Heineken and Challenge Cup Preview

The penultimate stage of European rugby is upon us. Tonight, Stade Francais booked their place in the Challenge Cup Final and on Sunday, Northampton face Perpignan in Heineken Cup action. Therefore my focus turns to Saturday, with Munster taking on Harlequins and Leinster hosting Toulouse.

Leinster Vs Toulouse

Many will argue these are the top two teams in Europe at the moment and whoever comes out on top tomorrow will lift the title. The pair have won the last two Heineken Cup Championships which bills the tie in Dublin the game of the weekend. There is sure to be an air of déjà vu as the two also met last year at the semi final stage. Home advantage stood to the French on that occasion as they overcame their rivals 26-16. Despite Toulouse leading the head to head battle in the last eight contests 5-3, I predict the Irish Provence will live up to the favourites tag. While it is expected very little will separate the sides, this Leinster squad has improved massively in the past twelve months and with a home crowd behind them, Brian O’Driscoll and Co should just edge it. Leinster are 2/5 to reach the final and at 15/8 (Blue SQ) to win by 1-12 points are a good value. I also fancy Sean O’Brien Anytime Try at 7/2 (Blue SQ) and look out for Johnny Sexton 6/1 (Paddy Power) for Man of the Match.

Munster Vs Harlequins

Harlequins will have to battle the odds when they travel to Thomand Park to take on Munster in front of an expected 26,000 sell out crowd. The current Magners League table toppers come into this tie in good spirits after a last minute win over Osprays last weekend. They have also only suffered a single loss in European competition at Thomand in their last sixteen seasons. While it is an uphill battle, Quins themselves have reason to be confident. They come into the semi final as two time Challenge Cup winners; they dominated their pool and beat compatriots London Wasps in the quarter final. Furthermore they are in good recent form winning their last two Premiership games on the bounce. For me, there is only one winner in this contest. Given Munster’s overall form since crashing out of the Heineken Cup, it is very difficult to look beyond a home win. They are short odds at 1/6 but Munster HT/FT is profitable at 8/15 (Paddy Power). I also like Munster (-10) at 10/11 (Paddy Power) and Munster by 11-15 points 5/1 (Boyle Sports). Also consider Doug Howlett Anytime Try at 6/4 (Bet 365).

My Tips

2pt Leinster Reach Final

1pt Leinster 1-12 Point Win

1pt Sean O’Brien Anytime Try

1pt Johnny Sexton MOTM

2pt Munster HT/FT

1pt Munster (-10)

1pt Munster 11-15 Point Win

1pt Doug Howlett Anytime Try

2011 Rugby Betting Stats

Staked = 35.5pts

Returned = 40.7pts

Profit/Loss = +5.2pts

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.

• Follow all Rugby Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Ballantine’s Championship Preview

The European Tour travels to South Korea this week for the fourth annual Ballantine’s Championship. Graeme McDowell, Thongchai Jaidee and Marcus Fraser have all claimed victory here in the Championship’s three year history but this time around, big guns Lee Westwood, Dustin Johnson and Ian Poulter will all be hoping to become the fourth name on the new trophy.

Challenger

Lee Westwood

After a stint as World Number 1, Lee Westwood went through some inconsistent form which saw Martin Kaymer overtake him. Now, back on top of the rankings after Luke Donald failed to win last weekend, Westwood will be keen to be more dominant as the number one man in the game. While he failed to card a Top 10 this season before last weekend, he also never finished outside the Top 30 since the Dubai Classic. He tied 11^th at the Masters and after his win in the Indonesian Masters last weekend he will be in buoyant form when he tees off on Thursday. While it is rare to see anyone win two weeks on the trot, I expect Westwood to come very close this weekend. He is best priced at 6/1 (Bet 365). Back yourself up with a Top 10 finish at 4/7.

Value

Jeev Milkha Singh

Jeev Milkha Singh is a man who could show winning form here this weekend. There are some big names to compete with but the Indian has showed some form in recent weeks, most notably a Top 10 finish in last weeks China Open. Singh holds twelve tour wins, ten of which have been in Asia and has also displayed good course pedigree finishing second here in 2008, only losing out to Graeme McDowell in a playoff. He is good value for the win at 50/1 (Victor Chandler) and 15/8 (Sky Bet) for a Top 20.

My Tips

1pt EW Lee Westwood

0.5pt EW Jeev Milkha Singh

3pt Lee Westwood Top 10

1pt Jeev Milkha Singh Top 20

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.
• Follow all Golf Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Zurich Classic of New Orleans Preview

Sky Sports provided great drama on Sunday night as Brandt Snedeker bested Luke Donald on a third playoff hole to claim the Heritage Classic. Both these men now head south to the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, where the PGA Tour will provide participant’s one last tune up before the much anticipated Players Championship next weekend.

Challengers

Luke Donald

Luke Donald is easily the most in form player on the tour at the moment. Now the World Number 2, he has had five straight Top 5 finishes. He has also finished in the Top 10 in nine of his last ten outings. I tipped Donald heavily last weekend and due to his recent form I will continue to do so. Even though he lost out in a playoff at the Heritage Classic, tipping him Each Way and also for a Top 10 finish made sure we still collected some profit. This week, the Englishman leads the betting at 10/1 (Boyle Sports) and is Even Money (Paddy Power) for yet another Top 10 finish.

Steve Stricker

Steve Stricker is yet to record a win this year but has performed consistently well having not missed any cut and carding three Top 10 finishes. His last appearance was at the Masters where he tied 11^th and after his break he will be determined to find form ahead of the Players Championship. Last year, Stricker recorded his first win around this time and I wouldn’t be surprised if he was to do it again this weekend in New Orleans. I really fancy him to be in the later groupings along with Donald come Sunday evening. Stricker is best priced at 16/1 (Victor Chandler) to win and is 13/8 for a Top 10 finish.

Value

Jason Bohn

Jason Bohn returns to New Orleans as defending champion. While he hasn’t been in stand out form in recent months, on a “horses for courses” basis, I think he can not be ignored. He carded -18 last year, 2 shots clear of the field and when one considers that he is 125/1 (Stan James) to repeat his win this year, he is certainly worth a sensible punt. I can’t see his winning but a Top 20 finish at 7/2 (Paddy Power) is certainly within his capabilities.

Jeff Overton

Another of my “horses for courses” tips. Last year Jeff Overton finished as runner up, 2 shots behind Jason Bohn at -16. Rewind a year earlier and Overton carded a tied 13^th finish. On course form, I expect Overton to be another outsider who will, similar to Bohn, not be topping the leader board come Sunday night but is enough value for a Top 20. Overton Top 20 is best at 9/4 (Paddy Power).

Tommy Gainey

I can’t ignore Tommy Gainey. After tipping him last weekend at 150/1 he landed a third place finish. Add this third place finish at the Heritage Classic to his fifth at the Honda Classic and eighth at the Phoenix Open and “Tommy Two Gloves” looks like a man who could be in contention for silverware in the coming weeks. At New Orleans, Gainey is best at 90/1 (Tote Sport) for the win but I’m not getting carried away just yet and going with a Top 20 finish at 5/2 (Sky Bet).

My Tips

1pt EW Luke Donald

1pt EW Steve Stricker

2 Luke Donald Top 10

1pt Overton Top 20

1pt Gainey Top 20

0.5pt Bohn Top 20

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.
• Follow all Golf Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Magners League Preview Round 21

It’s the penultimate round of the Magners League and with results from Thursday and Friday evening now known, all eyes turn to Saturday when third place Leinster travel to the Stadio Zaffanella to take on bottom team Aironi and table toppers Munster take on an Osprays who sit fifth in chase of a playoff place.

Aironi Rugby Vs Leinster

An under-strength Leinster overcame Aironi 21-16 back in February in what was the first meeting between the sides. Despite losing, the Italians became one of only four visiting teams to come away from the RDS with a league point this season. The last time an Irish side visited Aironi, they newcomers claimed their first Magners League win, overcoming Connacht in Round 18. But they will face a totally different task on Saturday. While Leinster were slow to get among the playoff positions at the beginning of the season, they have mounted a charge over passing weeks and after last weekends win against Ulster, where they also earned a bonus point, they put themselves well in contention for a home semi final berth. With Ulster leaping into second spot tonight with a win over Connacht, Brain O’Driscoll and Co will have to make sure they avoid any complacency. They have lost two of their last three visits to Italy. Like the bookies, I can’t see Leinster not winning this game. A win will give the Heineken Cup Semi Finalists a final round tie with second position in their own hands. Some bookmakers are pricing Leinster as short 1/9 but they can be best backed at 1/5 (Bet Fred). I really fancy Leinster to be winning HT/FT at 1/2 (Bet Fred). If your looking for a handicap, in my opinion Leinster (-7) is the way to go at 4/7. I’ve a sneaking feeling that if Leinster get a good start they may run a away with this so I think for value Brian O’Driscoll to score 2 or more tries at 7/1 (Paddy Power) is a good shout. I also like the look of Leinster win by 11-20 at 11/5 (Paddy Power).

Osprays Vs Munster

Munster travel to Wales knowing their home semi final spot is safe. In contrast, its do or die for Osprays who must win and hope others slip up if they are to achieve a place in the top 4. With no win in their last three games, the Welsh side have made six changes from their defeat to the Dragons last weekend. Despite their current bad form, Jonathan Humphrey’s men can take light that they have not lost at home to Irish opposition since September 2009. Furthermore, Osprays are unbeaten at the Liberty stadium against all opposition since October 2010. Visitors Munster welcome back the international contingent after being rested last weekend. Already qualified, Tony McGahan’s side will want to maintain their good recent form. Osprays are tough to beat at home but Munster will head into this tie full of confidence after winning four away games on the trot. It is sure to be a tight affair. One could argue that the Welsh have much more to play for but Munster’s desire and mentality in which they play every game as if it were their last makes it a tough contest to call. Osprays are the favourites with the bookmakers but I expect Munster to come very close to ending the home side’s unbeaten home run. Osprays are best priced for the win at 13/8 (Boyle Sports) while Munster are 7/4 (William Hill). I don’t usually mention the draw but don’t count it out at 20/1 (Paddy Power). I’d stay clear of handicap betting in this one but I like Doug Howlett for first try 12/1 (Sky Bet) and cover yourself with anytime try at 15/8 (Paddy Power).

My Tips

2pts Leinster HT/FT

2pt Leinster (-7)

1pt Brian O’Driscoll 2+

1pt Leinster by 11-20 Points

1pt Doug Howlett First Try

1pt Doug Howlett Anytime

0.5pt Munster and Osprays Draw

2011 Rugby Betting Stats

Staked = 27pts

Returned = 31.36pts

Profit/Loss = +4.36pts

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.

• Follow all Rugby Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Heritage Classic Preview

This weekend, the PGA Tour presents the Heritage Classic at the Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. Some of golf’s most in form players are due to battle it out for the 42 year old PGA event and for me; these are the guys to look at.

Challengers

Luke Donald

In the last 18 months, Luke Donald has been arguably the most consistent pro on the tour. He is the leading world-wide money earner in that period. As well as winning the WGC Matchplay last month, he has only missed out on one Top 10 finish in his last nine events. The Englishman was very impressive at the Masters, eventually finishing tied for fourth and has coarse form at Hilton Head, achieving second and third place finishes in the past. He is short odds for the win at 9/1 (Bet 365) but I think he is worth an each way punt. He is also Even Money (Stan James) for a Top 10.

Matt Kucher

If Luke Donald is the most consistent pro on the tour, Matt Kucher is certainly a contender for the second. He was first in the 2010 PGA Money List. Kucher has finished in the Top 10 in six out of his last nine events and has showed decent form on this course with three Top 15 finishes in his last five appearances. He finished seventh here in 2008 and fourteenth last year. I certainly expect him to be in one of the later groups on Sunday evening. Kucher is 16/1 (Boyle Sports) to win this weekend and 15/8 (Stan James) for a Top 10 finish.

Aaron Baddeley

After a few quiet years, Baddeley has begun to produce some top form this season. Along with his win at the Northern Trust Open, he has registered two Top 10 finishes. Baddeley won this event back in 2006 and the Australian has not finished outside the Top 25 on his four appearances since (Averaging 11^th Place). Now, back on form and returning to the scene where he won his first PGA Tour Title, can he achieve his heroics of five years ago? He is best priced at 22/1 (Paddy Power) and I really like him at 9/4 (Stan James) to be Top Australian.

Value

Tommy Gainey

The man they call “Two Gloves” is priced at 150/1 (Paddy Power) and given his recent from I think he is well worth some consideration. So far this year he has registered a fifth place finish at the Honda Classic and an eighth place finish at the Phoenix Open. I particularly like him at 6/1 (Paddy Power) for a Top 20 finish.

Chris Kirk

Kirk attended college in the neighbouring Georgia and has showed great form when playing courses in this area. He finished second in the Shell Houston Open and he had a good showing, finishing fifteenth at Sea Side, a course similar to Hilton Head, earlier in the year. He is 125/1 (Paddy Power) for the win but, similar to Gainey, I like Kirk at 4/1 (Paddy Power) for a Top 20.

My Heritage Tips

1pt EW Luke Donald Win

1pt EW Aaron Baddeley Win

2pts Luke Donald Top 10

1pt Matt Kucher Top 10

2pts Aaron Baddeley Top Australian

0.5pt Tommy Gainey Top 20

0.5pt Chris Kirk Top 20

  

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.
• Follow all Golf Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Volvo China Open

Y.E Yang sets out to become the first man to successfully defend the China Open this weekend as the European Tour travels to Luxehills International Country Club. Three other Major winners’ will be teeing off on Thursday along with Yang, in the shape of Padraig Harrington, Sergio Garcia and Colin Montgomerie. With a strong field in China, consider the following.

Challengers

YE Yang

YE Yang, the 2009 PGA Champion, clinched the China Open last season after a play-off. This was on the back of a Top 10 finish at the Masters and this year, he finds himself in somewhat of a similar position. While it is an Augusta Top 20 this time around, he has also displayed some excellent form with a Top 10 finish in Phoenix and a second place finish at the Honda Classic. Yang heads into the China Open as the bookies favourite and is priced best for the win at 12/1 (Boyle Sports). He is 6/5 (Paddy Power) for a Top 10 finish. But for me, I really like Y.E Yang to be Top Rest of World at 7/2 (Stan James).

Simon Dyson

Simon Dyson showed tremendous promise last weekend with rounds of 70, 64 and 68 to claim a seventh place finish. If it wasn’t for a catastrophic penultimate round of 76 in Malaysia, he may have been challenging Matteo Manassero on Sunday evening. Though this wasn’t to be, the Englishman still showed that he is a very capable competitor. Dyson also holds a good record in this part of the world and unlike some of the bookies favourites; he will not hold the burden of having to acclimatise before Thursday. Along with the good showing last weekend, he achieved a fifth place finish in Sicily some weeks back and should he maintain this form I expect Dyson to be in one of the later groupings on Sunday evening. He is best priced for the win at 25/1 (Paddy Power) and is good value at 11/4 (Tote Sport) for a Top 10.

Rafael Cabrera Bello

Spanish 26 year old, Rafael Cabrera Bello, finished tied for fourth last weekend in the Malaysian Open. This was his third Top 10 of the season so far. He is a man in form and if he brings consistency to China this weekend, he should be in the reckoning. He is best priced for the win at 25/1 (Boyle Sports), 12/5 (Paddy Power) for a Top 10 and 4/1 (Tote Sport) to be the Top Spanish Player.

Value

Feilipe Agruilar

The Chilean Pro is excellent value if one takes into consideration his sixth place finish last week.  He displayed good consistency with rounds of 70, 70, 66 and 70. Even though Agruilar’s last and only win on the European Tour was back in February 2008 at the Astro Indonesia Open, I think at 70/1 (Tote Sport) he is worth consideration. I can see the Top 20 option at 15/8 (Sky Bet) being a likely profitable punt.

Hyung Tae Kim

Korean born, Hyung Tae Kim, showed impressive recent form finishing sixth in Japan. He also displayed some course form, when he only lost out in a play off to YE Yang here last year. Kim registered an overall score of -21 and if he produces that again this week, he won’t be beat. He is crazy value for money at 125/1 (Coral) to win this weekend and is 9/2 (Sky Bet) for a Top 20.

My China Open Tips

1pt EW YE Yang Win

1pt YE Yang Top Rest of World

1pt Simon Dyson Top 10

1pt Rafael Cabrera Bello Top Spanish Player

1pt Hyung Tae Kim Top 20

1pt Feilipe Agruilar Top 20

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.
• Follow all Golf Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Magners League Preview Round 20

As the Magners League nears a climax, the race for a place in the top four is on. With Munster already safely into the knockout phase and Ulster in excellent shape to join them, Ireland’s current premier side, Leinster, surprisingly still have a lot of work to do. After their impressive European win over Northampton last weekend, Joe Schmidt’s side will be determined to overcome Ulster at the Aviva Stadium, in what is undoubtedly the tie of the weekend. Table toppers Munster travel to Park y Scarlets to take on LIanelli in the other big match of Week 20.

Leinster Vs Ulster

Leinster will face Toulouse in the Heineken Cup Semi Final, but they will have to put this to the back of their minds if they are to progress to the knockout phase of the Magners League. There is no doubt the squad will be on a high after they’re victory over Leicester Tigers last weekend, but they will face stiff opponents in the shape of Ulster, who had their own Heineken Cup battle on Sunday evening. While the northerners suffered a 23-13 loss away to Northampton, much positivity can be taken from their determined display. On Saturday night, they will want to erase memories of the loss and have eyes for domestic glory. I expect this game to produce a Leinster win. A victory is pivotal in their pursuit to a playoff place and their home record is extremely impressive. The 2009 Heineken Cup winners are resting seven players from last weekend with Ulster just two but I still see Leinster edging it. I like Ulster +10 (Sporting Bet) at 10/11. Leinster 2/7 (Sky Bet) for the win while Shane Horgan for first try scorer is 11/1 Stan James.

Scarlets Vs Munster

Initially looking at this tie, I fancied Munster to continue their tremendous form. Despite being away from home they looked a good proposition. However after a bruising encounter in Brive last weekend, Head Coach, Tony McGahan, has rung the changes and sends out a young squad. Only three, Mick O’Driscoll, Lifemi Mafi and Denis Leamy, survive from the Amlin Challenge Cup quarter final last weekend. For the home side, hopes of claiming a top four finish is reliant on tonight’s result and that is reflected in the strong team selected by coach Nigel Davies. It is very difficult, no matter what the occasion, to go against Munster, but one has to fancy the Scarlets tonight. The Welsh side have more to play for, are at home and are sending out a strong starting 15. Scarlets are best priced for the win at 1/3 (Bet 365) and Munster HT/ Scarlets FT is a nice value bet at 6/1 (Stan James). If your looking for a Handicap, I think Munster (+8) at 10/11 is the way to go and watch out for Lifemi Mafi for Anytime Try Scorer at 4/1 (Boyle Sports).

My Tips

1pt Ulster (+10)

1pt Shane Horgan 1^st Try

1pt Munster HT / Scarletts FT

1pt Munster (+8)

1pt Lifemi Mafi Anytime Try Scorer

2pts Leinster and Scarletts Double

2011 Rugby Betting Stats

Staked = 20pts

Returned = 27.56pts

Profit/Loss = +7.56pts

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.

• Follow all Rugby Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Malaysian Open Preview

After an enthralling four days of golf last weekend, on Thursday, just days after his Masters triumph, Charl Schwartzel will take to the tee at the Malaysian Open. The South African will be joined by World Number One Martin Kaymer and young Rory McIlroy, who after his Augusta catastrophe on Sunday evening, will be determined to turn fortunes around. The week after the Masters is always a though one to call but on form and value, these are the men to look at.

Thongchai Jaidee

This week I am looking towards two of the top local men to push for honours. First is Thongchai Jaidee. The former Thai army paratrooper holds the record for most career victories and most career earnings on the Asian Tour. He has a great course record, winning in 2004 and 2005, and achieved a Top 10 finish here last year. He also claimed two titles in Asia in 2009 through the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open and the Ballantine's Championship. Jaidee is best priced at 25/1 (Bwin) and is 9/4 (Victor Chandler) for a Top 10 finish.

Kiradech Aphibarnrat

Aphibarnrat is the second of the local challengers. Last year he tied here for third and recently claimed the SAIL Championship on the Asian Tour. Though Jaidee is the cream of the local crop, I expect Aphibarnrat to make a challenge and at 80/1 (Stan James) value is plentiful. He is 11/2 (Paddy Power) for a Top 10 and to play it safe he is best at 2/1 (Sky Bet) to claim a Top 20.

Rory McIlroy

Many would opt to avoid the young Northern Irishman after his heartbreaking meltdown on Sunday night. However I, along with many others admired his attitude as he made his way off the 18^th green. Having blown a four shot lead going into the final day, he showed great maturity as he gave interviews, speaking of how lessons were learned. One would expect this week would be too soon for the Co. Down native to bounce back but I have a feeling it will be a case of sooner rather than later for the 21 year old. I see a big performance this weekend and at least in the Top 10 come Sunday evening. He is priced at 11/1 (Boyle Sports) for the win, 10/11 (Paddy Power) for a Top 10 and 16/1 to ironically lead the field after day one just like he did last weekend.

Louis Oosthuizen

Last years Open Champion is sure to be in the running come Sunday if he produces his best. He may have missed the cut last week at Augusta but the 28 year old has been in excellent form. He finished the 2010 season in 10th place on the Race to Dubai and had three further top-10s after his major win. In January, he claimed his third European Tour title finishing ahead of Johan Edfors in Andalucia. The South African is best priced at 18/1 (Paddy Power) and in my opinion is a good each way punt.

Johan Edfors

Edfors found form when produced a second place finish two weeks ago in Andalucia. The Swede has had success locally in the past claiming the Black Mountain Masters in Thailand on the Asian Tour in 2009. He is a big hitter and this helped him tie for 7^th here last time round. I really fancy Edfors to make a challenge this week and like Aphibarnrat is great value at 50/1 (Boyle Sports) for the win. He is best at 11/2 (Stan James) for a Top 10 finish.

My Tips

2pt EW Louis Oosthuizen

1pt EW Thongchai Jaidee

1pt Rory McIlroy Top 10

1pt Johan Edfors Top 10

1pt Kiradech Aphibarnrat Top 20

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.
• Follow all Golf Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

Heineken and Challenge Cup Preview

It’s the knock out phase of Europe’s Rugby competitions. Four French clubs, along with two each from Ireland and England, are set to battle it out in hope of being one step closer to the final in Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium. A pair of Ireland Vs England clashes along with two French derbies and Challenge Cup action lines up an exciting weekend of European rugby.

Leinster Vs Leicester

Leinster and Leicester meet at the Aviva Stadium in a repeat of the 2009 Heineken Cup Final where the Irish side just edged out the Tigers, 19-16. There is no doubt that revenge will be on Leicester’s agenda and with England Internationals Ben Youngs, Louis Deacon and Toby Flood returning to the scene where their Grand Slam hopes were halted three weeks ago, a bruising encounter is on the cards on Saturday. The bookies have Leinster odds on at 4/9 with Leicester at 9/4, but be under no illusions, this is far from an open and shut case. The Tigers are sitting top of the bunch in the Aviva Premiership, are on good form and will certainly put it up to the 2009 champions. Leinster are coming off the back of a one point loss to close rivals Munster last weekend. While Joe Schmidt’s men ran riot in the opening half, Ronan O’Gara kicked Munster to victory in the second period leaving Leinster dejected. The game in Thomand Park is sure to have taken its toll on the Leinster men but they will want to bounce back immediately on their quest for two Heineken Cups in three years. They are the in form side in Europe, they have home advantage and with Healy, Heaslip, Sexton, O’Driscoll and Nacewa all in form its difficult to look beyond them. I see this being a closely contested battle but fancy Leinster to live up to the favourites tag. They are priced at 13/10 (Bet365) to win by 1-12 points and I also like them at even money (Boyle Sports) for Half Time / Full Time.

Northampton Vs Ulster 

Ulster will travel to Northampton as they seek a seventh straight will in all competitions. They have displayed true grit over recent weeks with four out of six of the victories being by three points or less and will have to show similar determination on Sunday if they are to overcome a Northampton side who are the only team to progress to the knockout stages with a 100 per cent record. The bookies really fancy Northampton in this one, some pricing them as short as 1/8. Ulster are best priced at 4/1 (Victor Chandler) for the win but I’d expect no more than a converted try to be between the two sides come the final whistle so the very sensible Ulster +10 option at even money seems the more appealing punt.

 Brive Vs Munster

In the aftermath of an epic victory over Leinster last weekend in the Magners League, celebrations were cut short for Munster with news of Ian Dowling’s premature retirement and Paul O’Connell’s likely season ending injury surfacing. However, Tony McGahan’s team go to France on Saturday in good form. Last time Munster took to French soil they were dumped out of the Heineken Cup by Toulon but since then have registered six wins from seven and have won all of their last five games. 1997 Heineken Cup winners Brive eased their way to this stage of the competition with six wins from six but their domestic form leaves much to be desired with only La Rochelle and Bourgoin below them in the Top 14. I can’t see beyond Munster in this one. Though they are without O’Connell, Mick O’Driscoll is an experienced and capable replacement. They are 4/9 (Paddy Power) which I think is generous. They are also priced at 9/5 (Paddy Power) -7 points which for me is a very likely outcome.

My Tips

2pts Leinster Win 1-12 Points

1pt Leinster HT/FT

2pts Munster (-7)

1pt Ulster (+10)

 3pts on Leinster and Munster Double

2011 Rugby Betting Stats

Staked = 11pts

Returns = 14.76pts

Profit/Loss = +3.76pts

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.

• Follow all Rugby Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.

US Masters Preview

 

It’s that time of the year again. Clear the schedules and prepare for four days of top golf. The chase for the green jacket begins on Thursday in Augusta, Georgia and these are the men I think will be leading it come Sunday night.

Phil Mickelson

It would be rude to begin with anyone else. Lefty is the bookies favourite to win this weekend and the stats show why. He is a three time and defending Masters Champion. He has achieved a second and first place finishes this year. His first came last weekend in The Shell Houston Open and if he did win the green jacket, I wouldn’t be the first time he had won a tournament and then went on to win the Masters the week after. He has a big drive, which is a huge advantage in Augusta and in his 18 appearances at the Masters, he has accumulated ten Top 10 finishes. You won’t get Mickelson at any better than 13/2 (Boyle Sports/Paddy Power). But if you’re considering placing money on this tournament, put it here.

Nick Watney

This youngster has been one of the top players on the 2011 Tour. He has achieved five Top 10 finishes, including a World Golf Championship win less than a month ago. This will be Watney’s fourth Masters and he has never been outside the Top 20. Last year, the California native, scored a seventh place finish and he can be best priced for the win at 18/1 (Victor Chandler). Furthermore, he is 13/8 (Paddy Power) for a Top 10 finish which I think is a more likely scenario.

Martin Kaymer

Kaymer is the World’s Number 1 ranked golfer. He has finished in the Top 10 in four of his last five majors. His record isn’t overly impressive at Augusta but at 22/1 (Paddy Power/ Victor Chandler) for the win and 7/1 (Paddy Power) for Top European he is certainly value for money. Did I say he was the World Number 1 Player?

Justin Rose

Rose was not invited to Augusta last year so there will be no need for motivation when he takes to the tee on Thursday. His recent form is top class. The Englishman tied for fifth at the Transitions Championship and achieved a third place finish at Bay Hill last time out. I really think Rose will be up there on Sunday and at 35/1 (Paddy Power) he is worth consideration. He is also 11/4 (Paddy Power) for Top 10 finish.

Tiger Woods

As much as I would like to overlook Tiger this weekend, I just can’t. He hasn’t finished outside the Top 10 in Augusta since 2004 and he is Evs (Stan James) to do it again this time around. He is 12/1 (Boyle Sports) to claim the green jacket. Put stats and controversy aside. He is Tiger Woods and it is The Masters. Cannot be ignored.

Steve Stricker

I tipped Stricker last weekend for the win and for a Top 10 and he finished fourth. This time around I’ll be keeping the faith. He self admittedly has a poor record at August but is a very talented player and is currently in form. He is 50/1 (William Hill) for the win but 6/4 (Stan James) for a Top 20 finish really stood out to me. He is more than capable. 

My Tips

2pts Phil Mickelson Win

2pts Tiger Woods Top 10

2pts Nick Watney Top 10

1pt Justin Rose Top 10

1pt Martin Kaymer Top European

1pt Steve Stricker Top 20

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.
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Magners League Preview Round 19

With Heineken Cup Quarter Final weekend on the horizon, both Ulster and Leinster will be hoping to use Friday and Saturdays Magners League clashes to prepare for Leicester and Northampton respectively. While Ulster are set to face the Scarlets at Raven Hill, the pick of the weekend is undoubtedly the mouth watering clash between rivals Leinster and Munster at Limerick’s Thomand Park.

Ulster Vs Scarlets

Ulster boss Brian McLaughlin has named an inexperienced team for this weekend but welcomes back some familiar faces in BJ Botha, Ian Humphreys and Andrew Trimble. The northern Irish provence are now on a run of five straight wins and they currently occupy third position in the Magners League table. Tonight they will certainly face a stern test against their fellow play-off contenders. A win is not only important for their Magners League challenge but they will be hoping for victory and an improved performance ahead of next week's Heineken Cup quarter final. In contrast, Scarlets travel to Ulster with a strong squad, boosted with all bar one of their Wales internationals and in the knowledge that only a win will keep them in the top four play-off race. The game comes at the end of a positive week for the club, with the region announcing that it has signed new contracts with 21 players. Wing Sean Lamont, scrum-half Gareth Davies and wing George North all miss out but back and on the bench comes Wallaby number eight David Lyons after injury. The Scarlets just lost out to Ulster in the final minute’s game at Parc y Scarlets in February and will want some pay back after the 18-16 loss. This will be another closely contested battle. Ulster have never managed to achieve a season's double over Scarlets. They may have one eye on next weekend and Scarlets season rest massively on this game. Furthermore, Ulster edged out the Dragons 25-23 and Glasgow 22-19 in their last two games which leaves me feeling that Scarlets +8 at 10/11 (Victor Chandler) on recent stats alone is a winner. For a gamble Scarlets are best at 11/4 (Bet Fred) for the win but I feel, at home, Ulster may just take this one by 4 or 5 points. Andrew Trimble is my pick for First Try on his return at 8/1 (Boyle Sports).

Munster Vs Leinster 

Leinster travel to Limerick on Saturday for the clash of the weekend. They may have a Heineken Cup quarter final around the corner but no man will be spared such is the rivalry between these two European giants. While Munster are sitting pretty at the top of the Magners League, nothing would please them more than to stop Leinster from achieving a sixth consecutive victory in the Irish derby. Leinster have been boosted by the return to regional rugby of Irish centre pairing Brian O'Driscoll and Gordon D'Arcy and also fly-half Jonathan Sexton. The home side have made three changes to the team that beat Cardiff, with Donncha O'Callaghan coming into the second row and Donncha Ryan and David Wallace coning into the loose trio in place of Denis Leamy and Niall Ronan. In the sides last two meetings, Leinster have come out on top 13-9 and 16-6 but in the last Thomand Park contest, they just edged out Munster on a score of 16-15. I expect this to be the case again come Saturday night and feel that Leinster +4 at 11/10 (Boyle Sports) is sensible. I would avoid the first try scorer in this one with only 3 tries in the last 3 games but Munster HT/ Leinster FT it certainly worth a punt at 8/1 (Paddy Power).

My Tips

2pts Scarlets (+8)

1pt Andrew Trimble 1^st Try

2pts Leinster (+4)

1pt Munster HT/ Leinster FT

2011 Rugby Betting Stats

Staked = 5pts

Returns = 6.74pts

Profit/Loss = + 1.74pts 

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.

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Magners League Preview Round 18

Cardiff Blues Vs Munster 

With just four games remaining in this seasons Magners League, Cardiff will be hoping to take home advantage when they face table toppers Munster in Cardiff City Stadium on Friday night. Munster coach Tony McGahan has surprisingly named young scrumhalf Conor Murray in the starting line-up. Murray, who was handed his first start against the Dragons at the beginning of March links up with Ronan O'Gara at half back in a side that includes returning internationals, Keith Earls, Denis Leamy and Paul O'Connell. Overall Munster have made ten changes to the starting eleven from the one that played against the Dragons in Musgrave Park three weeks ago. Meanwhile, Cardiff Blues will be without injured Wales flanker Sam Warburton. Warburton limped off in the first half of Wales' 28-9 defeat to France in the Stade de France with a knee injury. Blues will be without three more injured stars in wing Tom James, hooker Rhys Thomas and prop Taufa'ao Felise. A win for Munster, who have won 14 of their 17 domestic games this season would put them on track to gain home advantage in the play offs and this factor could prove significant in this tie. Even though, Cardiff have enjoyed good from over Munster at home in the past few years and will be fighting for a playoff place of their own, Munster (+5) at a price of 4/7 (Paddy Power) looks the best bet with the return of key players. Doug Howlett to score first try at 12/1 (William Hill) is also value for money.

The other Friday night clash is that of Glasgow Warriors Vs Ulster. It hasn’t been a good two months for Scottish rugby with the international side just dodging the wooden spoon last weekend. Glasgow have failed to reach the heights of last season Magners League Semi Final sitting eleventh in the table, only above Aironi. Ulster will fancy their chances on they’re travels and with a historic Heineken Cup Quarter final on the horizon, Bryan McLaughlin’s men will be hoping to secure a top 4 place on the domestic front to keep an already impressive season going. Analysing form versus form, at 4/5 (Paddy Power) the northern Irish Provence are an excellent bet.

My Tips

2pts Munster (+5)

2pts Ulster Win

1pt Doug Howlett 1st Try

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Shell Houston Open Preview

With The Masters now just a week away, all eyes will turn to Houston. The Redstone course has hosted this tournament since 2006 and is notorious for its long, testing and grainy greens. Last years winner Anthony Kim, showed good putting and scrambling on his way to victory but who will find form this year, ahead of the chase for the green jacket. There are only 4 of the world’s top ten playing in Texas as many choose to take a break before Augusta. So with this in mind,these are the men I would expect to be topping the leader board come Sunday night.

Fred Couples

This time last year, Couples was dominating the Champions Tour and departed Augusta with a sixth place finish. Though today, Fred isn’t in the same form, he still drives 300 yards and tops the putting stats. His last win on the regular tour came at the Shell Houston Open in 2003 and he still posed a threat at the Northern Trust Open, where he finished seventh just over a month ago. Furthermore, he loves this course. He has had a brace of top fours in 2008 and 2009 and a win in 2003. Fred Couples can be found, best priced for the win 55/1 (Stan James) and might be worth an EW bet but I fancy a Top 10 finish at 7/2 (Paddy Power).

Matt Kuchar

Kuchar will hope to use this event to build confidence ahead of a Masters he will expect to contend. He has continued his good form from last season which culminated in a win at The Barclays with five top 10’s this season already. He returns fresh after a couple of weeks off and having tied eighth here last year. He also tied for fifth last time out at the WGC Cadillac so it’s difficult to overlook the young Florida native. He can be best found at 14/1 (Boyle Sports) and is worth an each way look.

Charl Schwartzel

Schwartzel hadn’t the best week last time out when struggled to recover from an opening round of 76 but he should find Redstone more up his ally. After a run of four top four finishes in South Africa early in the season, Schwartzel has found the going in the US a little tougher, clocking up a best finish of 14th in his last three starts. Two fine 67’s last season saw him climb into a tie for third here and he will love the opportunity to have another go this week. He can be found at 25/1 (Victor Chandler), but again think he is a solid bet for a Top 10 at 5/2 (Paddy Power).

Steve Stricker 

Stricker has posted three top-11 finishes here. That's not surprising considering his putting and scrambling skills (ninth and second respectively on Tour in 2011) and he looked on the way back to the sort of form that saw him post top-10s in the two Hawaiian tournaments when 18th at Doral last time out. He would love a win before The Masters, having not played last week. I really fancy Stricker this weekend. He can be backed at 20/1 (Paddy Power) but at 2/1 for a Top 10 you can’t go wrong.

My Tips

1pt Steve Stricker Win

2pt Steve Stricker Top 10

1pt Charl Schwartzel Top 10

1pt Matt Kucher EW

2pt Fred Couples Top 10 

• This article was published on www.fightingtips.co.uk.

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Grand Slams and Wooden Spoons

It’s D-Day for England on Saturday as they bid to win their first Grand Slam since 2003. Only Ireland can stop them on day five and there is no doubt that on St. Patricks weekend, Declan Kidney’s men will want to round off the campaign with a win at the Aviva Stadium. Meanwhile, after a historic weekend in Rome, Italy will hope to hand Scotland the wooden spoon when they visit Murrayfield for the opening contest of the day. France and Wales will round up proceedings in Paris. The French, now out of contention, will want to use this clash to begin preparation for the World Cup, now only five months away, while the Welsh may still have an outside chance of claiming the championship if Ireland do them a big favour in Dublin.

Scotland Vs Italy

The Italians have made 6 changes to their side following the victory over France. While fresh legs are required after a massive effort last weekend, it’s also likely that Nick Mallet will look to use this game to test some fringe players with the New Zealand World Cup on the horizon. Leicester’s Martin Castrogiovanni is the only player in the front row to retain his place with Leonardo Ghiraldini and Salvatore Perguini returning to the team. Lock Quintin Geldenhuys also gets the nod after being relegated to the replacements bench against Le Bleus. The Scots meanwhile, have only made one change after their loss to England, which sees Geoff Cross introduced as tighthead prop. With home advantage, and on the back of an encouraging performance last weekend, they will fancy their chances to register a first win. This is sure to be a tight battle and a difficult one to call as the form book goes out the window. For me, the energy consuming triumph of last weekend is sure to take its toll on the Italians. Also, consider that Scotland are at home and will not want to claim the wooden spoon in front of a local crowd. One would have to favour the home side. Scotland HT/FT at even money (bet365), seems the safest way to go for me, along with Max Evans first try scorer, 8/1 (Boylesports/BetFred).

Ireland Vs England

For Ireland there are two changes in the back-line and also a positional switch after their defeat to Wales in Cadiff on Saturday. While Keith Earls moves to full-back in place of Luke Fitzgerald, Andrew Trimble comes into the team on the left wing for his first start in this year's Championship. Leinster’s Jonathan Sexton also finds himself back at out-half, with Ronan O'Gara moving to the replacements bench. Martin Johnson, meanwhile, has made one change to his England side for the Grand Slam decider, with Matt Banahan replacing captain, Mike Tindell, who is out due to an ankle injury he received in the victory over Scotland. England travel to Dublin as odds on favourites, despite Ireland’s dominance in the fixture over recent years. While Johnson’s men are on tremendous form, Ireland have come out on top in four of the last six meetings between the two. Stats also show that in recent meetings very little has separated the sides suggesting, though my heart says Ireland, England to win 1-5 points is a very appealing proposition. Furthermore, with Ireland starting their last two games very strongly against Scotland and Wales only to deteriorate as the game progressed, Ireland HT/England FT is a very worthy punt at 13/2 (PaddyPower). For first try scorer, Chris Ashton, who has been in top form this championship with three tries in four (Two of which were 1^st tries) is priced at 15/2 (BetFred) but don’t count out Tommy Bowe who touched down twice in this tie last season at 2/1 anytime (PaddyPower).

France Vs Wales

For the curtain closer of this Championship, in the Welsh camp, George North will replace Shane Williams on the wing, due to the record try scorer carrying a knee injury. Prop Adam Jones returns after recovering from an elbow injury, replacing tight-head Craig Mitchell.  France coach Marc Lievremont has made five changes for Saturday’s Six Nations finale with Marty and Damien Traille are in for Aurelien Rougerie and Yannick Jauzion, while Brive wing Alexis Palisson is preferred to Bayonne’s Yoann Huget, Clermont Auvergne prop Thomas Domingo takes over from Sylvain Marconnet and Biarritz number eight Imanol Harinordoquy is recalled. If Ireland beat England in Dublin it will give the Welsh huge motivation in this clash. They will still need top performance to close the point difference but I’m confident this won’t transpire. Les Bleu will be determined to redeem themselves in front of a home crowd after they were left rose cheeked in Rome last weekend. They have also dominated this fixture over recent years and unless the welsh produce something special, without key man Shane Williams, this will be the case once again. France to win 1-12 points, 6/4 (bet365). Vincent Clerc is worth a look for first try at 8/1 (BetFred/BlueSQ) just as he did last week against Italy.

My Tips

Ireland HT/England FT

Tommy Bowe to Score a Try in 80 min

Scotland HT/F

Vincent Clerc to Score First Try 

Double on England to win 1-5 points and France to win by 1-12 points 

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• Follow all Rugby Tip Updates on Twitter. @CianMcCrohan.