gomes making crucial saves. 
The most vital came from Darren Bent's penalty after his foul on the striker. 
After league defeats to Stoke and rivals Arsenal, the three points were most welcome for a Tottenham side with ambitions of breaking into the top four. 
But on another day the Londoners could have been put to the sword by a vibrant Sunderland side, who will wonder how they failed to get anything out of a match they controlled for long periods.
Few will feel the pain more than Bent, whose return to Tottenham - a club at which he spent two years, so often on the sidelines - dominated much of the pre-match talk. 
The 25-year-old could barely have hoped to have come into the game on better form having bagged eight goals in 11 appearances this season, but his impression of White Hart Lane will hardly have been enhanced by a miserable afternoon. 
First he had to watch on as Keane, one of the main reasons he missed out on first-team football at Spurs at the back end of last season, grabbed the opener.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp:
"We got away with it a bit today. We couldn't get going and Sunderland looked very, very good.
"Our keeper was fantastic and we've clawed out a result - sometimes football works like that. A couple of weeks ago we battered Stoke and lost. 
"As for their penalty - Gomes says he's tried to get out of the way of the player and got kicked in the chest. I haven't seen it yet but, even if it was a penalty, I don't think he should've got a red card - Bent was going away from goal and sometimes we're too quick to send players off. 
"I'd honestly say that even if it was my player who'd got brought down." 

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce:
"Sometimes in football you have a day like today - since the beach ball incident at Liverpool we've run out of luck and we've been out of luck again today.
"The best opportunities and possession were ours, but we've not taken them and come away with nothing. 
"The turning point today was the second-half penalty incident. Darren Bent was through on goal, it's a goal-scoring opportunity, and by the letter of the law their keeper should be sent off. 
"Instead it's just a yellow card and he's had the chance to save the penalty. If we're playing 10 men who knows? Still, I'm delighted with the way we played - we completely bossed the game - that's football sometimes."

www.bbc.co.uk

Tottenham Hot. - Sunderland

Tottenham have noticed two straight defeats in Premier League (fringe players beat Everton in Cup). And while first one was the result of more than a bad luck (Spurs had 22 attempts on goal, but lost vs. Stoke 0-1), second one came from London’s big derby vs. Arsenal (0-3 on the road). Absence of key striker Jermaine Defoe who has been their main goal scorer this season with 6 goals so far was a main reason for not scoring. He served his suspension and will lead the attack. Second important player for goal scoring, Aaron Lennon has an ankle injury and his appearance still hasn’t been confirmed. The key is Spurs will shine against lesser sides, but will struggle against the big 4. Their shape is much better at White Hart Lane than on the road. Harry Redknapp was furious after Arsenal capitulation and demands response. Two side-backs, Bassong and Corluka are as Lennon in doubt (I guess one of them will surely play), but Spurs are well covered and don’t think it will have significant impact.

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During the transfer market, Sunderland again spent a lot. Squad looks more than competitive so far. But, problems begin when they left their Stadium of Light. Only one win and one draw with four defeats. In last four games they lost three times and all three times against the clubs from bottom half of the table (Stoke City 0-1, Burnley 1-3 and Birmingham City 1-2). Also, big problem for today’s game is missing of three very important players. Key midfielder Lee Cattermole is injured and won’t play. His fellow midfielder Lorik Cana is suspended, just like striker Kenwyne Jones. Defender John Mensah remains out with a persistent calf problem while another midfielder Zenden is also not fit enough to travel to London. McCartney (defender), Campbell (forward), and Bardsley (defender) all having knocks.  The biggest threat to the opponents will be Darren Bent who left Spurs during the summer. He made a statement today accusing Redknapp he didn’t want him in the club. Manager Steve Bruce will set 4-5-1 formation with Bent alone in front.

In my opinion, this game has a big weight for Redknapp and Spurs. After two consecutive defeats, one more failure could make a serious trouble. Defoe is back, midfield should have a full domination and I see at least two goals scored for Spurs. My only worry is angry and fully motivated Bent. Counting on his possible individual effort, I’ll go on -1 handicap, instead -1.5.

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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

Stoke City - Sunderland

After three rounds in Premier, Stoke already showed they’re capable to secure their status in Premier. Opening win at home (3-0) against new-comers Burnley got the real weight after Burnley defeated Man.Utd. and Everton. Then heavy 0-4 defeat at Enfield (that surely didn’t discourage them) and first point on the road against Birmingham (0-0). So, key of the success is the same like in previous season, winnings at home and grabbing as much points away as it is possible. Last season, only Everton, Chelsea, Man.Utd. and West Ham took all three points from Britannia Stadium (Stoke collected 35 of their 45 points at home). Club’s management is very active in the finish of transfer window. Beside earlier signed Dean Whitehead (ex Sunderland midfielder), German international Robert Huth has completed his transfer to Stoke from Middlesbrough, with Tuncay expected to join him once personal terms are agreed. Also, Sunderland defender Danny Collins is in talks over a potential move to the Potters. It seems the club is a little bit stronger than in previous season and we should expect at least the results at same level. Defender Ryan Shawcross will have a late fitness test, while James Beattie should be fit to play despite limping off against Birmingham with a knee injury. Boss Tony Pulis rested his keys in Cup against Leyton and all will be ready for the game.

The Black Cats have made their best start to a Premier League campaign. Two wins from three games give a faith the club can finish in top half of the table. It is the result of big investments in new players in past two years and the current squad under the lead of Steve Bruce seems very competitive, but surely will need some time to reach their limits. After opening win on the road against Bolton (1-0), Sunderland noticed a defeat at Stamford Bridge (1-3), but team didn’t disappoint with performance. In the last round team made, public judgment is, very lucky win (2-1) against Blackburn at home. During the mid-week, Bruce gave a chance to fringe players vs. Norwich, who used it on the right way and with 4-1 win on the road just additionally raised the confidence in the club. Fit-again goalie Craig Gordon could make his first league appearance since April, with first solution Marton Fulop nursing a heel injury. Mentioned defender Danny Collins, a transfer target for Stoke, is unlikely to be involved in this encounter. As Stoke, Sunderland usually put the better displays at their Stadium of Light than on the road. Last season noticed just three away wins from 19 games and I simply don’t believe they can take three points at Britannia, where btw. they have lost their last two visits.

Considering the players’ individual qualities, Sunderland have a clear advantage. But, Stoke have a home crowd behind, they traditionally notice good results there and visitors are still far from using their full potential. I think hosts will win, but just in case cover a draw with more than decent odd (about 1.74). So, dnb on  home side.

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Sunderland 2-3 Chelsea

Sunderland were beaten by Chelsea but avoided relegation only for their manager Ricky Sbragia to resign.
Nicolas Anelka put Chelsea in front with a 22-yard shot but keeper Petr Cech missed a cross and Kieran Richardson lashed in an equaliser. 
Salomon Kalou drove in a shot to put Chelsea ahead again before Ashley Cole slotted in the visitors' third. 
Kenwyne Jones headed in late on for the Black Cats, who stayed up after rivals Newcastle lost 1-0 at Aston Villa. 
The Magpies' result came through after the final whistle and will have provided extra satisfaction for the Stadium of Light faithful as, along with Hull losing to Manchester United, it made sure they stayed in the top-flight.
Sunderland manager Ricky Sbragia's future was as uncertain as the club's Premier League status before the game and, although the Black Cats survived, he stood down after the match. 
He achieved his primary goal of keeping the club in the top flight but would have achieved that aim a lot easier if Sunderland had shown the same sort of endeavour, energy and enthusiasm as they did for the most part against Chelsea. 
The visitors put out a strong line-up with only Frank Lampard and Alex missing but any thoughts they would be distracted by having one eye on next Saturday's FA Cup final proved ill-founded.

Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink:

"We finished off with a good win and especially with a world class goal from Nicolas Anelka. 
"My time here has been amazing. Every minute there was good work. The boys responded to what we wanted. 
"I challenged them and they responded very well. They are big names and were very good in their attitude." 

Sunderland: Fulop, Bardsley, Davenport, Ferdinand, Collins, Malbranque (Healy 78), Whitehead, Tainio (Reid 65), Leadbitter, Richardson (Murphy 87), Jones.
Subs Not Used: Colgan, Edwards, Cisse, McShane. 
Booked: Bardsley. 
Goals: Richardson 53, Jones 90. 

Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa, Ivanovic, Terry, Ashley Cole, Essien (Kalou 65), Mikel (Mancienne 78), Belletti (Ballack 27), Malouda, Drogba, Anelka.
Subs Not Used: Hilario, Di Santo, Sinclair, Stoch. 
Booked: Ashley Cole. 
Goals: Anelka 47, Kalou 74, Ashley Cole 86. 

Att: 42,468 
Ref: Mark Halsey (Lancashire).
www.bbc.co.uk

Sunderland - Chelsea

Have no comment for Guardiola.

Black cats come into this last round with two points more than “first under the line”- Newcastle. Two way for them to stay in Premier: to win against Chelsea, or Newcastle doesn’t win against Aston Villa, on the road. Their recent performances don’t make the first option very possible. They have seven defeats from last nine league games! In the last game vs Portsmouth away, Sunderland had a chance to solve all the problems about avoiding relegation. They took a lead in 60th minute, but manage to concede three times till the end! Manager Ricky Sbraglia has an interesting explanation for their lack of results (told to bbc): "From our point of view, we have conceded too many and not scored enough!”. And that will be changed against Chelsea? Ok. Sunderland midfielder Steed Malbranque is a doubt after suffering a hip injury during Monday's defeat at Portsmouth. George McCartney (calf) is still short of match fitness, while Nyron Nosworthy (hamstring) and goalkeeper Craig Gordon (knee) will not be involved. Sunderland is in position where a draw doesn’t mean anything. So, one conceded goal in the first half can make the hosts give up from Chelsea and just listen the news from Villa Park.

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Since Guus Hiddink took a charge, Chelsea plays as born again. Attacking and efficient games, with tactically perfect play are the main characteristics of their recent performances. Improvement is more than obvious, and everybody (players, fans, management) would like to see him on the bench in the next season. But, he’ll keep his word and leave the club at the end. Before that, lads have to play this match and the FA Cup final at 30.5., against Everton. Hiddink admitted that he has one eye on the Wembley showpiece, but that it is unlikely he will rest many players this weekend. He’ll make some changes in team ‘cause danger of injuries, but underlined that he likes when his players are in a good rhythm. Michael Ballack is set to return for after missing their win over Bolton with flu. Ricardo Carvalho and Deco are also back in contention after recovering from hamstring problems. The accepted opinion is Chelsea doesn’t have a motive?! Chelsea plays without a real motive at last few months, but made a run of ten wins and a draw (Everton, home 0-0) in last eleven games! I don’t think the motivation will be the problem (trashing Arsenal, after disaster in Champions League, is a very good example), Hiddink will manage it. And one statistic info, Chelsea won last eight games against today’s opponent, conceding just twice and scoring 21!

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My opinion is once again completely different from bookies’, which is good, odds are more than acceptable. Sunderland isn’t capable to defeat Chelsea, and in situation where a draw doesn’t have a weight, players and attendance will focus on news from Birmingham. If they seriously come in this game (I think they will), Chelsea won’t have too much problem to win at Stadium of Light and wait a final in a good mood. Betfred offers 2.00, while Expekt, Pinnacle and the most of others 1.85. Away win.

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Boring Tuesday

Sunderland lost again and surprises in Scandinavia, that's the epilogue from Monday. Today's offer is even worse. I dug deeper in Norway football. Rosenborg, who won fifteen of the previous seventeen league titles, remain clear favourite in the 2009 title-race despite a disappointing fifth place finish last term. According to online bookmakers, the nearest challengers are Stabaek, Brann and Valerenga. I still won't bet, just monitor the games. Mentioned Rosenborg will face Sandefjord, on the road. Odds for away win is bigger in Norway, than in the rest of the Europe (2.00-1.85). If You want to try, best offer is at Expekt, 1.90, but once again, my money stays in a wallet. One day break.

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Will be some analyze(s) for tomorrow, Uefa Cup probably. 

Cheers.

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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.

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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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Tuesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP 

Fulham are lining up a double summer bid for Tottenham pair Tom Huddlestone and Gareth Bale. (Daily Express) 
Huddlestone could leave unless he is guaranteed first-team football. (The Times) 
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is chasing Athletic Bilbao's Spanish under-21 midfielder Javi Martinez. (Daily Mirror) 
Hull manager Phil Brown is hopeful of signing Angola striker Manucho, currently on loan from Manchester United, in a permanent deal for £750,000. (Daily Mail) 
Celtic and Rangers are chasing Hamilton Accies goalkeeper Tomas Cerny. (Scottish Sun) 
Rangers have targeted Northern Ireland duo Warren Feeney, the striker on loan at Dundee United from Cardiff, and Chris Brunt, the West Brom midfielder. (Scottish Daily Mail) 
Nottingham Forest hope to make the loan signing of Brighton defender Joel Lynch, 21, permanent. (Daily Mirror) 
Barcelona are in pole position to sign Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery this summer, though Bayern are demanding a world record fee. (The Guardian) 

OTHER GOSSIP 

Sunderland are ready to ask Alan Curbishley to become their emergency new manager - once he settles his dispute with West Ham this week. (Daily Mirror) 
Portsmouth could accept a reduced overall fee from Manchester City for the striker Benjani because of cash woes. (Daily Mail) 
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is battling growing unrest in his squad over Robinho's attitude. (The Sun) 
Manchester United will offer striker Federico Macheda a long-term deal when he turns 18 in August. (The Sun) 
Colin Kazim-Richards - a target for Hull and Portsmouth - is desperate to return to Premier League football, but Fenerbahce want £3m for him. (Daily Mirror) 
Robin van Persie is ready to sign a new contract at Arsenal despite turning down a £65,000 deal in March. (Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak will watch the club play on Thursday and decide whether Mark Hughes retains the support of fans. (The Guardian) 
Aberdeen cannot afford to offer new deals to midfielder Jamie Smith and defender Lee Mair. (Daily Record) 
Celtic are set to be priced out of a move for Rayo Vallecano's defensive midfielder Mohamed Diame. (Scottish Daily Mail) 
Hearts winger Saulius Mikoliunas insists he may yet stay at Tynecastle despite failing to agree new terms. (Various) 
Former Hearts and Inverness manager John Robertson has been approached to coach the national side of Liberia. (Scottish Sun) 
 
AND FINALLY 

Oldham Athletic's mascot, Chaddy the Owl, had to be carried from the pitch after falling off a BMX bike during the pre-match entertainment at Carlisle. (Daily Telegraph) 
www.bbc.co.uk

Wednesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP 

Brazilian star Kaka has opened the door to a potential move to the Premier League by admitting his desire to play in England when he leaves current club AC Milan. (Daily Star) 
Fulham striker Bobby Zamora is a target for Spanish side Villarreal. (Daily Mirror) 
Tottenham's on-loan striker Fraizer Campbell admits he is unsure if he will remain at Spurs next season or return to Manchester United. (Daily Star) 
Sunderland have targeted Spurs striker Darren Bent but only if the Black Cats avoid relegation. (Daily Star) 
Everton have made inquiries about Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Moutinho. (Daily Mirror) 
Manchester City will offer contract rebel Daniel Sturridge a take-it-or-leave-it final £40,000 a week offer. (Daily Star) 
Or 19-year-old striker Sturridge will be offered a contract worth £30,000 to stay at Eastlands, with Chelsea and Aston Villa keen on the youngster. (Daily Mirror) 
Birmingham and Reading will battle it out for Stoke striker Dave Kitson. (Daily Express) 
Derby manager Nigel Clough will offload up to 12 players at the end of the season in a massive clear-out at the club. (The Sun) 
Dexter Blackstock, who is on-loan at Nottingham Forest, will return to QPR to see out the final year of his contract. (Daily Mirror) 
Celtic are on the trail of Rayo Vallecano midfielder Mohamed Diame. The SPL champions watched the Frenchman in their weekend draw with Tenerife. (The Star) 

 OTHER GOSSIP 

Former Manchester City chairman John Wardle is in talks with Oldham about helping out the club financially. (Daily Mirror) 
Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney has shelved plans for a salary cap in the Championship. (Daily Mail) 
Blackburn have terminated the contract of Swiss international midfielder Johann Vogel. (Daily Mail) 
Celtic coach Neil Lennon says keeper Artur Boruc has replaced him as the Scottish Premier League's panto villain following recent public incidents involving the Polish goalie. (The Scotsman) 
Aberdeen are casting an eye over former Feyenoord defender Pieter Collen after joining the club on a week-long trial. (Scotsman) 
Rangers stars Maurice Edu and DaMarcus Beasley have revealed that they were caught up in the Nashville tornado. (The Sun) 
East Stirling boss Jim McInally has told Colin Cramb he will never kick another ball for the club after being sent off against Dumbarton for dissent. (The Sun) 
Kilmarnock manager Jim Jefferies has handed club skipper James Fowler a new contract at Rugby Park for another two years. (The Sun) 
Former Rangers star Andrei Kanchelskis says Barry Ferguson is the man to replace outgoing midfielder Anatoly Tymoschuk at Zenit St Petersburg. (Daily Express) 
Aberdeen manager Jimmy Calderwood is keen to retain the services of skipper Scott Severin and Jamie Smith by earning a place in Europe next season. (Daily Express) 
 
AND FINALLY 

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney's wife Coleen McLoughlin has confirmed that she is expecting the pair's first baby. She also revealed they may adopt a child. (The Sun) 
Shy Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has revealed his scariest moment came when he was forced to sing for his team-mates following his £15m move from Bolton. (The Sun)
www.bbc.co.uk   www.skysports.com

Tuesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP 

Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas has conceded he spoke on the phone with former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon.(Skysports)

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is preparing an £18m bid for Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o. (Daily Mirror)

Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry has conceded he may have to consider his future if the club do not secure Champions League football by finishing in the top four of the Premier League this season. (Daily Mirror)

Portsmouth striker John Utaka is set for a return to France, with Bordeaux lining up a £7m swoop. (Daily Star)

Hertha Berlin are only prepared to pay £4m for on-loan Liverpool striker Andrei Voronin, if the German club qualify for next season's Champions League. (Daily Mirror)

Sunderland have joined the race for Millwall defender Zak Whitbread. (Daily Star)

Nottingham Forest are preparing a £1m bid for MK Dons midfielder Peter Leven. (Daily Star) Leicester are preparing a £2m swoop for Swindon's star striker Simon Cox. (Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP 

Newcastle's interim manager Joe Kinnear, who is recovering from a triple heart bypass operation, insists he still has a future at the troubled club. (The Sun) 
Executive director of football Dennis Wise is set to leave Newcastle in a summer shake-up at St James' Park. (Daily Mirror) 
Up to 11 of Newcastle's top earners will be axed from the club, including Michael Owen, Joey Barton and Damien Duff, if the Magpies are relegated this season. (Daily Mirror) 
Inter Milan manager Jose Mourinho has admitted he would be interested in taking over from Sir Alex Ferguson - when the Manchester United boss decides to quit Old Trafford. (The Guardian) 
Hull say they will call a truce with Arsenal over the alleged spitting incident with Cesc Fabregas, if the Gunners apologise. (The Sun) 
QPR manager Paulo Sousa looks set to be demoted in a new-look shake-up at the Championship club. (Daily Mirror) 
Players from the Sheffield United squad relegated from the Premier League in 2007 are pursuing £5m in compensation over the Carlos Tevez saga. (The Guardian) 
Chelsea's out-of-favour winger Florent Malouda has pleaded with the club to keep him at the end of the season. (Daily Express) 
Scotland boss George Burley could be about to drop five players for the match against Iceland with goalkeeper Allan McGregor, Gary Teale, Christophe Berra, Graham Alexander and Kenny Miller's places all under threat. (The Sun) 
 
AND FINALLY 

Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has spent £100,000 on his 10th wedding anniversary, also hiring X-factor singer Laura White for the party (The Sun) 
Former Poland goalkeeper Jan Tomaszewski believes the blunders by Celtic's Artur Boruc against Northern Ireland were a 'punishment from God' for starting a 'religious war' in Glasgow. (The Sun)