Carling Cup Semis
Much to the disappointment of spread bettors, the adverse weather conditions had their wicked way again last week. Both of the much anticipated Carling Cup semi-finals were called off, but, now the weather has somewhat subsided, spread punters can make their preparations for what is set to be a fascinating couple of matches.
The big one that will have spread bettors licking their lips will be the Manchester derby at Eastlands. Buyers of United's win index will be well aware that they have the chance to extend City's drought without a trophy to 35 years. Punters that enjoy a spread bet on the total goals market will have taken notice that the last three Manchester derbies at City have only produced three goals. Those looking to sell Man City's supremacy spread will know that United possess an impressive record over their rivals at the City of Manchester Stadium. The Red Devils have won two of the last three away matches against their opponents but buyers of City's supremacy will point out that they beat them in 2007 - a season in which they did the league double over the enemy.
Spread bettors looking to take on United will have noted that City come into the game on far better form, having won their first four matches under their new manager, Roberto Mancini. Sporting Index's total goal minutes market will be a hot topic amongst spread betting enthusiasts - buyers will recall the last match between the sides which amassed a huge total of 379. However, sellers will be encouraged to know that the last game at Eastlands only produced 42.
As you would expect there have been plenty of feisty games between these two and those spread bettors who like to play the bookings market will be aware how much is riding on the match. Interestingly, the last meeting at City produced 95 points - which will please buyers of the spread. However, sellers will highlight the match before at Eastlands that only saw a total of 40 points.
The second semi-final sees Blackburn host Aston Villa in another fascinating game. Buyers of Villa's win index will be encouraged to know that they have had plenty of success at Ewood Park of late - they have won three of their last four games there. It's not all doom and gloom for spread punters hoping to sell Villa's supremacy though - Rovers beat Villa at home in their earlier meeting this campaign.
Rovers have had a mixed record at home since September after only managing four wins from ten home matches - although buyers of their win index will argue they have only lost twice in that time. These games often provide their fair share of goals, seeing as three of the last four fixtures at Ewood Park against Villa have seen the net bulge at least three times.
In recent years Blackburn versus Villa games have had quite dramatic starts which will be of note to spread bettors looking at Sporting Index's 'time of first match goal' market. In the last four matches at Ewood Park the average time of the first goal is the 21st minute - with the earliest coming in the third minute earlier this season.
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