Hi all,
I thought I would share my profits for Matched Betting Extra Place Horse Racing for Jan 21. January 2021 has turned into my best month of Matched Betting since I started way back in Summer 2018. This months profits are roughly £4,707. A life changing figure for many and a great figure seeing this is achievable on top of a full time job. Matched Betting is the only decent side hustle I have actually found, compared to doing hundreds of boring online surveys...yuck! (Unless you are a good business person / have 5 lodgers / lots of family money etc.) To see some of my other Matched Betting profits you visit my site: https://cashontheside.co.uk/
I will be investing some of my profits this month in ETF/Shares and putting into house improvements like a new drive way. In addition with Cheltenham horse festival coming up in March, I will be increasing my bank to cover liabilities.
The bulk of my profits came from Extra Place racing, large underlayed winners and BOG (best offer garuntee). Variance was certainly on my side this month and I must have had at least 10 large winners which won upwards of £1600 pounds per bet. As I underlay my bets I made more profit than If I had fully layed of the bets. About 5% of these profits came from low risk casino. After you have completed all welcome offers...in Matched Betting. Ep's become a gold mine...and I truly recommend them to anyone.
Some more of my bets this month illustrating underlayed bets and ep:
https://cashonthesidecouk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/winnings4.jpg
https://cashonthesidecouk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/winnings.jpg
https://cashonthesidecouk.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/another-winner.jpg

Images of one of my bets illustrative of Best offer guarantee: https://cashonthesidecouk.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/136707133_10159536662702922_8507610622687908137_o-1.jpg?w=544
For those who are starting out on their Match Betting journey in 2021 these sort of figures are achievable to you once you have experience….unfortunately this will not come overnight! I do put a lot of time into it..between 2-5 hours a day, 7 days a week sometimes. For the average person you could earn at least £500 a month.
To learn more about Match Betting please visit my article Boost Your Income with Matched Betting. Alternatively you can start an Odds Monkey free trial where they will teach you step by step and give you the calculators you need: odds monkey trial https://www.oddsmonkey.com/affiliates/affiliate.php?id=64754(affiliate) or www.oddsmonkey.com. (non affiliate)
To those with a little more experience who want to learn about Matched Betting Extra Places you can visit my guide here Extra Place Match Betting tips here or I have copied and pasted it all below.
For those with Matched Betting Experience - my guide and tips to Extra Places:
What is Extra Place Matched Betting?
Extra Places can be a very lucrative technique to learn. Extra Places are available for us to do pretty much every day, increasing the appeal. Extra Place Offers are available to all customers. This means that even if you get gubbed with a bookmaker, in most cases, you can still make money with them by Matched Betting on their Extra Place Offers.
Extra Places are considered an advanced reload offer, as they not risk-free. However once you have gained some experience on more basic horse racing offers, you can start to take advantage of the lucrative profits available. It may sound complicated but as soon as it ‘clicks’, it becomes simple. Essentially we are taking advantage of the bookies and exchanges paying out if the horse you have backed comes a certain ‘place’ in a race e.g. 4th.
Extra Places combined with additional offers such as BOG (Best Offer Guarantee) can mean additional profits. For example, you back a horse at odds of 15 and then the starting odds move up to 23. If that horse wins you win an extra x8 on your bet. You can see some real life scenarios I found of Extra Place combined with BOG below. Depending on the size of the underlay, profits below would range up to £3,000+

What is a ‘place’ in horse racing?

Quite simply a ‘place’ is the position the horse finishes a race in. For example if a horse wins a race it comes 1st, if a horse comes 2nd its 2nd. In some races with a large number of horses some bookies will pay out if a horse finishes the race in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th position. Horse Racing festivals such as Cheltenham or Ascot are particularly well known for this.

What is an ‘Extra Place’ in horse racing?

Now we’ve understood what a place is in horse racing you may have probably already guessed what an ‘extra place’ is going to be! An ‘extra place’ is where the bookies add one (or more) additional places to their standard place classification on a particular race. For example they may offer to ‘pay 7 places on a race’ instead of the standard 3 places. The ‘extra place’ in this instance cover 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th.
What are my Extra Place top tips?

Some of my biggest profits have come from big underlayed winners and BOG. I typically underlay most of my bets by about 20% sometimes more. If you are starting out I would underlay on the place only by about 10% to play it safe until you learn more.
Don’t bet on more places than a bookmaker is offering. E.g. If the bookmaker is offering 4 places don’t bet on more than that.
Whilst your learning, take horses on implied odds of at least 12 or more on a match of 80%+.
Look to keep qualifying losses down. E.g. for £100 profit, £5 ql.
Please note, the best odds are typically found between 10 minutes up and to race time. You have to be quick on your ‘toes’…learn to walk before you run etc. Start out on easy horse racing officers before doing extra places.
You will need a bank of at least £1000+ for your exchanges, ideally more. The more you have the more of the field you can cover. You can do EP with several hundred in your exchange but you won’t be able to make bigger profits.
Be consistent, don’t take risks, don’t chase your losses and learn from matched betting extra place forums.
Keep the Odds Monkey up throughout the day...and check for good matches.
Use Bookies Boosts to increase your odds and matches.
Do not give in to your fear of missing out on offers…Tomorrow is another day.
Have at least a dual monitoscreen setup. It is important to be able to see exchange, books and calcs.

How do I find Extra Places offers?
I use the the Odds Monkey Extra Place Matcher to find the best opportunities for profit. The Matcher is explained in the below video.
https://youtu.be/oOKAdiSJidg
I am also a regular visitor of the active Odds Monkey community forums. You can sign up for an Odds Monkey free trial today here today https://www.oddsmonkey.com/affiliates/affiliate.php?id=64754 www.oddsmonkey.com (non affiliate). Odds Monkey provide you with the all guides, calculators etc. I have been a member for over 2.4 years now.
Feel free to get in touch or ask below if any questions.

Trip Report - Drunken Trails of Tokyo [Solo - Spring 2019]

27/M/UK | Second Trip | Solo [27th March - 8th April] | Drinking & Hiking

I’m not too sure how these trip reports are supposed to work so I’m just gonna wing it, if it seems overly indepth it’s because I like the idea of using it for my own nostalgia purposes as well as hoping to help others with the planning of their trip

The Overview

This was my second solo trip to Japan with the first being 3 years ago where I travelled to Tokyo, Nara, Kyoto and Osaka, this time I decided to stay in Tokyo and make day trips out and about using Asakusa as a home base. I can honestly say even though I’ve visited Tokyo twice now, spending nearly 3 weeks in total there, there is still stuff I didn’t get chance to do and on another trip back I’d at least make another short stint in Tokyo.
I will include all my photos to this report, for the sake of ease though the albums will use Google Photos because trying to upload large albums to imgur is a shitshow, I’ll link single images through imgur though as they have better integration with Reddit
An album of a few of my favourite photos

The Journey

I flew in from Heathrow to Haneda and stayed in a AirBnb in Taito Ku (Asakusa) which cost me about £468 for the 10 nights with the flight costing £630, taking £1100 in spending money (I returned with 2000yen).

An Overview

My plan for this trip was to do a lot of hiking (I was coming to the end of a charity walk doing 20,000 steps a day for cancer research UK) and a lot of drinking, which Tokyo is the perfect venue for that mix.
I can honestly say there wasn’t a single bad day within Japan (less so with my layover in China though), not even a day that I can call meh, every day was an absolute blast and made for the trip becoming my favourite trip I've ever done, really pushing outside my comfort zone in a good way.

Tips

Be flexible, it’s good to plan what you want to do, but don’t be so set in when you do those things, I moved Nikko back 2 days where the temperature went from being 1 degree and snowing to 20 degrees and sunshine.
It’s good to have free days, a day where nothing is planned at all maybe every 4 or 5 days in which you can fit in things you missed or something you were told about while being there, if not they can become a great opportunity for some bar hopping/ people meeting.
If you’re going solo go for the sim card over the portable wifi, it’s cheaper and generally better, it’s also more convenient to not have carry extra bulk around where you can avoid to do it.
Suica cards will speed up your travel time 10 fold, recommend grabbing one as soon you hit the city.
Something being 2 hours away doesn’t mean it has to be a crack of dawn - very last train back trip, Nokogiriyama for example can be explored in a few hours, if you don’t arrive until 12 you still have a ton of time.

The Trip

Day 1

Flight & Asakusa Album

My flight took me 9 hours to Beijing with a 5 hour layover before taking another 3 hour flight to Haneda, the timing meant I landed in Haneda about 4pm, which was probably the perfect time to land, enough time to explore a bit but also not so long that jet lag would be getting the best of me and I could sleep at a normal time.
Once getting off the plane in Beijing I bumped into another traveller who was on his way to Thailand so we went for a few beers at the airport (seriously why does a Chinese Airport only sell American beers?).
Once landing in Tokyo I went straight to the airbnb, dropped my stuff off and headed straight out to get a few more beers and to try and keep myself awake. My room being where it was meant walking to and from the train station would take me past Senso-ji which looks absolutely stunning at night.
My first meal in Japan ended up being a Yoshinoya beef bowl which would be the meal I ate most in Japan besides Karaage, as I’m not really the biggest foodie so quick cheap food does me sound. It was then about checking out Ueno park at night (or more specifically the crowds, it was ridiculously busy) before grabbing another beer at a bar based on a London pub calling itself an Irish bar selling Czech Beer… yeah work that one out.

Day 2

Yokohoma Album

Due to the chance of Torres playing (he didn’t) I grabbed some tickets for the Yokohoma Merinos vs Sagan Tosu game, Friday night kick off at the Nissan Stadium, which gave me the full day in Yokohoma.
I started off by grabbing a train all the way through to Negishi and then walking up through Sankeien Garden, which is beautiful when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and totally worth checking out.
From there it was a case of heading towards Minatomirai and walking along the Promenade. Yokohoma is a really nice city so this is definitely a walk I’d recommend. From then it was a case of checking into my hotel (I’d hired a capsule hotel so I could stick around to drink after the game) before heading off to the stadium with time to spare.
The game itself was a blast, a class atmosphere, awesome little pregame gambit where they reveal the home lineup. Being allowed the drink beer and get new beers while sat in the stand is a novelty I didn’t think existed anymore (literally you can’t even drink in the stands at Cheltenham for the horse racing). The game itself ended a pretty dull 0-0 but it had its moments, not exactly premier league quality but that’s a given.
After the game I grabbed a couple of beers in a bar nearby getting involved in the home and away fans drinking together and having a laugh before heading back towards my hotel. I had planned to hit up Chinatown but while heading through Sakuragicho I stumbled upon a bar, not the one I intended to head to but once I’d paid my 400yen seat tax and saw drinks were all 150yen it became a no brainer place to chill out.
It was here I made some friends, as I was about to leave this lad sparked up a conversation and that was that, we were chatting until 3am about everything from anime and games to cultural differences and what have you, it ended up being a proper laugh.
Then it was a case of stumbling into my capsule hotel at 4am, which really aren’t built for tall people, and especially not for tall drunk people.

Day 3

Odaiba & Roppongi Album

Once I’d finally got back, showered, changed and ingested enough Pocari Sweat to stop the next 5 hangovers (and to ensure I didn’t get a proper night sleep for the next 2 days) I headed out to Odaiba.
Odaiba feels almost like a new university town, everything about looks like it was built in the last 5 years, with a beach with a view of the Tokyo skyline as well it’s definitely worth checking out. After posing with the giant Gundam and walking down the beach all the way to the end I had to head back. Initially I’d planned to hit up the imperial palace but I found myself drifting off on the train back and thought instead to head home for a nap.
That nap sorted me right out and ensured I was fresh and ready to go out, I had bought tickets for the Tokyo Pub Crawl, and event I enjoyed last time I’d came even if I was a bit more nervous, this time I made the absolute most of it, had a great crack, made some travel buddies and strolled in at 7am. If you enjoy clubbing then it’s definitely something I’d recommend, you get your moneys worth out of the £20 you pay for the event.

Day 4

Shibuya & Golden Gai Album

After sleeping until 2pm I headed out to Yoyogi Park (I’d planned to hit up a bar close to there that I remembered enjoying but plans changed), experiencing those crowds with a hangover was a bit much, seeing the standard Yoyogi park sunday madness was pretty fun though.
I had arranged to meet a lad from the night before at Golden Gai on the nighttime, it turns out he was looking to get there a lot earlier than anticipated, but as I wasn’t in the mood to be racing around while hungover (this was a free day tbf, I had planned for the hangover even if it ended up being nowhere near as bad as I was expecting) I went and met him at Golden Gai for about 5ish.
There isn’t too much to say about Golden Gai, it’s expensive, it can be intimidating and it damn near impossible to actually meet someone there because all the streets look the same, but I fucking love it. We drank some beer, chatted with locals and other foreigners, had some sake, had some snake marinated sake, played some music, had some Yakiniku and failed to understand that the ice is meant to quell the flames while you cook, it was a cracking night.
Then it came to leave to get back before the final train and this is where the touts come out to play, lucky they were easy to dodge with a simple ‘yeah mate I need to catch the last train’.

Day 5

Kamakura Album

This is where the Pocari Sweat addiction did its damage as I got a whole 30 minutes of sleep on the sunday night, but as I’m on holiday I made sure to carry on regardless, aslong as I was walking it’d keep me awake (and I did a fuck ton of walking, literally 22 miles).
I also checked the weather report before heading out, rain was forecast but only after 5 which I’d be finished with my walk by then, having planned to do the Hiking route around Kamakura. Spoiler… the weather report was wrong
My train led me to a changover near Chiyoda so I took the opportunity to visit the area around the imperial palace, Coolish in hand. Not the most exciting of trip and I don’t think it added too much to the day besides extra footache.
After that I headed to Kamakura and started the hiking route, visiting Tsurugoaka and Hokokuji temples before entering the Ten’en hiking trail. The trail itself is pretty fun and not too challenging, not at least until half way through the walk (literally half way through) it not only started to rain but also threw some thunder and lightning into the mix, it right pissed it down as well, not just a little shower. Lucky I bought a waterproof coat, unluckily I was wearing shorts.
Also about halfway through the walk there’s a sort of rest stop run by an old couple with an incredibly friendly lady who was more than happy to talk to me. I’d recommend grabbing a beer and some food from there if it isn’t starting to rain as you arrive.
After getting royally drench I made it out of the Ten’en trail to Kenchoji temple, which I would have appreciated more if not completely soaked through. I tried to use the opportunity of cover to wait for the rain to pass, but I’m too impatient for that so I said fuck it, braved the Japanese Flu that the rain apparently comes with and headed back to town for some food and a much deserved beer.
Luckily this was enough for the rain to stop, and although I skipped out the Daibutsu hiking trail, I did find time to go see the Daibutsu itself and honestly if that’s what you’re coming to Kamakura for I’d like to recommend Mt. Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama) instead but more on that later.
On the way back I stopped off at a little bar called DRINK A GOGO which is a bloody cool bar, the guys got hundreds of records he plays of Japanese artists of vastly different genres, from old school hip hop to light rock, he also speaks a bit of English. Definitely check it out if you’re in the area.
After that it was a train back and some much needed sleep. With having walked 22 miles that day, my feet definitely felt that one, still dealing with a sprained toe didn’t exactly help matters either.

Day 6

Shinjuku Album

I ended up having this as a free day as the next set of days would be a bit crazy, and as I’d overslept a bit I took a late stroll into Shinjuku hitting up the batting cages for a bit then heading to the Shinjuku National Park for a chill out beneath the cherry blossoms. This is my second time going to the park and I can’t recommend it enough, just whatever you do DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND, I walked past it on the Saturday afternoon later in the week and the queue was insane.
After that I headed to the bar I enjoyed the most last time I came to Tokyo but only got chance to visit the once, a little Irish bar just 10 minutes walk from the park called An Solas. Now I’ve got multiple stories from this trip alone as to why this bar is pure class, I did end up going on the Saturday as well but I’ll put them all here.

6 Reasons An Solas is my favourite bar in Tokyo

Even though I had only been once some 3 years ago the first thing the bar owner (an Irish guy btw) says is “I remember you” then proceeds to recall things I’d said about myself 3 years ago, like my reasons for travelling and what have you.
When I exclaimed this glass is awesome the Japanese girl who part owns the bar instantly says do you want one? And before I can even respond she’s already getting one out, cleaning it, getting a half pint one as well, bubblewrapping them and bagging them for me.
While chatting to a local who had travelled the UK among other places and a girl who was heading to Australia for a year (who I still talk to Instagram since coming home, seriously if you want to connect with Japanese people when you’re over there instagram is your friend) another lad walks in who had just returned from Mexico and buys everyone at the bar a shot of tequila. Pretty much everyone I met in there had either travelled or was from a foreign country which just meant there was a lot of stories to hear, met some great people in that place.
They do the absolute best Shepherds Pie, cheddar gouda and mozzarella on top, absolutely banging.
They are one of the few places in Tokyo to do Sapporo on tap which is objectively the best Japanese beer.
They were always willing to put the Football on for me so I could watch the Liverpool games I missed because they were on at 2/4am.

After drinking a hearty amount, eating some deep fried Pasta (because yeah that’s a thing apparently) I then headed to Ginza to see if I could get a booking for all you can eat a5 wagyu at Ginza Steak, which I got a slot for the next night. Then it was a case of heading home for some sleep, which having detoxed off the Pocari Sweat by this point I was able to get.

Day 7

Mt. Nokogiri Album

This day I had planned to go to Nikko but when I woke up I found out the weather was a measly one degree with snow, so I decided to switch some stuff around and suddenly found myself with nothing to do. So a quick 6am google search led me to Mt. Nokogiri, and it was an absolutely worthwhile trip.
A lot of the trains were stopped due to ‘passenger injury’ which if it is what I think it means then it’s a real shame and my sincere condolences go out to the family . This led to me getting a bus instead, which dropped me in the quietest town I’ve been to, Kazusaminato, with a view of Mt. Fuji in the far distance, and some very friendly locals.
My method of traversing Mt. Nokogiri was to get the ropeway up to the peak and then hike down. The Peak of Nokogiri is awesome, as you get off the ropeway you get an absolutely stunning view, cool shit carved into the rocks, loads of little buddha statues, a sawed off cliff face and a giant buddha carved into the mountain which I personally think is a lot cooler than the one in Kamakura.
The walk down the mountain was also really cool, seeing the underside of the mountain where they quarried it out making it look like something out of Minecraft. A lovely walk down, although the day did give me a bit of sunburn.
After heading back I went straight to my booking at Ginza Steak. Now I thought an 8:30 booking would give me enough time to get my fill of all you can eat… it did not. Not to say I didn’t get a lot of steak, but I could have gone for at least another 2 or 3 steaks, but as the place was closing I had to call it a day.
Even so the steak itself was amazing, I paid including beer and everything else about £90 and got this set course meal, the steak itself was cooked very much on the rare side but it was damn good. You got 3 dips to use with pepper and soy sauce being my favourite combination. I did not like the garlic rice and beef soup, but a big part of that is I generally just don’t garlic as main flavouring, while I appreciate it as a hinted flavour when it’s at the forefront, yeah not for me.
After that it was across the road for a quick beer and some german football on the tele then off to bed.

Day 8

Mt. Fuji Album

My initial plan was to rent a car and hit up mt. Fuji followed by Shosenkyo Gorge, but once I hit the countryside I decided to just stick close to Fuji driving around the five lakes.
I got very lucky with the weather because it was Absolutely fucking perfect. The first point of call after some Konbini lunch was to hit up Churieto Pagoda for that iconic Japan shot, after chilling there for a while and going a bit mad with the selfies I head to the first of the five lakes, Lake Kawaguchi. From there I drove out hitting the edge of 3 of the other lakes (Saiko, Motosu and Shoji) Saiko being especially great if you just want to chill in almost silence with Fuji overlooking you while locals fish below you.
The last section of the drive was over the mountain into the Yamanashi prefecture to a quiet little park that looked like it hadn’t been touched in years, before heading back and experiencing driving in Japan at its absolute worst… fucking trying to get through Ueno at 7-8pm, City driving at night with full rush hour is my worst nightmare. I eventually made it back on time with no fines to pay and then headed back, bumping into a bar in Asakusa that did Jazz Karaoke which was a very surreal experience but also an enjoyable one.

Would I recommend driving in Japan? If you’re coming from Tokyo honestly no, it’s ridiculously expensive just to get on the highways, just toll roads for days, but once you’re passed that into the countryside, it’s a brilliant experience, possibly my favourite place to drive, so if you do want to drive I’d probably recommend doing so from Hakone where I’ve heard good things, as that would be all the good with none of the bad.

Day 9

Nikko Album

It was time for the 3rd day trip in a row, the weather being a huge improvement over what it would have been, going from snowcoat weather to t-shirt weather in a matter of days. I headed to Nikko early doors having bought the Nikko day pass the day before, I also paid the extra for the limited express on the way there because local trains confuse the fuck out of google maps and I’d rather deal with that when I’ve woken up.
Once getting to Nikko I got on the first bus to Kegon Waterfall, first stopping off at the observatory for a pretty cracking view, before getting back on the bus and heading to the waterfall itself. After a beer and some lunch I head back down into the Nikko forest.
Nikko’s mix between the mountain and forest makes for a really cool experience, while the mountain area provides some wonderful views the forest provides temples and shrines hidden away amongst the trees. It doesn’t stop there either, upon exiting the forest you get this traditional bridge that makes for a very cool photo op.

Lore Time
So within one of the shrines there is a carving of a sleeping cat, a local told me before my trip of the significance of this cat. Apparently the locals believed that at night the cat would wake up and roam around the area, so to quell fears of this happening the artist Hidari Jingorō came back and removed the cats eyes, so if it woke up it wouldn’t be able to roam around.
I don’t how true this actually is, but it’s a nice story nonetheless.

Once I left Nikko on the local trains (spending the whole time confusing the fuck out of Google Maps) I headed back to Tokyo to meetup with some fellow redditors, using the group chat on LINE provided in each monthly meet up thread. The plan was to go drinking and then go Karaoke but the time from drinking to karaoke was barely enough to get tipsy, let alone drunk enough to actually enjoy it.
After that a few of us headed into Akihabara for some drinks, ending up at a darts bar, then some random bar where we had Kangaroo and deep fried crocodile (both taste amazing) then to some other places that escape my memory. All in all it was a decent night and I met some cool people. I walked back to Asakusa with another lad and then hopped off to bed about 5am (went to sleep with Liverpool at 1-1 versus Southampton and woke up with us winning 3-1 which was nice).

Day 10

The Last Night Album
So my flight was at 2pm the next day, so you’d think I’d have a relaxed one today, especially as it was the first time I’d properly felt a hangover on the trip… that didn’t happen

First I went into Ginza to look for some souvenirs to take home and get some money out just to keep me going for the night (10,000 yen). I promptly gave up on the souvenir lark as the hangover was getting the best of me, so I did the only thing there is to do with a hangover when you have a free day… hair of the dog.
By 4pm I was back in An Solas, I’d made plans to meet some lads I’d met on the trip seeing as it was my last day, so I just chilled out in the bar for the rest of the afternoon, drinking, watching football, rugby, chatting with randomers all that jazz. By about 9oclock one of the lads I was gonna meet said he was going to Golden Gai, and this started the maddest string of events I experienced on this trip.
First I met him and his friend in bar in Golden Gai, we had a few drinks and headed to Omoide Yokocho for some sake and food meeting another girl we’d met the night before. Then we headed to an eel bar where the adventure begun.
First one of the lads ordered some eel which watching it be cooked was an interesting experience to say the least. At this point our group was myself (UK) a guy from Singapore, a guy from Taiwan and a girl from Finland, one of the guys stated how he wanted to go to a hostess bar and being in Kabuchiko it made sense to be the place to look for one.
Some searching led to some dead results, so instead he asked the Japanese guy (who had been having a bit of conversation with the girl in our group) where to find one and suddenly the night lit up. This guy it turns out himself used to be a host and after a quick phonecall, he was throwing us in a taxi and off we went.
First this guy pays for the taxi, comes to the bar with us (which it turns out doesn’t allow foreigners this guy just managed to get us in) and then after a good hour of drinking, trying to make conversation and doing some karaoke we go to leave and so I ask how much we owe, to which he says nothing, he’d payed for the whole shebang.
This left us in some random area in Tokyo at 3am, but with no trains until 5 we decided to continue on, first stop was a konbini for some strong zero and to get an idea of our surroundings to hopefully find a bar still open. A few minutes later a local girl walks in so we ask her if she knows anywhere to drink, next thing we know she’s leading us around the town trying to find an open bar for us, going absolutely above and beyond for some dumb drunk foreigners. Although she was unable to find anywhere we had to stop her before thanking her profusely because I think she would have just kept looking all night.
Instead we found a little 24 hour ramen shop that sold beer so we chilled in there until the first train back, which led to me being back in bed by about 530am concluding the crazy fun night before my train to the airport leaving at 11 (good job I was already packed).

Day 11

China

The next day was basically wake up, shower, train, flight. Not really much to talk about, until I hit Beijing again for another layover this time being 11 hours, I got the bus into the City centre hoping to maybe see the sights and get a few drinks.
I stayed in Beijing for maybe 4 hours before just noping out, after spending 10 days in Japan feeling safe as houses I legit felt scared in Beijing, no street lights on main streets, police absolutely everywhere, multiple police checkpoints, scanners for bags just to get on the subway, it wasn’t fun. Even getting a taxi back, I ended up getting into a deal (probably ripped off as well) with some sketchy guy who stuck me in his car then fucked off for half an hour before to find enough people to fill it before he left, honestly I should have just fucked off myself because it scared the shit out of me, but it did get me back to the airport at least, evenutally.
I think if I do ever go back to China I’ll visit Hong Kong, seems I’d enjoy it more, got a friend over there as well which would make it easier. Beijing was not an enjoyable experience in the slightest.
After that it was a nice 9 hour flight back where I had 2 seats to myself which made it a lot easier to just drift off, especially necessary as I’d stupidly planned to go back to work the day after I got back.

And that concludes my amazing second trip to Japan. Why I decided on the 10 days over 2 weeks I have absolutely no idea tbh, I really should have stayed longer, I had a blast though and would love to go again, possibly visiting Hokkaida/Sapporo next time. Although it may be another few years before that comes to fruition.

Cheltenham Festival Day 3 Preview and Tips

Hey all. Got a bit of feedback regarding my blog and posts and it was a bit positive, so here's my Day 3 writeup. Text below, link to website and full Google Document tracking tips is there:
https://valueburglar.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/cheltenham-festival-2019-day-3-tips/
Day 2 was much better than Day 1! With 9pts / £90 staked, and 12 pts / £120 returned, that’s the healthy sort of return we want consistently. Of course, we’re down overall, but forgive me for not worrying about that too much right now at the nascent stages of this venture.
It was also a good day for punters in general, with Altior retaining his crown (albeit with a little scare); Tiger Roll dominating; and the well-backed Band of Outlaws and Envoi Allen obliging, too.
Without further ado, here are my musings ahead of Thursday’s racing. There are a lot of very big fields and as a result, hopefully loads of value to find. Let’s continue the revival!
JLT
Joel over at 2pts win, at the time of writing, simply says “Defi Du Seuil will win. 1pt win Defi Du Seuil @ 3/1” – and while I assume he’ll be a little more expansive on this in due course, I can’t really disagree. But right now, he’s 5/2, and that’s a little too skinny for my liking. Thus, we take him on with just the one bet. I think Kildisart (9/1 generally) is the one to be on board at the prices. If his jumping improves (it looks a bit novicey, which is fair for a novices’ race!), then he can have a big say in proceedings.
Lostintranslation will have to find a little with Defi Du Seuil, especially off level weights, as will Vinndication – whose tendency to jump right-handed isn’t encouraging around Cheltenham, either. Real Steel would be a likeable bet, but he’s being supported even now into 6/1 (opened I think at 8s), so despite his lack of exposure, I’m going to swerve. Voix Du Reve is Ruby Walsh’s choice, and he loves this race. His form has been bang there, and he’d be my second option in this race – Walsh having won the JLT thrice.
Pertemps
I find it strange that a Barry Geraghty-saddled horse in Sire Du Berlais is a relatively strong head of the market. His handicap record at Cheltenham is terrible, to go back to this Fat Jockey Forum thread. That said, the last three Pertemps winners have all been Irish, and have all been strong in the betting. To that end, I’ll go with current fourth-favourite Walk To Freedom (12/1 each way with William Hill, 1/5 1-5), who is Robbie Power’s fancy for the race, and who ran a blinder in one of the qualifiers for this race. With two recent winners being at the top of the weights, Walk To Freedom could be another, and I like the value.
I have to have a second selection here though, especially with six places paid at some firms. Aaron Lad (14/1 each way, Paddy Power or Betfair, 1/5 1-6) is trained by the shrewd Richard Newland and connections have hinted his 90-day break before this race was probably the plan. His last run was over course and distance and I was really taken with how much more he had to give the further the race progressed. A 9lb rise needs to be defied, though, but I’m happy with the price regardless.
There are too many others to mention and to cross-reference, but Abolitionist is taking a very similar route toward the Grand National as Pineau De Re, who wasn’t beaten far in this race on the way to a GN 2nd in 2014 – though I’m hoping just for a safe spin round. Wait For Me, with an estimable Cheltenham record, is worth a lash at a big 40/1, but wasn’t too good in last year’s Pertemps, so I’m not poking. First Assignment and Samburu Shujaa are both skinny-ish prices for a reason, too.
Ryanair Chase
What a card. This is one of the deepest races at the festival. We are almost certainly going to see a bit of a pace war at the front, with four or five who like to make the running (Monalee, Un De Sceaux, Footpad, Frodon etc) ensuring it. The bookies also all seem to have a vice-like grip on the market, with it so competitive. At the time of writing, the top five in the market are generally between 4/1 and 7/1.
With BetVictor (again!) paying a fourth place on this race, I’m gonna take a chance on Terrefort (25/1 each way with BetVictor, 1/5 1-4), who has looked decent when healthy this year, finishing in the frame behind Frodon and Clan Des Obeaux at trips of about 3m. While he’s got to find more – of course – the race will be run to suit, and the way he won his novice Grade 1s on soft (with a JLT second, too) gives me hope.
The other horse to potentially benefit from the race panning out this way is Road to Respect (4/1 generally), who has swerved the Gold Cup for a tilt at this. If his jumping is better today, then I can definitely see him coming off a hot pace to pick up the pieces and win it around jumping the last or even in the home straight.
I’d want Monalee and Footpad at bigger prices; Un De Sceaux may be getting long in the tooth and is in a very deep renewal; and I don’t think Frodon will have the race run to suit. I can’t make a case for others at bigger prices, so this is it for me for the Ryanair.
Stayers’ Hurdle
This will probably go to Paisley Park. He’s looked phenomenal this year and is a well-deserved 7/4 or so favourite, with wins in the Long Walk and Cleeve Hurdles. I will therefore not be opposing him for win purposes, but with 18 runners, it’s worth having a look at the firms that offer four places (BetVictor, Coral, Ladbrokes and a couple of others that don’t count).
Bapaume (22/1 each way with Coral and BetVictor, 1/5 1-4) ran well behind Presenting Percy last time out, and generally has looked solid behind Apple’s Jade too (though she disappointed on Tuesday – but I’d expressed my doubts about her liking for Cheltenham). There was a Grade 1 second place in France last May, and a tidy Grade 2 win over shorter – I think Bapaume is a model of consistency and thus I’m hoping to see a place accordingly.
I don’t think anything else in the race is really worth backing: Faugheen is too short and would make for a great story; Supasundae is too often a silver medallist and at 8/1 isn’t worth getting on board; Bacardys likes a fall… and I won’t continue, but you get my thinking, I presume.
Brown Advisory Plate
Most bookies are offering five places. Only Bet365 are offering 1/4 odds with five places, so every tip will be with them. I’m not surprised they’re offering such good terms, though – this is a very tricky race to unpack. My go-to workings will involve trends in the race and from stables/yards – for the Plate, we can see Gigginstown have a decent enough record. Surprisingly they don’t come mob-handed to handicaps, and they have just one runner this year, Valseur Lido. 33/1 is the right price for a horse out of sorts and I won’t be taking it.
However, Venetia Williams sends two to this race, and her record is excellent. She’s had 20 runners, of whom two have won and two have placed, which is a great strike rate. She has been rubbish with her charges in most every other handicap, but the Plate is the one to zone in on. To that end, with both Gardefort and Didero Vallis at 25/1 with Bet365, I’ll be having a small interest on them.
Not a tip, but Kauto Riko flies the flag for the /HorseRacingUK subreddit, and I’ll be very happy if he wins!
Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle
Epatante is well-backed and too short for it. She looks very classy, but hasn’t beaten much, so in what is a pretty competitive field for this sort of race, we’ll be taking her on.
Sinoria (8/1 with Hills and 365) is a very attractive price, and was intended to run in the Ballymore, but moves here after Honeysuckle’s injury. Her win last time out has been franked by Chosen Mate, who was odds on for a Grade 2 event, and I think she’s completely the wrong price.
Also interesting is Lust For Glory (20/1 each way with Bet365, 1/4 1-3), who is three times the price of Posh Trish, with whom she essentially shares form. Thus, at a price, I’m happy to get on board.
Not a race I know too much about, so the stakes will be limited accordingly.
Kim Muir
Bet365 again come up trumps with five places at 1/4 odds. Then again, it’s another very difficult race to make something of, with the head of the market well looked up, and so many other contenders abound. I won’t have a bet on this one – good luck if you do!
Tips Summary
1.30 – Kildisart @ 9/1 – 0.75pts win
2.10 – Walk To Freedom @ 12/1 – 0.5pts e/w (Will Hill, 1/5 1-5)
2.10 – Aaron Lad @ 14/1 – 0.5pts e/w (Paddy Power or Betfair, 1/5 1-6)
2.50 – Terrefort @ 25/1 – 0.5pts e/w (BetVictor, 1/5 1-4)
2.50 – Road To Respect @ 4/1 – 0.75pts win
3.30 – Bapaume @ 22/1 – 0.25pts e/w (Coral or BetVictor, 1/5 1-4)
4.10 – Gardefort @ 25/1 – 0.5pts e/w (Bet365, 1/4 1-5)
4.10 – Didero Vallis @ 25/1 – 0.5pts e/w (same as above)
4.50 – Sinoria @ 8/1 – 1pt win (Will Hill or Bet365)
4.50 – Lust For Glory @ 20/1 – 0.5pts e/w (Bet365, 1/4 1-3)
That’s 9pts in play. We don’t need much to come in to profit – let’s go!

League 2 round-up & basic analysis

Like I did last week, I'm going to post some thoughts on today's games in League 2, with a particular focus on Morecambe naturally. You'll notice these come out quicker when Morecambe don't get a good result...
Grimsby Town 1-0 Crewe Alexandra
A battle between two sides likely to find themselves midtable at the end of the season saw Grimsby get a valuable 3 points. Crewe had a bright start to the season, whilst Grimsby had been struggling, but after today's match just 2 points separate them. Crewe debutant, from Everton on loan, Conor Grant got stretchered off with concussion after a nasty blow, so I hope he is okay.
Cambridge United 1-0 Colchester United
Another 1-0 home win saw Cambridge beat Colchester. Colchester fans will likely be concerned with their start, having won just 1 of their opening 5 games, but Cambridge fans will be pleased to have held on for a win. Cambridge looked like a strong attacking side last week, but are perhaps wasteful given they've scored just 1 goal with their past 30 shots.
Cheltenham Town 0-1 Stevenage
Two teams having completely opposite starts to the season shared a close-fought game. A late free-kick meant Stevenage secured their third win in a row, but it seems no less than they deserved. Stevenage remain unbeaten, whilst Cheltenham have lost every game bar one so far this season. Stevenage are a surprise at 2nd in the table this year.
Chesterfield 0-0 Coventry City
After going down to 10 men early in the second half, Chesterfield held on against Coventry City to gain their 4th point of the season. Coventry will likely see this as 2 points lost rather than 1 gained, as they are promotion favourites this season whilst Chesterfield have been considered a relegation candidate. Coventry have now been without a win in the past 3 matches, despite their lofty ambitions.
Crawley Town 2-0 Yeovil Town
In the first game today that saw more than one goal, Crawley managed to win their second-game in a row after an awful start. A brace from Jordan Roberts' helped Harry Kewell's side rise up the table with their first home win. Yeovil have been a mixed-bag this season so far, alternating losses with wins, but it will take more than a few matches to forget the 8-2 loss that started this season. Their awful goal difference ensures they sank below Crawley.
Exeter City 1-0 Newport County
Two unbeaten sides met, but only one retained their record today as Newport were unable to hold on against a strong Exeter side. Newport had surprised many with their positive start to the year, improving on 2 draws with 2 wins in their last 2 matches, but were unable to hold on against table-toppers Exeter. Exeter's start to the season is blemished by a solitary draw, but don't be surprised if they hold on to the top spot for a long time.
Carlisle United 1-1 Mansfield Town
An early goal from Carlisle was cancelled out in the second half by a cheeky long-shot from Mansfield debutant Calum Butcher. Mansfield were another side tipped for promotion this season, but so far have been unable to produce the results people expect of them with their 3rd draw of the season. Mansfield may rue missed chances in this game, with Carlisle goalkeeper Bonham forced to make a number of saves today.
Lincoln City 0-0 Luton Town
Lincoln join Mansfield as another side who were favoured this season but have drawn more matches than they'd have liked. Luton are undoubtedly title favourites this season, but after a stunning 8-2 win on the first day their results have been thoroughly mixed. Perhaps a case of two strong defences coming up against each other today, but when these two meet later in the season promotion may be on the minds of both sets of fans.
Morecambe 1-2 Accrington Stanley
Accrington Stanley have always been Morecambe's bogey side in the league, with their local rivals again getting the best of them. The first half certainly belonged to Accrington, but it took an excellent strike from long-range for them to take the lead. Morecambe's striker Vadaine Oliver had looked positive in the first half, but his sending off early in the second half dashed the hopes of Morecambe fans. Morecambe struggled to create chances for the remainder of the second half, and after pushing for an equaliser were punished as Stanley got their second. Kevin Ellison popped up deep into stoppage time to get a consolation goal with Morecambe's first shot on target, but realistically 2-1 was a fair result. Morecambe fans may criticise the ref today, who lost control after the highly controversial red card, and there were a few strong penalty shouts that went ignored. It was not the ref's fault that Morecambe lost, however, they were simply not the better side. Accrington continue their bright start as they sit 3rd in the table, whilst Morecambe slip to 19th with just a solitary win from the opening day. Should the red card for Oliver not be rescinded, Morecambe could struggle for the next few games.
Port Vale 0-1 Notts County
Notts County have gone from strength-to-strength after a loss in their first game this season. They are now unbeaten in 4, with 3 wins in that period including their victory today away at Port Vale. Substitute Alessandra scored with his first touch, and Port Vale were unable to trouble the Notts County goal with no shots on target today. Port Vale's season has been the opposite of Notts County's, having lost every game after their victory on day 1. Port Vale find themselves occupying the second relegation spot, whilst Notts County are level on points with 3rd-place Accrington.
Swindon Town 1-4 Barnet
An exciting game at Swindon led to their second home defeat in two games. Barnet took an early lead through Coulthirst, before a penalty just minutes later was converted by Campbell-Ryce. Moments into the second-half Swindon found themselves down to 10 men due to a sending off for McDermott, and their hopes of a comeback had dissipated. Coulthirst completed his hat-trick with 2 goals in 5 minutes mid-way through the second-half, sending Barnet fans into delirium. Swindon grabbed a consolation goal with 10 minutes to go, and no doubt Barnet fans will be livid that Blackman got himself sent off for violent conduct soon afterwards. Barnet had struggled in recent matches, and Swindon will be bitterly disappointed to have suffered another defeat at home, leaving both sides on 7 points.
Wycombe Wanderers 3-1 Forest Green Rovers
After a 5-1 loss last week, Forest Green's defence seemed to have carried their form over to this match. An goal from Cowan-Hall meant they were 1-0 down within 10 minutes, and by the 36th minute they had sunk to 3-0. Things could have gotten ugly, but Forest Green held on and managed to secure a consolation goal in the second-half. Wycombe are undoubtedly a strong side, finding themselves 4th, but Forest Green need to stop leaking goals fast. Few knew what to make of the newly-promoted side, well-funded by Ecotricity owner Dale Vince and serving only vegan food, but it seems like his money can't buy success in League 2 as easily as it may have done in the Conference.
As usual, if you were at today's games let us know what your thoughts were. Other than Morecambe, I've gleaned all of this information off the BBC website, so my opinions could be way off the mark! Since it's the international break it's a good chance for fans of the big teams to get involved too, come in and ask any questions you may have.

[Post-League Thread] League 2 Thoughts - Matchday 8 2017/18

So I didn't do one of these midweek, meaning there have been two matches since the last round-up, and quite a bit has changed. As usual I'll be giving a brief summary of each match, with a slight Morecambe perspective.
Lincoln City 0-1 Mansfield Town
Lincoln lost their first game at home in almost a year against promotion hopefuls Mansfield. Mansfield have had a shaky start, but a win away at Lincoln's fortress will have aided them massively as it extends their unbeaten run to 5 games. Lincoln still find themselves just outside the play-offs, with a strong defence but a fairly weak attack it seems. Both sides will be looking at the play-offs or even higher towards the end of the season.
Wycombe Wanderers 1-2 Luton Town
Wycombe would have felt they had done enough to extend their unbeaten run to 5 games, even when Luton equalised in the 90th minute. However, in the 8th minute of stoppage time Luton took the lead, helping to continue their strong start. Luton are strong promotion favourites this season, so it is no surprise they are currently 4th. Wycombe may rue the missed 2 points as they'll be fighting for a play-off spot towards the end of the season.
Carlisle United 1-1 Barnet
Strugglers Carlisle rescued a point at home against Barnet thanks to a wonder goal by Shaun Miller in the final 10 minutes. Barnet opened the scoring in the 8th minute, but couldn't hold on as they continue to sit mid-table. Carlisle will certainly feel they have the quality to be doing better than they are, the promotion hopefuls are currently rooted in the bottom-half of the table. Carlisle have now gone 5 games without a win in the league.
Cheltenham Town 3-1 Colchester United
This already seems like a relegation 6-pointer, Cheltenham and Colchester's two wins have only come against other struggling teams. Cheltenham took an early lead, and after just 15 minutes were surprisingly 2-0 despite their poor start to the season. A penalty gave Colchester hope, but after Mandron was caught handling he was sent off. The subsequent penalty for Cheltenham was saved, but moments later Cheltenham found themselves 3-1 up anyway, and held on for their second win of the season.
Chesterfield 1-2 Accrington Stanley
Chesterfield are second-bottom after failing to win for the 5th match in a row. A second-yellow was always going to make it more difficult early in the second half, and they soon found themselves behind. Despite being down to 10-men they grabbed an equaliser thanks to a penalty, but then minutes later were behind once again. Few people foresaw Chesterfield doing this poorly or Accrington doing this well, but Accrington are currently in the promotion spots. Due to their poor results, Chesterfield's manager Gary Caldwell was sacked today.
Crawley Town 0-1 Notts County
Another game in which the sides have had complete opposite starts to the season. Notts County took the lead a few minutes after half-time, and held on to ensure they continue their unbeaten streak, having not lost since the opening day of the season. Crawley, on the other hand, have now failed to win in the past 3 games, and the looming threat of relegation will make fans nervy after every loss.
Cambridge United 2-1 Coventry City
Both of these sides have had strong starts to the season, and will be hoping they have something to celebrate in May. Cambridge took an early lead, but Coventry equalised soon after half-time. Ikpeazu grabbed the winner for Cambridge 15 minutes from time, meaning both sides are now in the play-off positions. I wouldn't be surprised if both of these sides rise further and are challenging for automatic promotion, meaning this could well have been a 6-pointer.
Grimsby Town 2-1 Yeovil Town
Grimsby have had a solid start to the season, sitting comfortably midtable, whilst Yeovil have struggled to accumulate wins after letting a 2-goal lead slip against Morecambe midweek. Grimsby's lead within the first 10 minutes was wiped out by Zoko, but they grabbed the winner 20 minutes from time. Both sides would see promotion as highly unlikely this year, with avoiding relegation the main goal. Grimsby's early form suggests they should do so comfortably, whereas Yeovil need to stop leaking goals to give them a chance to win.
Morecambe 2-1 Newport County
A big sigh of relief for Morecambe fans! A few good performances hadn't been rewarded with 3 points, as they have failed to win since the opening day of the season. On the other hand, Newport have surprisingly had an excellent start to the season. 38-year-old Morecambe veteran Kevin Ellison proved his poaching ability has not diminished as he gave Morecambe a lead, but just moments later some woeful defending allowed Newport to get an equaliser. Morecambe then had to wait until the 80th minute, before a stunning strike from Adam Campbell was inadvertently deflected in by Ellison for his second goal. Morecambe will be pleased with every 3 points, as most people tip them to be relegation candidates once again. Newport will hope this loss won't affect their high-flying start.
Port Vale 1-1 Forest Green Rovers
Both of these sides have had a torrid time in the opening games of the season. Port Vale had failed to pick up a single point since the opening day of the season, whilst Forest Green had been on the receiving end of some thumping losses. Forest Green may therefore be relieved with a point and just the one goal conceded, but Port Vale will be disappointed they couldn't convert a lead into a victory over a fellow struggling team. If early form is anything to go by, both of these sides will see avoiding relegation as a success this season.
Swindon Town 3-2 Stevenage
Swindon have had a patchy start to the season, arguably performing below expectations, whereas Stevenage have certainly been exceeding many people's estimations. Swindon took the lead after 9 minutes, and doubled that lead just 4 minutes later. A goal soon after half-time would have given Stevenage hope, but Norris converted a penalty to score his second and put the game beyond Stevenage. Stevenage were unable to come from 2 goals behind despite a late goal, meaning they've now gone 3 games without a win as they slide down to midtable.
Exeter City 3-0 Crewe Alexandra
Undoubtedly the most predictable result of the day, as Exeter continue their unbeaten run, having won every game bar one this season. Crewe will have felt their chances of winning the game were low, and would have been reduced to virtually nil as they fell behind within 10 minutes. Crewe will still be relatively satisfied with a midtable position, as few saw them as much more than that this season. Exeter seem impossible to beat this season, and it's hard to see anyone else taking the top spot from them in the form they are in. I would fully expect both of the sides to be occupying the rough positions they are currently in at the end of the season.
So there we have it, another matchday done and the table is starting to take shape. Exeter and Port Vale both seem rooted to opposite sides of the table, but in between those two it seems like anything is possible still. As usual if you were at any of the games this week let me know your thoughts, and if you aren't a League 2 fan but you're interested then join in the discussion and ask any questions you may have.

[Post-League Thread] League Two Analysis & Thoughts - Matchday 9 2017/18

So once again I'm going to be giving my thoughts on today's League 2 matches, with the perspective of a Morecambe fan. Quite an interesting one this week.
Accrington Stanley 1-1 Cheltenham Town
Cheltenham took a surprising lead against high-flying Accrington. Cheltenham have struggled so far this season, but despite better form lately, few would have tipped them to beat a strong Accrington side away from home. Their shock lead lasted just minutes though, as Accrington soon equalised. Neither side could break the deadlock second half, so they settled for a draw that Cheltenham fans will likely be happier with.
Luton Town 1-0 Chesterfield
Another game in which the home team had started the season strongly, and the away team were struggling. It was always going to be a big ask for Chesterfield to get a result out of this one, but perhaps it wasn't as out of reach as it seemed. Luton took the lead early in the second half, but had to play out the last 10 or so minutes with just 10 men after a sending off. It didn't seem to faze them, and Luton rise back to 3rd whilst Chesterfield continue to sit in the relegation zone, currently with no manager.
Colchester United 1-2 Wycombe Wanderers
Colchester have struggled so far this season, and they'll be particularly disappointed with this loss at home. The statistics suggest they were in charge of the game, but it was Wycombe who took the lead. Just before half-time Colchester got an important goal to equalise, but Wycombe found the winner midway through the second-half. Colchester have won just 1 of the last 5.
Coventry City 2-0 Exeter City
Coventry got an important win at the previous leaders of the league. Exeter had not only been unbeaten all season, but had only dropped points in one match so far. Coventry are a strong side, however, and would certainly feel they can challenge in these games. An own-goal gave them the lead in the second-half, and it was doubled in stoppage time, as Exeter fell from the top spot. The first chink in the armour spotted for Exeter, but both of these teams will expect no less than promotion this season. For those at the game, any idea why Sky and the BBC stopped updating this match? The result only came through after full-time, bizarre in the internet age.
Crewe Alexandra 0-5 Carlisle United
Carlisle United broke out of a slump of 6 games without a win by scoring 5 in an emphatic victory over Crewe, who have now lost 4 out of the last 5. Crewe may start looking downwards now, as their form seems to be getting worse rather than better. A penalty and own-goal helped Carlisle to rise above Crewe in the table on goal-difference, but Crewe will be particularly concerned to have lost so heavily at home to another mid-table side. Could this be the sign of a more serious issue, or will Crewe turn it around? It was certainly the perfect confidence booster for Carlisle.
Barnet 1-2 Crawley Town
Crawley have had a mediocre start to the season, but it's Barnet who are in poor form at the moment. Jimmy Smith took the lead for Crawley, but it lasted just 2 minutes as Barnet equalised soon after. Smith took the game into his own hands, as he grabbed a winner in the last minute for Crawley, which lifts them away from the relegation zone. Crawley will hope they don't see themselves back down there any time soon, and this result suggests they may not struggle as much as other sides.
Mansfield Town 2-1 Cambridge United
Mansfield are a strong side, who will be challenging for promotion this season, but they found themselves behind against a mid-table Cambridge team. Cambridge 'keeper Forde got a strong hand on a Mansfield penalty, but it wasn't enough as the ball trickled in. Mansfield then had to wait until the 87th minute for a winner, which keeps them comfortably in the play-off positions.
Newport County 1-0 Grimsby Town
Grimsby had been in scintillating form coming into this game despite a poor start, whereas Newport had been in comparatively poor form despite a strong start. This game was therefore somewhat of a reversion to the mean for the two sides, as Amond's strike was enough to win the game for Newport. Newport are far exceeding expectations this season, currently challenging for the play-off places, but both teams will likely sit comfortably mid-table at the end of the season. After the past few years, Newport fans will likely be pleased with that.
Notts County 4-1 Lincoln City
Notts County capitalised on Exeter's rare slip-up, with an assured win against Lincoln to claim the top spot in League 2. A sending off in the first half, with the score at 0-0, gave Notts County an opportunity they took full hold of. They took the lead just before half-time, but it didn't take long for Lincoln to equalise in the second-half despite their man disadvantage. Notts County soon reclaimed the lead, and made sure of the win with a further two goals. Those goals were significant, as Notts County are currently top of the league by just one goal.
Stevenage 2-1 Morecambe
Stevenage took advantage of a lapse by Morecambe, who seemingly stopped paying attention after a brief drinks break due to injury. Morecambe had seemed the better side, but after Stevenage took the lead they were unfortunate not to get the second. Although Stevenage's first may have been against the run of play, so was Morecambe's equaliser, which came thanks to a free header from a free kick for New Zealand ex-international Steven Old. Stevenage came out the stronger side second half, but Morecambe again would have felt Stevenage's second was preventable, a goal on the turn by Wootton soon after coming on. Morecambe struggled to get a grip on the game, but in the final 10 minutes were boosted by the introduction of Dan Campbell, and were frankly unlucky not to equalise after a few goalmouth scrambles.
Both sides seemed fairly equal in ability today, with Stevenage perhaps slightly better on the day and therefore deserved winners. Morecambe sit near the bottom of the table, but would take avoiding relegation as a success this year, whereas Stevenage are currently pushing for a play-off space.
Yeovil Town 1-1 Port Vale
Port Vale have now gone 8 games without a win in League 2, but probably won't be too concerned as they avoid defeat for the second game in a row. Both of these sides have struggled severely so far this season, so both may have seen it as an opportunity to pick up valuable points. After a sending off with 10 minutes to go, Port Vale may have been relieved to get the point that lifts them out of the relegation zone on goal difference. Both of these sides need an urgent change in form to avoid a relegation scrap this year. Perhaps a change of manager could help Port Vale, as both they and fellow strugglers Chesterfield are without a manager.
Forest Green Rovers 0-2 Swindon Town
Forest Green will have been gutted to have lost in Friday's game, as they held Swindon until the 86th minute. Swindon are undoubtedly a strong side who will challenge for promotion this year, whereas Forest Green have struggled to adjust to life in the Football League despite a wealthy owner. Forest Green now occupy the bottom spot in the Football League, and may look towards investment in January to help them avoid an immediate return to non-league football. Forest Green's solitary point in the past 6 games came against Port Vale, who they are below on goal-difference.
As usual, let me know your thoughts on today's games if you were at any of them. Also, if you're not a League 2 fan but want to know more about the League, teams or any of the players then feel free to ask.

Daily Transfer News Thread - 07/23/2018

Auto-Refreshing Transfer News Thread from Sky Sports
Auto-refreshing reddit comments link
21:54

GOOD NIGHT!

Thanks for joining us on another busy day on the transfer blog. With Richarlison passing a medical at Everton earlier this evening, it could be another frantic one tomorrow!
See you bright and early from 7am.
21:53

BOURNEMOUTH AGREE RICO FEE

Bournemouth have agreed a £10.7m fee with Leganes for left-back Diego Rico, subject to a medical and personal terms being agreed.
The player is due in the UK for a medical within the next 24 hours, and is expected to sign a four-year deal.
Borussia Dortmund made a late bid to sign the player, offering better financial terms, but his preference was to come to the Premier League.
21:07

BARCA DEFENDER ON HIS WAY

Barcelona defender Douglas is on his way out on loan again, this time to Turkish side Sivasspor, having spent the last two seasons away from the Nou Camp.
20:31

ROJO ON THE GO?

Marcus Rojo may be sold by Manchester United to free up cash to spend on Harry Maguire, according to The Mirror.
With the Leicester City defender carrying a reported £65m price-tag, the newspaper suggests Jose Mourinho will need to raise funds before he can splash out on the England centre-back.
20:09

WEST BROM WANT £40m FOR PAIR

With Burnley sniffing around West Brom pair Jay Rodriguez and Craig Dawson, the former an ex-player of their own, the Baggies are demanding £40m for the two players combined, Sky sources understand.
The Clarets made a renewed offer in the region of £15m for striker Rodriguez last week but it was not deemed acceptable by West Brom, who want at least £20m for each player.
20:05

RICHARLISON ALL-BUT DONE

Everton are just dotting the Is and crossing the Ts on Richarlison's deal from Watford, after passing a medical in Liverpool earlier today.
The 21-year-old will become the Toffees' first signing of the transfer window, with the deal due to be announced tomorrow morning.
19:56

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE LATEST

19:19

EVENING WHISPERS

Here's the latest on the noise being made in the world of transfers tonight, thanks to our friends at Football Whispers...
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18:35

TERRIER JOINS PIRATES

Huddersfield Town defender Tareiq Holmes-Dennis has joined Bristol Rovers for an undisclosed fee.
The 22-year-old has previously spent time on loan in League 1 with Oldham and more recently Portsmouth last season, but made only one appearances for the latter.
18:15

BRUCE TO MEET NEW VILLA OWNERS

Steve Bruce will meet Aston Villa’s new owners on Wednesday, hoping to be given the chance to return the club to the Premier League.
Sky Sports News understands the 57-year old will meet the club’s majority shareholders, Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, where he’ll learn if he has a future at Villa Park.
Bruce has acknowledged the club’s new owners may wish to appoint their own manager, amid speculation that Thierry Henry could be set to replace him. However, Bruce says initial conversations have given him reasons for optimism.
18:03

BUTLAND ON BLUES RADAR

Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland is among Chelsea’s list of potential new goalkeepers should Thibaut Coutois leave the club this summer, according to Sky sources.
The England keeper, who played backup to Jordan Pickford at the World Cup, is believed to be available at the right price this summer – but Stoke believe he is worth the same money that Pickford joined Everton for: around £30million.
Leicester, whose own No.1 Kasper Schmeichel is understood to be another Chelsea target, are also thought to be keen on Butland along with Crystal Palace, but Butland is keen to join a top-six Premier League club.
The 25-year-old is currently on holiday following the World Cup and is due back at the end of the week. As things stand, Butland will begin pre-season training with the Potters next Monday.
17:33

CHERRIES CHASE LERMA

Bournemouth are deadlocked in negotiations with Levante over midfielder Jefferson Lerma.
The two sides played each other in a friendly last Friday, where talks are understood to have continued between the clubs.
Lerma signed a new contract with Levante in May with a release clause of £53.5million - but Sky sources understand they may well accept around half of that fee. Bournemouth value him at closer to £18million.
17:04

CHELSEA REJECT WILLIAN BID

Sky Sports News understands Chelsea have rejected Barcelona’s third bid, believed to be in excess of £55m, for Willian.
Willian has also drawn interest from Manchester United this summer.
16:47

VIDEO: TRANSFER CENTRE LATEST

16:35

MBEMBA JOINS PORTO

Chancel Mbemba has completed a permanent move to FC Porto from Newcastle, ending a three-year spell at St James' Park.
The 23-year-old made a total of 59 appearances for the Magpies - and could face his old club when the two go head-to-head in a pre-season friendly on July 28.
16:28

MALCOM CLOSE TO ROMA

Bordeaux winger Malcom has almost completed his move to Roma, with the Italian club looking to re-invest their warchest from the Alisson sale wisely and a deal now agreed between the two clubs.
16:21

WATCH: LUIZ ON CHELSEA OUTGOINGS

David Luiz has been speaking to the press following Chelsea's win - and he's optimistic about the Blues keeping their best players this summer.
15:31

SARRI COY ON TRIO'S FUTURE

Maurizio Sarri conducted his first press conference in English after Chelsea's win over Perth Glory in Australia this afternoon, and was less than definitive over the future of three Blues players reported to be seeking a move away.
He said: "I like to talk to a person face to face. I do not like to talk to a person by telephone.
"I do not know, it depends on the club. It is clear that for me, it is a pleasure to have Courtois, to have Willian, to have Hazard.
"But it does not depend on me, so we have to wait, I am confident."
15:12

STURARO SUBJECT OF 'BIG' PL OFFERS

Stefano Sturaro's agent has been talking to the Italian press about the Juventus midfielder, with West Ham and Leicester reportedly keen on signing him.
Gazetta Dello Sport reports the 25-year-old midfielder is valued at around £17.9m, and that both English clubs have made 'big offers' for him.
14:27

BLUES READY RUGANI BID

Chelsea are reportedly readying a £45m bid for Daniele Rugani, according to Goal.
The Juventus defender has been a long-term target for the Blues and made a £36m offer for the centre-back earlier this month, but saw it knocked back by the Serie A champions.
14:02

A RISK WORTH TAKING?

Watford's Richarlison represents undoubted potential for Everton, but for a reported £50m, is he a risk worth taking?
Sky Sports assesses whether the Brazilian's inconsistency warrants the big price tag...
Read the feature HERE
13:34

BARCA IN FOR WILLIAN, MARTIAL MOVE BLOCKED

Barcelona have put in an improved £64.2m bid for Willian but Manchester United have scuppered Chelsea’s hopes of replacing him with Anthony Martial, according to the London Evening Standard.
Chelsea are reportedly holding out for £70m for Willian having rejected £53m last week.
Martial, meanwhile, is not for sale, according to the report, but is also wanted by Tottenham and Bayern Munich.
13:18

EISA SIGNS FOR BRISTOL CITY

Bristol City have completed the signing of Mo Eisa from Cheltenham.
The striker has agreed terms on a three-year deal at Ashton Gate, with the option of a further 12 months.
13:16

WHERE NEXT FOR JOE HART?

With Pep Guardiola admitting he is looking to help Joe Hart leave Manchester City, Sky Bet look at where he could end up...
Read HERE
12:54

FOOTBALL WHISPERS

Here are the latest transfer rumours from our friends at Football Whispers...
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12:32

FABRI IN FULHAM MEDICAL

Besiktas goalkeeper Fabri is in the process of undergoing a medical at Motspur Park ahead of completing a switch to Fulham, Sky Sports News understands.
We reported last week that the Whites were close to agreeing a deal with the Turkish club - and we understand that was done over the weekend at close to £5m.
Fabri told reporters in Turkey over the weekend that he had already agreed personal terms with the west London club too.
He said: “As you know the Premier League is a major league and one I am interested in joining. Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing but there is a verbal agreement with Fulham. I want to thank Besiktas for my time here.”
12:18

COURTOIS MOVE DELAYED

Thibaut Courtois' potential move to Real Madrid is being held up while Chelsea attempt to replace the goalkeeper, according to Marca.
The Premier League club are interested in bringing Petr Cech back to Stamford Bridge and are also considering a move for Leicester's Kasper Schmeichel.
The Golden Glove winner at this summer's World Cup is keen to return to Spain, where his children live, after a successful spell at Atletico Madrid prior to joining Chelsea.
With his contract expiring in a year, the Premier League club are prepared to sell him and avoid losing him on a free transfer. (Marca)
12:06

SARRI'S START

New signing Jorginho also makes his first Chelsea appearance...
https://twitter.com/SkySportsPL/status/1021360810432622592
11:50

LUNIN PRESENTED

Andriy Lunin is being presented as a Real Madrid player today.
The 19-year-old goalkeeper has joined from FC Zorya Luhansk on a six-year deal.
https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/1021357004110131200
11:34

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE

Right then, where are we at with all the big transfer stories?
Here's a round-up from the Transfer Centre on Sky Sports News, including updates on Richarlison, Moutinho, Pjanic and Ince...
11:26

OXFORD TO DEPART TOO?

Another youngster who looks set to leave West Ham is 19-year-old centre-back Reece Oxford.
SSN understands West Ham would be willing to let Oxford leave the London Stadium for offers around £10m.
The teenager made his debut for West Ham’s first team as a 16-year old under Slaven Bilic. Oxford spent last season on loan at Borussia Monchengladbach.
11:19

BARCA IN FOR QUINA?

Barcelona are the latest club to ask about the availability of West Ham teenager Domingos Quina.
Scouts from Barcelona have been monitoring the 18-year-old, who scored a sensational goal for Portugal’s U19s against Italy last week in the UEFA European U19 Championships.
It’s understood Hoffenheim and Werder Bremen are keen to sign the midfielder, who is in the last year of his contract, with West Ham reportedly willing to sell for around set a £600,000.
10:59

BAS DOST SIGNS AFTER ATTACK

Bas Dost has performed a U-turn and signed a new deal with Sporting Lisbon, just over a month after telling the club he was terminating his contract.
The Dutch striker was one of a number of Sporting players who told the Portuguese side they were cancelling their deals following a training ground assault by masked supporters.
"I'm very pleased about it and I just want to look forward now. I signed here two years ago and really like this club. It has been a difficult time but I still have the overwhelming feeling that I belong here.
"After the attack there were a lot of fans who supported me and for them I also want to stay."
10:46

JORGINHO STARTS

Jorginho will make his Chelsea debut against Perth Glory in their pre-season friendly this afternoon.
12.30 kick-off, and you can follow it HERE
10:43

GERRARD'S REDS AT RANGERS

We take a look at the players and coaches Steven Gerrard has brought to Rangers from Liverpool...
Read the feature HERE
10:21

HARRISON TO LEAVE BRISTOL ROVERS?

Bristol Rovers have agreed an undisclosed fee with an 'unnamed club' for the sale of striker Ellis Harrison.
Ellis will be given permission to discuss personal terms and will not travel with the squad to Holland for this week's training camp.
10:15

BALE TO STAY PUT?

Gareth Bale's future at Real Madrid looks secure with the Wales attacker expected to be one of their key players next season, according to AS.
Bale raised doubts over his status at the club, after their Champions League final win over Liverpool, regarding his lack of regular football.
The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Juventus has put the focus back on Bale and it seems likely he will remain with the European champions.
09:59

A RISK WORTH TAKING?

RICHARLISON ARRIVES

Watford striker Richarlison has arrived on Merseyside and started his medical ahead of his reported £50m move to Everton.
09:32

CHELSEA KEEN ON HIGUAIN

Chelsea remain interested in Juventus striker Gonzalo Higuain, according to Sky in Italy.
It is understood the Serie A champions are willing to listen to offers for Higuain following Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival.
The Argentina international played under newly-appointed Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri at Napoli.
However, Sky in Italy also report AC Milan have made contact about Higuain.
09:19

WOLVES AGREE MOUTINHO FEE

Wolves are close to signing Portugal international Joao Moutinho from Monaco.
The newly-promoted Premier League side have agreed a £5m fee for the 31-year-old, Sky Sports News understands.
Wolves are reportedly ready to offer the midfielder a two-year deal as they add to their squad ahead of their Premier League return next month.
Moutinho is expected to become Ruben Neves' midfield partner at Molineux in an impressive coup for the club.
Moutinho won Euro 2016 with Portugal and has 113 international caps – third only behind Cristiano Ronaldo (154) and Luis Figo (127). He started Portugal's opening two games of the World Cup this year.
09:03

KOVACIC WANTS TO LEAVE REAL

Mateo Kovacic remains firm in his desire to leave Real Madrid, reports Marca.
Kovacic last month revealed his desire to change clubs this summer, citing a need for regular first-team football. The Croatia midfielder met new Real Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui on Friday and asked him to let him leave.
Lopetegui tried to persuade him to stay but Kovacic remains convinced that the best thing is for him to leave the Bernabeu this summer.
Liverpool, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Juventus and Manchester United are among the interested clubs who have contacted him and offered him the possibility of greater first-team action.
The 24-year-old wants to begin pre-season at a new club after his summer holiday. Madrid are starting to feel that they will have to facilitate the Croatian’s departure and would seek a fee of at least €50m.
08:52

BREAKING NEWS

Watford striker Richarlison has arrived on Merseyside and started his medical ahead of his reported £50m move to Everton.
The striker is expected to join up with his former manager Marco Silva and become Everton’s first signing of the summer.
08:44

VIDA LINKED WITH LIVERPOOL

Liverpool officials will fly to Turkey to complete a move for Besiktas defender Domagoj Vida, according to reports.
Vida caught the eye at Russia 2018 where he guided Croatia to their very first World Cup final, before suffering defeat to France.
Turkish newspaper Milliyet claim Besiktas have rejected a £19.7m bid from West Ham and snubbed an approach from Everton which did not match their valuation.
Besiktas reportedly want £26.8m for Vida, and it is understood Liverpool will step up their pursuit of the 29-year-old.
08:23

'SAINTS HAVE TO SELL TO BUY'

Mark Hughes says Southampton will have to sell players before they consider adding anyone else to their squad this summer.
Speaking to the Southern Daily Echo, Hughes said: "We will probably have to sell or allow players to go out of the club if we're likely to bring anybody in now I would think.
"We've done OK. We have done early business which we are pleased about but you are always on the lookout.
"We've still got a couple of weeks before the start of the season and things present themselves as we know. We have to be ready if we are able to get in the right type of player who can help us."
08:07

BREAKING NEWS

Monaco and Wolves have agreed a fee for midfielder Joao Moutinho.
It’s understood the 31-year-old will sign a two-year contract, with a fee in the region of £5m
08:00

ARSENAL IN FOR SOMMER?

Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper Yann Sommer, according to Marca.
Gunners boss Unai Emery has already made five signings this summer, including a move for goalkeeper Bernd Leno.
But with Petr Cech and David Ospina expected to leave the Emirates following Leno's arrival, Marca claim Arsenal may turn to Sommer to provide competition for the Germany international.
07:41

UNITED'S DEFENSIVE TARGETS

England and Leicester star Harry Maguire, Tottenham's Toby Alderweireld and AC Milan's Leonardo Bonucci have been earmarked as potential defensive targets by United, according to the Daily Mail.
Landing Maguire, 25, could cost United up to £65m and would likely see Mourinho have to sell one of his centre-backs.
United reportedly enquired about Alderweireld in May, while Bonucci is said to be on a watch list.
07:28

WHO IS DANIEL ADSHEAD?

Who is the 16-year-old Rochdale midfielder closing in on a seven-figure move to Manchester United?
We profile the teenager...
07:00

MELBOURNE WANT HONDA

Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat has confirmed his club is interested in signing Japan international Keisuke Honda to a marquee deal in Australia's A-League.
The 32-year-old Honda retired from international football after the World Cup in Russia and has been in talks since with the Victory, who are A-League champions.
In a radio interview Monday, Muscat said he couldn't comment on any aspect of negotiations with Honda but added "you can read between the lines.
He says any decision on a marquee player would be football-based and not promotional but "when Honda's name was floated not only was I interested, I think everyone was interested because he's still got a lot of football (left) and he can add something in terms of football to our competition."
06:47

FOOTBALL WHISPERS

Here are the latest transfer rumours from our friends at Football Whispers...
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06:36

SEAMAN BACKS CECH

Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech's vast experience will help him remain the club's first choice despite the arrival of Bernd Leno, says David Seaman.
Leno arrived from Bayer Leverkusen last week, where he made 230 appearances across seven Bundesliga seasons, and has been tipped for big things at the Emirates by his old team-mates.
However, former Arsenal goalkeeper Seaman believes Leno will face fierce competition from the 36-year-old Cech - who has also been linked with a move back to Chelsea - for the No 1 spot.
"He [Cech] has still got great qualities and it isn't like he has had a bad season or anything, he still produced," Seaman said. "Obviously he is getting older but your game adapts, that is what I found, you might not be as sharp as what you used to be but your experience gets you into the right positions."
06:26

GET INVOLVED!

https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1021249223931645952
06:22

WHERE NEXT FOR JOE HART?

With Pep Guardiola admitting he is looking to help Joe Hart leave Manchester City, Sky Bet look at where he could end up...
Read HERE
06:09

TRANSFER CENTRE

First up, all the latest transfer headlines from our early morning bulletin on Sky Sports News.
06:03

TRANSFER HEADLINES

06:02

GOOD MORNING!

And welcome to Sky Sports' live coverage of the Transfer Centre, bringing you all of the latest news and rumours from the window.
Join the discussion on Discord. I am a bot. Found any errors? Contact /Football Mods

Tipster Club: Sat 4th Feb 17 - Results

SATURDAY 4th FEB 2017 ITV4 CARD:

SANDOWN 12:40 - Coeur De Lion 2pt Win @ 2.20, AirIndex
I was not confident just before the off for this, despite how confident I had been the night before when I wrote up the tip. He drifted wildly out to 7/4 as money poured in for Rather Be. Fortunately the money wasn’t right on this occasion, as Coeur De Lion put in a really polished performance, stalking the leader and getting plenty of cover before being produced and staying on as needed. 3.5pt win.
My horse to take from the race: RATHER BE. He was smashed just before the off today so a big run was obviously expected. He has done nothing wrong on ground which was something of an unknown for him, and the only reason he has lost, behind a really solid winner, was the fact he had to give him a stone in the weights.

WETHERBY 13:40 - Somchine 1pt Each Way @ 9.00, docdaneeeka
Somchime looked to be travelling well enough in the middle of the pack and had every chance as the race developed, but he found nothing when asked, weakened and was quickly pulled up. 1pt loss.
My horse to take from the race: OLDGRANGEWOOD. An obvious choice, but he’s made it two in a row in very taking style. He has travelled into the race easily and won with any amount in hand. The handicapper could be harsh to him following this win, but he’s a horse on the up and could easily progress into graded races.

MUSSELBURGH 14:05 - Azure Fly 1pt Each Way @ 15.00, smithmustscore
Azure Fly was by far the best backed horse in this race and for a long way he looked to be justifying that support as he appeared to be travelling through the race with great ease. Considering the early pace he went at, he’s done very well to stay on for a place as those he was running with faded behind him, but he had little left at the end and gave his true running today. 2.25pt win.
My horse to take from the race: DANCING SHADOW. The eventual winner, at 8 years old, was the youngest horse in the race and won very, very impressively under a confident Fehily ride. Connections have confirmed the Cheltenham National Hunt Chase, Scottish National and Midlands National as possibilities for the rest of the season so watch how the handicapper treats him - a raise from 131 to 136 would be fair enough, in my opinion.

SANDOWN 14:20 - Le Prezien 2pt Win @ 4.00, docdaneeeka
Le Prezien is clearly a quality horse and that got him to third today. He travelled by far the best in the race and as we approached 2 out I thought he would mow down Top Notch and Baron Alco, but he jumped poorly at it - as he did consistently throughout the race - and in the end it was one poor jump too many and he couldn’t recover from it. 2pt loss.
My horse to take from the race: BARON ALCO. Official Ratings had him at 143 today, but I think he’s gone under the radar so far this season - I’ve personally had him as a 152 in his past two races. He has ran an absolute cracker today, only beaten fairly by a clearly fantastic novice in Top Notch. He’s versatile in terms of distance and ground and always gives his running. Gary Moore has mentioned the Cheltenham Handicap for him, and as long as he doesn’t get slammed by the handicapper, he’d have leading claims.

WETHERBY 14:45 - Calett Mad 2pt Win @ 3.00, Lord_Summerisle
It’s entirely possible that Calett Mad has come up against a really good horse today in Baywing, the eventual 22-length and 33/1 winner, but I do wonder if given the opportunity again Jamie Bargary might ride the race a bit differently. He appeared to be going very, very well held up in the rear of the field, jumping soundly and looking nicely switched off. But Bargary pushed him on to go prominent very early in the race, and I can’t help but think he was produced too soon and that might be why he was flat when asked. Baywing is being touted as a four-miler on soft ground, so it is also possible I’m wrong and the ground was just far too testing today. 2pt loss.
My horse to take from the race: THE DUTCHMAN. He was spotless throughout the race and appeared to be travelling with ease before falling down 4 out. He should be winning soon enough, providing he can sort his jumping out.

SANDOWN 15:00 - El Terremoto 2pt Each Way @ 9.00, AirIndex
El Terremoto simply didn’t get the trip. Given how he has shaped in his races this season and the form of Nigel Twiston-Davies this wasn’t a concern of mine before the race, but the ground was grueling out there today and he couldn’t find when asked, despite travelling well enough during the race. 2pt loss.
My horse to take from the race: EL TERREMOTO. I’m going to stick with this horse, despite how badly I’ve misjudged this race. I still think he’s very well handicapped and connections today were expecting a big run from a horse they rate highly at home, he just hasn’t been able to answer the new questions asked of him today. He did look like he might be better going left and better ground is needed, so put a line through today’s performance and keep him in your notebook.

Another losing week, with a 2.25pt loss. I think we were unlucky with with the horses/jockeys not quite performing as we needed.
You can view the results spreadsheet here.

08/10/16 Saturday - Matchday Picks

((•>l.I.v.e^E<•))!"[[Cheltenham Gold Cup]] 20-16 [[Cheltenham Gold Cup]]" L.i.v.e S.t.r.e.a.m.i.n.g F.r.e.e

FIXTURE	BTTS	1X2 BTTS	BTTS 1H/2H
SCUNTHORPE Vs. Northampton	@1.80	@3.75 (1)	@15.00
ACCRINGTON Vs. Cheltenham	@1.80	@4.33 (1)	@17.00
LUTON vs. Crewe	@1.72	@3.50 (1)	@13.00
Morecambe VS. Carlisle	@1.61	@4.50 (X)	@12.00

TOTALS:	@9.04	@255.74	@39,780

Cheltenham Racecourse: Horse Racing Tips

top tips for today at cheltenham

top tips for today at cheltenham - win

Matched Betting Extra Place Horse Racing - January 21 Profits - £4,707 on top of Full Time Job

What is a ‘place’ in horse racing?

What is an ‘Extra Place’ in horse racing?

Trip Report - Drunken Trails of Tokyo [Solo - Spring 2019]

27/M/UK | Second Trip | Solo [27th March - 8th April] | Drinking & Hiking

The Overview

The Journey

An Overview

Tips

The Trip

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Cheltenham Festival Day 3 Preview and Tips

League 2 round-up & basic analysis

[Post-League Thread] League 2 Thoughts - Matchday 8 2017/18

[Post-League Thread] League Two Analysis & Thoughts - Matchday 9 2017/18

Daily Transfer News Thread - 07/23/2018

GOOD NIGHT!

BOURNEMOUTH AGREE RICO FEE

BARCA DEFENDER ON HIS WAY

ROJO ON THE GO?

WEST BROM WANT £40m FOR PAIR

RICHARLISON ALL-BUT DONE

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE LATEST

EVENING WHISPERS

TERRIER JOINS PIRATES

BRUCE TO MEET NEW VILLA OWNERS

BUTLAND ON BLUES RADAR

CHERRIES CHASE LERMA

CHELSEA REJECT WILLIAN BID

VIDEO: TRANSFER CENTRE LATEST

MBEMBA JOINS PORTO

MALCOM CLOSE TO ROMA

WATCH: LUIZ ON CHELSEA OUTGOINGS

SARRI COY ON TRIO'S FUTURE

STURARO SUBJECT OF 'BIG' PL OFFERS

BLUES READY RUGANI BID

A RISK WORTH TAKING?

BARCA IN FOR WILLIAN, MARTIAL MOVE BLOCKED

EISA SIGNS FOR BRISTOL CITY

WHERE NEXT FOR JOE HART?

FOOTBALL WHISPERS

FABRI IN FULHAM MEDICAL

COURTOIS MOVE DELAYED

SARRI'S START

LUNIN PRESENTED

WATCH: TRANSFER CENTRE

OXFORD TO DEPART TOO?

BARCA IN FOR QUINA?

BAS DOST SIGNS AFTER ATTACK

JORGINHO STARTS

GERRARD'S REDS AT RANGERS

HARRISON TO LEAVE BRISTOL ROVERS?

BALE TO STAY PUT?

A RISK WORTH TAKING?

RICHARLISON ARRIVES

CHELSEA KEEN ON HIGUAIN

WOLVES AGREE MOUTINHO FEE

KOVACIC WANTS TO LEAVE REAL

BREAKING NEWS

VIDA LINKED WITH LIVERPOOL

'SAINTS HAVE TO SELL TO BUY'

BREAKING NEWS

ARSENAL IN FOR SOMMER?

UNITED'S DEFENSIVE TARGETS

WHO IS DANIEL ADSHEAD?

MELBOURNE WANT HONDA

FOOTBALL WHISPERS