FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

[Aidymac]

[TABLE=class: couponTable, width: 617]

[TR] [TH=class: firstColumn]Saturday 29 December 2012[/TH] [TH]Home[/TH] [TH]Draw[/TH] [TH]Away[/TH] [TH=class: bppWidth]BPP[/TH] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Macclesfield Town v Barrow (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.25[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]4[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]5.1[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]89.05 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR] [TH] [/TH] [TH=class: firstColumn]Saturday 5 January 2013[/TH] [TH]Home[/TH] [TH]Draw[/TH] [TH]Away[/TH] [TH=class: bppWidth]BPP[/TH] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Brighton & Hove Albion v Newcastle United (12:30 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.87[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.37[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.19 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Aldershot Town v Rotherham United (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.7[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.2[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.5[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.29 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Aston Villa v Ipswich Town (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.66[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.6[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]5.2[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.01 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Barnsley v Burnley (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.55[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.6[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.98 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Blackburn Rovers v Bristol City (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.85[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.4[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]4[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.47 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Bolton Wanderers v Sunderland (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.87[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.37[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.19 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Charlton Athletic v Huddersfield Town (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.15[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.2[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.06 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Crawley Town v Reading (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.75[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.25[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.45[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.95 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Crystal Palace v Stoke City (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.3[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.11 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Derby County v Tranmere Rovers (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.61[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.6[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]5.25[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.73 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Fulham v Blackpool (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.8[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]7.5[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]106.32 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Hull City v Leyton Orient (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.44[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]4.33[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]8[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]104.81 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Leeds United v Birmingham City (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.05[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.6[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]106.86 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Leicester City v Burton Albion (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.28[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]5.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]10[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]105.96 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Luton Town v Wolverhampton Wanderers (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]4.75[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.72[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.52 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Manchester City v Watford (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.14[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]7[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]17[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.67 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Middlesbrough v Hastings United (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.1[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]8[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]18[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.96 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Millwall v Preston North End (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.55[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.6[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]6.5[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.68 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Nottingham Forest v Oldham Athletic (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.8[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]7.5[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]106.32 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Oxford United v Sheffield United (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.1[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]106.49 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Peterborough United v Norwich City (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.9[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.4[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.86[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.54 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Queens Park Rangers v West Bromwich Albion (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.37[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.87[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.19 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Sheffield Wednesday v Milton Keynes Dons (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.2[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.12[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.76 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Southampton v Chelsea (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]5.4[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.8[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.57[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.47 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Southend United v Brentford (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.87[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.37[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.19 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Tottenham Hotspur v Coventry City (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.18[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]6[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]12[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]109.62 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Wigan Athletic v AFC Bournemouth (15:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.72[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]4.75[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.52 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]West Ham v Manchester United (17:15 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]4.75[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.72[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]107.52 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR] [TH] [/TH] [TH=class: firstColumn]Sunday 6 January 2013[/TH] [TH]Home[/TH] [TH]Draw[/TH] [TH]Away[/TH] [TH=class: bppWidth]BPP[/TH] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Swansea City v Arsenal (13:30 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.2[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]3.3[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]2.15[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]108.06 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR=class: row1] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Mansfield Town v Liverpool (16:00 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]12[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]6[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.18[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]109.62 %[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [/TR] [TR] [TH] [/TH] [TH=class: firstColumn]Monday 7 January 2013[/TH] [TH]Home[/TH] [TH]Draw[/TH] [TH]Away[/TH] [TH=class: bppWidth]BPP[/TH] [/TR] [TR=class: row0, bgcolor: #F0F0F0] [TD=align: center][/TD] [TD=class: firstColumn]Cheltenham Town v Everton (19:45 GMT)[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]9[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]5.5[/TD] [TD=class: selectionBestOdd, align: center]1.3[/TD] [TD=class: bppWidth bpp, align: center]106.22 %[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE]

[Mindfulness]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan There are quite a lot of games I’m interested in for this round, I have the following games shortlisted for now: Bolton Wanderers V Sunderland Bolton really are an extremely inconsistent side this year and you would feel Freedman’s central objective would be to sneak into the playoffs at the end of the season (unlikely but still possible). The FA Cup would be an unwanted distraction imo and Freedman has already seen first hand how a good cup run can wreck a teams league standing. When you throw the morgue-esque Reebokatorium into the equation, I hardly see a ferocious cup atmosphere being generated to boost the home side. For Martin O’Neil the FA Cup should be a strongly contested competition, his Sunderland outfit should ultimately avoid relegation at the end of the season and so a decent cup run will be higher on his agenda. Sunderland +0 @ 19/20 is under consideration here. Charlton Athletic V Huddersfield Town I feel both managers will be thinking along similar lines for this matchup but if there is some rotation then Huddersfield have the stronger squad imo making them better equipped for cup conditions. The Terriers are woefully out of form but maybe Grayson will see this game as a platform to improve their fortunes. I’m not a massive fan of Charlton when they play at home and so I am actually considering Huddersfield +0.25 @ EVS here. Crawley Town V Reading Crawley will surely be relishing this game, home in the cup to a premier(ish) league side. Richie Barker will surely have a mandate to do well here to try and boost the clubs finances and I think the home side will be well up for this one. Reading will be desperate to survive in the premier league with all other competitive objectives secondary. McDermott will of course remain professional and field a team which he thinks can win. Despite this I think Crawley +0 @ 11/10 could be considered here. Crystal Palace V Stoke City I’m not sure how seriously Palace will take the FA Cup this year as promotion is clearly our number one priority. We have a very strong first eleven but several of our players need resting imo and I think Holloway recognizes this. I find it unlikely that both Zaha and Bolasie will start and I also get a sneaking feeling Murray will not start either. It’s just speculation for the time being (as with most of these) but Stoke will surely be the more motivated of the two sides in this clash. Obviously Stoke are a solid mid-table/top ten Prem side and so the FA Cup presents itself as a positive tournament for Tony Pulis. Even if he does rotate slightly here he has some very good players he can call upon. Stoke +0 @ 3/4 is shortlisted here. I’ll throw Jonathan Williams anytime goalscorer into the mix aswell @ 7/1 (William Hill). Manchester City V Watford This is really a stupid idea as Man City will be taking this competition very seriously after bollocking up every other major tournament in 2012-2013. Watford have a decent chance of the playoffs and so Zola may rotate (comes naturally with a 70 man squad). Despite this Watford are fantastic on the counter and could give Man City 1 or 2 things to think about here. The Hornets will probably get ripped to shreds but I have Watford +2 @ 7/6 on my shortlist for now, probably a very bad idea. Millwall V Preston NE Millwall’s home form is very strong and I expect Kenny Jackett to take this competition seriously in an effort to generate additional revenues. Having said this, the Lions at the time of writing are having 1 or 2 issues on the pitch with Chris Wood gone, Andy Keogh and Chris Taylor both injured to diminish the home sides attacking threat. Preston have no chance of promotion from league one this campaign imo. Westley will try and fool everyone this is not the case but deep down he knows the FA Cup will be a refuge from his bungled npower travesty. Expect a contest of igniting, fighting, gouging and biting, I will probably leave this one alone but Preston NE +0.75 @ 19/20 still makes the shortlist. Oxford Utd V Sheffield Utd This could be completely wrong but I am under the impression that Sheffield Utd are appalling in cup competitions under Danny Wilson and with good reason. The only thing Wilson wants is promotion from league one so I can’t see him taking this tie too seriously. Oxford are in a good run of form at the moment with 3 wins on the bounce in league two and will fancy their chances of taking a scalp here. Oxford +0.25 @ EVS is under consideration. West Ham Utd V Manchester Utd West Ham have a chance here I feel, the home crowd will definitely be up for it and Allardyce has assembled a team capable of slowing down the red devils imo. I expect a bit of rotation from Fergie with the prem and champions league his central priorities for this campaign. West Ham +0.75 @ 21/20 has some nice +ev imo and is a play currently under consideration. Be great to get some discussion going on these, a lot more potential than I was expecting in this 3^rd round. Will have to listen out for what the managers are saying in the build up to these.

[AHughes]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan AFC Bournemouth may well be worth a look at Wigan. They are yet to be beaten under the stewardship of Eddie Howe after he took over from Paul Groves earlier on in the season. Wigan are without main striker Arouna Kone as he is on African Cup of Nations duty. Also, Roberto Martinez may play a 2nd string side here as his main focus will be survival in the Premiership. He came out and slammed Wigans 2nd string side however earlier on in the season after their humiliating Carling Cup defeat to Bradford. The Latics do have a history of under-performing in the Cup also as I re-call Paulo Di Canio's Swindon defeating them in the 3rd round of last seasons FA Cup.

[BookiesNo1Enemy]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan Great start to the thread Das Phantom and additional post from AHughes. This is one of my favorite weekends of the footballing year, FA cup 3rd round, magic of the cup and all that!! It is fair to say that some punters might swerve any major bets because of its unpredictable nature but it looks like there is some value to be had. Starting with Das Phantoms selections; Stoke look a solid possibility depending on how seriously Holloway will take it. At Blackpool I seem to remember him resting an entire team away at my team (Villa) with a fine imposed on him due to this as he was seen as disrespecting the competition (League cup). As they are pushing for promotion in the Championship he may decide to keep a strong nucleus to maintain league form going into the next match or adversely, as suggested, rest players (and lock Zaha in a cupboard until 1st Feb:rollin) If Holloway decides to do this then Stoke look a good bet @ around 6/5 because they more depth in their squad than they are given credit for, the likes of Jerome, Etherington, Crouch, Upson and knightly will all be looking to gain a first team place if given the runout. I still expect Selhurst Park to be rocking as it is the cup but this bet is a maybe depending on the noises coming out of each camp in the next few days. Moving on to Sunderland. The main reason I might take another Premiership team away to a Championship team is a certain Martin O'neill. At Villa he always showed a desire in all competitions as he knows a decent run can push into league performances with the added bonus of a possible Wembley apperence. I feel this will remain the same here and with improved league form recently it could be an ideal opportunity to progress. Also as pointed out the stadium should't really give Bolton an advantage, It could be the polar opposite to the atmosphere at Selhurst park. Again 6/5 (coral) looks a fair price, nothing special but enticing enough. Home favourites Derby should justify their price of 4-6 (Coral) when they take on league 1 leaders Tranmere. Rovers have one of the smaller squads in their league and Derby one of the strongest home records in the Championship hitting boro for 3 with one conceded at the weekend. I feel that with a busy festive period just coming to an end some of the Tranmere bodies may be running on empty. They have a few lone players but am pretty sure they have been allowed to play this season in League cup matches although I could be wrong. Derby win for me. Crawley are a team that also make me think that if there is to be a shock (of sorts) in the 3rd round then they can be the victors. I don't like backing the Premiership strugglers in cup competitions and even less so away at a place like this! It will be a stadium rocking at 3pm with a tight ground and although fans alone may not win them the match players like Alexander, Nicky Adams and Billy Clarke could have enough to defeat what could be a half strength Reading side. 2/1 (Coral) seems a good price and if Crawley can put presure on from the first whistle then it can roll in. Another Home side at very decent odds are Luton at home to a Wolves side that are on the slide. The type of game Luton play could be very effective against a defence short confidence. Wolves have some quality players that can be very dangerous on their day such as Doyle, Ebanks-Blake and Pennent but individuals very rarely get you a result against teams that are a unit. Down at conference level Luton are one of the best and will still count themselves as a league side after recent near misses at promotion. They will be well up for this tie and will want to prove themselves against a Championship side of good pedigree. The fans are also very vocal with another tight pitch so 3/1 (Coral) has to be considered. Finally a few BTS suggestions; Spurs v Coventry- apart from failing to net against Shrewsbury on New Years Day they have been consistantly scoring and you would have to expect even a half strength Spurs side to score against their league 1 travellers. Evens (Coral) Leicester v Burton- I actully feel Burton might get the shock opener in this match quickly followed by an leicester leveller. Burton are not prolific on their travels but Leicester can be opened up at times and in Zola, Kee and Maghoma they have a goal threat. Again Leicester will be expected to score so happy to take this @ a chunky looking 6/5 (Coral) Finally at shorter odds Sheff Wed v Mk Dons looks ok at 5/6 (Coral) on paper this is quite an even tie with a relegation threatened Owls hosting Mk franchise looking to swap places with them. Both sides have strikers capable of netting in what could prove to be an open and entertaining tie. Karl Robinson also likes to play a sharp passing game that could open up a Wednesday side that looks unsure as to what their best XI. Sidibe has started upfront recently with Madine and O'Grady some of the options from the bench. I will post later in the week and look forward to your thoughts. Good luck all with whatever you pick :ok

[pg_yid]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

There are quite a lot of games I’m interested in for this round, I have the following games shortlisted for now: Bolton Wanderers V Sunderland Bolton really are an extremely inconsistent side this year and you would feel Freedman’s central objective would be to sneak into the playoffs at the end of the season (unlikely but still possible). The FA Cup would be an unwanted distraction imo and Freedman has already seen first hand how a good cup run can wreck a teams league standing. When you throw the morgue-esque Reebokatorium into the equation, I hardly see a ferocious cup atmosphere being generated to boost the home side. For Martin O’Neil the FA Cup should be a strongly contested competition, his Sunderland outfit should ultimately avoid relegation at the end of the season and so a decent cup run will be higher on his agenda. Sunderland +0 @ 19/20 is under consideration here. Charlton Athletic V Huddersfield Town I feel both managers will be thinking along similar lines for this matchup but if there is some rotation then Huddersfield have the stronger squad imo making them better equipped for cup conditions. The Terriers are woefully out of form but maybe Grayson will see this game as a platform to improve their fortunes. I’m not a massive fan of Charlton when they play at home and so I am actually considering Huddersfield +0.25 @ EVS here. Crawley Town V Reading Crawley will surely be relishing this game, home in the cup to a premier(ish) league side. Richie Barker will surely have a mandate to do well here to try and boost the clubs finances and I think the home side will be well up for this one. Reading will be desperate to survive in the premier league with all other competitive objectives secondary. McDermott will of course remain professional and field a team which he thinks can win. Despite this I think Crawley +0 @ 11/10 could be considered here. Crystal Palace V Stoke City I’m not sure how seriously Palace will take the FA Cup this year as promotion is clearly our number one priority. We have a very strong first eleven but several of our players need resting imo and I think Holloway recognizes this. I find it unlikely that both Zaha and Bolasie will start and I also get a sneaking feeling Murray will not start either. It’s just speculation for the time being (as with most of these) but Stoke will surely be the more motivated of the two sides in this clash. Obviously Stoke are a solid mid-table/top ten Prem side and so the FA Cup presents itself as a positive tournament for Tony Pulis. Even if he does rotate slightly here he has some very good players he can call upon. Stoke +0 @ 3/4 is shortlisted here. I’ll throw Jonathan Williams anytime goalscorer into the mix aswell @ 7/1 (William Hill). Manchester City V Watford This is really a stupid idea as Man City will be taking this competition very seriously after bollocking up every other major tournament in 2012-2013. Watford have a decent chance of the playoffs and so Zola may rotate (comes naturally with a 70 man squad). Despite this Watford are fantastic on the counter and could give Man City 1 or 2 things to think about here. The Hornets will probably get ripped to shreds but I have Watford +2 @ 7/6 on my shortlist for now, probably a very bad idea. Millwall V Preston NE Millwall’s home form is very strong and I expect Kenny Jackett to take this competition seriously in an effort to generate additional revenues. Having said this, the Lions at the time of writing are having 1 or 2 issues on the pitch with Chris Wood gone, Andy Keogh and Chris Taylor both injured to diminish the home sides attacking threat. Preston have no chance of promotion from league one this campaign imo. Westley will try and fool everyone this is not the case but deep down he knows the FA Cup will be a refuge from his bungled npower travesty. Expect a contest of igniting, fighting, gouging and biting, I will probably leave this one alone but Preston NE +0.75 @ 19/20 still makes the shortlist. Oxford Utd V Sheffield Utd This could be completely wrong but I am under the impression that Sheffield Utd are appalling in cup competitions under Danny Wilson and with good reason. The only thing Wilson wants is promotion from league one so I can’t see him taking this tie too seriously. Oxford are in a good run of form at the moment with 3 wins on the bounce in league two and will fancy their chances of taking a scalp here. Oxford +0.25 @ EVS is under consideration. West Ham Utd V Manchester Utd West Ham have a chance here I feel, the home crowd will definitely be up for it and Allardyce has assembled a team capable of slowing down the red devils imo. I expect a bit of rotation from Fergie with the prem and champions league his central priorities for this campaign. West Ham +0.75 @ 21/20 has some nice +ev imo and is a play currently under consideration. Be great to get some discussion going on these, a lot more potential than I was expecting in this 3^rd round. Will have to listen out for what the managers are saying in the build up to these.

The Sunderland one...I always think Sunderland should do well in cups for the reasons you suggest, but in reality despite playing strong teams I recall them getting knocked out in such fixtures when you'd expect them to win, such as losing at home to Boro in the league cup this season. Also, they are not quite safe from relegation and this will be O'Neill's main concern even if the possibility is remote. I like your Stoke and West Ham picks. Stoke tend to take the cups seriously in my experience and I'd strongly fancy them not to lose, so the 0 AH looks appealing at the price you mention. West Ham are solidly mid-table and I think they'll give this one a right go. Wonder if HastGill can comment on the Hastings game?? Boro look banker material @ 1.15 considering Hastings' lowly position but I know very little about either side.

[BookiesNo1Enemy]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan Forgot to add Rotherham to win away at Aldershot @ 6/5 (Coral) Rotherham are on a roll away from home which kicked on from their win away to league 1 Notts County in the last round of the this competition. Im not sure if Villa Lone star Courtney Cameron has been given permission to play yet but he is another reason for Rotherham finally looking like justifying the bookies faith in them pre-season. Guy Madjo left Aldershot today and although has not been a recent starter will still weaken the squad slightly. Rotherham have won their last 4 games in all competitions and this looks like a great opportunity to make it 5 on the bounce and fly into the 4th round draw.

[MPLouis]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan In other years, I've seen speculation over which Premier League clubs will take the FA Cup seriously, as they might believe they have a realistic chance of winning it, or at least getting to the final. Leaving aside the two main title contenders, Man City and Man United, I suppose you could pick out the following PL clubs: Chelsea Liverpool Everton Tottenham Arsenal Newcastle Aston Villa It's probably worth taking into account I think, as the above clubs will probably be a bit more motivated than, say, the likes of Fulham, QPR and Reading. Naturally, I could be wrong.

[MPLouis]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan Some gut feeling on possible value: Villa v Ipswich @ 3.75 Blackburn v Bristol City @ 4.75 Crawley @ 2.88 v Reading Derby v Tranmere @ 4.2 Fulham v Blackpool @ 5.0 Leeds v Birmingham @ 3.8 Millwall v Preston @ 5.0 Forest v Oldham @ 6.0 Spurs @ 1.2 v Coventry (Probably on the handicap) Wigan v Bournemouth @ 4.2 I've shortlisted these ten teams from the 32 games, as the teams highlighted have good recent Shots on Target stats compared with their opponents in recent games (these stats are taken from the BBC football website). I'm pretty convinced there is some value in some of these. I'm going to try and narrow it down and hope to write more …

[MPLouis]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

I've shortlisted these ten teams from the 32 games' date=' as [b']the teams highlighted have good recent Shots on Target stats compared with their opponents in recent games (these stats are taken from the BBC football website).

Correction - the odds are good value when you take into account the relative shots on target stats. E.G. Forest and Oldham have similar shots stats, making Oldham look good value @ 6.0 (even though they are a division lower)

[Mindfulness]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

The Sunderland one...I always think Sunderland should do well in cups for the reasons you suggest' date=' but in reality despite playing strong teams I recall them getting knocked out in such fixtures when you'd expect them to win, such as losing at home to Boro in the league cup this season. Also, they are not quite safe from relegation and this will be O'Neill's main concern even if the possibility is remote.[/quote'] Just watched the O'Neill interview after the Liverpool game and he said Sunderland ran out of puff in the second half after a promising start. To be fair I don't think he was making excuses, Sunderland do have a small squad and it is a concern. The other issue to consider is that after the Bolton game, Sunderland play several teams in and around them in the prem, important games so I think you have a point with regards to O'Neill's priorities. I'll wait for further developments but right now it looks unlikely I will pull the trigger with Sunderland all things considered. I've noticed centre-forward James Constable will be suspended for Oxford Utd against Sheffield Utd, he isn't a prolific scorer this campaign but does seem to play a fair bit. I would ask Oxford fans (or anyone in the know) how important a miss will Constable be?

[RIO2014]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan Just about the hardest weekend of football matches to predict, this is chritmas come late for the bookmaker..If you can predict a treble you will do well. I myself feel its a great opportunity to pick 4 or 5 Ante post to lift the cup, then if you get thru, the price will collapse by half in many instances...Finding the teams that want to win this cup or get as far as they can for the money is the key. My ante post to follow.

[RIO2014]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

Just watched the O'Neill interview after the Liverpool game and he said Sunderland ran out of puff in the second half after a promising start. To be fair I don't think he was making excuses, Sunderland do have a small squad and it is a concern. The other issue to consider is that after the Bolton game, Sunderland play several teams in and around them in the prem, important games so I think you have a point with regards to O'Neill's priorities. I'll wait for further developments but right now it looks unlikely I will pull the trigger with Sunderland all things considered. I've noticed centre-forward James Constable will be suspended for Oxford Utd against Sheffield Utd, he isn't a prolific scorer this campaign but does seem to play a fair bit. I would ask Oxford fans (or anyone in the know) how important a miss will Constable be?

Pretty imprtant id say,,,Last 10, when they have been on a run,,,unbeaten when he played,,netting 6 ,,,1 goal in 2 for oxford carear from midfield is decent IMO

[Jase82]

Orient look to be a huge price away at Hull. They definitely have form in these competitions for getting through at big prices, and they are rarely fancied by the bookmakers. Overall I think the bookies are pretty spot on with their prices, and a lot of the prices on the obvious shocks - Ipswich away at Villa, Crawley over Reading. Look to be pretty tight to me. Burton away at Leicester and Macclesfield at home to Cardiff stand out at the minute. Cardiff's main priority is to gain promotion, and they look on course for that, so I don't think they need the cash. Not as much as Macclesfield probably do. 1.50 odd on the away win seems pretty stingy to me, and a potential coupon buster. Cardiff were knocked out of the Carling Cup by Northampton. Ill be watching for team news on that one. Leicester have already been knocked out by Burton in the Carling Cup this season .... Lightening couldn't strike twice in the same place, could it? :unsure ... Just looks to me like another huge banana skin for a side looking primarily for promotion to the Premier League.

[Jase82]

Brighton to beat Newcastle is another obvious one, and comes down to team news on Newcastle's side for me. Although Brighton are now below three, which I'm not sure is value. Depends on who Newcastle put out.

[Jase82]

I myself feel its a great opportunity to pick 4 or 5 Ante post to lift the cup, then if you get thru, the price will collapse by half in many instances...Finding the teams that want to win this cup or get as far as they can for the money is the key. My ante post to follow.

Could Norwich fit into that bracket? Peterborough have been pretty dire this season, shipping goals galore, and probably have bigger relegation issues. Norwich have had a decent season so far, can probably my relax a little as their relegation issues don't seem too big. They have goals in them, and a small enough squad not to make too many changes. A decent manager in Chris Houghton too. I can see them getting past Peterborough certainly, and going on a little run.

[ThemanwiththeSTATS]

There's no doubt that Norwich are the best value of those games. Peterborough's defence has been nothing short of dire and Norwich are basically 2 leagues in front of them. Man city also look value to me at around the $1:18 mark. Watford conceded 4 at home to charlton on the weekend , if man city is in the mood any things possible.

[pg_yid]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan QPR vs West Brom West Brom 0AH @ 2.09 (12 Bet) 3/10 Harry doesn't like the cups much at the best of times, and with QPR having had a gruelling schedule over Christmas and the obvious need to pick up points in the league, I can see a vastly changed side here. I expect a few of the players he has publicly derided to come in with the idea of putting them in the shop window. QPR do have a big squad, at least with their midfield and attack, but I imagine it will be a disconnected mismatch of players who aren't used to playing together. If West Brom want to win this, and I see no reason why they wouldn't, they can do IMO; they may have gone off the boil in the league but have accrued enough points not to worry about relegation so the cup should be something they aim for. My memory tells me that apart from Pompey's superb run, teams who are struggling against relegation have a poor record in the Cup. Considering all these factors, I would have put West Brom has favourites here, so some value in opposing them at odds on on the 0AH.

[RIO2014]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

Could Norwich fit into that bracket? Peterborough have been pretty dire this season' date=' shipping goals galore, and probably have bigger relegation issues. Norwich have had a decent season so far, can probably my relax a little as their relegation issues don't seem too big. They have goals in them, and a small enough squad not to make too many changes. A decent manager in Chris Houghton too. I can see them getting past Peterborough certainly, and going on a little run.[/quote'] Yep they r on my llist...Put in a shocker against villa(cup), when they needed to rest for prem l...they now need another 4 wins and 5 draws, that will see him safe, thats very achievable, and he owes the fans 1..300/1 ish..aint bad..

[RIO2014]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

There's no doubt that Norwich are the best value of those games. Peterborough's defence has been nothing short of dire and Norwich are basically 2 leagues in front of them. Man city also look value to me at around the $1:18 mark. Watford conceded 4 at home to charlton on the weekend ' date=' if man city is in the mood any things possible.[/quote'] Man city, will want to put on a show here...why?, advertising, young support...£5 entrance for under 16 n students n pensioners in this game..£15 all others..expect a full house...And no reason for any stars to be rested if fit. Yes they will win imo

[pg_yid]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan Man City + Middlesborough double @ 1.32 (Stan James) 10/10 I know it's hard to pick a winner in the cup third round but these are two sides I can only see winning, regardless of how many changes they make. For City this is their best chance of ending the year with silverware, a defeat is unthinkable for Mancini and a draw would be extremely annoying for them too. 7 points behind in the league and out of Europe and the league cup; you'd have to say City will take the cup seriously. In the other game, I just looked up Hastings' league and they are in the same division as two sides local to me, Wingate & Finchley and Enfield Town. This is really a very different standard of football to the Championship and whilst they have done fantastically to get this far, it should be noted that Hastings have managed to do this without playing any opposition above the Conference N/S level (one level higher than they play). It will be the highlight of most of these players' careers but I can't see them getting anything from Boro, even considering Boro will have the league as their main priority and may rest players. I think anything above 1.1 contains some value for each of these two home wins.

[wisey10]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan A few initial thoughts: Peterborough +0.25 v Norwich Posh have picked up a bit of form lately and they are managing to score goals. They are the sort of side who can hit a bad run losing a number of games on the bounce and then go and pull out a real performance. Norwich are doing excellent this season but they haven't got the biggest of squads. If Hughton rests a few I think there could be a bit of value on the Posh. Aston Villa -0.5 v Ipswich The price looks too big on Villa here to me. Yes they are in a relegation fight and survival is their priority. But the last thing Lambert needs right now is getting knocked out of the cup at home against a championship club. Villa have got plenty of good youngsters with a bit of quality about them. Let's not forget Ipswich's priority is survival too and im not sure Mcarthy is the sort of manager to take the cup seriously given the position is side are in. A 10/11 shot on a prem side at home against a championship side looks decent unless there are mitigating circumstances. I think Lambert will be desperate to win this one and restore a bit of confidence in his side. Sheff Wednesday v MKDons +0.25 Its the classic bottom of 1 league v top of the league below match. It should be a tight game with there not being too much between the sides. The MkDons will come into the match with confidence wanting a scalp and I think I would prefer to side with them on a positive handicap. Bolton +0 v Sunderland im not keen on Sunderland in this match at all. O'neil did have success in the cup in his early years but I'm not convinced about his current motivations for it. They certainly aren't out of the mire in the league yet and he's got a small squad. Bolton are massively under performing given the players they have and I actually think they have a very good squad. They haven't being playing well but they have plenty of players with prem experience and I think they are capable of putting in a performance in this match. Especially if o'neil does rest a few.

[RIO2014]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

Man City + Middlesborough double @ 1.32 (Stan James) 10/10 I know it's hard to pick a winner in the cup third round but these are two sides I can only see winning, regardless of how many changes they make. For City this is their best chance of ending the year with silverware, a defeat is unthinkable for Mancini and a draw would be extremely annoying for them too. 7 points behind in the league and out of Europe and the league cup; you'd have to say City will take the cup seriously. In the other game, I just looked up Hastings' league and they are in the same division as two sides local to me, Wingate & Finchley and Enfield Town. This is really a very different standard of football to the Championship and whilst they have done fantastically to get this far, it should be noted that Hastings have managed to do this without playing any opposition above the Conference N/S level (one level higher than they play). It will be the highlight of most of these players' careers but I can't see them getting anything from Boro, even considering Boro will have the league as their main priority and may rest players. I think anything above 1.1 contains some value for each of these two home wins.

I agree with all the above, but I would like to throw Spurs in the mix here...They are on a run at the moment, and with Bale set to play without fail, he alone should have too much freedom. But we overlook the depth Spurs have even if they do make changes. Caulker Huddlestone parker livermore dempsey Friedel...all set to start, far to much for Coventry to handle. Spurs have pedigree in this competion, that wont be lost on AVB, He will know the tradition. As for coventry they have other plans this year, coming off a defeat at home the other day, they are 2 wins off the play offs, that is were the priority is...And it is there for them, if they get over the latest blip. But for this game, expect changes. Man city Boro Spurs MAX Treble...1.56 most firms. gl

[HastGill1]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

The Sunderland one...I always think Sunderland should do well in cups for the reasons you suggest, but in reality despite playing strong teams I recall them getting knocked out in such fixtures when you'd expect them to win, such as losing at home to Boro in the league cup this season. Also, they are not quite safe from relegation and this will be O'Neill's main concern even if the possibility is remote. I like your Stoke and West Ham picks. Stoke tend to take the cups seriously in my experience and I'd strongly fancy them not to lose, so the 0 AH looks appealing at the price you mention. West Ham are solidly mid-table and I think they'll give this one a right go. Wonder if HastGill can comment on the Hastings game?? Boro look banker material @ 1.15 considering Hastings' lowly position but I know very little about either side.

I'll do my best! Biggest problem for Hastings currently is that they don't have a goalkeeper.. regular goalkeeper Armstrong-Ford is still injured and they have been calling the local league clubs (Brighton, Charlton, Gills) trying to get a loan signing in to little avail (this news isn't being followed by all websites but I believe its true from what I've heard). If anyone watched the second round game on ESPN Armstrong-Ford played then and could barely move from kick off, couldn't take goal kicks or take back passes which was staggering when you consider what was at stake..the reserve GK is a 18 year old lad who has played all the games since, I have never seen play so I can't comment but if they didn't play him that game they obviously don't totally trust him, perhaps due to his inexperience. Hastings have done very well to get to this stage but they will certainly go out on Sat, I am going and I must be mad! Getting up at 5am to get the coach and getting back well after midnight..I'm expecting a 3 goal defeat at least, should be noted Boro are doing well in the league and will probably change 90% of the usual line-up they also have a fair few injuries from what I've read. Hastings are 17th (roughly) in the league but unbeaten in 10 odd games now (drawing 8 or so of these I think) but their budget is pretty limited even at this level, and I am amazed they have got so far, before this season they had lost in the first qualifying round for 5 straight years. Not sure how many we are taking up there, between one and two thousand I would think, will be a once in a lifetime thing I think as Hastings don't have a pot to piss in and the stadium is falling to bits. Depends how much Boro want it from a betting point of view on the handicaps, they will be playing some kids and reserves but with the quality difference it should be a two goal margin of victory at least.

[pg_yid]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

I agree with all the above, but I would like to throw Spurs in the mix here...They are on a run at the moment, and with Bale set to play without fail, he alone should have too much freedom. But we overlook the depth Spurs have even if they do make changes. Caulker Huddlestone parker livermore dempsey Friedel...all set to start, far to much for Coventry to handle. Spurs have pedigree in this competion, that wont be lost on AVB, He will know the tradition. As for coventry they have other plans this year, coming off a defeat at home the other day, they are 2 wins off the play offs, that is were the priority is...And it is there for them, if they get over the latest blip. But for this game, expect changes. Man city Boro Spurs MAX Treble...1.56 most firms. gl

I agree, can't see us not winning either but just don't ever bet on my own team. AVB takes the cup competitions very seriously, even the league cup, so I think it will be a strong team although not first choice, probably a mixture of first team and squad players. I would imagine a similar sort of team to the one that played Carlisle away in the league cup. In that game we won very comfortably.

[pg_yid]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

I'll do my best! Biggest problem for Hastings currently is that they don't have a goalkeeper.. regular goalkeeper Armstrong-Ford is still injured and they have been calling the local league clubs (Brighton, Charlton, Gills) trying to get a loan signing in to little avail (this news isn't being followed by all websites but I believe its true from what I've heard). If anyone watched the second round game on ESPN Armstrong-Ford played then and could barely move from kick off, couldn't take goal kicks or take back passes which was staggering when you consider what was at stake..the reserve GK is a 18 year old lad who has played all the games since, I have never seen play so I can't comment but if they didn't play him that game they obviously don't totally trust him, perhaps due to his inexperience. Hastings have done very well to get to this stage but they will certainly go out on Sat, I am going and I must be mad! Getting up at 5am to get the coach and getting back well after midnight..I'm expecting a 3 goal defeat at least, should be noted Boro are doing well in the league and will probably change 90% of the usual line-up they also have a fair few injuries from what I've read. Hastings are 17th (roughly) in the league but unbeaten in 10 odd games now (drawing 8 or so of these I think) but their budget is pretty limited even at this level, and I am amazed they have got so far, before this season they had lost in the first qualifying round for 5 straight years. Not sure how many we are taking up there, between one and two thousand I would think, will be a once in a lifetime thing I think as Hastings don't have a pot to piss in and the stadium is falling to bits. Depends how much Boro want it from a betting point of view on the handicaps, they will be playing some kids and reserves but with the quality difference it should be a two goal margin of victory at least.

Thanks mate, hope you enjoy it, it's a fair old trip but should be a good day out.

[Fedar]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan Fulham - Blackpool Over 3.5 @ 2.75 (bet 365) I fancy this long shot, because I see plenty of goals in both sides. We've all seen in the beginning of the season how relaxed and not scared by relegation Fulham can feature really entertaining and high scoring football. I feel that for the FA cup (at least for the early stages) we are going to see the same Fulham from the start of the season - all attacking and playing attractive football, meanwhile, being vulnerable in the back. I guess Jol will use a strong squad here - against Sheffield for the Carlington in August, he fielded nearly his best eleven at that moment, and FA Cup is a much more prestigious competition. Also, Ruiz is back and we could all see his effect on the Fulham's game. Blackpool is also a team that have goals in their pocket. They are at sixth place in the table for "overs" in their league. They should be fairly motivated for this one, given that they are stuck in the middle of the table, with little chance for play-offs and practically no threat from relegation. I feel that an early goal in this one will cause a goal-flood on the pitch. P.S. I don't advise an early bet on this one. The price will probably stay the same, and it will be a good idea to hear the team news. But if both Ruiz and Berbatov are on the field, it should be a fairly good bet.

[FcGers10]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan I'm not the biggest fan of cup competitions and when it comes to picking potential upsets and backing against premier league sides especially when they are at home. Despite them to likely field a weaker starting 11 they still have high quality players and are more than capable of beating a full strength league side. The coupon I do like in these fixtures however is Both Teams To Score. I think a lot of these ties are capable of producing a lot of goals. Yet to pick out my games but will post nearer the time with my thoughts. A team I do fancy at first glance however is Norwich, away to Peterborough. I feel Peterborough have too much concern with the league and avoiding relegation to completely focus on this competition. They have been pretty poor this season and despite 4 wins in the last 5 I just can't see this game being massively important to them and more of a case of enjoying the tie against a premier league side. I fancy Ferguson to have more of an interest in bringing in a couple of players to strengthen their bid to avoid relegation in the league than downing a premier league side in Norwich. Still to have a look at team news but I also doubt to see a full strength Peterborough side playing here with maybe a couple of regulars getting a rest for the next league game. Norwich might have lost their last 4 league games but have a strong enough side and are more than capable of scoring goals. A manager in Chris Hughton who I highly rate and I can see a cup run being in his interests. A comfortable victory here for Norwich.

[BBTown77]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan FA cup Macclesfield - Cardiff AH+1 2 bet365 6/10 Units Cardiff to rest a lot of players! http://www.walesonline.co.uk/footballnation/cardiff-city/cardiff-city-fc/2013/01/03/91466-32540142/

[MPLouis]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

Man City + Middlesborough double @ 1.32 (Stan James) 10/10 I know it's hard to pick a winner in the cup third round but these are two sides I can only see winning, regardless of how many changes they make. For City this is their best chance of ending the year with silverware, a defeat is unthinkable for Mancini and a draw would be extremely annoying for them too. 7 points behind in the league and out of Europe and the league cup; you'd have to say City will take the cup seriously.

With accumulators, I always think it's important to look at the individual odds - to work out the real value of the bet. According to oddschecker, City are 1.17 and Boro are 1.13. I think you are in danger of under-estimating Watford (Man City's FA Cup opponents) here. I remember City under-performing at home against Villa in the League Cup a few months ago (and getting knocked out). Watford have climbed to 6th in the Championship and been playing really well recently by all accounts. I'd say Man City's odds are too short here at 1.17. Watford +2AH is 2.17 with Betfair.

[pg_yid]

Re: FA Cup > 29th Dec - 7th Jan

With accumulators, I always think it's important to look at the individual odds - to work out the real value of the bet. According to oddschecker, City are 1.17 and Boro are 1.13. I think you are in danger of under-estimating Watford (Man City's FA Cup opponents) here. I remember City under-performing at home against Villa in the League Cup a few months ago (and getting knocked out). Watford have climbed to 6th in the Championship and been playing really well recently by all accounts. I'd say Man City's odds are too short here at 1.17. Watford +2AH is 2.17 with Betfair.

You're right in that one needs to look at the individual match odds; I did this though before my bet. I wouldn't read too much into the City-Villa game. For a start I'd say there was a big difference between an inexperienced yet talented Villa side, and a team hovering around the edges of the Championship playoffs. Secondly there is a difference between the league cup where such 'freak' results occur more often than in the FA Cup. If City lost this game there would be a massive outcry, whilst the league cup result was largely ignored. Also a draw would be a huge annoyance for City considering the fixture congestion it would cause. Is 1.17 value? Well this is a matter of opinion; in my opinion there is rarely value to be had in opposing such short priced favourites as I am a believer in the favourite-longshot pricing bias. Man City were 1.17 at home to Reading in the league recently and whilst I don't know much about Watford, I'd guess they weren't as good a side as Reading. Watford will relish the chance to play the champions, but according to Zola they will play their usual attacking game. Whilst such things should perhaps be taken with a pinch of salt, I think if they do this they will be taken apart on the counter attack. Having said all that, the training ground spat between Mancini and Balotelli does worry me (it happened after I placed this bet). I've always thought that Man City's biggest enemies have been themselves and the disharmony within the squad.