Sportsbet Blog

Round 25 has a brought up a couple of games that are going to be belters starting with the Manly v Melbourne game on Friday night. These clubs are both in form and looking to make 2011 theirs. For a full wrap up of our tips and odds for round 25 read on. Don’t forget to comment below if you think differently to any of our tips.

Best Bet of Round 25: Take Melbourne Storm to win between 1-12 paying 3.50 at Sportsbet here

Manly V Storm Friday night at Brookvale Oval

Tip: Storm

Odds: Manly 1.63 Storm 2.30

Even though Storm are without star Cooper Cronk they have shown they are still capable of tough wins without him and should do. Although the odds don’t suggest it this will see Manly suffer their first loss at Brookvale oval this year.

It will be a massive test for the Sea Eagles and they will take alot out of it going into the finals where the two teams could meet again.

It will be a very close game and I’m taking Storm in a nail biter.

Sportsbet’s Friday $500 Prediction: Storm by 4

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Parramatta V Sydney Friday night at Parramatta Stadium

Tip Roosters

Odds: Parramatta 1.77 Sydney 2.07

Sydney are a classier side at the moment and in the last few weeks have played to their usual top standards. I expect it to be a entertaining game with the Eels desperate to keep the wooden spoon away for 2011.

The Roosters defense will be the key to the match and my prediction is it will hold up much better than the Eels.

Bulldogs V Knights Saturday at ANZ Stadium

Tip: Bulldogs

Odds: Bulldogs 1.72 Knights 2.14

The Dogs will come out very strong from the get-go on Saturday as they keep their finals hopes alive. I see them taking the ball on and making use of every chance knowing they may not come off every time.

The Knights will struggle to keep up with the pace of the game and will get caught out.

Canterbury by 16

Cowboys V Sharks Saturday at Dariy Farmers Satdium

Tip: North Queensland

Odds: Cowboys 1.13 Sharks 6.10

The Cowboys will be out to impress the crowd for their final home game this season. They have been a bit off the boil lately with a few losses mounting up but last week they showed signs of stepping up the pace as they approach the finals.

Keep an eye out for Johnathan Thurston, he has been getting better and better after returning from injury and should now be back to peak fitness.

The Cowboys are a solid unit and the Sharks will find it hard to score as their game style seems too predictable.

Raiders V Panthers Saturday night at Canberra Stadium

Tip: Raiders

Odds: Raiders 1.58 Panthers 2.40

Expect a decent crowd for the last home game for Canberra captain Alan Tongue. Both clubs have had disappointing year and have nothing but respect to play for as their seasons come to a close.

I’m predicting the Raiders will lift for their Captain and give him the send off he deserves.

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Dragons V Warriors Sunday at WIN Stadium

Tip: Dragons

Odds: Dragons 1.50 Warriors 2.62

The Dragons played a very organised defense against Melbourne last week and although they didn’t take the points they now know what it takes to mix it with the big guns. They have become a very structured side and have tinkered with their game plan lately that hasn’t always payed off but they are starting to improve and I think it will show in this match.

The bookies have given the Warriors next to no chance on Sunday and I think they have the odds spot on.

Broncos V Rabbitohs Sunday at Suncorp Stadium

Tip: Brisbane

Odds: Brisbane 1.54 V Rabbitohs 2.52

The Broncos are full of confidence after securing a home ground semi final and will be going into this game eager to continue the good form leading into the business end of the season.

But don’t discount the Bunnies, they are playing desperate footy at the moment as the strive towards the finals. Expect a high scoring game from both sides but Brisbane should be able to scrape home with the win.

Wests Tigers V Titans Monday at Campbelltown Sports Stadium

Tip: Wests Tigers

Odds: Tigers 1.09 Titans 7.90

I’m predicting a one sided affair for Monday night footy as the Tigers welcome back Gareth Ellis and Lote Tuqiri to their lineup.

The Tigers are a much stronger team and their physical game style will leave the Titans (who have shown a glimmer of form lately) wondering what happened.

Round 24 NRL footy tips have a couple of massive matchups that will shake up the top half of the ladder. The bookies have the odds for majority of the games fairly close making it a great round of footy. See all out tips and predictions below.

Best Bet of Round 24: the Bulldogs between 1-12 points paying $5 at Sportsbet

Melbourne Storm v St George Illawarra Friday night at AAMI Park

Tip: Storm

Odds: Melbourne 1.70 Dragons 2.15

Melbourne look unstoppable and although they are without star halfback Cooper Cronk I can sense a easy victory for the Storm.

St George will look to take advantage of the omission but Storm’s depth goes deep with Gareth Widdop stepping in who should do well.

Sportsbet Friday $500 Predictions: I’m tipping the Storm to win by 18. Which 13+ points is paying a massive $3.50

Its free to enter and play the Sportsbet Friday $500 and its simple to play. Tip the winning team and margin of Friday nights match and you get $500! Easy as that. To put in your Friday 500 tip or to find out more info on the comp see the Sportsbet site here.

South Sydney v North Queensland Cowboys Friday night at ANZ Stadium

Tip: Cowboys

Odds: South 1.65 Cowboys 2.25

The Cowboys will be desperate for the win to ensure a much needed home final. Thurston is once again the one to look out for after his return last week and should play a pivotal roll in their win on Friday night.

South do have their season to play for with a loss all but ending their 2011 campaign. They also go into the game with confidence after two big wins but they are a coming up against a much classier unit and will struggle to break the Cowboys defense.

Gold Coast Titans v Canberra Saturday at Skilled Park

Tip: Gold Coast

Odds: Titans 1.65 Canberra 2.25

Both teams have had a shocking year with not a great deal to look back on but with the recent announcement of Preston Campbell and Alan Tongue’s retirements both clubs now have some spark in their step to finish off the season well (and avoid the spoon)

Canberra’s recent record away from home suggests they will take another defeat. I’m going with the stats and tipping Gold Coast by around 10 which between 1-12 is paying $3.00

Sydney Roosters v Cronulla Saturday night at Sydney Football Stadium

Tip: Sydney

Odds: Roosters 1.50 Cronulla 2.60

Sydney will cream this one in and should continue their excellent form into this game after their massive win over the Dragons.

Cronulla are on the other end of the scale and will find it hard to match the skills and determination of the Roosters outfit.

Expect a big margin to the Roosters. Take the Roosters to by over 12 paying $2.75

Penrith v Warriors Saturday night at Centrebet Stadium

Tip: Warriors

Odds: Penrith 2.75 Warriors 1.45

This ones a no brainer. The Warriors will easily get the points on Saturday as they continue to get better and better. They are a very quick team and at times make it look easy.

Penrith threw in the towel a month ago now loosing 4 in a row its nearly time for a shake up internally which has already started with Steve Georgallis.

Manly v Canterbury Bankstown Saturday night at Brookvale Oval

Tip: Canterbury Bankstown

Odds: Manly 1.30 Canterbury 3.50

Although the bookies have Manly as clear favourites I’m not to confident they will have this one in the bag.

Manly have taken the points over the Bulldogs this year but I see a determine Bulldogs side who could come out firing and score quickly so expect a great game.

Keep an eye out for Trent Hodkison. Its his first game back at his old home ground and he will be keen to keep the Manly fans quiet.

Bulldogs in a nail biter.

Wests Tigers v Parramatta Sunday at WIN Stadium

Tip: Tigers

Odds: Tigers 1.31 Parramatta 3.45

The Tigers need a big win to boost their points differential on the ladder. This is the perfect game for them to do it.

They have had attack on their minds lately which will force a weaker team in Parramatta to change from their regular game style causing errors and a free passage to score.

I’m tipping the Tigers by about 20 and continue their 6 games in a row.

Newcastle Knights v Brisbane Broncos Monday at Ausgrid Stadium

Tip: Broncos

Odds: Knights 2.25 Broncos 1.65

Brisbane are playing slightly better footy than the Knights but don’t expect a walk over. Newcastle need the win with teams below them on the ladder coming up quick which could see their season go from good to bad in a mater of a few weeks.

Expect a high scoring game with both clubs supporting strong forwards. I think Brisbane will just get over the line in the end in a very close match.

Round 23 of the 2011 NRL season is all about the Friday night game with Darren Lockyer entering the record books. Tipping will be tricky with a few close footy games predicted. See below for all our tips, odds and predictions.

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North Queensland Cowboys v Brisbane Broncos Friday night at Dairy Farmers Stadium

Tip: Broncos

Odds: Cowboys 1.97 Broncos 1.85

Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott both return for the Cowboys making this match a massive one as its all so Darren Lockyer’s record equaling game of 350 games.

For this reason I’m tipping the Broncos. They will lift for Lockyer and make it a memorable night for him. They have shown they can match it with any team and should take the points.

Sportsbet Friday $500 Predictions: I’m tipping the Broncos to win by 10.

Its free to enter and play the Sportsbet Friday $500 and its simple to play. Tip the winning team and margin of Friday nights match and you get $500! Easy as that. To put in your Friday 500 tip or to find out more info on the comp see the Sportsbet site here.

Penrith v Wests Tigers Friday night at Centrebet Stadium

Tip: Tigers

Odds: Panthers 2.75 Tigers 1.45

The Tigers will have a big win here on Friday night to continue their new found form. Penrith on the other hand have all but thrown in the towel in a disappointing year for them.

Expect a big margin here

Warriors v Newcastle Knights Saturday night at Mt Smart Stadium

Tip: Knights

Odds: Warriors 1.45 Knights 2.75

This is a very hard game to tip with both clubs showing they play a very attractive brand of footy. Their physical game style will be on show again so expect a low scoring game.

I’m tipping the Knights in a close one.

Parramatta v Manly Saturday night at Parramatta Stadium

Tip: Manly

Odds: Parramatta 3.50 Manly 1.30

We usually expect a great game between these clubs but my prediction is a hefty win to Manly and they continue to roll towards the finals.

The close loss that Parramatta suffered last week could have been the beginning of the end for Parramatta in 2011 as they start to look towards 2012.

Gold Coast Titans v Melbourne Storm Saturday night at Skilled Park

Tip: Storm

Odds: Titans 6.25 Storm 1.12

Storm will take another win on Saturday night to ensure they keep a buffer on top of the NRL ladder. They will use these “easier” games to improve in some areas so there may be a few slip-ups as they try different things.

My prediction is Storm by over 12.

Canberra v South Sydney Sunday at Canberra Stadium

Tip: South

Odds: Canberra 2.08 South Sydney 1.75

On paper South Sydney look to have this one wrapped up but I think the end margin will be much closer. Although South will win I expect Canberra to put up a fair fight and keep South honest for majority of the game.

St George Illawarra v Sydney Roosters Sunday at WIN Stadium

Tip: St George

Odds: St George 1.12 Roosters 6.25

St George are coming off a spirited win last week and need to step up their game again coming into the business end of the season.

I expect Sydney to try and spoil the Dragons run into the semi finals but I can’t see Sydney doing so with the form the Dragons will be going into the game with.

Dragons by 10.

Cronulla v Canterbury-Bankstown Monday night at Toyota Stadium

Tip: Canterbury-Bankstown

Odds: Cronulla 2.20 Canterbury 1.50

Canterbury-Bankstown are playing desperate footy at the moment and its paying off. Every match is an elimination game for them and it is giving them the spark they were looking for earlier in the season.

Cronulla have been pretty flat lately and I can see Canterbury running over the top of them in this one.

Round 19 of the 2011 NRL season is rivalry round with some huge match ups making footy tipping a struggle. The odds also suggest this with South Sydney paying 1.92 to Sydney 1.90.

Best Bet of Round 19

This week I’m taking the Sharks to beat the Drangons in a straight win paying $3.30 at Sportsbet. The bookies haven’t given them much hope but I think there’s plenty of value for them.

Brisbane V Gold Coast Friday night at Suncorp Stadium

Tip: Broncos

Odds: Broncos 1.23 Titans 4.25

The way the Titans are playing at the moment I can’t see anything but a heavy defeat, they are really struggling at the moment. Brisbane are now focusing on the finals after all the attention of Darren Lockyer’s last Origin game and should finish the season well.

Sporsbet Friday $500 prediction: Brisbane by 12

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Warriors V Canterbury/ Bankstown Friday night at Mt. Smart Stadium

Tip: Warriors

Odds: Warriors 1.48 Canterbury Bankstown 2.68

The Warriors at home should be right here. They enjoy playing at home and will continue their good season so far.

The Bulldogs do have the game style to beat New Zealand but some errors have crept into their game causing simply turn overs. If NZ can capitalise on these errors they should have a comfortable win.

South Sydney V Sydney Saturday at ANZ Stadium

Tip: Roosters

Odds: South Sydney 1.92 Roosters 1.90

The Roosters have upped their game in the last month or so and I expect them to step it up again in this massive rivalry match at ANZ Stadium. Their attacking run has been outstanding at times which should be enough to get a winning score. Their defense has also held up well against Penrith showing some very good signs.

North Queensland V West Tigers Saturday night at Dairy Farmers Stadium

Tip: Cowboys

Odds: Cowboys 2.20 Tigers 1.69

The Cowboys showed they are a side to be taken seriously without their key man Johnathan Thurston. They not only showed last week that they can cover for him but step up a notch and play some very tough football. Keep an eye on, Glenn Hall and Dallas Johnson for the Cowboys, their attitude towards the game is what is needed to win finals games.

My prediction is the Cowboys by 10 points.

Penrith V Parramatta Saturday night at Centrebet Stadium

Tip: Parranatta

Odds: Prenrith 1.69 Parramatta 2.20

With Nathan Hindmarsh’s 300th game this week one would expect the team to lift to make it a memorable day for him. I think this is exactly how it will pan out for Parramatta and they will go home with a comfortable victory.

Penrith have found it tough against the good side and although have shown a few good signs a cant see them making it a good contest on Saturday.

Canberra V Melbourne Sunday at Canberra Stadium

Tip: Storm

Odds Canberra 2.40 Melbourne 1.59

Melbourne continue to surprise this year and will again this weekend in Canberra. Craig Bellamy has held the club together this year and helped his players to the level needed to be successful.

Although Canberra has had the wood over Storm over the last few year with names like Smith, Cronk and Slater running around the Storm are near unstoppable and will win by around 10 points.

Newcastle V Manly Sunday at Ausgrid Stadium

Tip: Manly

Odds: Knights 2.80 Manly 1.44

I predict a big win for Manly this week. They are coming up against a clumsy Newcastle side who will be overwhelmed by the attacking pressure of the Manly side.

The Knights were disappointing last week and have alot of work to do to get back up to standards.

Manly by 20

St George Illawarra V Cronulla Monday at WIN Stadium

Tip: Cronulla

Odds: St George Illawarra 1.34 Cronulla 3.30

I’m tipping an upset here and going with Cronulla who will continue their streak making it 5 in a row. The sharks beat the Dragons in round 2 this year by forcing errors and making the most of them. If they can replicate the same game style they played that day it will go along way to beating the Dragons.

I’m tipping the Sharks in a very close one.

Footy tips for Round 18 of the 2011 NRL season seems pretty straight forward but I’m predicting a couple of upsets are in the pipe works. There are some great odds for round 18 including Storm who are paying $1.53, although its pretty short it may be worth loading up on.

Bets Bet of Round 18: This week I’m going a 5 leg multi bet. Take the Warriors, Tigers, Storm, Sea Eagles and Knights all to win paying a massive $7.56 at Sportingbet here where they also give you $150 bonus bet for depositing $30 or more.

Think you can beat SportsbetBlog’s resident tipster? Then put your round 18 tips in the comments section below and if your the first person to tip more than him you will be emailed a $100 betting voucher!

New Zealand V Gold Coast. Mt. Smart Stadium, Friday 6.30pm

Although the bookies have the odds well in NZ corner I think it will be a much closer match. The warriors have had a few worrying signs of late with a bit of a slump in form and Ivan Cleary stating he will leave.

My prediction is the Warriors will put the last month or two behind them and hot back with a win.

Tip: Warriors

Odds: Warriors 1.34 Titans 3.25

Sportsbet Friday $500 Predictions: I’m tipping the Warriors to win by 10.

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Parramatta V Wests. Parramatta Stadium, Friday 7.35pm

Tip: Tigers

Odds: Eels 2.26 Tigers 1.64

The tigers should win this match with Todd Payten and Chris Lawrence both back from injury. It should bolster the Tigers side who will keep the ball in attack as much as possible which is where Parramatta seem to have struggled lately.

Cronulla V Canberra. Toyota Stadium, Saturday 5.30pm

Tip: Cronulla

Odds: Sharks 1.72 Raiders 2.13

Three wins in a row for the sharks and it would be hard to tip against them in the form they are currently in. The Raiders are coming into this game also in good form so it should make for a great spectacle on Staurday night. Paul Gallen is back for the Sharks and will add to the team which have a realistic chance of a semi final.

My prediction is the Sharks by 10.

Canterbury-Bankstown V Melbourne. Adelaide Oval, Saturday 7.30pm

Tip: Storm

Odds: Bulldogs 2.50 Storm 1.53

With the Storm stars (Smith, Cronk and Slater) all getting through origin injury free it will be the winning difference in Adelaide on Saturday night. Don’t expect the Bulldogs to back down though, they beat Storm at the same venue last year and with the pressure starting to mount on the Bulldogs coach they will be hungry for a win.

Strorm in a close one.

Sydney V Penrith. Sydney Football Stadium, Sunday 2pm

Tip: Penrith

Odds: Roosters 2.13 Panthers 1.72

The Roosters have their back to the wall for the 2011 season with their year going from bad to worse with a long list of injuries and club problems. I can’t see them beating the Panthers who are on the up with Luke Walsh playing inspirational footy and Phil Gould bringing life tot he club.

Expect the Panthers to get the jump on the Roosters and shut the game down early.

Manly V South Sydney. Brookvale Oval, Sunday 3pm

Tip: Manly

Odds: Sea Eagles 1.34 Rabbitohs 3.25

South Sydney will be in damage control after another disappointing loss last week. I’m expecting big things from Manly this year and a big win on Sunday will once again prove they are one of the top if not the top side this year.

Newcastle V North Queensland. Ausgrid Stadium, Monday 7.00pm

Tip: Newcastle

Odds: Knights 1.68 Cowboys 2.18

With the massive news of Cowboy Johnathan Thurston going down in origin it will be too much of a task to beat the Knights who have started to hit their straps starting from their young players in Ryan Stig and Tyrone Roberts.

The Knights lose to much with Thurston out, he is the key to the Cowboys side and wont win this week without him.

Round 17 of the 2011 NRL Season is reduced but don’t expect things to be subdue making footy tips difficult. The bookies have the odds of majority of the games fairly close so expect some classic NRL action.

Best Bet of Round 17: This week I’m taking Parramatta team bet of Jordan Atkins to score more tries than Chris Walker paying 3.10 at Sportsbet here

Parramatta Eels V Brisbane Broncos Friday night at Parramatta Stadium

Tip: Broncos

Odds: Eels 1.67 Broncos 2.20

Broncos coach Anthony Griffin has done a massive job this year with his young players and has exceeded my expectations. These young players will need to stand up with the their origin stars away this week.

I think the Eels will struggle after the disappointing loss last week and are too up and down at the moment. My prediction is the Eels will get run over by a stronger Broncos side.

Penrith V Canterbury Saturday at Centrebet Stadium

Tip: Canterbury

Odds: Panthers 2.45 Bulldogs 1.55

Penrith will struggle without star origin player Petero Civoniceva who has been the difference in some of the Panthers wins. Penrith are playing around with their game style that could pay off in the coming weeks but think the Bulldogs will see it coming.

Although the Bulldogs lost last week they showed they can create the chances needed to win games like this and I’m tipping them to go one step further and finish them off.

Take the Buldogs here at the -6.5 line paying a nice $2.10

Cronulla V South Sydney Sunday at Toyota Stadium

Tip: Sharks

Odds: Sharks 2.20 Rabbitohs 1.67

Without captain Paul Gallen this week it will show us where the Cronulla team is at the moment. A win here could inspire them to continue their consistent year to achieve greater things.

South Sydney will start favourites but without Dave Taylor and Greg Inglis in the team I cant go past Cronulla especially with Nathan Gardner in super form from fullback.

I’m loading up on the Sharks for the straight win. $2.20 to me sounds pretty generous.

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St George V Newcastle Sunday at WIN Stadium

Tip: St George

Odds: Dragons 1.70 Knights 2.15

Wayne Bennett has been a key to the Dragons side this year and they will look to him again this week as the under manned Dragons look to make it 2 wins in a row.

Their defense has been top class which will see the Knights struggle to score which will suit the home crowd.

Sydney V Canberra Monday at Sydney Football Stadium

Tip: Canberra

Odds: Rooster 1.95 Raiders 1.85

Sydney don’t look like a winning side at the moment with numerous key players out on State of Origin duties. They are down on confidence and it looks like the 2010 finals may have taken a toll.

Although the bookies think this match will be a close, my prediction is the Raiders will take an easy win.

It might be worth taking the Raiders by over 13 points paying $4.00 at Sportsbet.

Online betting has become massive since the last World Cup and with many more online bookies and exotic bets to choose from.

After looking at all the main Australian bookies Sportsbet has come out on top for range of betting markets and for the best odds.

They cover every World Cup match and include all the usual bets like half time/full time, number of goals and wining margin. They also have a full range of special bets for all of the Socceroos matches.

See our top 5 best World Cup free bet offers here

Here are my top 5 tips when betting on the 2010 World Cup

1. Remember the Draw. If you back a team to win remember if its a draw after 90 minutes you lose your bet even if the game goes to extra time during the finals.
2. Live betting. If your pre-game bet is looking bad it may be worth making an in-play bet to minimise your losses.
3. Most teams will start the group stage matches pretty conservatively so take a careful approach to half time/full time bets.
4. Multi bets. Group stages make for great multi bets. Stick with the favourites in a 3 or 4 leg multi and get some decent odds.
5. Bet on New Zealand to finish bottom of their group. I’m tipping this will happen and at $1.20 its as safe as houses!

The reason I like Sportsbet the most for this World Cup is for the unusual bets that can be placed. They make a match very exciting and keeps you on edge for the full 90 minutes.

Here are some of the more unusual betting options available at Sportsbet for the 2010 FIFA World Cup

First Socceroo to be shown a card

Tim Cahill 7.00

Lucas Neill 7.00

Craig Moore 8.00

Brett Emerton 9.00

More players here

I’ll be backing Lucas Neill here, he will be much more busy than any striker and more likely to be chasing the player with the ball.

Australian top goal scorer

Tim Cahill 3.75

Harry Kewell 4.50

Josh Kennedy 4.50

No Goals scored by an Australian 8.00

I think Timmy’s a safe choice here, Harry could easily miss a game or two with injury and the Socceroos will depend on him much more.

More players here

Australia’s stage of elimination.

Group Stage 1.33

Second Round 4.50

Quarter Finals 12.00

Semi Finals 23.00

Runner Up 81.00

You would be a game man to back anything past a 2nd round elimination. Remember top 2 to through so there’s some value in $4.50.

Double Chance

Germany and Draw 1.08

Germany and Australia 1.20

Australia and Draw 2.40

Australia will be very happy with a draw in this match and will most likely playing for one. The Aussie and draw could be a worthy option here.

Sportsbet have a World Cup promo running at the moment giving new customers up to a $200 free bet. Simply make an account with Sportsbet and make your first deposit. Sportsbet will then instantly match your first deposit up to $100.

The 2nd part of the bonus is given after 10 bets have been placed. Sportsbet work out the average amount waged and refund that amount up to $100.

See the Sportsbet site here for more info in this great soccer offer and to make an account.

This weeks round 10 games are pretty straight forward which makes footy tipping pretty easy this week. The match of Round ten is Friday nights Essendon V Bulldogs, both teams are playing exciting footy at the moment so its set to be a great game.

Best Bet of Round 10

This week I’m going all out and taking a 8 leg multi. Take all my footy tips below in a multi bet and you’ll get odds of around $3.70.

Essendon V Western Bulldogs Friday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Odds: Essendon 3.50 Bulldogs 1.38

The Bulldogs are looking very strong at the moment and have good form leading into this match after a 60 point demolishing of North last week.

Essendon will play their usual running game and it may pay off, but I think their forward line is where it will come unstuck and the Doggies will rebound quickly.

Barry Hall will be in the spot light Friday night but this time it will be his opponent that the umpires will be keeping a close eye on after the fiasco last week, one wrong move and Barry will be lining up for goal.

Geelong V Melbourne Saturday at Skilled Stadium

Tip: Geelong

Odds: Geelong 1.07 Melbourne 13.00

Skilled Stadium has become a hoodoo for all clubs when they play Geelong there and Saturdays game will be no exception. They play a brand of football that is very hard to defend and attack, they seem to go up a notch when playing in Geelong.

Expect them to stamp out Melbourne early and finish with a 60+ point win. The 60 point + margin is paying $2.25 at the moment, checkout the Sportsbet site here for the latest odds.

Port Adelaide V Richmond Saturday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Port Adelaide

Odds: Port 1.21 Richmond 5.40

Although Richmond have lost they have played some “ok” footy in the past two weeks so this may be a danger game for Port, and my multi bet.

My prediction is that Port will win but it wont be a blow out like the bookies are expecting.

Jack Riewoldt will be one to lookout for after kicking 10 goals 2 behinds for Richmond over the past fortnight.

Brisbane V Collingwood  Saturday Night at the Gabba

Tip: Collingwood

Odds: Brisbane 4.20 Collingwood 1.29

On paper this should be an even game with the two spear heads at Brisbane and experience all over the ground at the Pies, but Fev and Brown are yet to hit there full potential together this year making life hard for the Lions.

My prediction is Collingwood will bounce back after their disappointing loss to Geelong and continue their near perfect start to the year.

Jed Adcock is a massive out for the Lions, he fractured his foot in last week game and will be out for many weeks.

St Kilda V Adelaide Saturday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: St Kilda

Odds: St Kilda 1.24 Adelaide 4.80

The Saints look as though they have woken up and got back in the swing of things after an impressive win over the Eagles last week in WA. They played sharp footy and the team looked comfortable in their positions which they have lacked for a few weeks.

Expect them to put the squeeze on the Crows early in the game then open the game up in the 2nd half to get away to a winning margin.

If your looking at betting on this match take St Kilda’s winning margin to be between 1-39 points paying $2.15 at Sportsbet. It will be another low scoring game under 39 points looks likely.

Hawthorn V Sydney Sunday at the MCG

Tip: Hawks

Odds: Hawks 1.35 Sydney 3.65

Everyone is back on the Hawks bandwagon including the bookies with the short odds of 1.35 for them to win.

Their win last week had glimpses of 2008 in it so if they can replicate that they should have another win on Sunday.

You might be thinking $3.65 sounds pretty good for a Sydney win? Think again, key players Tadhg Kennelly and forward Daniel Bradshaw will be out this week due to injury and they are still without Craig Bolton (achilles), Craig Bird (foot), Mark Seaby (ankle) making this game a very had task for them. Stick with the Hawks.

Carlton V West Coast Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Carlton

Odds: Carlton 1.22 West Coast 5.30

If West Coast can’t win at home I don’t give them much hope against the Blues in Melbourne. They faded out in last weeks 35 point loss to St Kilda, something they are not usually known so there might be some worrying times ahead for the Eagles.

Carlton will be eager to bounce back after the shock loss to the Hawks, keep an eye on Chris Judd again this week after a game high 30 possessions last week including 19 kicks.

The Eagles will again be without Darren Glass who is suffering an abdominal injury

Fremantle V North Melbourne Sunday at Subiaco Oval

Tip: Fremantle

Odds: Fremantle 1.15 North 7.00

Freo will out class North all over the field Sunday afternoon as they continue their great start to the season.

They currently sit equal 1st on the ladder behind the Pies and Geelong on percentage but a big win here could see them take 2nd spot so expect the Dockers to play the game out right to the end.

Freo’s Nathan Fyfe is this weeks AFL Rising Star after his 23 disposals against Sydney last week so expect another good game from him.

On a side note, Matthew Pavlich is now the outright leader of the AFLCA champion player of the year award. Today might be a good time to get on him for the Brownlow Medal, his paying a handy $21 at the moment but is sure to shorten over the next few weeks with a some very winnable games over the next month.

This weeks match of round 9 is The Pies V The Cats. It will be 2 weeks running where on Friday night both matches have been 1 v 2 on the ladder. It is set to be another great match against these clubs and defiantly one to watch.

Best Bet of Round Nine

This week I’m taking a four leg multi bet. Take Geelong, Sydney, Port and St Kilda to win paying a handy $8.92 with Sportsbet here.

Collingwood V Geelong Friday Night at the MCG

Tip: Geelong

Odds: Collingwood 2.09 Geelong 1.75

The match of round 9 should be a beauty! Both clubs are in near perfect form and will be going into the match with confidence.

I think Geelong will be able to win the game by exposing Collingwood’s younger players in the midfield and around the forward line in Chris Dawes, Steele Sidebottom and Dayne Beams.

North Melbourne V Western Bulldogs Saturday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Odds: North Melbourne 4.10 Bulldogs 1.24

The Bulldogs impressive win last week against Sydney showed their supporters that they can match it with class act sides and will dismantle the inexperienced North side early in the match.

Although the Bulldogs will be without key play-makers Murphy and Johnson they have enough depth to be able to cover them and should be able to win by over 39 points which is paying 2.85 at Sportsbet.

Sydney V Fremantle Saturday at the SCG

Tip: Sydney

Odds: Sydney 1.74 Fremantle 2.10

If this game was played over in the West it would have been much tougher to tip but being at the SCG the Swans should be right. They play great football on their home ground and the long flight over will only make it tougher for the Dockers.

Keep an eye out for Jarrad McVeigh for Sydney, his tackling pressure and fight for the ball last week was brilliant and will see him rack up a lot of dream team points again this round.

With added inspiration of the announcement of co-captain Brett Kirk’s retirement at the end of 2010 should see the Swans over the line.

Melbourne V Port Adelaide Saturday night at TIO Stadium (Darwin)

Tip: Port Adelaide

Odds: Melbourne 2.35 Port 1.60

Melbourne was very disappointing last week against West Coast in front of their high spirited home crowd, they seemed to go back to their 2009 ways and at times didnt look at all interested in the game. It will be hard for them to turn it around this week with the trip to Darwin and playing against Port who look to be a top 8 side this year.

Saturday is predicted to be 31 degrees and humid with chances of thunderstorms so expect a low scoring match. It might be worth chucking a few dollars on Port to win by under 24 points. Its currently paying 3.35 at Sportsbet but I’m tipping the odds to shorten if rain sets in so get your bets on early.

Essendon V Richmond Saturday Night at the MCG

Tip: Essendon

Odds: Essendon 1.28 Richmond 3.75

This could be one of the Dream time matches to remember with Richmond showing some spirit last week over the Hawks. Teams seem to lift at these big event games and upsets have been known to happen so don’t put your house on the line if your thinking about betting on this game.

The difference could be Essendon’s Tayte Pears and Kyle Reimers who are expected to return from injury for this match. Look for this weeks NAB Rising Star Jake Melksham, he played a handy part in the Bombers surprise win over the Saints and will be out to do the same again.

Adelaide V Brisbane Sunday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Brisbane

Odds: Adelaide 2.18 Brisbane 1.69

Brisbane will bounce back this week after a heavy loss to Geelong and I expect Fev to start to get back into some form after a lackluster start with his new club.

Adelaide are getting deeper and deeper with poor form and a long injury list so I can’t see a way out for them against the Lions.

My prediction is the Lions by 40 points paying 4.65.

Carlton V Hawthorn Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Carlton

Odds: Carlton 1.36 Hawthorn 3.17

The Hawks have all but given up this season so expect the Blues to have a big win as they continue their way up the ladder.

Blues captain Chris Judd is in great form at the moment and looks unstoppable when he has the ball in his hands, the hawks don’t have a clear match-up for him and will dominate the game.

If your looking for a good bet on this match Carlton to be leading is paying $2.00. I think that’s pretty good value when looking at 1.37 for the straight win.

West Coast V St Kilda Sunday at Subiaco Oval

Tip: St Kilda

Odds: West Coast 2.01 St Kilda 1.81

This match has turned into a must win for St Kilda as they keep trying to reorganise their side with out Nick up forward.

The Saints last two losses have been against arguably the quickest teams in the AFL (Carlton and Essendon). They will be looking forward to playing West Coast who rely on height more than run and should be able to effectively play their defensive game.

Sam Fisher is slowly becoming accustom to his roll in the forward line so this match could be the one where he makes his mark on the game.

Round 8 footy tips should be very interesting with some top 4 potential clubs going head to head this week. The match of round eight is on Friday night with top of the ladder Collingwood going against equal top Freo over in WA.

Another great game to watch will be Sydney and the Bulldogs. Barry Hall will have his first match against his former club and I’m sure a few of the Sydney boys know how to get into Barry head so expect some fireworks!

Best Bet of Round 8

This week I’m taking St Kilda to win between 1-39 points with odds of $2.25 at Sportsbet. The Saints will likely play another defensive style of game so expect a low scoring game with a low margin.

Fremantle V Collingwood Friday Night at Subiaco Oval

Tip: Collingwood

Odds: Fremantle 2.10 Collingwood 1.90

Who would have thought the match of round 8 would be between these clubs over in Perth!

Collingwood should grind out a win as Freo are coming off two 6 day breaks and a trip to Brisbane which could see them fade out in the second half of the match.

Keep an eye on Arron Sandilands, the big man took 44 hit outs last time the teams met and my prediction he will dominate again with Collingwood’s Darren Jolly not in the best of form at the moment.

Melbourne V West Coast Saturday at Manuka Oval

Tip: Melbourne

Odds: Melbourne 1.41 West Coast 3.35

Melbourne young guns Tom Scully, James Frawley and Jack Trengove have inspired the Demons in the past few weeks giving the club a lot of promise. These players will be the key to the match and it will be very hard to keep the footy away from them. Melbourne could have been 7 wins 1 loss and equal ladder leaders if it wasn’t for some pink umpires and a narrow loss to the pies.

West Coast’s injury worries wont help them this weekend with Darren Glass admitting his not 100% with groin soreness and some bad form but is expect to play.

Western Bulldogs V Sydney Saturday at the MCG

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Odds: Western Bulldogs 1.72 Sydney 2.36

This match will be won in the middle with some of the finest midfielders in the comp playing in both teams.

The bulldogs will likely get first use of the ball at stoppages with both Sydney ruckman Shane Mumford (suspended) and Mark Seaby (injured) leaving the ruck inexperienced Mike Pyke and Jesse Smith to fill the height gap. Expect the Bulldogs to take full advantage of this which should create a winning margin.

North Melbourne V Adelaide Saturday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: North Melbourne

Odds: North Melbourne 1.69 Adelaide 2.40

North should do well against Adelaide who are still looking pretty shaky all over the ground. Adelaide still have some work to do and I think the Kangaroos who have won 3 from their last 5 will easily account for the Crows.

Andrew McLeod is likely to be right to play for the Crows after suffering a shoulder sprain last week.

Brisbane V Geelong Saturday Night at the Gabba

Tip: Geelong

Odds: Brisbane 3.60 Geelong 1.37

Geelong look in fine form at the moment and it will be hard to tip against them no matter who/where they play this year. Brisbane will but up a fight but the team experience and strong final quarter from the Cats will get them the win.

As the odds are pretty short for Geelong (1.37) I’ll be betting on the 24.5 point even line market at Sportsbet. I think Geelong will be able to cover the 24 points comfortably.

Richmond  V Hawthorn Sunday at the MCG

Tip: Hawks

Odds: Richmond 5.50 Hawthorn 1.20

Finally, the Hawks will get a decent win with Richmond looking all but gone for the season.

Hows this for some inclusions, the Hawks are welcoming back Jordan Lewis, Shaun Burgoyne, Coleman Medalist Lance Franklin, captain Sam Mitchell and Rhan Hooper.

My prediction is a 40+ point win to the Hawks paying $2.25 with Sportsbet.

Port Adelaide V Carlton Sunday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Carlton

Odds: Port Adelaide 1.96 Carlton 2.00

The bookies have this game at pretty much an even contest and on paper it looks that way as well. Both teams are in good form at the moment especially Carlton who have comprehensively beaten both of last years grand finalists recently. With that fact in hand I’m tipping the Blues to win over in Adelaide.

Although Port have won their last three games Port will miss Warren Tredrea too much this week and the run of Carlton will be the telling factor.

St Kilda  V Essendon Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Odds: St Kilda 1.47 Essendon 3.05

This could be a danger game for the Saints. Although they are strong favourites for the match I see this a much closer game as some may predict.

When Essendon get going they have a fast paced game which could leave Saints back line vulnerable. Carlton showed last week that getting the ball in quickly pays off and I expect the Bombers to try and replicate this.

I’m tipping the Saints but if your having a bet don’t put your house on it.