Christmas holiday pools tips (Part 2)

                               Coupon for Dec 29-30

Ten draws: Barnsley v Blackburn, Bristol City v Peterborough, Charlton v Derby, Hull v Leeds, Carlisle v Bury, Portsmouth v Yeovil, Aldershot v Torquay, Dagenham & Redbridge v Port Vale, Dartford v Cambridge, Forest Green v Kidderminster.

Best draws: Barnsley v Blackburn, Bristol City v Peterborough, Carlisle v Bury, Aldershot v Torquay, Dartford v Cambridge.

Five aways: Swansea, Swindon, Crewe, Brentford, Southend.

Nine homes: Arsenal, Manchester United, Sunderland, Brighton, Leyton Orient, Sheffield United, Stevenage, AFC Wimbledon, Cheltenham.

                          Coupon for Dec 30-Jan 2

Ten draws: Blackburn v Nottingham Forest, Derby v Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday v Burnley, Doncaster v Sheffield United, Notts County v MK Dons, Walsall v Stevenage, Accrington v Chesterfield, Bristol Rovers v Plymouth, Oxford v Cheltenham, Wycombe v Exeter.

Best draws: Sheffield Wednesday v Burnley, Doncaster v Sheffield United, Notts County v MK Dons, Walsall v Stevenage, Accrington v Chesterfield.

There is no home and away coupon for Dec 30-Jan 2.

Christmas holiday pools tips (Part 1)

                       Coupon for December 22-23

Ten draws: Newcastle v Queens Park Rangers, Southampton v Sunderland, Birmingham v Burnley, Leicester v Cardiff, Sheffield Wednesday v Charlton, Crewe v Bournemouth, Doncaster v MK Dons, Wycombe v Bradford City, Hyde v Mansfield, Woking v Forest Green.

Best draws: Newcastle v Queens Park Rangers, Southampton v Sunderland, Crewe v Bournemouth, Doncaster v MK Dons, Hyde v Mansfield.

Five aways: Norwich, Brighton, Bolton, Portsmouth, Rotherham.

Nine homes: Liverpool, Manchester City, Crystal Palace, Ipswich, Leeds, Millwall, Scunthorpe, Walsall, Port Vale.

Pick of the draws: I get the feeling QPR are up and running after gaining their first Premier League win of the season last weekend. Newcastle, by way of contrast, are on the slide. Sunderland have shown signs of recovery by defeating Reading and playing with spirit in defeat against Manchester United. That should be enough to earn them a point at Southampton. Crewe and Bournemouth are the in-form sides in League One and I don't expect either to lose. Doncaster at home are not as formidable as Doncaster away and I'm backing fellow promotion contenders MK Dons to share the spoils. Hyde have staged a remarkable revival in the Blue Square Premier and can match Mansfield.

Away days: Don't be surprised if Norwich's remarkably successful run continues at West Bromwich Albion, who are now without a victory in their past four games. In the Championship, Gus Poyet's enterprising Brighton side look too strong for an ailing Blackburn while improving Bolton should have too much quality for bottom club Peterborough. Even at this early stage it is hard to see Hartlepool, 13 points from safety, escaping relegation from League One. Expect Portsmouth to add to their misery. In League Two, Rotherham will feel confident of prevailing at crisis club Bristol Rovers, especially in view of their good form on the road.

Homes sweet homes: Ipswich and Bristol City, who meet at Portman Road, are at the wrong end of the Championship but Ipswich are in better shape. Anything can happen in this season's Championship, so take a punt on Leeds, despite that League Cup drubbing by Chelsea, beating third-placed Middlesbrough. Struggling Scunthorpe's League One victory at Leyton Orient was one of the upsets of last weekend and I'm backing them to gain another three points against disappointing Carlisle. Walsall's home record is nothing to shout about but they could get some joy from the visit of Colchester, who are slipping towards the relegation zone.

                         Coupon for December 26-27

Ten draws: Stoke v Liverpool, Huddersfield v Blackpool, Hull v Leicester, Wolves v Peterborough, Oldham v Doncaster, Portsmouth v Crawley, Shrewsbury v Notts County, Chesterfield v York, Dagenham & Redbridge v Southend, Rotherham v Port Vale.

Best draws: Stoke v Liverpool, Wolves v Peterborough, Portsmouth v Crawley, Shrewsbury v Notts County, Chesterfield v York.

Please note: There is no home and away coupon for Dec 26-27.

Pools tips for weekend of December 15-16

Ten draws: Bolton v Charlton, Leeds v Ipswich, Millwall v Leicester, Doncaster v Coventry, Shrewsbury v Carlisle, Walsall v Yeovil, AFC Wimbledon v Rotherham, Cheltenham v Port Vale, Chesterfield v Burton, Forfar v Arbroath.

Best draws: Leeds v Ipswich, Millwall v Leicester, Walsall v Yeovil, AFC Wimbledon v Rotherham, Cheltenham v Port Vale.

Five aways: Everton, Crystal Palace, Derby, Wycombe, Livingston.

Nine homes: Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers, Blackpool, Cardiff, Middlesbrough, Bournemouth, Crewe, Leyton Orient, Portsmouth.


Pick of the draws: Ipswich have made rapid strides under new manager Mick McCarthy, moving clear of the Championship relegation zone. They are in the mood to give inconsistent Leeds a good game at Elland Road and earn a point. Millwall have been one of the surprise packets of the season and I'm taking them to share the points with promotion-seeking Leicester at the Den. Walsall's poor home form has had them struggling in League One while mid-table Yeovil's away record has stood them in good stead. Stalemate is the likeliest result. AFC Wimbledon won a lot of friends in defeat against MK Dons in the FA Cup and they are capable of holding Rotherham in League Two. The top-of-the-table clash between Cheltenham (3rd) and Port Vale (2nd) looks like ending in deadlock.

Away days: Everton's late, late victory over Tottenham last weekend should encourage them to gain maximum points at Stoke, who are averaging less than a goal a game. Crystal Palace, second in the Championship, suffered a blip against Blackpool but I believe they will recover quickly at the expense of Birmingham, who are struggling to get their act together. Nigel Clough's Derby are due a good result away from home and could get it at Bristol City, who have already lost six times at Ashton Gate. In League Two, Wycombe can take advantage of Accrington's recent stumbles and in the Scottish First Division, Livingston look a good thing at bottom club Dumbarton.

Homes sweet homes: The fixture against mid-table Fulham could be the last-chance saloon for Queens Park Rangers, who are still without a win in 16 Premier League matches. Expect them to break their duck at Loftus Road on Saturday. Blackpool can end their run of draws at home in the Championship by beating underachieving Blackburn. Eddie Howe's Bournemouth are on a roll in League One and are a hot tip to see off ailing Colchester. Cash-strapped Portsmouth gained a creditable draw at leaders Tranmere last Saturday and can go one better against not-so-proud Preston.

Pools tips for weekend of December 8-9

Ten draws: Arsenal v West Brom, Manchester City v Manchester United, Crystal Palace v Blackpool, Huddersfield v Bolton, Preston v Crewe, Swindon v Doncaster, Bristol Rovers v Dagenham & Redbridge, Oxford v Aldershot, Rotherham v Gillingham, Cambridge v Gateshead.

Best draws: Arsenal v West Brom, Crystal Palace v Blackpool, Swindon v Doncaster, Oxford v Aldershot, Rotherham v Gillingham.

Five aways: Queens Park Rangers, Burnley, Stevenage, Bournemouth, Notts County.

Nine homes: Aston Villa, Swansea, Leicester, Sheffield Wednesday, Wolves, Coventry, Crawley, Tranmere, Bradford City.

Pick of the draws: You wouldn't bet on Arsenal to win any match at the moment but overachieving West Brom have also lost their last two games, so a point apiece seems the likeliest outcome. The Eagles of Crystal Palace are flying high in the Championship but mid-table Blackpool will be eager to frustrate their former manager Ian Holloway, who thought the grass was greener at Selhurst Park. Doncaster's away record in League One is something special (won 7, drawn 2, lost 1), so they won't fear a trip to Swindon, who can beat anybody when they are in the mood. League Two strugglers Aldershot have perked up recently and can hold Oxford. In the Blue Square Premier, Cambridge are tipped to halt their slide by depriving Gateshead of maximum points.

Away days: Queens Park Rangers, still without a Premier League victory this season, have a wonderful opportunity of ending their wretched run at Wigan, who look as though they are in for another long, hard winter. Burnley are playing with great enterprise in the Championship and a win over better-placed Nottingham Forest is well within their grasp. League One Stevenage are more reliable away than at home and must be backed at Hartlepool, who are eight points adrift of the next-to-bottom club, Scunthorpe. Eddie Howe has worked wonders during his short stay at Bournemouth and they will be confident of gaining maximum points at Scunthorpe. Promotion contenders Notts County are unbeaten on their travels and I can't see that changing at Yeovil.

Homes sweet homes: Paul Lambert's Aston Villa, despite relegation worries, have more going for them than many people believe and are worth a punt against on-form Stoke. Sheffield Wednesday, second from bottom in the Championship, have an excellent chance to return to winning ways against fellow strugglers Bristol City, who were thrashed by Wolves at Ashton Gate last weekend. The manner of that overdue win should encourage Wolves to shade Birmingham in the Midlands derby at Molineux. I'm taking League Two play-off hopefuls, Bradford City, to send Torquay home pointless.

Pools tips for weekend of December 1-2

Ten draws: Fulham v Tottenham, Liverpool v Southampton, Queens Park Rangers v Aston Villa, Crystal Palace v Brighton, Mallorca v Real Zaragoza, Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid, Valencia v Real Sociedad, Lazio v Parma, Udinese v Cagliari, Ajax v PSV Eindhoven.

Best draws: Fulham v Tottenham, Liverpool v Southampton, Crystal Palace v Brighton, Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid, Udinese v Cagliari.

Five aways: Manchester United, Chelsea, Blackpool, Malaga, Roma.

Nine homes: West Bromwich Albion, Bristol City, Burnley, Nottingham Forest, Watford, Barcelona, Genoa, Juventus, Napoli.

Pick of the draws: Tottenham have lost their last three away games but I'm taking them to stop the rot against Fulham, who have recently been beaten by Sunderland and Stoke. Southampton were so impressive in their victories over Queens Park Rangers (away) and Newcastle (home) that they can earn a point from their trip to Liverpool, who are far from invincible at Anfield.  Crystal Palace's charge up the Championship has been halted and on-form Brighton, their fierce rivals, can take advantage of that at Selhurst Park on Saturday. Second-placed Atletico Madrid, fresh from their 4-0 thumping of Sevilla in the Spanish League, look capable of holding Real Madrid while draw specialists Udinese seem likely to add to their tally when Cagliari come visiting.

Away days: Free-scoring Manchester United will surely prevail at lowly Reading and Chelsea, despite their problems and the unpopularity of their new manager, are probably worth a punt at West Ham, who were well beaten by Spurs last Sunday. In the Championship, Blackpool's progress has been hindered by a number of draws, but they have an excellent chance of maximum points at bottom-of-the-table Peterborough. Malaga, handily placed at fourth in the Spanish League, are tipped to triumph at Getafe. Roma won at lowly Pescara in the Italian League last weekend and I fancy them to beat another struggling side, Siena.

Homes sweet homes: I believe Bristol City will climb away from the Championship relegation zone by defeating Wolves, who are in wretched form. Burnley, with the prolific Charlie Austin scoring almost to order, can see off bitter rivals Blackburn at Turf Moor and Nottingham Forest are well equipped to cash in on Hull's recent lapses. Lowly Genoa earned a surprise 1-0 win at Atalanta in the Italian League last weekend and I'm taking them to follow that up at the expense of Chievo.


Please note: Newcastle v Wigan (match No 5) and Sevilla v Valladolid (31) will be decided by the pools panel. There are two void matches: Birmingham v Middlesbrough (11) and Osasuna v Rayo Vallecano (28). 

Pools tips for weekend of November 24-25

Ten draws: Charlton v Huddersfield, Hull v Burnley, Ipswich v Peterborough, Leyton Orient v Preston, Notts County v Swindon, Stevenage v Tranmere, Accrington v Gillingham, Plymouth v Chesterfield, Brechin v Forfar, East Fife v Arbroath.

Best draws: Hull v Burnley, Ipswich v Peterborough, Leyton Orient v Preston, Stevenage v Tranmere, Accrington v Gillingham.

Five aways: Reading, Cardiff, Crystal Palace, Port Vale, Bradford City.

Nine homes: Manchester United, Stoke, Blackburn, Blackpool, Middlesbrough, Wolves, Doncaster, Walsall, Southend.


Pick of the draws: Burnley's 10 men played with great spirit before losing to Charlton in the Championship last weekend and a repeat performance could see them hold high-flying Hull. Ipswich, in the relegation zone, have the worst goal difference of any team in the top four English divisions but they should still get something from the visit of fellow strugglers Peterborough. Leyton Orient's best League One wins this season have come away from home. They are not so hot at the Matchroom Stadium, which is why I think middle-of-the-table Preston will gain a point. Stevenage have continued last season's habit of drawing at home and that is the most likely result of their game against League One leaders Tranmere, especially as both sides have faltered recently. The signing of former England forward James Beattie has given League Two team Accrington a shot in the arm and I'm taking them to deny leaders Gillingham victory.

Away days: Last Saturday's win - their first in this season's Premier League - over highly rated Everton has got the monkey off Reading's back and I believe they will prevail at Wigan, who have only one home victory to their credit. The away record of Championship title challengers Cardiff is nothing to write home about but they will feel confident of success at Barnsley, who hover just above the relegation zone. Championship leaders Crystal Palace will take some stopping and I cannot see an off-form and injury-troubled Leeds doing it. Goals are flowing freely for League Two promotion contenders Port Vale, who will surely defeat lowly Aldershot. A resurgent Bradford City will fancy their chances at Bristol Rovers.

Homes sweet homes: Stoke have not lost on their own ground in the Premier League this season and have conceded only one goal. That should encourage them against Fulham, who will be without their suspended centre-back stalwart Brede Hangeland. The abrupt departure of manager Ian Holloway adversely affected the Championship fortunes of Blackpool but they are showing signs of settling down again under new boss Michael Appleton. Expect them to take three points off Watford. Wolves will be anxious to halt their slide down the table and are worth a punt against inconsistent Nottingham Forest. Southend, eight goals in their past two matches, will be confident of adding higher-placed Rochdale to their list of League Two victims.

Pools tips for weekend of November 17-18

Ten draws: Newcastle v Swansea, Birmingham v Hull, Cardiff v Middlesbrough, Huddersfield v Brighton, Watford v Wolves, Colchester v Bury, Rotherham v Cheltenham, Dumbarton v Morton, Arbroath v Queen of South, Forfar v Stenhousemuir.

Best draws: Birmingham v Hull, Cardiff v Middlesbrough, Watford v Wolves, Colchester v Bury, Dumbarton v Morton.

Five aways: Everton, Coventry, Doncaster, Crewe, Southend.

Nine homes: Queens Park Rangers, West Bromwich Albion, Bolton, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, Crawley, Sheffield United, Swindon, AFC Wimbledon.


Pick of the draws: Birmingham have yet to convince under manager Lee Clark and promotion-chasing Hull are well capable of taking a Championship point from St Andrew's. Third-placed Cardiff have won all eight of their home matches this season but in-form Middlesbrough, who are second, can stop them making it nine. Watford's shock 6-1 victory at Leeds last Saturday gave them an unexpected boost  but their home record is nothing to shout about and Wolves should at least match them. Mid-table Colchester have hit the wall recently, whereas their lowly League One visitors, Bury, have improved enough to take something from the game. Dumbarton, bottom of the Scottish first division, will have been encouraged by their 1-0 win at Cowdenbeath last weekend and can surprise Morton.

Away days: Everton are irresistible these days and must be fancied to heap more misery on Reading, who are still without a win in the Premier League. In League One, bottom club Hartlepool are in danger of being cast adrift from the rest and I believe visitors Coventry will add to their problems this weekend. Similarly, Doncaster can take advantage of the turmoil at cash-strapped Portsmouth, who lost their manager Michael Appleton to Blackpool last week. Crewe, who have won their last three matches, will be confident of prevailing at relegation-troubled Shrewsbury and I'm taking Southend to inflict Torquay's first home defeat of the season in League Two.

Homes sweet homes: Anything less than victory against struggling Southampton on Saturday will be unacceptable to Queens Park Rangers supporters and probably the QPR directors who employed beleaguered manager Mark Hughes. Expect bottom-of-the table QPR to break their Premier League duck. Title contenders Chelsea will be weakened by the absence of John Terry at high-riding West Bromwich Albion, so don't be surprised if the hosts win for the sixth time at home. I'm taking Sheffield United to make ground advantage count against fellow League One promotion contenders Stevenage and AFC Wimbledon to continue their climb away from the relegation zone in League Two by defeating Aldershot.

Pools tips for weekend of November 10-11

Ten draws: Wigan v West Bromwich Albion, Barnsley v Huddersfield, Bristol City v Charlton, Ipswich v Burnley, Bury v Portsmouth, Leyton Orient v Shrewsbury, Oldham v Tranmere, Accrington v Northampton, Exeter v Fleetwood, Southend v Port Vale.

Best draws: Wigan v West Brom, Bristol City v Charlton, Bury v Portsmouth, Exeter v Fleetwood, Southend v Port Vale.

Five aways: Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers, Crystal Palace, Brighton, Bradford City.

Nine homes: Everton, Manchester City, Reading, Blackburn, Coventry, Crewe, Notts County, Stevenage, Yeovil.


Pick of the draws: Wigan, who enjoyed a splendid Premier League victory at Tottenham last Saturday, play host to another in-form team in West Brom, who have surprised a lot of people with their early-season progress. Expect deadlock. Bristol City are in freefall in the Championship but can stop the rot against Charlton, who have disappointed so far in a higher division. In League One, struggling Bury are staging a revival and will be upbeat about collecting something from the visit of Portsmouth, who have lost their past four matches. Exeter got their League Two home form back on track by beating AFC Wimbledon but will find newcomers Fleetwood a tougher proposition. With Southend and Port Vale both on the upgrade, I am taking them to share the spoils at Roots Hall.

Away days: It is impossible to overlook the claims of new Premier League leaders Manchester United. They continue to thrive despite not being at their best and they have a remarkable record at Villa Park, where lowly Aston Villa have won only once this season. Queens Park Rangers are still searching for their first victory but may get it at Stoke, who have averaged less than a goal a game and have won only once themselves. Ian Holloway's Crystal Palace are top of the Championship after thrashing Ipswich 5-0 and look a banker at Peterborough, who are in the relegation zone. Brighton's chances of prevailing at off-form Wolves are also highly recommended. Bradford City should improve their League Two promotion prospects by beating bottom club Aldershot.

Homes sweet homes: Reading, still waiting for a Premier League win this season, are playing better than their position suggests and are worth a punt against Norwich. Coventry have climbed out of the League One relegation zone and are set to continue the good work against Scunthorpe. Crewe are coping well in a higher division and will fancy their chances against Colchester, who may suffer a hangover after being knocked out of the FA Cup by non-League Chelmsford last weekend. Notts County have yet to click at home, despite being in the promotion shake-up. A home match against fellow high-flyers Crawley gives them the perfect opportunity.

Pools tips for weekend of November 3-4

Ten draws: Sunderland v Aston Villa, West Ham v Manchester City, Burnley v Wolves, Charlton v Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday v Peterborough, Dundee v Hearts, Kilmarnock v Inverness, Osasuna v Valladolid, Catania v Lazio, Fiorentina v Cagliari.

Best draws: Sunderland v Aston Villa, West Ham v Manchester City, Charlton v Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday v Peterborough, Dundee v Hearts.

Five aways: Blackpool, Leicester, Celtic, Aberdeen, Udinese.

Nine homes: Norwich, Queens Park Rangers, Tottenham, Crystal Palace, Hull, Hibernian, Deportivo La Coruna, Real Madrid, AC Milan.


Pick of the draws: Sunderland v Aston Villa looks the likeliest low-scoring draw on the coupon as both these Premier League sides are so goal-shy. Manchester City are handily placed but tend to blow hot and cold. They will have their work cut out at West Ham, who are strong at home. Championship promotion contenders Middlesbrough are on a high after knocking Sunderland out of the League Cup but their hosts, Charlton, deserved their recent draws at Leeds and Wolves and can share the spoils again here. Sheffield Wednesday and Peterborough, who play at Hillsborough, had morale-boosting victories last weekend in their fight to escape relegation and I cannot separate them. Dundee have been cut adrift at the bottom of the Scottish Premier League but I've a feeling they will get something from the visit of Hearts, who have been mediocre this season.

Away days: Blackpool have been unlucky in their past two Championship fixtures and I believe they will take it out on Derby, who crashed to relegation strugglers Peterborough last Saturday. Although Leicester were beaten by Crystal Palace last weekend they are fancied to bounce straight back at Watford, who have already lost three at home. Similarly, Scottish Premier League leaders Celtic, who suffered a shock home defeat by Kilmarnock, will be determined to return to winning ways against Dundee United. Aberdeen are also riding high and are worth a punt at Ross. Udinese are better than their lowly position in the Italian League suggests - something which Bologna may discover.

Homes sweet homes: Norwich can carry on their good work of the past few weeks by beating Stoke at Carrow Road. Queens Park Rangers, bottom of the Premier League and without a win, will be confident of breaking their duck against Reading, who will surely be deflated after letting a four-goal lead slip against Arsenal in the League Cup. Managerless but in-form Crystal Palace are worth backing against fellow promotion contenders Blackburn while Deportivo can upset the form book when they entertain Mallorca in the Spanish League. 

Pools tips for weekend of October 27-28

Ten draws: Chelsea v Manchester United, Everton v Liverpool, Blackpool v Brighton, Leicester v Crystal Palace, Millwall v Huddersfield, Crawley v Oldham, Accrington v Bristol Rovers, Cheltenham v Exeter, Rotherham v Plymouth, Wycombe v Oxford.

Best draws: Chelsea v Manchester United, Everton v Liverpool, Leicester v Crystal Palace, Millwall v Huddersfield, Cheltenham v Exeter.

Five aways: Tottenham, Nottingham Forest, Colchester, Gillingham, Bradford City.

Nine homes: Arsenal, Manchester City, Newcastle, Reading, Blackburn, Cardiff, Ipswich, Brentford, Tranmere.


Pick of the draws: Chelsea, the Premier League leaders, play host on Sunday to Manchester United, who are second. The corresponding fixture last season ended all square at 3-3 and I can see a repeat result. Unbeaten Chelsea have played some outstanding football this season. One cannot say the same about United but they have still have the priceless knack of picking up points when not at their best. Everton look a better side than their Merseyside rivals Liverpool but the latter usually raise themselves for this fixture and I've a hunch they will do it again. Championship leaders Leicester have not dropped a home point all season but if any team can dent that record it's Crystal Palace, who have already won three away matches. Millwall, who let slip a three-goal lead at home to Birmingham on Tuesday, are determined to be more resilient for the visit of promotion contenders Huddersfield, and I believe League Two away specialists Exeter will halt the promotion charge of Cheltenham.

Away days: Fifth-placed Tottenham look good for three points at struggling Southampton, who are conceding far too many goals. Nottingham Forest followed last Saturday's 3-1 Championship win over Cardiff with a well-earned point at Blackpool - form which should be good enough to overcome Barnsley. Colchester, with three consecutive victories, are on a roll in League One, whereas their opponents, Shrewsbury, are on a downer. League Two leaders Gillingham suffered a rare defeat at Torquay on Tuesday but I expect them to bounce straight back at AFC Wimbledon. Bradford City have made great strides recently and are worth a punt at Burton.

Homes sweet homes: Newcastle's 10 men were unlucky not to prevail at Sunderland last weekend and will be eager to make West Bromwich Albion pay for it. Reading are still without a Premier League win after seven matches but I'm taking them to end that sequence on Saturday against Fulham, who tend not to travel well. Managerless Blackburn should be too strong for Watford, who may feel the effects of ending Tuesday's Championship match against Cardiff with only nine men. Ipswich, without a home win so far, have slumped to the bottom of the table but perhaps sheer desperation will bring them three points against their rivals in distress, Sheffield Wednesday.

Pools tips for weekend of October 20-21

Ten draws: Sunderland v Newcastle, Tottenham v Chelsea, Huddersfield v Wolves, Watford v Peterborough, Coventry v Notts County, MK Dons v Stevenage, Yeovil v Bury, Bristol Rovers v Torquay, Morecambe v Southend, Dundee United v Aberdeen.

Best draws: Tottenham v Chelsea, Watford v Peterborough, Coventry v Notts County, MK Dons v Stevenage, Morecambe v Southend.

Five aways: Arsenal, Wigan, Manchester City, Leicester, Crawley.

Nine homes: Manchester United, West Ham, Crystal Palace, Derby, Hull, Colchester, Doncaster, Swindon, Bradford City.


Pick of the draws: Tottenham's Andre Villas-Boas will want to make a point against the club which sacked him as manager last season and I believe his in-form team will do it for him. I fancy leaders Chelsea to maintain their unbeaten run in the Premier League but I expect their lead over the two Manchester clubs to have been reduced by Saturday evening. Watford are finding life tough on their own ground (three home defeats already) in the Championship and bottom club Peterborough can take advantage of that. Mark Robins has made an immediate impact since being appointed manager at League One Coventry and I'm taking them to hold promotion-chasing Notts County. Apart from last week, Stevenage have been strong on their travels and their game at MK Dons, who are unbeaten at home, is perhaps the best draw bet on the coupon. Morecambe caused a League Two upset at Rochdale last Saturday and their 2-1 victory should give them heart against higher-placed Southend.

Away days: Arsenal to repeat last season's victory at Carrow Road against a struggling Norwich, who have yet to win in the Premier League this season. There are rumours of dressing-room unrest at Swansea, who are sliding down the table, so it may be worth having a punt on their enterprising visitors, Wigan. Manchester City showed signs of returning to their best form when beating Sunderland 3-0 and they can follow that up at West Bromwich, although the Midlanders have yet to drop a point at the Hawthorns. Leicester, who have climbed to second in the Championship, must be confident of adding Birmingham to their list of victims while, in League One, high-flying Crawley should take maximum points at Hartlepool, who are in all sorts of trouble.

Homes sweet homes: Nigel Clough's Derby are worth a shout against Blackburn, who have three more Championship points but are unsettled following the departure of manager Steve Kean. Colchester ended Stevenage's unbeaten run in League One last weekend with a merited victory and they can do as well against Carlisle, who have been erratic. I believe Doncaster will leapfrog Brentford after playing them on Saturday and don't be surprised if Bradford City make the most of ground advantage against Cheltenham in League Two, even though Cheltenham are unbeaten away.

Pools tips for weekend of October 13-14

Ten draws: Portsmouth v Crewe, Preston v MK Dons, Shrewsbury v Walsall, Northampton v Exeter, Rotherham v Southend, AFC Telford v Grimsby, Macclesfield v Newport, Mansfield v Forest Green, Corby v Altrincham, Worcester v Stalybridge.

Best draws: Portsmouth v Crewe, Shrewsbury v Walsall, Northampton v Exeter, Rotherham v Southend, Mansfield v Forest Green.

Five aways: Stevenage, Brentford, Cambridge, Tamworth, Chester.

Nine homes: Bournemouth, Carlisle, Crawley, Tranmere, Barnet, Chesterfield, Gillingham, Torquay, Luton.


Pick of the draws: League One crisis club Portsmouth are finding life more comfortable away from Fratton Park and will be hard-pressed facing Crewe, who have won their past two matches. Walsall are another League One side doing better away than at home and can earn a point at Shrewsbury on Sunday. Promotion contenders Exeter have won four out of five on their travels in League Two but I'm taking mid-table Northampton to deny them victory on Saturday. Rotherham and Southend, who meet on Saturday, have disappointed so far this season, so don't be surprised if they cancel each other out. Forest Green, although riding high in the Blue Square Premier, have lost their last two games and won't find Mansfield easy opposition.

Away days: Unbeaten Stevenage go from strength to strength in League One and must fancy their chances against Colchester, who are still adapting to their new manager. Brentford will be confident of recording their first win on their travels when they visit struggling Scunthorpe. In the Blue Square Premier, Cambridge are worth a flutter at Gateshead, who don't make the best use of home advantage, while away specialists Tamworth will surely gain three more points at bottom club Hyde. Promotion-chasing Chester, of the Blue Square North, should be backed at Bishop's Stortford.

Homes sweet homes: Lowly League One team Bournemouth, under caretaker-manager Dennis Rofe, are due a change of luck and they can surprise Leyton Orient. Carlisle are a match for anybody on their day. They entertain Notts County, who have slipped out of the play-off places after two consecutive defeats. Carlisle may inflict a third defeat in a row. Barnet, without a win in 11 matches, are in danger of being cast adrift at the bottom of League Two, but I have a hunch they will come good against Plymouth at Underhill. Torquay recovered from 3-0 down to beat Aldershot 4-3 in their last home game. This should put them in good heart for the visit of Accrington, who may find the long journey south counting against them.

Pools tips for weekend of October 6-7

Ten draws: Southampton v Fulham, Blackburn v Wolves, Derby v Brighton, Millwall v Bolton, Brentford v Crawley, Leyton Orient v Sheffield United, Notts County v Tranmere, Cheltenham v Fleetwood, Exeter v Port Vale, Oxford v Gillingham.

Best draws: Southampton v Fulham, Derby v Brighton, Brentford v Crawley, Leyton Orient v Sheffield United, Exeter v Port Vale.

Five aways: Manchester United, Everton, Cardiff, Swindon, Preston.

Nine homes: Chelsea, Liverpool, West Bromwich Albion, Birmingham, Leicester, Peterborough, Coventry, Doncaster, Accrington.

Pick of the draws: Southampton were brought back down to earth by Everton in the Premier League at the weekend but they can give as good as they get against Fulham, who are not the same threat on their travels. Two poor home results have seen Brighton overtaken at the top of the Championship, so they will be eager to make up lost ground against erratic Derby. Promoted Crawley's progress in League One has been admirable and they look set to share the honours at Brentford. Sheffield United's unbeaten league record should survive a trip to Leyton Orient, although the East Londoners are now climbing the table after a bad start. Both Exeter and Port Vale will probably be in the League Two promotion shake-up and I cannot separate them this weekend.

Away days: Manchester United seldom lose two league games in a row. That's why I'm backing them to bounce back from last weekend's defeat by Tottenham when they visit Newcastle on Sunday. Everton are usually slow starters but not this season. Lying second in the Premier League, they will surely have too much for Wigan, who seem destined for another battle against relegation. Championship leaders Cardiff are fancied to strengthen their position after playing struggling Ipswich. In League One, Swindon are expected to show no mercy to bottom club Bury and a rapidly improving Preston are worth a punt against Oldham, who have yet to win at home.

Homes sweet homes: Birmingham surprised everybody by winning at high-flying Brighton last weekend and played well in defeat at Cardiff on Tuesday. That sort of form should be enough to see off promoted Huddersfield. Peterborough have finally woken up after a dreadful start to their Championship season, and I'm taking them to achieve a hat-trick of victories when Nottingham Forest come visiting. Crisis-club Coventry will be relieved to have chalked up their first win in League One at Oldham last Saturday and that will encourage them to gain maximum points against Bournemouth. In League Two, Accrington should be fresher than Rochdale, who had to play most of their midweek goalless draw against Bradford City with 10 men.

Pools tips for weekend of September 29-30

Ten draws: Aston Villa v West Brom, Fulham v Manchester City, Bolton v Crystal Palace, Cardiff v Blackpool, Leyton Orient v Doncaster, Shrewsbury v Swindon, Bradford v Port Vale, Burton v Northampton, Plymouth v Southend, Motherwell v Celtic.

Best draws: Bolton v Crystal Palace, Leyton Orient v Doncaster, Shrewsbury v Swindon, Plymouth v Southend, Motherwell v Celtic.

Five aways: Liverpool, Newcastle, Leeds, Leicester, Accrington.

Nine homes: Manchester United, Stoke, Brighton, Charlton, Hull, Wolves, Colchester, Stevenage, Chesterfield.


Pick of the draws: Crystal Palace's marvellous comeback to beat Cardiff in the Championship last weekend suggests they are a side on the upgrade. They will be confident of a point at Bolton, who have yet to hit their stride this season. Leyton Orient have gone four matches unbeaten in League One, but their opponents, Doncaster, are also in good form and it's difficult to separate them. Swindon are aiming for two consecutive promotions but they won't find it easy at Shrewsbury, who are resilient on their own patch. Plymouth have surprised a few people in League Two, not least Morecambe last Saturday who lost to them 3-2 after being 2-0 ahead. However, Paul Sturrock's Southend will probably be made of sterner stuff, so expect honours to be even. Motherwell lead the Scottish Premier League but visitors Celtic are in hot pursuit and can make their point as well as gain one.

Away days: I'm taking Liverpool, who have slipped into the relegation zone, to gain their first win in the Premier League this season at Norwich, one point and two places (16th) in front of them. Liverpool were the better team, despite losing to Manchester United at Anfield last Sunday, and are worth backing here. The Premier League is an unforgiving place and Newcastle can increase Reading's misery at the bottom of the table. Championship side Leeds caused one of the season's upsets by knocking Everton out of the League Cup and I predict another Leeds triumph when they travel to Bristol City. Middlesbrough have won all three of their home games; Leicester have lost all three of their away matches. At first glance it looks a home banker but I've a hunch that Leicester will turn the form book upside down and take maximum points. Accrington are fancied to add AFC Wimbledon to their list of victims in League Two.

Homes sweet homes: Surprisingly, Stoke are still looking for their first win of the season. I think they will get it when they host Swansea, whose Premier League progress has been halted in the last few weeks. Blackburn may be Championship promotion contenders but the fans are unhappy with the manager Steve Kean and the club's owners. Charlton, who took maximum points from their trip to Ipswich last Saturday, are well equipped to take advantage. Although Colchester are without a victory and struggling in League One, I expect them to get off the mark against Hartlepool, who seldom travel well. Chesterfield have rallied to such an extent in League Two that a home win against Torquay would not come as a surprise.

Pools tips for weekend of September 22-23

Ten draws: Southampton v Aston Villa, Crystal Palace v Cardiff, Leicester v Hull, Peterborough v Wolves, Sheffield Wednesday v Bolton, Bury v MK Dons, Crawley v Tranmere, Oxford v Bradford, Port Vale v Gillingham, Ross v St Johnstone.

Best draws: Crystal Palace v Cardiff, Leicester v Hull, Peterborough v Wolves, Crawley v Tranmere, Ross v St Johnstone.

Five aways: Fulham, Nottingham Forest, Brighton, Sheffield United, Rotherham.

Nine homes: Chelsea, Tottenham, Birmingham, Derby, Brentford, Notts County, Doncaster, Scunthorpe, Accrington.


Pick of the draws: Crystal Palace have recovered well from a bad start to the season in the Championship and I'm taking them to hold Cardiff, who look strong promotion contenders. The rise of Hull, under the managership of Steve Bruce, has been even more impressive and I fancy their chances of gaining a point at Leicester, who have so far failed to live up to expectations. After six matches Peterborough have yet to register a point but they can get off the mark against middle-of-the-table Wolves. Tranmere, unbeaten and clear leaders of League One, may have to settle for a share of the spoils at Crawley, who are adapting well to life in a higher division. St Johnstone will be buoyed by their victory over Celtic in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League last Saturday and can deny promoted Ross maximum points.

Away days: Fulham are often fragile on their travels, so they will be eager to make the most of their trip to Wigan in the Premier League. Nottingham Forest won 7-3 in an extraordinary game at Leeds in the Championship last season. Because of their recent form I believe they'll take maximum points again, even if the result may not be quite so spectacular. Gus Poyet's Brighton are a force to be reckoned with and are strongly recommended at Millwall. In League One, Yeovil are faltering after their bright start, which will only encourage their visitors Sheffield United. In League Two, Rotherham look nailed on to prevail at bottom club Barnet, who have only one point.

Homes sweet homes: Birmingham seem on the up in the Championship and are worth a punt against Barnsley. Derby's results are usually hard to predict but in Burnley they are playing a team as inconsistent as themselves and are worth supporting. Stevenage have won all three of their away games in League One but I have a feeling they'll come unstuck at Doncaster, who followed up their win at Colchester last Saturday by drawing at Sheffield United three days later. Scunthorpe's victory at Shrewsbury last weekend was one of the season's upsets - a genuine coupon-buster. They will be determined to build on this and are worth backing against struggling Colchester.

Please note: The match between Blackpool and Huddersfield (No 11 on the coupon) is being played next Monday and will be adjudicated by the pools panel.

Pools tips for weekend of September 15-16

Ten draws: Queens Park Rangers v Chelsea, Reading v Tottenham, Bristol City v Blackburn, Middlesbrough v Ipswich, Wolves v Leicester, Stevenage v Crewe, AFC Wimbledon v Rochdale, Burton v Oxford, Plymouth v Port Vale, Inverness v Aberdeen.

Best draws: Reading v Tottenham, Bristol City v Blackburn, Wolves v Leicester, Burton v Oxford, Plymouth v Port Vale.

Five aways: West Bromwich Albion, Blackpool, Derby, Southend, Accrington.

Nine homes: Arsenal, Aston Villa, Bolton, Hull, Nottingham Forest, Portsmouth, Sheffield United, Shrewsbury, Chesterfield.

Pick of the draws: Tottenham, under new management, have made a sluggish start to their Premier League season and I'm not convinced things are going to pick up when they visit promoted Reading on Sunday. Reading are a well-organised team under Brian McDermott and can claim at least a share of the spoils. Blackburn are eager to make an instant return to the Premier League but will find Bristol City no pushover at Ashton Gate. Leicester have surprisingly lost both opening away matches in the Championship this season but they will be disappointed not to get anything at relegated Wolves, who are hardly setting the division alight. Don't be surprised if inconsistent Burton hold League Two promotion contenders Oxford while Plymouth can confirm their improvement by matching free-scoring Port Vale.

Away days: West Bromwich Albion are one of the surprise packets of the season so far and must fancy their chances at Fulham, who have lost some influential players this summer. Ian Holloway's Blackpool are quick out of the blocks in the Championship and the league leaders should have too much for injury-troubled Barnsley. Nigel Clough's Derby scored five in their last game against Watford and are worth a punt at Huddersfield. I'm taking improving Southend to prevail at Cheltenham in League Two and for Accrington to make it three away wins in a row when they visit struggling Dagenham & Redbridge.

Homes sweet homes: Battling Aston Villa deserved their point at Newcastle two weeks ago and Paul Lambert's team will be looking to go one better against Premier League high-flyers Swansea. Bolton have a good chance to make up for a disappointing start to their Championship campaign when erratic Watford travel to the Reebok. Portsmouth will be fired up after their emphatic 3-0 victory at Crawley in League One last Sunday, so back them to beat Walsall. League Two Chesterfield, who were denied victory at York in the dying seconds last Saturday, are also worth supporting against Wycombe. 

Pools tips for weekend of September 8-9

Ten draws: Crewe v Tranmere, Hartlepool v Carlisle, Walsall v MK Dons, Bristol Rovers v Aldershot, York v Chesterfield, Cambridge v Wrexham, Ebbsfleet v Mansfield, Kidderminster v Southport, Macclesfield v Braintree, Colwyn Bay v Boston.

Best draws: Crewe v Tranmere, Walsall v MK Dons, Bristol Rovers v Aldershot, York v Chesterfield, Cambridge v Wrexham.

Five aways: Preston, Sheffield United, Gillingham, Fleetwood, Luton.

Nine homes: Denmark, Brentford, Coventry, Swindon, Northampton, Torquay, Wycombe, Gateshead, Tamworth.


Pick of the draws: Table-topping Tranmere have got off to a flyer in League One but promoted Crewe are adjusting well to a higher division, which suggests the points will be shared. Walsall have been punching above their weight so far and it wouldn't surprise me to see them deny MK Dons maximum points. There's a stalemate look to Bristol Rovers v Aldershot as both teams have started poorly in League Two. Relegated Chesterfield secured a well-deserved point at Gillingham last weekend and can do the same when they visit League Two newcomers York. Wrexham are beginning to thrive in the Blue Square Premier but Cambridge, traditionally sound at home, can match them.

Away days: Preston, 4-1 winners over highly-rated Swindon last Sunday, must be fancied to add to Bury's problems in League One. Sheffield United will be even stronger favourites to prevail at Scunthorpe, who are bottom and pointless after four games. League Two leaders Gillingham will surely make it three away league victories in a row when they travel to basement club Barnet and newcomers Fleetwood are worth a punt at Morecambe, who are less reliable at home than away. In the Blue Square Premier I expect goal-hungry Luton to record their fourth consecutive away win when they visit Alfreton.

Homes sweet homes: Denmark were never easy opponents in this summer's European Championships. If they can beat Holland then they can put the Czech Republic to the sword in the opening round of World Cup qualifying matches. Managerless Coventry are due a change of fortune in League One and I believe they will get it when higher-placed Stevenage come visiting. In League Two, Wycombe are capable of better than they have shown so far this season and they seem good value against inconsistent Cheltenham. Gateshead look like challenging for promotion from the Blue Square Bet Premier and should be backed against Dartford.

Pools tips for weekend of September 1-2

Ten draws: Liverpool v Arsenal, Burnley v Brighton, Hull v Bolton, Nottingham Forest v Charlton, Bury v Notts County, Stevenage v Shrewsbury, AFC Wimbledon v Dagenham & Redbridge, Plymouth v Northampton, Rotherham v Bradford, York v Oxford.

Best draws: Liverpool v Arsenal, Burnley v Brighton, Hull v Bolton, Bury v Notts County, AFC Wimbledon v Dagenham & Redbridge.

Five aways: Manchester United, Bristol City, Blackpool, Middlesbrough, Brentford.

Nine homes: Newcastle, Tottenham, Wigan, Derby, Ipswich, Crawley, Hartlepool, Portsmouth, Tranmere.


Pick of the draws: Liverpool and Arsenal have made stuttering starts to the Premier League season and I cannot see either doing enough to gain maximum points when they play at Anfield on Sunday. Brighton hit Barnsley for five last weekend after going goalless in their previous two matches. That timely return to form will encourage them on their trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley. Hull and Bolton will be licking their wounds after losing to lower division opposition in the League Cup this week and they will probably be nursing a hangover when they meet in the Championship on Saturday. In League One, Notts County can recover from their unexpected home defeat by Walsall when they travel to Bury. It is difficult to separate AFC Wimbledon and Dagenham & Redbridge, who are both struggling in League Two.

Away days: Manchester United, even without the injured Wayne Rooney, will be fancied at Southampton, who have yet to get off the mark in the Premier League. In the Championship, I expect in-form Bristol City to make life unpleasant for Barnsley and for table-topping Blackpool to continue their winning streak against Leicester, who have lost their past three games. Middlesbrough have recovered their poise after a poor performance on the opening day of the season and I'm tipping them to prevail at Millwall, who often fail to make use of home advantage. Brentford, emphatic 5-1 home winners over Crewe last weekend, will be looking forward to their trip to Walsall in League One.

Homes sweet homes: Wigan, two wins from their last two encounters, should be backed against Stoke, who are still reeling from their early League Cup exit when League One Swindon beat them in extra time. I have a hunch that Nigel Clough's Derby will come good against inconsistent Watford in the Championship and that Ipswich will bounce back from consecutive defeats when they take on Huddersfield. There seems no end to Portsmouth's financial troubles but there is a great spirit at Fratton Park, despite the adversity, and I predict three League One points when ailing Oldham come calling on Saturday.

Pools tips for weekend of August 25-26

Ten draws: Norwich v Queens Park Rangers, Tottenham v West Brom, Charlton v Hull, Watford v Birmingham, Bournemouth v Preston, Brentford v Crewe, Oldham v Stevenage, Scunthorpe v Yeovil, Swindon v MK Dons, Chesterfield v Rotherham.

Best draws: Norwich v Queens Park Rangers, Tottenham v West Brom, Bournemouth v Preston, Swindon v MK Dons, Chesterfield v Rotherham

Five aways: Manchester City, Arsenal, Leeds, Sheffield United, Tranmere.

Nine homes: Chelsea, Manchester United, Southampton, Sunderland, Brighton, Coventry, Notts County, Aldershot, Bradford.


Pick of the draws: Norwich and QPR will be licking their wounds after being trounced 5-0 last weekend by Fulham and Swansea respectively. I'm expecting a low-key, low-scoring stalemate at Carrow Road. West Bromwich Albion's clear-cut victory over Liverpool will have given them enormous confidence, which they will take into their game at Tottenham, who may need time to adjust to their new manager. I believe Preston, with an almost completely new team, will have a better season in League One and I'm tipping them to take a point off Bournemouth. Swindon and MK Dons are fancied to be promotion contenders, so have a punt on them cancelling each other out. Relegated Chesterfield were desperately unlucky to lose to AFC Wimbledon in League Two last Saturday and are in the mood to hold promotion favourites Rotherham.

Away days: Premier League champions Manchester City will probably take advantage of the teething problems Liverpool are experiencing under their new manager Brendan Rodgers. Arsenal will be eager to atone for their two dropped home points against Sunderland last Saturday and should be backed against Stoke. In the Championship, Leeds must be fancied to inflict more misery on Peterborough, who have no points from two matches. League One Sheffield United, who last season missed promotion by the narrowest of margins, should be too strong for Colchester. Tranmere, who visit Shrewsbury, have got off to a flyer in League Two and can make it three wins out of three.

Homes sweet homes: Promoted Southampton gained a lot of credit in their 3-2 defeat by Manchester City last Sunday and look a good bet against Wigan, who face another season of struggle. Sunderland were admirably resourceful in their goalless draw against Arsenal last weekend, which should stand them in good stead against Premier League newcomers Reading. Championship side Brighton are without a goal from their opening two fixtures but that will surely change on Saturday when Barnsley are their visitors. Aldershot will press their League Two promotion claims with victory over Cheltenham, losing play-off finalists last season. 

Pools tips for weekend of August 18-19

Ten draws: Fulham v Norwich, West Ham v Aston Villa, Birmingham v Charlton, Burnley v Bolton, Crystal Palace v Watford, Leeds v Wolves, Crawley v Scunthorpe, Walsall v Doncaster, Bristol Rovers v Oxford, Kilmarnock v Motherwell.

Best draws: West Ham v Aston Villa, Burnley v Bolton, Crystal Palace v Watford, Leeds v Wolves, Walsall v Doncaster.

Five aways: Liverpool, Chelsea, Middlesbrough, Brentford, Bournemouth.

Nine homes: Arsenal, Manchester City, Newcastle, Queens Park Rangers, Leicester, Nottingham Forest, Crewe, Preston, Fleetwood.


Pick of the draws: Aston Villa, under the new management of Paul Lambert, are a good bet to share the spoils at promoted West Ham, who may struggle to adjust to a higher division. I expect relegated Bolton to come away from their Lancashire derby at Burnley with a Championship point. Watford, under new owners and a new manager in Gianfranco Zola, can do the same at Crystal Palace. Relegated Wolves should not fear a visit to Leeds, who let themselves down by dropping so many points at Elland Road last season. Walsall v relegated Doncaster looks the best of the bunch in League One.

Away days: Liverpool seem to have shaped up well in pre-season and new manager Brendan Rodgers can get his campaign off to a positive start at West Bromwich Albion. Chelsea, who have been busy strengthening their squad during the summer, will surely be too strong for Wigan, who will face another battle for survival. In the Championship, Middlesbrough are worth a punt at Barnsley, who narrowly avoided relegation last season. In League One, Brentford can continue their good away form of last season with maximum points at Bury while Bournemouth are nailed on to beat crisis-club Portsmouth.

Homes sweet homes: Take a chance on Newcastle putting one over Spurs, who look weaker than last season after the departure of their manager Harry Redknapp. Queens Park Rangers appear to have made some shrewd summer signings, which should serve them well against Swansea, who may miss the influence of their former manager Brendan Rodgers. Promoted Crewe's 5-0 rout of Hartlepool in the League Cup last weekend should inspire them against Notts County in League One. I'm taking newcomers Fleetwood to make a winning debut in League Two when they play Torquay at Highbury.

Pools tips for weekend of August 11-12

Ten draws: Mechelen v Club Brugge, Standard Liege v Beveren, Heerenveen v NEC, Nancy v Brest, St Etienne v Lille, San Jose Earthquakes v Seattle Sounders, Brondby v Sonderjyske, Randers v Esbjerg, Elfsborg v Malmo, Brann v Haugesund.

Best draws: Mechelen v Club Brugge, Nancy v Brest, St Etienne v Lille, Randers v Esbjerg, Elfsborg v Malmo.

Six aways: Lokeren, Waregem, Feyenoord, Marseille, Lyon, Silkeborg.

Nine homes: Bayern Munich, Gent, Mons, Ajax, Twente, Paris Saint-Germain, Sochaux, Dallas, Horsens.

Australian pools tips for Saturday August 4

Ten draws: Westgate v Keilor, Malvern v Box Hill, Melbourne v North Sunshine, Peninsula Strikers v Fitzroy, Essendon v Geelong, Bayswater v Inglewood, Morley v Gosnells, Melville v Subiaco, Somerset v Riverside, Glenorchy v University.

Best draws: Westgate v Keilor, Malvern v Box Hill, Bayswater v Inglewood, Morley v Gosnells, Melville v Subiaco.

Six aways: Sydenham, Doveton, Moreland United, Knights, Rockingham, Wanneroo.

Nine homes: Pascoe Vale, Moreland City, Preston, Sporting Whittlesea, Corio, Lalor, Westvale, Canning, Mandurah.

Australian pools tips for Saturday July 28

Ten draws: Clifton Hill v La Trobe, Box Hill v Morwell, Mornington v Eastern Lions, Cairnlea v Sporting Whittlesea, Inglewood v Perth, Cockburn v Ashfield, Adelaide Raiders v Campbelltown, Olympic v Playford, West Adelaide v Ad Hills, Western Toros v Cove.


Best draws: Clifton Hill v La Trobe, Box Hill v Morwell, Inglewood v Perth, Olympic v Playford, Western Toros v Cove.


Six aways: Ballarat, Avondale, Morley, Croydon, Metro Stars, Northern District.


Nine homes: Keilor, Malvern, Noble Park, Sydenham, Sorrento, Rockingham, Wanneroo, Modbury, Para Hills.

Australian pools tips for Saturday July 21

Ten draws: Diamond Valley v Noble Park, Langwarrin v Mornington, Melbourne v Sydenham, Sunbury v Williamstown, Canning v Rockingham, Wanneroo v Swan, Campbelltown v Comets, Metro Stars v Blue Eagles, Ad Cobras v Modbury, NAB v Western Toros.

Best draws: Langwarrin v Mornington, Sunbury v Williamstown, Canning v Rockingham, Wanneroo v Swan, Metro Stars v Blue Eagles.

Six aways: Fawkner, Banyule, Geelong, Fitzroy, Cockburn, Enfield.

Nine homes: Eastern Lions, Avondale, Sporting Whittlesea, Corio, Essendon, Northern Falcons, Mandurah, UWA Nedlands, Cumberland.

Australian pools tips for Saturday July 14

Ten draws: Altona v Bulleen, Keilor v La Trobe, Cairnlea v Hume, Williamstown v Melbourne, Lalor v Surf Coast, Inglewood v Athena, Shamrock v Ashfield, Melville v Fremantle, UWA Nedlands v Subiaco, Kingborough v Clarence.


Best draws: Keilor v La Trobe, Cairnlea v Hume, Lalor v Surf Coast, Shamrock v Ashfield, Kingborough v Clarence.


Six aways: Avondale, Strathmore, Essendon, Bayswater, Sorrento, Kingsway.


Nine homes: Pascoe, Brunswick, Mornington, Sydenham, Springvale, Westvale, Joondalup, Dianella, Gosnells.

Australian pools tips for Saturday July 7

Ten draws: Pascoe Vale v Bulleen, Banyule v La Trobe, Moreland v Brunswick, Avondale v Cairnlea, Knights v Baywater, Dianella v Canning, Adelaide Raiders v Metro Stars, Seaford v Noarlunga, West Toros v Northern Demons, Somerset v Prospect.

Best draws: Pascoe Vale v Bulleen, Avondale v Cairnlea, Knights v Bayswater, Dianella v Canning, Seaford v Noarlunga.

Six aways: Port Melbourne, Perth, Shamrock, Morley, Melville, Adelaide City.

Nine homes: Athena, Sorrento, Ashfield, Rockingham, Wanneroo, Fremantle, Subiaco, Croydon, South Adelaide.

Australian pools tips for Saturday June 30

Ten draws: Werribee City v Altona Magic, East Altona v Banyule, Eastern Lions v Malvern City, Langwarin v Box Hill, Cairnlea v North Sunshine, Balcatta v Stirling Lions, Dianella v Wanneroo, Campbelltown v Adelaide Comets, Olympic v Modbury, Adelaide Hills v Cove.


Best draws: Langwarrin v Box Hill, Cairnlea v North Sunshine, Dianella v Wanneroo, Olympic v Modbury, Adelaide Hills v Cove.


Six aways: Brunswick City, Sydenham, Doveton, Inglewood, Ashfield, Fremantle United.


Nine homes: Noble Park, Avondale, Sporting Whittlesea, Perth, Gosnells, Mandurah, Quinns, UWA Nedlands, Metro Stars.

Australian pools tips for Saturday June 23

Ten draws: Keilor v Clifton Hill, Sydenham v Hume, Williamstown v Yarraville, Fitzroy v Heatherton, Swan v Cockburn, Comets v WT Birkalla, Croydon v Metro Stars, Pirates v Playford, South Adelaide v Cumberland, Riverside v Devonport.

Best draws: Keilor v Clifton Hill, Sydenham v Hume, Swan v Cockburn, Croydon v Metro Stars, Pirates v Playford.

Six aways: Mornington, Sporting Whittlesea, Stirling Lions, Rockingham, Wanneroo, Ad Cobras.

Nine homes: Pascoe Vale, Box Hill, South Springvale, Beaumaris, Old Scotch, Athena, Balcatta, Inglewood, Morley.

Australian pools tips for Saturday June 16

Ten draws: Werribee v Bulleen, La Trobe v Preston, Eastern Lions v Doncaster, Yarraville v Sunbury, Ashfield v Mandurah, Melville v Subiaco, Olympic v Para Hills, Northern Demons v Noarlunga, Launceston United v Riverside, Somerset v Launceston City.


Best draws: Eastern Lions v Doncaster, Yarraville v Sunbury, Ashfield v Mandurah, Melville v Subiaco, Northern Demons v Noarlunga.


Six aways: Avondale, Old Scotch, Inglewood, Sorrento, Swan, Croydon.


Nine homes: Clifton Hill, Moreland, Mornington, South Springvale, Nunawading, Armadale, Wanneroo, Blue Eagles, Metro Stars.

Australian Pools tips for Saturday June 9

Ten draws: Fremantle v Ashfield, Gosnells v Rockingham, Swan v Dianella, Croydon v Blue Eagles, Para Hills v White City, Cove v West Adelaide, Sturt v Seaford, Tilford Zebras v New Town, Hobart v Metro, Tarrawanna v Wollongong.

Best draws: Gosnells v Rockingham, Para Hills v White City, Cove v West Adelaide, Sturt v Seaford, Tilford Zebras v New Town.

Six aways: Bayswater, Wanneroo, Cockburn, Metro Stars, Cumberland, Noarlunga.

Nine homes: Balcatta, Mandurah, Joondalup, UWA Nedlands, Adelaide City, Western Strikers, South Adelaide, Adelaide Hills, Northern Demons.

Pools tips for Saturday June 2

Ten draws: Ballarat v Keilor, Preston v East Altona, Melbourne University v Yarraville, Beaumaris v Old Scotch, Knights v Joondalup, Sorrento v Balcatta, Canning v Mandurah, WT Birkalla v Western Strikers, Para Hills v South Adelaide, Seaford v Northern Demons.


Best draws: Ballarat v Keilor, Beaumaris v Old Scotch, Knights v Joondalup, Canning v Mandurah, Para Hills v South Adelaide.


Six aways: South Springvale, Sporting Whittlesea, Heatherton, Perth, Croydon, Metro Stars.


Nine homes: Pascoe Vale, Athena, Bayswater, Ashfield, Cockburn, Dianella, Rockingham, Blue Eagles, Adelaide Cobras.

Pools tips for Saturday May 26

Ten draws: Keilor v Banyule, Noble Park v Doncaster, North Sunshine v Williamstown, Yarraville v Whittlesea Utd, Doveton v Fitzroy, Sorrento v Bayswater, Subiaco v UWA Nedlands, Western Strikers v Blue Eagles, Cumberland v Adelaide Cobras, Noarlunga v NAB.


Best draws: Keilor v Banyule, North Sunshine v Williamstown, Doveton v Fitzroy, Sorrento v Bayswater, Western Strikers v Blue Eagles.


Six aways: Pascoe Vale, Kingston, Avondale, Athena, Canning, Wanneroo.


Nine homes: Fawkner, La Trobe, Eastern Lions, Nunawading, Balcatta, Ashfield, Kingsway, Campbelltown, Metro Stars.

Pools tips for Saturday May 19

Ten draws: La Trobe v East Altona, Moreland v Fawkner, Diamond Valley v Box Hill, Avondale v Sydenham, Melbourne v Cairnlea, Strathmore v N Falcons, Brandon Park v Frankston, Inglewood v Bunbury, Melville v Joondalup C, Port Kembla v Fernhill.


Best draws: La Trobe v East Altona, Moreland v Fawkner, Avondale v Sydenham, Inglewood v Bunbury, Melville v Joondalup C.


Six aways: Banyule, North Sunshine, Hume, Doveton, Perth, Ashfield.


Nine homes: Pascoe Vale, Malvern, Williamstown, Essendon, Westvale, Athena, Bayswater, Shamrock, Wanneroo.

Pools tips for this weekend May 12-13

Ten draws: Everton v Newcastle, Sunderland v Manchester United, Espanyol v Sevilla, Real Vallecano v Granada, Catania v Udinese, Parma v Bologna, Nancy v St Etienne, Paris St Germain v Rennes, Beira Mar v Olhanense, Sporting Lisbon v Braga.

Best draws: Everton v Newcastle, Sunderland v Manchester United, Espanyol v Sevilla, Catania v Udinese, Parma v Bologna.

Five aways: Bolton, Liverpool, Barcelona, Osasuna, Inter Milan.

Nine homes: Chelsea, Manchester City, Norwich, Wigan, Malaga, Real Madrid, Chievo, Genoa, Nice.

Pick of the draws: Everton, as usual, are finishing strongly but they may struggle to overcome Newcastle, who are still trying for automatic Champions League qualification and have been the surprise packet of the season. At first glance, title-chasing Manchester United may look away bankers at Sunderland but Martin O'Neill and his players will be eager to end their campaign on a positive note by finishing in the top half of the table. Sevilla will want to avoid their fourth consecutive away defeat in the Spanish League and can get something at Espanyol, who were thumped by Barcelona last weekend. Mid-table Catania's draw at Roma last weekend was well-earned, so Udinese, third in the Italian League, won't have things all their own way. It is difficult to predict a winner between Parma (eighth) and Bologna (ninth).

Away days: Bolton need maximum points on Sunday if they are to have any chance of staying in the Premier League. I believe they will get them at Stoke, who are ending the season with a whimper. Note  that Stoke lost their final game of last season to Wigan, which enabled the Lancashire club to escape relegation. Liverpool, still licking their wounds after their defeat in the FA Cup final, will be doing all they can to finish above their Merseyside rivals, Everton, and are worth backing at Swansea. Barcelona, who visit mid-table Real Betis, cannot be ignored while Osasuna will surely be too good for bottom club Real Santander.  Inter Milan are finishing the Italian League season with a flourish and will be quietly fancying their chances of beating Lazio, who are one point and two places above them.

Homes sweet homes: Norwich were terrific in their thrilling 3-3 draw at Arsenal last Saturday and should relish the visit of Aston Villa, who are playing as though they cannot wait for the season to end. Wigan are on a high after avoiding relegation from the Premier League for the third consecutive year and will be confident of beating relegated Wolves. In the Italian League, Genoa are worth a punt against Palermo and in the French League I have a hunch that Nice will upset the better-placed Evian TG.

Pools tips for this weekend May 5-6

Ten draws: Bournemouth v Preston, Oldham v Carlisle, Tranmere v Scunthorpe, Dagenham & Redbridge v Bristol Rovers, Hereford v Torquay, Hamilton v Partick, Morton v Raith, Berwick v Stranraer, Montrose v Clyde, Atletico Madrid v Malaga.


Best draws: Tranmere v Scunthorpe, Dagenham & Redbridge v Bristol Rovers, Hereford v Torquay, Berwick v Stranraer, Montrose v Clyde.


Five aways: Sheffield United, Crawley, Barnet, Oxford, Ross.


Nine homes: Arsenal, Manchester United, Charlton, Leyton Orient, Sheffield Wednesday, Plymouth, Southend, Dundee, Albion.


Pick of the draws: Tranmere tend to draw at home (10 times this season); Scunthorpe tend to draw away (11). As only four points separate them in League One, there is good reason to think the spoils will be shared. Bristol Rovers have started scoring heavily in League Two - seven against Burton, five against Accrington - but Dagenham & Redbridge will probably offer a sterner test on their own ground. Hereford must win to stay in the Football League; their opponents, Torquay, may need to win to gain automatic promotion. I don't think either will be successful. Berwick's indifferent home form in the Scottish third division will encourage Stranraer while Montrose and Clyde, who both find wins elusive, play each other.


Away days: Promotion-seeking Sheffield United are a confident selection at Exeter, who were relegated from League One last weekend. Victory at mid-table Accrington will guarantee Crawley promotion from League Two. Despite their shock home defeat by Hereford last weekend I believe they will go up for the second season in a row. Barnet will be eager to follow up last weekend's resounding success against AFC Wimbledon and only maximum points at Burton will guarantee them safety. It's win or bust for Oxford as they strive for a play-off place and I cannot see Port Vale putting up sufficient resistance. Ross, the runaway Scottish first division champions, will surely make hay against Queen of the South, who have been relegated. 


Homes sweet homes: Leyton Orient have faded badly in League One but they will be keen to end the season on a winning note against bottom club Rochdale. In League Two, I'm taking lowly Plymouth to surprise Cheltenham, who are assured of a play-off place but have lost their last five away matches. Second-placed Dundee's home form in the Scottish first division has been unreliable but they may raise their game against Livingston, who travel well. In the Scottish second division, Albion must beat bottom club Stirling to have any chance of avoiding the relegation play-offs. I'm backing them to do it.

Pools tips for this weekend April 28-29

Ten draws: Leeds v Leicester, Watford v Middlesbrough, Colchester v Tranmere, Scunthorpe v Bournemouth, Sheffield United v Stevenage, Walsall v Huddersfield, Aldershot v Rotherham, Oxford v Southend, Torquay v Crewe, Livingston v Morton.


Best draws: Watford v Middlesbrough, Colchester v Tranmere, Aldershot v Rotherham, Oxford v Southend, Livingston v Morton.


Five aways: Liverpool, Newcastle, Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday, MK Dons.


Nine homes: Everton, Swansea, Tottenham, Birmingham, Crystal Palace, Southampton, West Ham, Bury, Carlisle.


Pick of the draws: Middlesbrough have to win to stand any chance of getting into the Championship play-offs but they will be hard-pushed to manage it at Watford, who have enjoyed some good results this season. Colchester are the League One draw specialists (20 this season) and must be fancied for another against Tranmere, who are one place below them. Rotherham have gained some momentum in League Two under new manager Steve Evans and I believe they will sustain it at Aldershot. Oxford have faltered in their attempt to gain a play-off place and will find high-flying Southend hard to overcome. Livingston's home record has let them down in the Scottish first division, which will encourage Morton, their opponents.


Away days: Liverpool are playing better than their form and Premier League position suggest and should be backed at Norwich. Newcastle are on a really hot streak and making a convincing push for a Champions League spot. They will be expecting maximum points from their trip to relegation-troubled Wigan. In the Championship, Brighton should see off Barnsley, who look as if they cannot wait for the season to finish. In League One, promotion-seeking Sheffield Wednesday and play-off certainties MK Dons are confident selections at Brentford and bottom club Rochdale respectively.


Homes sweet homes: After holding Manchester United to a thrilling 4-4 draw at Old Trafford last Sunday, Everton, ending the season strongly as usual, will be looking forward to the visit of Fulham. It's high time Tottenham reversed their slump in form and they have an excellent opportunity against Blackburn, who are favourites for relegation from the Premier League. Reading may take their foot off the pedal now that promotion to the Premier League and their status as champions have been assured. If so, then Chris Hughton's Birmingham are well equipped to take advantage. Crystal Palace will be eager to end a disappointing Championship season on a high note and are worth a punt against play-off contenders Cardiff. Palace will also be looking to avenge their Carling Cup semi-final defeat on penalties.

Pools tips for this weekend April 21-22

Ten draws: Aston Villa v Sunderland, Fulham v Wigan, Brighton v Birmingham, Ipswich v Millwall, Peterborough v Watford, MK Dons v Sheffield United, AFC Wimbledon v Torquay, Gillingham v Swindon, Plymouth v Oxford, Port Vale v Bristol Rovers.


Best draws: Fulham v Wigan, Ipswich v Millwall, MK Dons v Sheffield United, Gillingham v Swindon, Plymouth v Oxford.


Five aways: Norwich, Southampton, Preston, Shrewsbury, Crawley.


Nine homes: Manchester United, Newcastle, Queens Park Rangers, Bristol City, Coventry, Portsmouth, Charlton, Notts County, Crewe.


Pick of the draws: I expect Wigan's astonishing revival to continue at Fulham, where they look good for at least a point. After beating Manchester United and Arsenal a trip to Craven Cottage should hold no fears. Millwall's away form has kept them in the Championship and I'm tipping them to hold underperforming Ipswich. Sheffield United's winning run in League One could be halted by MK Dons, who look assured of a play-off place. In League Two, promotion-bound Swindon may have their work cut out at Gillingham, who are a match for anybody on their day. At the other end of the table a draw will edge Plymouth nearer safety and I believe they will get it against play-off contenders Oxford. 


Away days: Wigan's unexpected win at Arsenal has made Blackburn odds-on to be relegated from the Premier League. Morale must be low and I'll be surprised if Norwich don't take advantage. Southampton will clinch promotion to the Premier with victory at Middlesbrough, whose own hopes of going up are fast fading. Preston beat Sheffield Wednesday in League One last weekend and are worth a punt at Oldham, who have lost more at home than they've won. Shrewsbury and Crawley, striving for promotion from League Two and playing well, look good for three points at Accrington and Dagenham & Redbridge respectively. 


Homes sweet homes: Queens Park Rangers, battling for Premier League survival, have won their last three home games and will fancy their chances against Tottenham, who are woefully off-form and struggling to stay in the top four. Coventry and Portsmouth must win to have any chance of avoiding relegation from the Championship. I think they'll manage it against respectively Doncaster, who are already down, and Derby, who have little to play for. Crewe have not lost since mid-February in League Two and are worth supporting against Cheltenham, who are also competing for a play-off place.