Amidst the wealth of football betting markets available at 888sport which have become very popular in recent years, are ‘scorecast’ and ‘wincast’ bets. But, what are they and how do they work?

The basic answer for both is that in these kinds of bets, you’re backing a combination of players to score and final results, often seeking to take advantage of increased odds for correctly predicting a winning combination. However, there are differences between the two and their associated markets, which we will explain below...

Scorecast

The aim of a scorecast bet is to successfully predict a combination of which players will score and when, plus the correct final score of the match itself.

At 888sport there are three scorecast markets available for football matches, as follows:

Scorecast - Anytime Goal

For this selection, the winning aim is to choose a player who you think will score at any time during the ninety minutes of play (plus stoppage time in league matches), along with predicting the correct final score.

For example: Choosing Lukaku to score at any time during the match and predicting a final 1-0 match score. If both those conditions are met, your bet will win.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that in the case of cup matches, any extra time played doesn’t count, and your bet will only win if the player chosen has scored within normal time, and the score predicted is only achieved in normal time.

If the player you have chosen to score doesn’t start the match, your bet will be declared void and your stake will be returned. Also, own goals don’t count in the anytime goal part of the bet, although they do still count towards the final score prediction.

 

Scorecast – First Goal

The aim of this selection is a combination of predicting which player will score the first goal, and the correct final score.

For example: Choosing Lukaku to score the first goal of the match and predicting a 1-1 draw as the final score of a Premier League match between Manchester United and Chelsea. Get both right and your bet is a winner.

Again, extra time doesn’t count in the case of cup matches, for either part of the bet. The first goal and the correct match score must be achieved within the normal ninety minutes of play, plus any stoppage time.

Own goals don’t count towards the first goal part of the bet, but they do still count towards the correct final score. In such a scenario, if an own goal was the first of the match, the next player to score would be considered to have scored the first goal of the match.

Scorecast – Last Goal

To successfully win this bet, you need to predict which player will score the last goal of the match, and the correct final score.

For example: Choosing Lukaku to score the last goal of the match and correctly predicting a 3-1 final score in favour of Manchester United against their opponent. Get both correct and you’ll have a winning bet.

As always for either part of the bet, extra time doesn’t count in the case of cup matches, with only the last goal scored and the final match score of ninety minutes (plus stoppage time) counting towards a successful bet. Likewise, own goals don’t count either, even if scored by a player you’ve backed.

Scorecast – Tips

Predicting the anytime, first goal and last goal scorers in matches can be quite tricky, so it’s always worth checking player statistics and form before making your choices. Combine those with also trying to predict the correct final match score, you’ll also want to check the scoring form of teams, so it’s easy to understand why higher odds are offered in each scorecast market.

However, a winning combination of both parts of the bet can bring potentially high returns from even a small stake, hence the appeal of the scorecast markets.

There is also lots of flexibility in the scorecast markets. For example, just because you back a player to score the first goal, doesn’t necessarily mean you must also back their team to win. You can back a player to score first for one team, and also back their rival to win by a specific score.

Wincast

The aim of a wincast bet is to successfully predict a combination of which players will score and when, plus which team will win the match, irrespective of the final score. This is the key difference between wincast bets and scorecast bets, although choosing which player will score and when in the first part of the bet remains the same.

The three key wincast markets at 888sport are as follows:

Wincast – Anytime Goal

In this bet your aim is to choose a player who you think will score at any time during the ninety minutes of play (plus stoppage time in league matches), along with predicting which of the two teams will win the match.

For example: Choosing Messi to score at any time during a match, and successfully choosing Barcelona to beat their rival. If both predictions end up being correct, your bet wins.

However, cup match scorers and winning teams must come within the normal ninety minutes of play (plus any stoppage time), in the case of cup matches, because extra time doesn’t count within your wincast bet.

Wincast – First Goal

This time you’re choosing which player you think will score the first goal in a match, and which of the two teams will win the game.

For example: Backing Messi to score the opening goal of a La Liga match, and Barcelona to win. Get both parts of the bet right, you’re a winner.

Own goals don’t count, so the next player to score is declared to have scored the first goal in such a scenario. As usual, extra time isn’t counted in the cast of cup matches, so both the first goal and the match winning team must be achieved within ninety minutes (plus stoppage time), because extra time doesn’t count.

Wincast – Last Goal

Here you’re predicting which player will score the last goal of the game, plus backing which team will be the final winner of the match.

For example: Selecting Messi to score the last goal of the match, combined with successfully choosing Barcelona to secure the win. Do that with both and your bet will have a positive outcome.

Again, own goals don’t count towards the last goal part of the bet, even if scored by a player you’ve chosen. Likewise, extra time in cup matches doesn’t count, only the last goal and final result within normal time plus any stoppage time added by the referee.

Wincast – Tips

Just as with scorecast betting, successful wincast betting may sometimes require some careful study of player and team form, along with a glance at statistics for the players and teams involved, because getting both parts of the bet right isn’t easy. Odds offered for a wincast bet are generally higher than placing individual bets, although neither are quite as high as scorecast bets, reflecting the varying levels of difficulty when making predictions.

Wincast betting also offers a good range of flexibility in each part of the bet, because although you might fancy a particular player to score the anytime goal, first goal, or last goal, you might also prefer to back their rival team to win the match itself.

General Thoughts

In some ways, both scorecast and wincast bets can almost be considered as being similar to a mini accumulator, in which you’re backing multiple outcomes for the chance to win at higher odds. However, certain variables and betting lines can’t always be added to accumulator bets, which makes the combination possibilities in both the scorecast and wincast betting markets very appealing to punters when focusing on individual matches.

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

One international fixture down, one more to go. It was refreshing to see Gareth Southgate go with a much-changed side in Amsterdam on Friday night and most England fans were left relatively happy with the performance.

Jesse Lingard’s goal was the difference between the two nations and England now turn their attention to Italy. The Italians struggled against Argentina, losing 2-0 in front of a small crowd at the Etihad Stadium.

Wembley is a sell-out for Tuesday evening and England will be looking to put on a show for their supporters. Southgate’s side lead my 11/1 four-fold here; check out the best bets ahead of Tuesday’s fixtures…

Russia vs FRANCE

Russia were put firmly in their place by Brazil on Friday night and Tite’s men, currently 19/4 favourites for World Cup glory, could prosper this summer.

The hosts gave a decent account of themselves but three goals in a crazy 13-minute spell in the second half saw Brazil pull clear. Russia could collapse again when France travel to St Petersburg.

Les Bleus let a two-goal lead slip against Colombia and Didier Deschamps will be demanding a response in this contest.

Okay, it wasn’t the strongest of France line-ups but it was almost certainly good enough to defeat their South American opponents. I would be shocked to see France fall short again and the 7/10 for an away win is a good price.

TIP: France to win @ 7/10

 

GERMANY vs BRAZIL

Germany are well fancied for this summer’s World Cup – and with good reason.

The 2014 winners were a class above their rivals throughout that tournament and a second successive triumph would cement their spot as one of the greatest international teams of all-time. This could give us some indication as to whether Germany are still the team to beat.

If nothing else, one thing is for sure: this one won’t be finishing 7-1. Brazil will be looking to send out a statement four years after that embarrassing defeat on home soil and they look well placed to push Germany close.

Both teams have enough quality to score goals and that makes the 4/6 very appealing indeed. It could be a very entertaining fixture.

TIP: Both teams to score 4/6

 

POLAND vs South Korea

Poland will be quietly confident of winning this one. Losing to Nigeria on Friday was not in the script and Adam Nawalka’s side will want to bounce back at the first time of asking.

It wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see Poland respond in the best possible way here; Robert Lewandowski was very critical of their performance and the hosts should improve.

South Korea were dominant for long spells against Northern Ireland but were defeated by Michael O’Neill’s side.

On paper, the visitors have the talent to cause problems for Poland but I can see this one being fairly straightforward. 19/20 for a home win is excellent – their sixth spot in the FIFA rankings is a stretch but Poland are a well-oiled football team.

TIP: Poland to win @ 19/20

 

ENGLAND vs Italy

As previously mentioned, England produced a polished effort to get past the Netherlands in Amsterdam – much to the delight of fans across the country.

The Three Lions have scored just three goals in their last 450 minutes of international football but they’ve not conceded during that timeframe either. Let’s focus on the positives instead of the negatives with the 2018 World Cup approaching.

via GIPHY

Italy were poor against Argentina and this is England’s match to lose. 11/10 is a great price for Southgate’s side and plenty of punters will be getting on England in the coming days.

This is a sub-par Italian side and, with no World Cup this summer, their players probably aren’t as determined to win. Don’t read too much into this clash.

TIP: England to win @ 11/10

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

With a larger gap between the Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals this year there will be plenty of noteworthy horses winging their way over to Merseyside to contest their feature races.

There will also be horses entered who for one reason or another missed Cheltenham and will be completely fresh and raring to go when they arrive at Aintree.

Let’s take a look at some of those Aintree hopefuls - all of whom have Grand National aspirations.

Minella Rocco

Last year's Gold Cup runner-up was the most high-profile runner to miss this year's Festival due to the ground and it could easily play into his strengths given his excellent spring record.

Minella Rocco has now been burdened with top-weight of 11st 10lb from a handicap mark of 162 after the latest Grand National confirmation stage when Gold Cup participants Definitely Red, Edwulf and Outlander were taken out.

His trainer, Jonjo O’Neill, is rather keen on the eight-year-olds prospects in the race. Speaking at the recent Aintree lunch, O’Neill said: “I’ve no concerns about him on the jumping front.”

“I think it will be ideal for him, a big galloping track with wide open spaces. The Canal Turn might b a bit sharp that will require a few more strides as he is a big old horse. I’m really looking forward to bringing him here.

“He’s definitely at least 17 hands, and I know this because when you put a saddle on him he is a fair old horse.

“He’d be a classier horse than Don’t Push It, who would never have been second in the Gold Cup.

“He’d have a better attitude, too, than Don’t Push It and will handle the day quite well. Don’t Push It handled it quite well, but he was a bit of a nutter at home but this fella is a lovely horse. “

Minella Rocco will be bidding to become the first horse to win the marathon contest on his first run following a wind operation.

“He’s had everything done,” he added.

“We have done his palette since Leopardstown so hopefully that will help him a bit more. He’s in great form and working well. We were looking forward to going to Cheltenham but there was no point on that heavy ground.”

The J.P McManus owned gelding is a general 16/1 chance to win the National.

 

Tiger Roll, Causes Of Causes, The Last Samuri

Gordon Elliott’s Tiger Roll burst into to forefront of the Grand National betting after an emphatic win the Cross Country Chase at The Festival.

It was Tiger Roll’s third Festival victory and until then he had not really been considered as one of Elliott’s leading hopes for the Grand National.

Elliott, who trained Silver Birch to win the National in 2007, said about the top-priced 14/1 chance for Aintree: "Tiger Roll has come out of Cheltenham well and the Grand National is now the plan for him."

Cause Of Causes could not repeat last year's win in the Cross Country on the rain-softened ground and was pulled up by his rider Jamie Codd. He will be heading to Aintree to try and go one better then when he finished runner-up to One For Arthur twelve months ago.

Elliott said after the race: "Jamie (Codd) said he was flat out. I was worried about the ground and it never happened today. He is a bit sore so we will see how he is."

Speaking about the third home in the Cross Country, The Last Samuri, who is a best-priced 16/1 shot for the Grand National this time, trainer Kim Bailey said: "I am delighted - it was always going to be a National prep.

"It is a bit different to carrying top-weight in a handicap."

The Last Samuri didn't return back into Cheltenham’s winner's enclosure that afternoon and Bailey explained: "The horse always gets very tired afterwards. He is a horse that is marked out by the vets in all of his races.

"The vets are very happy with him - I am quite used to it now.”

 

Blaklion

The Nigel Twiston-Davies trained Blaklion bypassed the Cheltenham Gold Cup in order to make a full recovery from his Haydock exploits and to also take in a wind operation.

Earlier this season Blaklion finished runner-up in the Charlie Hall Chase and won the Becher Chase and has retained his position at the head of the Grand National market, despite that crushing defeat at Haydock last month.

Twiston-Davies reported Last week: "He's had soft cauterisation of his palate, which is a very minor one. We gave him a galloping scope and that's what came up."

He added: "It was always the plan to miss Cheltenham and all is going well. He's in great form."

The nine-year-old, out of Kayf Tara, can still be backed at 12/1 for the Aintree showpiece.

 

Total Recall

Willie Mullins has confirmed that Total Recall is an intended runner in the Grand National despite coming down three fences from home in the Gold Cup.

Total Recall won his first three races after joining Mullins from the retired Sandra Hughes, landing the Munster National at Limerick, the “Hennessy” at Newbury and a handicap hurdle at the inaugural Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown.

Total Recall, who will shoulder 11st 4lb, is vying for favouritism with Blaklion.

 

Anibale Fly

This season’s Gold Cup third Anibale Fly is entered in the National and has been backed down to odds of 16/1 for the Aintree marathon but his actual participation is far from assured.

Connections are likely to make a decision in the next few days as to whether the eight-year-old will return to English shores or stay at home for the Irish equivalent.

Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus, has confirmed the Tony Martin-trained horse has a couple of options they need to mull over.

"He's come out of the Gold Cup very well. He ran very well and stayed on nicely," said Berry.

"We'll see how he is and we'll make a decision early in the week here where he's going.

"He has the two options and he'll definitely go for one or the other."

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Ante-post favourite Blaklion (10/1) remains firmly at the head of the horse racing betting for the 171st renewal of the £1-million Randox Health Grand National after a total of 105 entries were declared for the race at noon on Wednesday 31^st January.

Looked after and trained by dual Grand National-winning trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies, Blaklion is one of six entries from the Naunton based handler.

His 2018 entries also include the multiple Grade One winner Bristol De Mai (25/1), who is the most likely candidate for top-weight, BetVictor Gold Cup hero and popular Merseyside favourite Splash Of Ginge (50/1) and the Aintree Grade One scorer Flying Angel (66/1).

Britain's current champion Jump trainer Nicky Henderson, who has yet to add this race to his illustrious CV, will saddle three contenders in Gold Present (25/1),Vyta Du Roc (33/1) and O O Seven (66/1).

Irish-trained runners account for 40 of the initial entries with 11 of those runners coming from the Gigginstown House Stud. Total Recall (25/1), Cause Of Causes (25/1) and Ucello Conti (33/1) are the most prominent runners in the betting from Ireland.

Definitly Red (20/1) was pulled up last April after his saddle slipped. Brian Ellison's runner should be a major contender again after his impressive win in the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham last time out. Before returning to Aintree he will take in the small matter of running in the Gold Cup next month.

Kim Bailey's 2016 Grand National runner-up The Last Samuri ( 20/1) is prominent in the horse racing odds once again.

Colin Tizzard has three entries in Sizing Codelco (50/1), The Dutchman (33/1), who won the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock in January, and Third Intention (100/1).

Joe Tizzard, assistant trainer said: "The Dutchman would have to be our leading hope after his last run at Haydock. He will head back up there in three weeks for the Grand National Trial and go from there.

"He has gone up 13lb to 148, so he should get a run in the National. It looks like he will stay that sort of trip and he jumps nicely.

"It was a strong run first time out at Haydock (second behind Sam Spinner in the Stayers' Handicap) and we possibly went back to the well too quickly at Cheltenham with him. He was hugely impressive at Haydock last time."

Other Grand National-winning trainers with 2018 entries include Paul Nicholls, whose sextet of possible runners is headed by dual Scottish Grand National victor Vicente (25/1), and Mouse Morris, who has Irish Grand National scorers Rogue Angel (50/1) and Thunder And Roses (40/1) among his three entries.

Vicente’s owner Trevor Hemmings has won the Grand National three times since 2005 and is the joint most successful trainer in the history of the world’s greatest chase. His other entry is Welsh Grand National fourth Vintage Clouds (Sue Smith, 40/1).

Welsh Grand National hero Raz De Maree (Gavin Cromwell IRE, 40/1) is engaged, as is impressive Classic Handicap Chase victor Milansbar (Neil King, 50/1).

Abolitionist (40/1) was third in last season's Irish Grand National when trained by Ellmarie Holden, and has since been bought by Dr Richard Newland, who claimed National glory with Pineau De Re in 2014.

Newland said: "Abolitionist is coming back from an injury. We got him in the autumn and then he had an issue with a stress fracture.

"He is on the way back now and doing really nicely. He is a nice horse who shows a good attitude and we are pleased to have him.

"We are stepping up his work and hope to have him on the track towards the end of February. Then all being well, he will go on to Aintree for the Grand National.

"He could have a spin over hurdles at Ascot on February 17 or there is a veterans' chase at Doncaster on February 21.

"The rules have changed, so he has to run in a chase this season to be qualified. If he starts off over hurdles, then he would run again over fences in March."

The entry figure has broken the 100-mark for the fourth time in the last five years – entry details since 2010 are as follows:- 2018-105; 2017-110, 2016-126, 2015-98; 2014-115; 2013-84; 2012-82; 2011-102 and 2010-112.

The weights for the 2018 Randox Health Grand National are decided by the British Horseracing Authority’s Head of Handicapping, Phil Smith, in what will be his final National. The allocated weights will be unveiled on the evening of Tuesday, February 13th, at BAFTA in London’s West End.

The Randox Health Grand National is the only handicap of the year where Phil Smith has absolute discretion to deviate from the normal handicap ratings when determining the weights.

A maximum of 40 runners can go to post at 5.15pm on Saturday, April 14^th.

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

Good news, this is the final international break of the season. Bad news, there’s no Premier League football because of it. However, there are at least a few exciting-looking fixtures this time around – most of the top nations are preparing for the 2018 World Cup.

Plenty of punters will be keeping a close eye on Argentina’s clash with Italy on Friday night. Jorge Sampaoli’s men are my top tip ahead of this weekend and I’m backing Lionel Messi and co to get the job done at the Etihad Stadium. Check out my best bets below…

 

ARGENTINA vs Italy

Argentina should have enough to emerge victorious in this fixture. Just look at their squad on paper; there are very few weaknesses, particularly in attack.

Inspired by Lionel Messi, Argentina can put on a show for the fans and the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is well priced at 27/20 to score on Friday night.

via GIPHY

Meanwhile, this Italy side is in a sorry state. It will take some time for the Italian people to forgive the national squad after failing to qualify for the World Cup – it is hard to put too much faith in Italy at this moment in time.

This ageing squad may struggle to keep tabs on Argentina’s potent offense and that is why I fancy the 10/11 for Sampaoli’s men to prevail.

TIP: Argentina to win @ 10/11

GERMANY vs SPAIN

Another exciting encounter Germany and Spain are two of Europe’s strongest nations. 2014 World Cup champions Germany will be quietly confident of victory and Joachim Loew’s men may want to send out a statement.

Unfortunately for them, Spain are no slouches and the 2010 winners will be expecting to challenge this summer. They will rely heavily on a mixture of players from Barcelona and Real Madrid...

Both teams to score is probably the best bet here at a very appealing 7/10. At that price, it is well worth sticking in an accumulator and crossing your fingers.

International football can be difficult to predict at the best of times but both have the attacking quality to score. Neither side will be going hell for leather and there could be a few lapses in concentration at the back.

TIP: Both teams to score @ 7/10

 

NETHERLANDS vs ENGLAND

Like Italy, the Netherlands also failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup but Dutch football is now heading in the right direction.

On home soil, you’d have to fancy Holland to capitalise against this shaky England defence and the 17/20 for both teams to hit the back of the net is printing money.

 

Another big test for Gareth Southgate as England prepare for the World Cup. There will be an intense atmosphere and the Three Lions could struggle to slow Holland down if they go for the jugular.

England will have spells of control though and I fancy the visitors to grab a goal or two. Difficult to predict a score due to so many unknowns.

TIP: Both teams to score @ 17/20

 

Peru vs CROATIA

A slight change of pace here. Peru ended their 36-year World Cup drought by qualifying for this summer’s competition and the South American side may struggle against some of the best teams in the world.

Yes, they play regularly against the likes of Argentina and Brazil but Peru’s lack of experience against European nations may come back to haunt them.

This should be a comfortable affair for Croatia. 10/13 is a decent price for the European side to emerge victorious in this fixture – even with a couple of key men ruled out.

Croatia have enough class and quality at both ends of the pitch to control this contest and it could be a predictable encounter. Back against Croatia at your peril…

TIP: Croatia to win @ 10/13

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

No sooner has the dust settled on four excellent days of action at the Cheltenham Festival that punters and pundits alike are already looking towards how the betting markets are shaping up for next year’s Festival.

Here at 888sport, we take a look at some of the key races over the past week and gauge what impact the results have had on the Cheltenham ante-post front for next March.

Gold Cup

Native River and Might Bite were installed as 6/1 co-favourites for the 2019 Gold Cup after a thrilling dual in this year’s race.

Joining them on 6/1 is the RSA Chase winner, Presenting Percy. Patrick Kelly’s raider landed the race in comprehensive fashion by 11 lengths from Monalee and is now considered a genuine Gold Cup contender.

Presenting Percy’s jockey, Davy Russell, was keen however to play down the hype surrounding the horse, believing it is too early just yet to describe Presenting Percy as a future Cheltenham Gold Cup contender despite his convincing victory last week.

The leading jockey at the four-day Festival is keeping an open mind as to what the future holds for the seven-year-old, putting his faith fully behind Patrick Kelly’s training ability.

Anibale Fly, who finished in third place at 33/1, was immediately backed into 14/1 from 33/1 for the Grand National at Aintree and also closed to 14/1 from 20/1 to win the Irish Grand National on Easter Monday.

 

Champion Hurdle

Buveur D'Air retained the Champion Hurdle title with a thrilling victory from Melon and will be bidding to make it a hat-trick of wins in 2019.

The 4/6 favourite held on by a neck under jockey Barry Geraghty to give trainer Nicky Henderson a seventh victory in the race.

Buveur D'Air was passed by Melon on the uphill finish before battling back to triumph from the 7/1 shot, with 25/1 chance Mick Jazz in third.

Buveur D’Air is quoted at 7/2 to keep hold of his title next season. Melon is an 8/1 chance.

 

Queen Mother Champion Chase

Altior claimed the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham to remain unbeaten over jumps.

In the process he was winning at the Festival for a third successive year in a third different race. Next year he will be hunting down Festival win number four and hoping to retain his Champion Chase crown. Perhaps he will still be unbeaten when he lines up again in March 2019?

Second in the horse racing betting markets for next year’s race is Footpad at 5/1. He is also rated as a 12/1 chance for the Gold Cup should he land up there.

Footpad ran out a dominant winner of the Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices' Chase at Cheltenham last Tuesday.

His trainer Willie Mullins believes Footpad could develop into a serious contender for the Cheltenham Gold Cup following his brilliant display in the contest.

Valiant runner-up Min is a 12/1 chance to return to Prestbury Park and take top honours next time around.

Stayers’ Hurdle

Penhill struck for the second year running at the Cheltenham Festival when springing a 12/1 surprise for trainer Willie Mullins in the Stayers' Hurdle. Successful in the Albert Bartlett in 2017, Penhill had been missing for 323 days but easily blew off the cobwebs up the hill, showing no race-rustiness at all.

Last August, Tony Bloom, the horse's owner as well as the Brighton & Hove Albion football chairman, admitted that the horse might not run again. Bloom had wanted to take him to the Melbourne Cup but an injury curtailed that trip and the rest is history.

With Paul Townend on board, Penhill belied his 12/1 odds by out-lasting Supasundae (6/1) up the Prestbury Park hill with Wholestone finishing strongly in third.

Penhill (7/1), Supasundae (8/1) and Wholestone (16/1) are the prices on offer should these three horses return next year for another crack at the race.

2018 Results Recap

Tuesday

• 1:30 Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1)

1.Summerville Boy - T George - N Fehily - 9/1

• 14:10 Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Novices' Chase (Grade 1)

1.Footpad - W Mullins - R Walsh - 5/6f

• 14:50 Ultima Handicap Chase (Grade 3)

1.Coo Star Sivola - N Williams - L Kelly - 5/1

• 15:30 Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy (Grade 1)

1.Buveur D'air - N Henderson - B Geraghty - 4/6f

• 16:10 OLBG Mares' Hurdle (Grade 1) 

1.Benie Des Dieux - W Mullins - R Walsh - 9/2

• 16:50 National Hunt Challenge Cup Amateur Riders' Novices' Chase (Grade 2)

1.Rathvinden - W Mullins - Mr P Mullins - 9/2

• 17:30 Close Brothers Novices' Handicap Chase (Listed)

1.Mister Whitaker - M Channon - B Hughes - 13/2

Wednesday

• 13:30 Ballymore Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1)

1.Samcro - G Elliott - J Kennedy - 8/11f

• 14:10 RSA Insurance Novices' Chase (Grade 1)

1.Presenting Percy - P Kelly - D Russell - 5/2f

• 14:50 Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3)

1.Bleu Berry - W Mullins - M Walsh - 20/1

• 15:30 Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase (Grade 1)

1.Altior - N Henderson - N De Boinville - Evsf

• 16:10 Glenfarclas Chase (Cross Country Chase)

1.Tiger Roll - G Elliott - K Donoghue - 7/1

• 16:50 Boodles Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3)

1.Veneer Of Charm - G Elliott - J Kennedy - 33/1

• 17:30 Weatherbys Champion Bumper (Standard Open NH Flat Race) (Grade 1)

1.Relegate - W Mullins - Ms K Walsh - 25/1

 

Thursday

• 13:30 JLT Novices' Chase (Grade 1)

1.Shattered Love - G Elliott - J Kennedy - 4/1

• 14:10 Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3)

1.Delta Work - G Elliott - D Russell - 6/1

• 14:50 Ryanair Chase (Grade 1)

1.Balko Des Flos - H De Bromhead - D Russell - 8/1

• 15:30 Sun Bets Stayers' Hurdle (Grade 1)

1.Penhill - W Mullins - P Townend - 12/1

• 16:10 Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase (Grade 3)

1.The Storyteller - G Elliott - D Russell - 5/1f

• 16:50 Trull House Stud Mares' Novices' Hurdle (Grade 2)

1.Laurina - W Mullins - P Townend - 4/7f

• 17:30 Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Riders' Handicap Chase

1.Missed Approach - W Greatrex - N McParlan - 8/1

Friday

• 13:30 JCB Triumph Hurdle (Grade 1)

1.Farclas - G Elliott - J Kennedy - 9/1

• 14:10 Randox Health County Handicap Hurdle (Grade 3)

1.Mohaayed - D Skelton - B Andrews - 33/1

• 14:50 Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1)

1.Kilbricken Storm - C Tizzard - H Cobden - 33/1

• 15:30 Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase (Grade 1)

1.Native River - C Tizzard - R Johnson - 5/1

• 16:10 St. James's Place Foxhunter Challenge Cup Open Hunters' Chase

1.Pacha Du Polder - P Nicholls - H Tucker - 25/1

• 16:50 Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle

1.Blow By Blow - G Elliott - D Meyler - 11/1

• 17:30 Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup Handicap (Grade 3)

1.Le Prezien - P Nicholls - B Geraghty - 15/2

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The 2017/18 Champions League draw took place earlier today and Bayern Munich will be very happy with their quarter-final draw.

The German giants, five-time winners of Europe’s elite club competition, will take on Sevilla in the last eight and Jupp Heynckes’ side look very well priced at 15/4 to claim another triumph this season.

Sevilla produced one of the performances of the last-16 when beating Manchester United and the Spanish side will fancy their chances.

The first leg on home soil is crucial – Sevilla cannot afford to let Bayern take a lead back to the Allianz Arena. The 8/15 available for both teams to score in the opening clash is well worth considering.

All-English Affair The Tie Of The Round?

Most of the early focus has been on Manchester City’s tie with Liverpool. On paper, this is a tasty contest and plenty of punters will be keeping an eye on the early odds.

At the time of writing, Pep Guardiola’s men are 27/20 to win the first leg at Anfield but Liverpool, the only Premier League club to beat City this season, offer more value at 21/10.

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Jurgen Klopp will have his side fired up for that contest and the Anfield faithful will be fully behind the Reds. Another memorable European night awaits if Liverpool approach this clash in the correct way.

City might get through over two legs but it would be foolish to dismiss Klopp’s side on home soil.

 

Real Madrid Too Strong For Juventus

Zinedine Zidane’s side have failed to inspire confidence in La Liga this season but have saved their best form for Europe’s elite competition.

It would take a brave man to back against Los Blancos – punters will fancy another Madrid triumph. Currently 7/4 to take a lead into the second leg in Spain, Real will be looking for a positive result in the first fixture.

Two goals in as many minutes handed Juventus the initiative against Tottenham Hotspur and the Italian giants defended resolutely to snatch a memorable win at Wembley.

All of the romantics will be hoping for a Gianluigi Buffon success this year; the Serie A champions will find it difficult against this potent Real Madrid offense though.

 

Barcelona Confident Of Reaching Semi-Finals

Barcelona face Roma in the fourth and final last eight clash – and most will be expecting a straightforward win for the La Liga outfit.

Lionel Messi was simply sublime against Chelsea last time out and the five-time Ballon d’Or winner can inspire Barca to another Champions League win. They are 3/10 to win the first leg at Camp Nou…

The Italian outfit will try to keep things tight defensively ahead of the second leg in Rome but that is easier said than done.

Barcelona are usually red hot on home soil and this one could be over after the first encounter. With a favourable tie, Barca have been priced up as 5/2 favourites in 888sport’s Champions League odds.

 

Europa League: Arsenal And Atletico Well Placed?

Arsene Wenger’s men will face CSKA Moscow in the quarter-finals and most Gunners fans will be happy enough with that tie. The thought of travelling to Russia isn’t exactly appealing but Arsenal will fancy their chances of advancing to the next round.

Meanwhile, Europa League favourites Atletico Madrid (27/20) take on Sporting Lisbon and Diego Simeone’s men have to be preferred over two legs. The La Liga outfit will take some stopping in this competition.

Lazio face Red Bull Salzburg whilst dangerous dark horses Marseille will go up against the Bundesliga side RB Leipzig. Arsenal, Atletico, Lazio and Marseille could make up the final four…

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The headline race of the 2018 Cheltenham Festival is the Cheltenham Gold Cup, a Grade One steeplechase run over a distance just shy of three miles and three furlongs.

The most successful horse in Gold Cup history is Golden Miller who won the race five times during the 1930's. In the modern era Arkle won the race three times in a row in the 1960’s and the Henrietta Knight trained Best Mate won the race three consecutive times from 2002.

18 runners go to post in this year’s “Blue Riband” event and here is a runner-by-runner guide to the market principles:

Might Bite

The nine-year-old has been the ante-post favourite for some time, understandably so having won six of his nine starts over fences including last season's RSA Chase and the King George VI Chase at Kempton over Christmas.

He has however shown wayward tendencies on more than one occasion, most notably in the RSA 12 months ago.

His trainer Nicky Henderson has also expressed some concern about the conditions Might Bite may encounter on Friday which all points towards him being a very vulnerable favourite.

Native River

Despite missing the first half of the season, Native River showed he should be a major player once again in the Gold Cup after claiming a second victory in last month's Denman Chase at Newbury on his seasonal return.

Having finishing third in the race 12 months ago, on the back of victories in the Hennessy, Welsh National and Denman Chase, the eight-year-old is running here on merit rather than as an afterthought.

Our Duke

Our Duke could quite well provide last year’s winning trainer Jessie Harrington with a follow up winner this year,

Harrington has had this race on the agenda  ever since Our Duke comfortably landed the Irish Grand National last April with an emphatic round of jumping that left his rivals in his wake.

This season has not gone entirely to plan as Our Duke had to undergo some surgery to correct a kissing-spine which was attributed to his unexplainable defeat at Down Royal.

A solid win over Presenting Percy in testing conditions at Gowran Park last time out puts him bang in contention for this race.

Killultagh Vic

Killultagh Vic fell with the Irish Gold Cup seemingly at his mercy last time out, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by the betting public at large.

Prior to that run Killultagh Vic had made a successful return from 714 days off the track with a win in a hurdle race at Punchestown.

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding claimed the notable scalp of Thistlecrack over hurdles at the 2015 Punchestown Festival.

If the nine-year-old can put his tumbles firmly out of his mind a solid case can be made for him.

Road To Respect

Road To Respect was a handicap winner at The Festival last year over 2m5f and has continued to progress since, winning the Leopardstown Christmas Chase in a first-time hood on his latest start.

His ability to stay the Gold Cup distance of an extended 3m2f however has to be taken on trust.

Noel Meade believes his seven-year-old is a superior horse to his previous Gold Cup near misses with Harbour Pilot and Road To Riches.

Definitly Red

Definitly Red emerged as a live candidate for the Cheltenham showpiece when scoring an eight-length victory in the Cotswold Chase in January.

The nine-year-old, who also won the Grade Two Many Clouds Chase over the Mildmay fences at Aintree in December, will be a popular choice for many under jockey Danny Cook.

He is also entered for the Grand National where he is shouldering top-weight in the handicap.

Total Recall

The Willie Mullins trained Total Recall won the Munster National at Limerick on his first start for the stable before landing the Ladbrokes Trophy Chase at Newbury in December. He successfully reverted to hurdling at Leopardstown on his most recent start and is also a leading Grand National fancy.

“Hennessy” form is rated highly in terms of the Gold Cup and former Dessie/Sandra Hughes inmate must have a good each-way chance on Friday.

Edwulf

Miracle horse Edwulf is certainly one of the heart-warming stories of the race.

12 months ago Edwulf's life hung in the balance after he collapsed after the final fence in the JT McNamara National Hunt Chase and there were real concerns he might die.

His unlikely victory in the Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown last month, after being nursed backed to health, was beyond anyone’s wildest dreams.

In what is considered by many to be an open year for the Gold Cup, Joseph O’Brien believes the former point-to-pointer is well entitled to take his chance.

American

Supplemented into the race this week, the eight-year-old was last seen when finishing an eight-length second to Definitly Red in the Cotswold Chase at Cheltenham back in January, having pulled up on his previous start in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury.

Connections and the trainer Harry Fry were encouraged by the forecast soft conditions this week and will be hoping to get a return on their late entry fee.

Djakadam

Djakadam was runner-up in 2015 and 2016 and takes his place in the field once again.

Willie Mullins’ nine-year-old finished second in the John Durkan Memorial Chase to Sizing John on his seasonal return but was pulled up in the Christmas Chase. In the Irish Gold Cup he was beaten a little over 10 lengths by Edwulf.

Others are likely going to have to underperform for Djakadam to win on this occasion.

Double Shuffle

The Tom George trained Double Shuffle belied his odds of 50-1 to give the strong favourite Might Bite a real scare at Kempton on Boxing Day, going down by just half a length to Nicky Henderson's leading light.

The eight-year-old looks well overpriced given his three admirable runner-up spots so far this season.

Summary

Nicky Henderson is hoping to pull off a historic treble of feature race wins at The Festival this year and the Gold Cup would complete the set should he land it with Might Bite.

Double Shuffle is worth an each-way interest at the prices.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

1.30pm: JCB Triumph Hurdle (2m1f)

Nicky Henderson holds a strong hand yet again with his juveniles Apple’s Shakira, a full-sister to star mare Apple’s Jade, who has won three times at Cheltenham this season and bids to go one better than her sister who finished second to Ivanovich Gorbatov in 2016.

The master of Seven Barrows also saddles WE HAVE A DREAM who, at the prices, looks the value play. A Grade 1 winner of the Finale at Chepstow, he has proven himself tactically versatile and won nicely at Musselburgh despite his trainer admitting he had left plenty of work still to do with him.

Alan King has a fine record with his juveniles and Redicean has continued to progress at a rapid rate of knots. His jumping was spot on at Kempton and he has vital speed from the Flat which will aid his cause.

Mr Adjudicator and Farclas look best of the Irish challenge but will need to step up on what they have achieved.

 

2.10pm: County Hurdle (2m1f)

Flying Tiger has been well backed over the past couple of weeks and the case is fairly simple. Last year’s Fred Winter winner who caught the eye against potential Champion Hurdle contenders in the Kingwell at Wincanton and the handicapper left him on a mark of 140.

A Hare Breath goes exceptionally well when fresh and has been saved for this having won a handicap hurdle at Sandown in December.

2016 Triumph Hurdle hero Ivanovich Gorbatov is becoming well handicapped once again and drying ground on the Friday will firmly be in his favour.

Whatswrongwithyou could be a very interesting contender with him likely to be aiming for the £100,000 bonus by winning the Imperial Cup and this contest. He looks on a fair mark.

Willie Mullins has won this race four times since 2010 and perhaps one of his more interesting handicap entries of the week is WHISKEY SOUR. A very fortunate Grade 1 winner in Ireland over Christmas, he shaped okay when fourth to Samcro in the Deloitte and he looks fairly treated on his achievements.

 

2.50pm: Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle (3m)

An attritional test for any horse with experience being the key to the race. Every winner of the race has had at least five runs which rules out leading contenders Santini and Duc Des Genievres. Both have shown very good form and are exciting individuals for the future but a race of this nature may prove too much with the pair having only had three runs apiece in their whole lives.

Chef Des Obeaux has been rather impressive since stepped up to 3m and his ability to handle testing ground will always aid him in paying his way through the deep winter ground. Drier conditions would be a slight concern.

Poetic Rhythm won the Grade 1 Challow Hurdle in tenacious style at the expense of Mulcahys Hill and he has to be considered with him possessing enough experience.

At the prices, a chance is taken on WHITE MOON as he looked a very good prospect before having excuses when well beaten by On The Blind Side at Sandown. The step up to 3m is in his favour and ground should pose no issue.

 

3.30pm: Cheltenham Gold Cup (3m2f)

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4.10pm: Foxhunters Chase (3m2f)

Jamie Codd has been secured for the ride on Burning Ambition, a prolific point winner, who won on Rules debut at Limerick before finishing a good second to Gilgamboa at Punchestown last month. While he looks to possess plenty of ability, there are concerns about his resolution for a finish having been outbattled last time and his stamina for 3m2f.

Foxrock has been to Cheltenham twice before and disappointed both times so has a lot to prove regarding travelling over.

Punchestown Champion Hunter hero Balnaslow needs to improve considerably having pulled up last time in a point but could very easily return to form in a race he outran his odds in last year.

Paul Nicholls has stated that WONDERFUL CHARM is his best chance of a winner all week and, with Sam Waley-Cohen in the saddle, he is likely to be ridden a bit more forcefully than last year when second to stable companion Pacha Du Polder.

 

4.50pm: Martin Pipe Handicap Hurdle (2m4f)

Arguably the most difficult handicap of the week with plenty of unexposed novices with Graded aspirations for the future.

Diese Des Bieffes has been well supported in the lead up to this with the likelihood of James Bowen taking the ride. His last couple of runs have been encouraging at Kempton, including when fifth to stablemate William Henry in the Lanzarote, and this stiffer track looks likely to suit.

Deal D’estruval looks well treated on his second to Off You Go at the Dublin Racing Festival and the step up in trip looks in his favour, while other Irish contenders of interest include Dortmund Park and Early Doors, who both have solid Graded form to their name and are relatively unexposed.

Another with more to offer is SPRINGTOWN LAKE who chased home leading Ballymore contender On The Blind Side at Sandown earlier in the season and his tenacious attitude will see him right there at the finish when plenty have cried enough.

 

5.30pm: Grand Annual Chase (2m½f)

The last chance for the get out stakes with the hurly burly of one of the fastest National Hunt races on the entire calendar with little margin for error.

Nicky Henderson will be hoping for a third win in the race named after his father and Theinval is, surprisingly, his only representative. He shaped well when last seen on New Year’s Day and was subsequently dropped 3lb for that effort.

His former inmate at Seven Barrows has also had a preparation towards this contest all season in Vaniteux but his 0-10 record at Cheltenham tempers enthusiasm.

Last year’s winner Rock The World and Don’t Touch It both represent Jessica Harrington and the pair look to have excellent chances with both having been aimed at the race all season.

One who could pose a threat at a bigger price is 2016 Fred Winter winner DIEGO DU CHARMIL. His comeback run after a setback was promising behind Saint Calvados and 143 looks a very tempting mark compared to his hurdles rating.

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*

The footballing world is all giddy about the FA Cup this weekend. We are not falling into such a trap. The Premier League continues– albeit with a depleted schedule – and it’s as important as ever with some matches that could have seismic implications.

Here are a few thoughts and tips on the Saturday matches…

AFC BOURNEMOUTH vs West Bromwich Albion

Bournemouth are doing that thing where they go on a bad run and suddenly look incapable of winning matches. While the Cherries were good against Spurs last weekend, the eventual score line made it look a thrashing.

It’s now four without a league win. Risk of relegation is minimal, but Eddie Howe’s side would like to end that worry before it becomes a greater concern.

The visiting Baggies continued their slump towards the Championship with their own heavy defeat last time out. Alan Pardew is extremely fortunate to have kept his job this long. It would not be a surprise if West Brom lost all their remaining matches.

I fancy Bournemouth to finally get those crucial three points. West Brom are a mess on and off the pitch this season, the hosts will be as good as safe with victory.

TIP: Bournemouth to win @ 17/20

 

HUDDERSFIELD TOWN vs CRYSTAL PALACE

Crystal Palace head into this desperately needing a result. The Eagles have returned to the bottom three after a poor run lately, but are up against it here. A total of 10 away goals all season and two wins does not suggest a road win.

The hosts were held off by Swansea last weekend despite completely dominating the match with over 80% possession and having a barrage of shots.

A victory would have earned some real breathing space for the Terriers, instead they face Palace with only four points separating them from the drop zone.

The return of Wilfried Zaha is huge for the visitors. The Ivorian’s presence gives Roy Hodgson’s side more than a fighting chance of victory, but this is still so hard to call. I don’t anticipate a heavy victory either way.

TIP: Under 2.5 goals @ 3/5

 

STOKE CITY vs Everton

This match falls into that early-spring, must-win category for Stoke. Paul Lambert’s Potters have the trickiest schedule of any side in serious relegation trouble, and desperately need three points if they are to have any chance of escaping the bottom three.

Since Lambert took over in January, Stoke have won just once. A win here will give the hosts a major lift as the race to avoid relegation heats up.

Everton ended a poor run with a 2-0 victory over Brighton last time out. That was at Goodison Park, however, where the Toffees have been okay. They have the second-worst away record in the league, picking seven points up on the road all season.

Stoke have avoided defeat more regularly under Lambert, but I’m wary of backing them for victory. The 7/5 price is on the short side even with that supposedly ferocious crowd, so I’m hedging a bit.

TIP: Stoke to win or draw @ 4/11

 

LIVERPOOL vs WATFORD

Liverpool are the only top six team in action this weekend. Jurgen Klopp’s side have an opportunity to make up for the disappointment of defeat to Manchester United last weekend.

Watford are the perfect opponents, having lost seven of eight matches away from Vicarage Road. Meanwhile, it has been 17 home league matches since Liverpool suffered defeat.

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Watford have a long injury list. Liverpool are only missing Nathaniel Clyne. Everything seems to be pointing towards the home team, doesn’t it?

I think Liverpool will win this fairly convincingly. There’s no value in backing the Reds, but a goal fest could have some decent returns.

TIP: Over 3.5 goals @ 21/20

 

*Odds subject to change - correct at time of writing*