Pools tips for December 31-January 2

Ten draws: Crystal Palace v Norwich, Southampton v Chelsea, Swansea v Man City, Derby v Wigan, MK Dons v Colchester, Peterborough v Brentford, Stevenage v Gillingham, Walsall v Sheff Utd, Exeter v Wycombe, Scunthorpe v Rochdale.

Best draws: Crystal Palace v Norwich, Derby v Wigan, Peterborough v Brentford, Stevenage v Gillingham, Walsall v Sheff Utd.

Best away bets: Newcastle, Bournemouth, Leicester, Bradford City, Wolves, Chesterfield.

Best home bets: Arsenal, Liverpool, Sunderland, Birmingham, Queens Park Rangers, Leyton Orient, Preston, Bristol Rovers, Newport, Celtic.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Pools tips for weekend of December 28-29

Ten draws: Hull v Fulham, Newcastle v Arsenal, West Ham v West Brom, Blackburn v Birmingham, Nottingham Forest v Leeds, Watford v Queens Park Rangers, Shrewsbury v Preston, Wolves v Leyton Orient, Accrington v Southend, Wycombe v Fleetwood.

Best draws: Hull v Fulham, Newcastle v Arsenal, West Ham v West Brom, Watford v Queens Park Rangers, Wolves v Leyton Orient.

Best weekend away bets: Swansea, Liverpool, Man Utd, Derby, Peterborough, Walsall.

Best weekend home bets: Man City, Tottenham, Bournemouth, Doncaster, Huddersfield, Wigan, Bristol City, Crawley, Chesterfield, Portsmouth.

Pick of the draws: Hull's lack of goal power will give relegation-threatened Fulham a chance of parity. Arsenal have gone off the boil, resulting in them losing the Premier League leadership. Newcastle, by contrast, are in good nick and the visitors will be pressed to come away with anything more than a draw. West Ham, averaging under a goal a game in the Premier League, host ailing and manager-less West Brom, who are two points and one place above them. The smart money is on a stalemate. Watford will be anxious to improve their wretched home form in the Championship and I think they will avoid defeat against Queens Park Rangers, who have not been entirely convincing lately. In League One, second in the table Wolves are at home to leaders Leyton Orient and I expect deadlock.

Away days: Mid-table Swansea are worth a wager at Aston Villa, who are hopeless at home. Liverpool, the new Premier League leaders and with Luis Suarez unstoppable, must fancy their chances of winning at Stamford Bridge, even if Chelsea are unbeaten there this season and among the title contenders. Manchester United now look capable of a long unbeaten run and will probably be too strong for Chris Hughton's Norwich. Steve McLaren has worked wonders since taking over as manager at Derby and Barnsley, the bottom Championship club, should present few problems. League One promotion hopefuls Peterborough can take maximum points off inconsistent Carlisle and Walsall, on the strength of their away prowess, are worth a punt at Gillingham.

Homes sweet homes: Bournemouth, with recent away victories at Reading and Sheffield Wednesday, are punching above their weight in the Championship and will be confident of upsetting Ipswich. Former Brentford boss Uwe Rosler has made an immediate impact at Wigan since replacing Owen Coyle as manager and I've a hunch that his team will defeat leaders Burnley. Bristol City find themselves bottom of League One at Christmas but I don't believe they will be there for long. Victory over Stevenage, another relegation-troubled side, will help their cause.

Pools tips for December 26 (Boxing Day)

Ten draws: Aston Villa v Crystal Palace, Barnsley v Bolton, Blackburn v Sheffield Wednesday, Nottingham Forest v Queens Park Rangers, Carlisle v Preston, Colchester v Stevenage, Accrington v York, Morecambe v Fleetwood, Wycombe v Newport, Partick v Inverness.

Best draws: Barnsley v Bolton, Blackburn v Sheffield Wednesday, Colchester v Stevenage, Accrington v York, Morecambe v Fleetwood.

Best away bets: Manchester United, Arsenal, Leeds, Ipswich, Tranmere, Hibernian.

Best home bets: Newcastle, Tottenham, Bournemouth, Leicester, Wigan, Bradford City, Bristol City, Wolves, Chesterfield, Oxford.

Pools tips for weekend of December 21-22

Ten draws: Crystal Palace v Newcastle, Brighton v Huddersfield, Millwall v Middlesbrough, Reading v Wigan, Peterborough v Bradford City, Swindon v Coventry, Walsall v Carlisle, Hartlepool v Burton, Scunthorpe v Morecambe, Elgin v East Stirling.

Best draws: Crystal Palace v Newcastle, Reading v Wigan, Peterborough v Bradford City, Walsall v Carlisle, Hartlepool v Burton.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester City, Blackburn, Port Vale, Sheffield United, Wycombe, Oxford.

Best weekend home bets: Manchester United, West Bromwich, Burnley, Derby, Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday, Crewe, Mansfield, Newport, Plymouth.

Pick of the draws: Incoming manager Tony Pulis has given Crystal Palace a fighting chance of Premier League survival but they may have to settle for parity with visitors Newcastle, another team in form. Reading are in the Championship play-off positions but won't have things all their own way against Wigan, who have been boosted by the managerial appointment of Uwe Rosler. Peterborough have hit the wall in League One recently and they meet highly respected opponents in Bradford City, who drew with leaders Leyton Orient last weekend. Carlisle are climbing further away from the relegation zone and look good for a point at Walsall, who are vulnerable at home. Burton's outstanding away record in League Two should should serve them well at improving Hartlepool.

Away days: Manchester City, who are scoring for fun, visit relegation-haunted Fulham and have a marvellous opportunity to improve their away form. The same can be said for Blackburn, who visit second from bottom Yeovil in the Championship. In League One, Port Vale, with five away wins to their credit so far, are worth a punt at MK Dons, whose form is up and down like a yo-yo. Nigel Clough has moved Sheffield United out of the relegation zone in his short time as manager and a trip to troubled Stevenage should hold no fears. In League Two, I'm taking Wycombe to increase Northampton's pain near the foot of the table and leaders Oxford to strengthen their promotion challenge by beating York.

Homes sweet homes: I believe West Bromwich Albion will put the sacking of manager Steve Clarke behind them to defeat Hull, who are four points and places above them. Championship strugglers Sheffield Wednesday, under the temporary charge of Stuart Gray, raised a few eyebrows by winning at Watford last Saturday and I've a hunch they will repeat the feat against Bournemouth this Saturday. In League One, lowly Crewe's confidence has gained a much needed boost by victory over Crawley and a hard-earned point against Coventry. Don't be surprised if they follow that up by overcoming mid-table Shrewsbury.

Betting info: I scored five out of six with my away selections last weekend.

Pools tips for weekend of December 14-15

Ten draws: Hull v Stoke, Newcastle v Southampton, Tottenham v Liverpool, West Ham v Sunderland, Bournemouth v Birmingham, Wigan v Bolton, Colchester v Notts County, Sheffield United v Swindon, AFC Wimbledon v Mansfield, Rochdale v Fleetwood.

Best draws: Hull v Stoke, Newcastle v Southampton, Wigan v Bolton, Colchester v Notts County, Sheff Utd v Swindon.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers, Derby, Leeds, Preston, Exeter.

Best weekend home bets: Chelsea, Everton, Blackburn, Leicester, Watford, Bristol City, Port Vale, Wolves, Burton, Portsmouth.


Pick of the draws: The Premier League has plenty of draw possibilities this weekend and Hull v Stoke looks the most likely. Promoted Hull have probably surprised themselves with their progress this season. Recent results include a home victory over Liverpool and a well earned point at Swansea. But Stoke will have gained confidence from their coupon-busting win over Chelsea last Saturday. Newcastle have five wins from their last six games but Southampton halted their losing sequence with an impressive display in a 1-1 draw against Manchester City and they can collect another point at St James' Park. In the Championship, Wigan should be boosted by the appointment of former Brentford boss Uwe Rosler as manager but Bolton are just getting into their stride and capable of getting something on Sunday. Notts County, bottom of League One, gained a long overdue but deserved victory against Gillingham last weekend and I'm tipping them to deny Colchester. Sheffield United are improving enough under new manager Nigel Clough to share the spoils with Swindon.

Away days: Although Manchester United are going through a rocky patch, they have an outstanding record at Villa Park and will be eager to return to winning ways against a bafflingly inconsistent Aston Villa, who are ineffective at home. Queens Park Rangers, second in the Championship, look an away banker at Blackpool, who are in disarray and will be depleted after having five players sent off in their past two matches. The appointment of the much maligned Steve McClaren has revitalised Derby, who have moved into the promotion reckoning. It's hard to see their lowly hosts, Charlton, stopping them. Play-off contenders Leeds travel to struggling Doncaster with a good opportunity to put more pressure on the sides above them. Preston, third in League One and getting stronger, are well worth a punt at ailing Crawley. Exeter have surprisingly fallen away in League Two but I believe they will turn things around by beating Accrington.

Homes sweet homes: Third-placed Leicester will be anxious not to lose more ground in the Championship after two consecutive away defeats but they are a different proposition at home, where they have already won seven games. I'm backing them to make it eight against leaders Burnley. Although Bristol City are still in the League One relegation zone, their results have been picking up and they can upset sixth-placed Rotherham. Portsmouth are due a change of fortune in League Two and I'm banking on their new management team of Richie Barker and Steve Coppell to provide it against the Football League newcomers Newport. 

Pools tips for weekend of December 7-8

Ten draws: Sunderland v Tottenham, West Bromwich v Norwich, Ipswich v Huddersfield, Millwall v Wigan, Yeovil v Charlton, Ross v Kilmarnock, Falkirk v Raith, Arbroath v Stranraer, Elgin v Berwick, Cagliari v Genoa.

Best draws: Ipswich v Huddersfield, Millwall v Wigan, Yeovil v Charlton, Ross v Kilmarnock, Falkirk v Raith.

Best weekend away bets: Chelsea, Leicester, Inverness, Livingston, Dundee, Burton (not on coupon).

Best weekend home bets: Crystal Palace, Burnley, Derby, Leeds, Queens Park Rangers, Reading, Dundee United, Hamilton, Bristol Rovers (not on coupon), Grimsby (not on coupon). 


Pick of the draws: Ipswich and Huddersfield, with wins last Saturday and in midweek, are climbing into play-off contention in the Championship and there is little to choose between the sides. Wigan are without a manager following the unexpected sacking of Owen Coyle after only six months in charge but they should be sufficiently equipped to take a point off Millwall, who are perilously close to the relegation zone. Third from bottom Yeovil have given themselves a lifeline with two consecutive victories but find goals hard to come by - just like Charlton, their opponents on Saturday. Third from bottom Ross and second last Kilmarnock are two underachievers in this season's Scottish Premiership and the smart money is on a stalemate. Raith will have gained much satisfaction from their away win at Dundee in last weekend's Scottish Cup fourth round, so expect them to hold Falkirk in their Scottish Championship fixture.

Away days: Chelsea are gaining momentum in the Premier League and must be fancied at Stoke, who are struggling to adjust to the methods of new manager Mark Hughes. Championship leaders Leicester's shock defeat by Sheffield Wednesday was probably only a blip and I'm backing them to return to winning ways at Brighton. Inverness Caledonian Thistle appear to be Celtic's only challengers for the Scottish Premiership title and they ought to be too strong for St Mirren. In the Scottish Championship, Livingston are a confident selection to prevail at lowly Cowdenbeath while Dundee look too strong for bottom club Morton. It's the FA Cup second round at the weekend and Burton, with their splendid away record, are worth a punt at Fleetwood, who are not as strong at home as on their travels.

Homes sweet homes: Crystal Palace are stirring under new manager Tony Pulis and three points against West Ham last night should give them the confidence to beat Cardiff. Having three players sent off in their midweek defeat at Yeovil will surely handicap Blackpool at Derby, who have a wonderful opportunity to improve their home form. Looking for upsets in the FA Cup, I've a hunch that League Two Bristol Rovers will knock out off-colour Crawley, from League One, and that non-League Grimsby, from the Skrill Premier, will send Northampton packing. 

Pools info: Motherwell v Celtic (match No 25 on the coupon) is being played on Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips for weekend of November 30-December 1

Ten draws: Newcastle v West Bromwich Albion, Norwich v Crystal Palace, Barnsley v Birmingham, Wigan v Derby, Oldham v Bradford City, Stevenage v Shrewsbury, Walsall v Port Vale, Bristol Rovers v AFC Wimbledon, Plymouth v Burton, York v Rochdale.

Best draws: Norwich v Crystal Palace, Barnsley v Birmingham, Wigan v Derby, Oldham v Bradford City, York v Rochdale.

Best weekend away tips: Arsenal, Liverpool, Fulham, Leeds, Queens Park Rangers, Brentford.

Best weekend home tips: Manchester City, Blackpool, Charlton, Leicester, Watford, Preston, Tranmere, Mansfield, Scunthorpe, Southend.


Pick of the draws: There is fresh hope for Crystal Palace's Premier League survival after last weekend's win at Hull. Now under new manager Tony Pulis, Palace can gain their first away draw of the season at Norwich, who are much stronger at home than when they travel. Barnsley cannot shake off their Championship blues and Saturday's fixture against mediocre Birmingham looks as good a draw as any on the coupon. Derby's position just outside the play-offs is mostly down to their fine away form and there is no reason to fear Sunday's trip to Wigan, who are finding it hard to score goals. Oldham are one of the most improved sides in League One and I am tipping them to share the spoils with play-off contenders Bradford City. Rochdale's progress in League Two came to a juddering halt with a 4-0 home defeat by Scunthorpe. That should encourage their hosts York, who are battling to stay out of the relegation zone.

Away days: Premier League leaders Arsenal will be anxious to see their recent defeat at Old Trafford as a blip rather than the start of a trend. Expect them to resume their away dominance at promoted Cardiff. Liverpool, who are second by virtue of goals scored, should be too strong for Hull, who are one of several PL teams precariously placed. Fulham, although third from bottom and clearly struggling, are worth a punt at West Ham, who are desperately short of forwards and have won only once at Upton Park this season. Leeds have forced their way into Championship play-off contention and I believe they will confirm their improvement against mid-table Blackburn. It's impossible to ignore the claims of promotion-seeking QPR at lowly Doncaster and the same can be said of League One high-flyers Brentford, who visit bottom club Notts County.

Homes sweet homes: I can't help thinking Charlton are in a false position in the Championship, where they lie 17th. Their midweek home victory over Doncaster will lift morale and they can further improve their situation by defeating inconsistent Ipswich at The Valley. Tranmere's 5-1 thrashing of Coventry last Saturday was one of the results of the season. It lifted them out of the League One relegation zone and I fancy them to move further away from danger by beating Colchester. League Two Mansfield are on the slide at the moment but I've a hunch they will stop the rot against Morecambe. 

Pools info: Albion v East Stirling (match No 45 on the coupon), Clyde v Annan (46) and Stirling v Berwick (49) will be decided by the Pools Panel. 

Pools tips for weekend of November 23-24

Ten draws: Fulham v Swansea, Stoke v Sunderland, Blackburn v Reading, Bournemouth v Derby, Ipswich v Leicester, Watford v Bolton, Swindon v Leyton Orient, Wolves v Brentford, Inverness v St Johnstone, Dumbarton v Alloa.

Best draws: Stoke v Sunderland, Watford v Bolton, Swindon v Leyton Orient, Wolves v Brentford, Inverness v St Johnstone.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Port Vale, Oldham, AFC Wimbledon.

Best weekend home bets: Birmingham, Leeds, Queens Park Rangers, Peterborough, Preston, Rotherham, Accrington, Rochdale, Southend, Hearts.


Pick of the draws: Sunderland's morale-boosting victory over title contenders Manchester City has given them a Premier League lifeline and I fancy them to get something at Stoke, who are still trying to adjust to life without their former manager Tony Pulis. Watford have had a bit of a hangover after last season's near miss for promotion to the top flight. It wouldn't surprise me if they were held by Bolton, who are climbing the Championship table after a terrible start to the season. League One Swindon recovered from their shock FA Cup exit by winning impressively at Colchester last weekend. A repeat of that performance could see them share the spoils with promotion contenders Leyton Orient, in many ways the team of the season so far. Nobody in the League is in better form than Uwe Rosler's Brentford. They will not fear visiting League One leaders Wolves and can come away with a point. Inverness Caledonian Thistle, second in the Scottish Premiership, may not recover quickly enough from the departure of manager Terry Butcher to overcome the improving St Johnstone.

Away days: That win over Arsenal at Old Trafford the Sunday before last suggests that Manchester United are getting into their Premier League stride and I don't expect Cardiff to halt their progress. Even at this early stage of the season there seems no way back for bottom club Crystal Palace, who have lost all five away matches. But one win can change everything and they are worth a wager at shot-shy Hull, who came up to the Premier League with them last season. Chelsea slipped up by allowing West Bromwich Albion to escape from Stamford Bridge with a draw but I can't see them faltering against West Ham, who are in the relegation mix. In League One, Port Vale are a must selection at Crewe, who have easily the worst goal difference in the top four divisions, and my other fancy is Oldham, conquerors of Wolves in the FA Cup, to beat Gillingham, who lost to non-League Brackley. AFC Wimbledon, who slammed Portsmouth 4-0 at home last Saturday, look a good thing at struggling Bury in League Two.

Homes sweet homes: Birmingham have had some indifferent results this season but they showed what they are capable of with a deserved victory at Huddersfield in the Championship. I'm taking them to hand out the same treatment to high-flying Blackpool at St Andrew's. Accrington are displaying the spirit which is necessary to avoid relegation from League Two. They had a terrific win at Scunthorpe last Saturday and I'm backing them to gain another three points at the expense of Torquay, who are just below them. Although Hearts, with their 15-point deduction, are seemingly doomed to relegation from the Scottish Premiership, they can relieve some of their gloom by defeating Ross, who are poor travellers and badly out of sorts.

Pools tips for weekend of November 16-17

Ten draws: Colchester v Swindon, Leyton Orient v Preston, Dagenham & Redbridge v Burton, York v Plymouth, Forest Green v Lincoln, Gateshead v Salisbury, Southport v Hereford, Livingston v Dumbarton, East Fife v Stranraer, Montrose v Albion.

Best draws: Colchester v Swindon, Leyton Orient v Preston, York v Plymouth, Forest Green v Lincoln, Gateshead v Salisbury.

Best weekend away bets: Rotherham, Bristol City, Fleetwood, Chesterfield, Hamilton, Morton.

Best weekend home bets: Brentford, Port Vale, Sheffield United, Mansfield, Scunthorpe, Wycombe, Rangers, Stenhousemuir, Clyde, Peterhead.


Pick of the draws: League One promotion contenders Swindon will be anxious to bounce straight back after their humiliating FA Cup first-round exit by non-League Macclesfield and I believe they will do so against middle-of-the-table Colchester, who already have eight draws to their name. League One leaders Leyton Orient are perhaps the team of the season so far but Preston, who have climbed to fourth, have the pedigree to check their progress. York have found it hard going in League Two, as have their visitors Plymouth. Plymouth have not drawn away in the league this season but I think they might change at the weekend. Forest Green have won their last two at home in the Skrill Premier but I'm backing improving Lincoln to stop them making it a hat-trick. Gateshead gained a creditable draw at Oxford United in the FA Cup first round last weekend, which will make them believe they can deny play-off contenders Salisbury maximum points.

Away days: With two consecutive victories behind them, League One Rotherham appear to be over their indifferent spell and you have to fancy their chances at Stevenage. Bristol City are at last emerging from their nightmare period and are worth a punt at Tranmere, who have the same number of points. Fleetwood's away form has propelled them to the top of League Two and I expect them to triumph at bottom club Northampton. Third-placed Chesterfield returned to winning ways in the FA Cup and they are worth supporting at ailing Torquay. Hamilton, the Scottish League One leaders, should confirm their superiority over lowly Cowdenbeath and I've a hunch Morton will win their first away game of the season at fellow strugglers Queen of the South.

Homes sweet homes: New manager Nigel Clough has already made a difference at Sheffield United, who can climb out of the League One relegation zone by beating Gillingham. League Two Mansfield stopped the rot by scoring eight against non-League St Albans in the FA Cup first round. That should encourage them to inflict Oxford's first away defeat of the season. East Stirling may lead Scottish League Two but they could be heading for a fall at Peterhead, who have rediscovered their spark in recent weeks. Take a chance on a home win. 


Pools info: Walsall v Peterborough (match No 10 on the coupon) has been put back to Monday and is therefore subject to a pools panel verdict. 

Pools tips for weekend of November 9-10

Ten draws: Manchester United v Arsenal, Swansea v Stoke, Tottenham v Newcastle, Brighton v Blackburn, Derby v Sheffield Wednesday, Hibernian v Inverness, Motherwell v Dundee United, Falkirk v Livingston, Queen of the South v Hamilton, Forfar v Brechin. 

Best draws: Manchester United v Arsenal, Tottenham v Newcastle, Brighton v Blackburn, Motherwell v Dundee United, Queen of the South v Hamilton.

Best weekend away bets: Everton, Manchester City, Wigan, Portsmouth, Cheltenham, Annan.

Best weekend home bets: Chelsea, Liverpool, Norwich, Barnsley, Bolton, Burnley, Brentford, Bury, Aberdeen, St Johnstone.


Pick of the draws: Arsenal, the Premier League leaders and proud conquerors of Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, will be anxious to avoid a repeat of their abject performance at Old Trafford last season and there is evidence to suggest that Manchester United are not the force they were. Tottenham are being hindered by a lack of firepower and that could cost them against Newcastle, who deserved their unexpected victory over Chelsea last Saturday. In the Championship, Brighton are struggling to recapture last season's form under their ex-manager Gus Poyet. They have already drawn on six occasions this season and I can see another deadlock looming when they host Blackburn. Dundee United's recent results in the Scottish Premiership suggest they may have turned the corner and they are capable of holding Motherwell. Lowly Queen of the South knocked high-riding Hamilton out of the Scottish Cup last weekend, so there is no reason why they should have an inferiority complex when they entertain the same opponents in the Scottish Championship.

Away days: Things look desperate for Crystal Palace in the Premier League and I don't believe their visitors, Everton, will give them any respite. Manchester City's away record is hampering their title challenge but they are likely to improve on it against struggling Sunderland, who contributed to their own downfall at Hull last Saturday by having two players sent off. Owen Coyle's Wigan have been poor on the road but it would be a major upset if they failed to beat the Championship's bottom club, Yeovil, on Sunday. I'm taking Portsmouth, mid-table in League Two, to spring one of the surprises in the FA Cup first round. They go to League One strugglers Stevenage, who have already lost four matches on their own patch. Cheltenham should be higher than they are in League Two and I believe they will take out their frustration on non-League Tamworth. Annan, Scottish League Two promotion contenders, must be fancied to prevail at Albion, who are at the other end of the table.

Homes sweet homes: Norwich manager Chris Hughton and his team have been severely criticised, particularly after their 7-0 Premier League drubbing at Manchester City, but they can start to turn things around against West Ham, who have impressed nobody this season and are not far off the relegation zone themselves. Barnsley, mired in the Championship relegation zone, gained a hard-earned away point - their first of the season - at Ipswich last Friday and I'm tipping them to go one better against their Yorkshire rivals Doncaster, who are on a downward spiral. Although Bolton have begun climbing the table they have yet to win at home this season. I believe that wretched run will end when they play Millwall.


Pools info: The results of matches 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33 on the coupon will be decided by the Pools Panel. 

Pools tips for weekend of November 2-3

Ten draws: Arsenal v Liverpool, Cardiff v Swansea, Hull v Sunderland, West Ham v Aston Villa, Birmingham v Charlton, Blackburn v Middlesbrough, Swindon v Port Vale, Accrington v Wycombe, Alfreton v FC Halifax, St Mirren v Ross.

Best draws: Hull v Sunderland, West Ham v Aston Villa, Blackburn v Middlesbrough, Swindon v Port Vale, Accrington v Wycombe.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester United, Southampton, Brentford, Bradford City, Sheffield United, St Johnstone.

Best weekend home bets: Everton, Manchester City, West Bromwich Albion, Leeds, Coventry, Peterborough, Preston, Wolves, Chesterfield, Hartlepool.


Pick of the draws: Sunderland, under new manager Gus Poyet, got their season up and running by beating Newcastle at the Stadium of Light last Sunday. That result meant they climbed off the bottom of the Premier League and I'm taking them to maintain their momentum against Hull. West Ham have averaged only a goal a game this season, which is why they may find it difficult to overcome Aston Villa, who are doing better away than at home. Middlesbrough, under acting manager Mark Venus, gained their best result this season in the Championship last Friday when they beat Doncaster 4-0 at home. That will give them confidence for their trip to Ewood Park, where they play Blackburn. Swindon seem to be on a downer in League One, having lost their past two matches. They clash with Port Vale, who are right behind them in the table. Accrington look in better shape now, despite still propping up League Two. The last-gasp away win at Morecambe last Saturday will have done them a power of good and I can see them holding Wycombe.

Away days: Manchester United may have turned the Premier League corner after those late goals against Stoke last Saturday and I fear for Fulham, their troubled hosts. Southampton are one of the surprise packets of the season, having conceded only three league goals. They should be backed against Stoke, who may feel the effects of playing extra time against Birmingham in the midweek Capital One Cup. After an indifferent start to the League One season, Brentford have climbed into promotion contention and they are worth a punt to take maximum points at Crawley. Bradford City, despite recent setbacks, look nailed on to prevail at Crewe, who are leaking goals regularly. Sheffield United, under new manager Nigel Clough, have moved out of the relegation zone and I believe they will  continue their improvement against Shrewsbury. In the Scottish Premiership, St Johnstone, convincing 2-0 winners over Motherwell, are strongly fancied to pile on more agony for bottom club Hearts.

Homes sweet homes: Manager Roberto Martinez must be pleased with the progress he's making at Everton. I believe his team will get the better of Tottenham, whose results have been better than their performances. Peterborough's unexpected defeat at Colchester last weekend resulted in them slipping out of the League One automatic promotion slots. However, they can rectify that when they host table-topping Leyton Orient. Orient's away record is as good as Peterborough's home form but I've a feeling Peterborough will make ground advantage count. Improving Hartlepool were, by all accounts, unlucky to lose at Scunthorpe last Saturday and I think they will recover in their League Two fixture against Dagenham & Redbridge.


Pools info: Ipswich v Barnsley (match No 14 on the coupon) is being played on Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips for weekend of October 26-27

Ten draws: Chelsea v Man City, Sunderland v Newcastle, Bradford City v Wolves, Stevenage v Crawley, Exeter v Burton, Scunthorpe v Hartlepool, York v Fleetwood, Hibernian v Aberdeen, St Johnstone v Motherwell, Dumbarton v Cowdenbeath.

Best draws: Chelsea v Man City, Sunderland v Newcastle, Scunthorpe v Hartlepool, York v Fleetwood, St Johnstone v Motherwell.

Best weekend away bets: Everton, Nottingham Forest, Preston, Coventry, Rochdale, Portsmouth.

Best weekend home bets: Man Utd, Norwich, Swansea, Tottenham, Burnley, Charlton, Leicester, Port Vale, Mansfield, Wycombe.


Pick of the draws: Two Premier League heavyweights clash at Stamford Bridge and both Chelsea and Manchester City are running into form. Gus Poyet's debut as Sunderland manager could hardly have got off to a worse start at Swansea last weekend but I believe Sunderland will have enough pride to get something from their clash with their bitter rivals Newcastle. Hartlepool's rise from the depths of League Two has been astonishing and I'm taking them to continue their good run at Scunthorpe. Promotion contenders Fleetwood are faring better away than at home, which is why I think they will come away from York with a point. Motherwell are making a strong claim for second place in the Scottish Premiership but St Johnstone are tough nuts to crack at home.

Away days: Aston Villa looked lame and lacklustre when losing at home to Spurs last Sunday. Their opponents Everton are doing well under new manager Roberto Martinez and can take three points. In the Championship, Nottingham Forest were surprisingly held to a draw by Bournemouth last Saturday. They will probably take out their frustration on bottom-of-the-table Yeovil. Preston returned to winning ways at Gillingham in League One and will be looking forward to their match at lowly Notts County. Coventry ended Leyton Orient's unbeaten record and are going from strength to strength. They are certainly worth a punt at Walsall, who have been indifferent at home. Rochdale are the new and surprise leaders of League Two and they can celebrate by defeating Dagenham & Redbridge. Portsmouth are also worth supporting at struggling Torquay.

Homes sweet homes: Norwich did not deserve to lose by such an emphatic margin at Arsenal last Saturday and should be too strong for Cardiff, who are slipping towards the Premier League relegation zone and undermined by internal strife. Queens Park Rangers are the only unbeaten side in the top four divisions but I've a hunch that run will end on Saturday when Championship leaders Burnley are their hosts. Burnley have taken the division by storm and can stretch their lead over Harry Redknapp's men. Charlton gained a much-needed victory at Blackburn last weekend. They are better than their low position indicates and can prove that point by beating Wigan, who have already lost four times on the road this season. 

Pools tips for weekend of October 19-20

Ten draws: Aston Villa v Tottenham, Ipswich v Burnley, Leeds v Birmingham, Crewe v Bristol City, Gillingham v Preston, MK Dons v Rotherham, Accrington v Oxford, Bristol Rovers v Wycombe, Kilmarnock v Ross, Cowdenbeath v Morton.

Best draws: Aston Villa v Tottenham, Leeds v Birmingham, Gillingham v Preston, Accrington v Oxford, Cowdenbeath v Morton.

Best away bets: West Bromwich Albion, Manchester City, Bradford City, Leyton Orient, Mansfield, St Johnstone.

Best home bets: Arsenal, Chelsea, Swansea, Barnsley, Blackburn, Yeovil, Peterborough, Sheffield United, Portsmouth, Dundee.


Pick of the draws: Spurs must have been jolted by their heavy home defeat to West Ham and although they won 4-0 at Aston Villa in the Capital One Cup, Villa are in better shape now, having beaten Manchester City recently. Leeds have slumped to the bottom half of the Championship and may have their work cut out to beat Birmingham, who have shown they can score goals. Just as Gillingham have started climbing the League One table they sack manager Martin Allen. Despite this odd decision I fancy them to hold Preston, who have lost their past three games. Accrington, who are propping up League Two, drew at AFC Wimbledon last weekend despite playing most of the match with 10 men. That should inspire them to at least a point against promotion contenders Oxford. The bottom-of-the-table clash in the Scottish Championship between Cowdenbeath and Morton is likely to end all square.

Away days: Improving West Bromwich Albion should edge out Stoke in their Premier League clash. Manchester City are the pools forecasters' nightmare at the moment but I believe they will have one of their good days against West Ham. League One high-flyers Bradford City surprisingly slipped up against lowly Tranmere last Sunday but I'm tipping them to recover at Crawley. Leyton Orient, one of only two unbeaten sides in the four English divisions, are one of the success stories of the season and should be backed at Tranmere. Promoted Mansfield have climbed into the League Two play-off positions and will probably be too strong for troubled Torquay. Fresh from a morale-boosting 4-0 victory over Inverness Caledonian Thistle, St Johnstone should have too much firepower for St Mirren.

Homes sweet homes: Barnsley, the bottom Championship club, played well despite recent defeats by Leicester and Queens Park Rangers and have a fighting chance to move up the table against inconsistent Middlesbrough. Yeovil are a little unlucky to find themselves in the relegation zone and I've a hunch they will beat Brighton, who have gone backwards this season. Sheffield United are without a manager and bottom of League One. However, they almost retrieved a three-goal deficit against Coventry at Sixfields last Sunday, so there is not much wrong with their spirit. Don't be surprised if they defeat middle-of-the-table Port Vale.

Pools tips for weekend of October 12-13

Ten draws: Coventry v Sheff Utd, Stevenage v Brentford, Fleetwood v Chesterfield, Oxford v Northampton, York v Scunthorpe, Nuneaton v Braintree, Salisbury v Grimsby, Southport v Kidderminster, Woking v FC Halifax, Alloa v Falkirk.

Best draws: Fleetwood v Chesterfield, Oxford v Northampton, York v Scunthorpe, Nuneaton v Braintree, Alloa v Falkirk.

Best away bets: Wolves, Walsall, Gillingham, Portsmouth, Cambridge, Hamilton.

Best home bets: Bradford City, Preston, Rotherham, Dagenham & Redbridge, Exeter, Gateshead, Lincoln, Luton, East Fife, Forfar.


Pick of the draws: I'm taking League Two leaders Chesterfield to recover from the shock of losing 4-3 at Morecambe after leading 3-0 last weekend and believe they will share the spoils with Fleetwood, their closest challengers. Oxford's home form is distinctly wobbly and I've a hunch they will drop more points against struggling Northampton, who gained a much-needed victory at AFC Wimbledon last Saturday. York have sprung into life recently but so have their opponents Scunthorpe, who have moved into the play-off places. Braintree's healthy position in the Skrill Premier is down to their away form, so they are my tip to hold Nuneaton, who have gone off the boil recently. In the Scottish Championship, I find it impossible to separate Alloa and Falkirk. 

Away days: I think Wolves will boost their League One promotion challenge by beating Carlisle. Walsall have had some good results on the road and I can see them getting another at Colchester, who are sliding down the table. Gillingham have climbed out of the danger zone with two wins in a row. Have a punt on them making it three at Shrewsbury, who have only won once at home. In League Two, Portsmouth have also won two on the spin and will be confident of taking maximum points at Plymouth. Cambridge United, leading the Skrill Premier by nine points, must be fancied at lowly Chester FC and the same can be said for Scottish Championship leaders Hamilton, who travel to bottom club Morton.

Homes sweet homes: Mid-table Gateshead can take advantage of Alfreton's poor away form in the Skrill Premier. Alfreton have already lost five away matches. I predict success for East Fife and Forfar, the two lowest clubs in Scottish League One. Bottom-of-the-table East Fife gained a creditable away point at Stenhousemuir last weekend and can build on that good result against Ayr. Forfar thrashed second-placed Dunfermline 4-0 last Saturday, so a visit from Stranraer should hold no fears.


Pools info: The matches at Bristol City (2 on the coupon), Notts County (7), Raith (40), Annan (45), Montrose (47) and Stirling (49) have been postponed and will be panel verdicts.

I scored five out of six with my recommended away bets last weekend.

Pools tips for weekend of October 5-6

Ten draws: Southampton v Swansea, Bournemouth v Millwall, Derby v Leeds, Brentford v Rotherham, Peterborough v Preston, Shrewsbury v Carlisle, Bury v Newport, Portsmouth v Rochdale, Torquay v York, Ross v Aberdeen.

Best draws: Southampton v Swansea, Brentford v Rotherham, Shrewsbury v Carlisle, Torquay v York, Ross v Aberdeen.

                                         Weekend best bets


Aways: Aston Villa, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Watford, Wolves, Dundee.

Homes: Liverpool, Tottenham, Middlesbrough, Queens Park Rangers, Notts County, Stevenage, Swindon, AFC Wimbledon, Exeter, Hearts.

                                      
Pick of the draws: Southampton, lying fifth, are exceeding expectations in the Premier League but Swansea are seldom easy opponents and I'm tipping them to come away from St Mary's with a point. Brentford returned to form by winning at Coventry last Sunday but Rotherham are unbeaten away in League One and were unlucky to lose to fellow promotion contenders Peterborough last weekend. The appointment of Graham Kavanagh as manager has put a spring in Carlisle's step and I'll be surprised if they come away from Shrewsbury empty-handed. York's 4-2 home victory over Portsmouth in League Two last Saturday was possibly one of the more significant results of the weekend. Coming after a 1-1 draw at Wycombe, it appears that York are on the up and they will approach a long trip to Torquay with more confidence. Aberdeen missed a chance to move closer to the Scottish Premiership leaders when they were held 1-1 at St Mirren. I think they will have to settle for another draw - this time at Ross.

Away days: On a good day Aston Villa are capable of beating most Premier League sides. Having defeated Manchester City at home last Saturday, a trip to promoted Hull should hold no fears. I feel there is far more to come from Jose Mourinho's Chelsea than they have shown so far and they can confirm this by defeating Norwich on Sunday. Nottingham Forest look stronger than Brighton in the Championship this season and much the same can be said for Gianfranco Zola's Watford in relation to Huddersfield, whom they visit on Saturday. Promotion-seeking Wolves have already won three games on the road in League One and I believe they will make it four against Colchester. Cowdenbeath are near the foot of the Scottish Championship and Dundee can take advantage of their plight.

Homes sweet homes: Notts County are second bottom in League One but their position should be healthier after they have played a demoralised Crewe on Saturday. Crewe have just one win from nine league matches and the worst goal difference in the division, having suffered heavy home defeats by Walsall and Gillingham. Lowly Stevenage have a good chance of gaining their first home win of the season against Coventry, whose spirited recovery from a 10-point deduction for entering administration has ground to a halt. Hearts have been severely handicapped in the Scottish Premiership by a 15-point deduction. However, they can lift some of the gloom by beating the team immediately above them, St Mirren.

Pools info: Partick v Hibernian (match No 46 on the coupon) has been put back to Monday and will be a panel verdict. 

Pools tips for weekend of September 28-29

Ten draws: Fulham v Cardiff, Swansea v Arsenal, Bournemouth v Blackburn, Millwall v Leeds, Rotherham v Peterborough, Hartlepool v Oxford, Northampton v Morecambe, Rochdale v Wycombe, Motherwell v Ross, St Johnstone v Partick.

Best draws: Swansea v Arsenal, Bournemouth v Blackburn, Millwall v Leeds, Hartlepool v Oxford, Northampton v Morecambe.

                                     Have a flutter on the following

Best away bets: Man City, Doncaster, Oldham, Port Vale, AFC Wimbledon, Portsmouth.

Best home bets: Man Utd, Stoke, Bolton, Burnley, Ipswich, Bradford City, Bristol City, Wolves, Fleetwood, Plymouth.

Pick of the draws: Arsenal's astonishing achievement of 11 consecutive away wins could come to an end in Saturday's early evening match at the Liberty Stadium. Swansea are looking good again and are a tough nut to crack at home. Blackburn are showing signs of recovery after a rotten start to the season in the Championship and can hold Bournemouth, who are four points better off. A few weeks ago Millwall v Leeds looked an away banker. Since then, Millwall have beaten Blackpool and Charlton while Leeds have lost to Reading and Burnley, narrowing the gap between the clubs to just three points. In League Two, Hartlepool's recent results have lifted some of the gloom and I'm taking them to surprise promotion contenders Oxford. Northampton's decline has raised a few eyebrows and Ithey will be hard-pushed to take more than a point off Morecambe.

Away days: Manchester City, with nine goals from their past two matches, have suddenly clicked and must be backed to beat Aston Villa, who suffered a heavy home defeat against Tottenham in the League Cup. Although Doncaster have done nothing special in the Championship, they must fancy their chances at Sheffield Wednesday, who have yet to record a league victory this season. In League One, Oldham have played better than their position suggests and are worth a wager at Crawley. Port Vale's win over Coventry last weekend will have boosted their confidence and they are in far better shape than troubled Tranmere. AFC Wimbledon are going along nicely in League Two and are tipped to prevail at lowly Cheltenham. Portsmouth's away form is better than their results at Fratton Park and I reckon they will have too much for York.

Homes sweet homes: Bolton, bottom of the Championship and without a victory in eight matches, are long overdue a change of fortune and I believe they will get it against fellow strugglers Yeovil. Ipswich's home form is pretty solid, which makes me think they will come out on top against inconsistent Brighton. Bristol City have struggled to adapt to life in League One. They are in the relegation zone with no wins from eight games but they played well in defeat at Swindon last Saturday and I've a hunch they will break their duck against mid-table Colchester.


Pools info: Huddersfield v Blackpool (match No 12 on the coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void. St Mirren v Aberdeen (match No 47 on the coupon) has been put back to Monday and is subject to a pools panel verdict. 

Pools tips for weekend of September 21-22

Ten draws: Man City v Man Utd, Blackpool v Leicester, Middlesbrough v Bournemouth, Colchester v Crawley, Shrewsbury v Wolves, Walsall v Rotherham, Accrington v Rochdale, Bury v Southend, Portsmouth v Fleetwood, Aberdeen v Inverness.

Best draws: Man City v Man Utd, Shrewsbury v Wolves, Accrington v Rochdale, Bury v Southend, Portsmouth v Fleetwood.

                                        Have a flutter on the following

Aways: Watford, Nottingham Forest, Queens Park Rangers, Tranmere, Preston, Carlisle.

Homes: Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Newcastle, Birmingham, Brentford, Oldham, Swindon, Bristol Rovers, Exeter, Wycombe.


Pick of the draws: Manchester City and Manchester United had good results in the Champions League this week, which will put them in the best heart for Sunday's derby in the Premier League. The sides are so well matched and this one looks too close to call. In League One, Wolves had their first setback of the season, losing at home to Walsall. They won't find it easy returning to winning ways at Shrewsbury. Accrington, with no wins from their first seven matches, prop up League Two, but they are better than that record suggests and I believe they will take something from the visit of Rochdale. Southend are losing ground at an alarming rate but I think they will stop the rot at Bury. Portsmouth have yet to click at home and they will find Fleetwood anything but obliging opponents.

Away days: Watford are gradually settling into their stride in the Championship and must be fancied to prevail at second-from-bottom Barnsley. Nottingham Forest have started the season well and look a good bet at promoted Doncaster. Promotion favourites Queens Park Rangers will surely be too strong for Yeovil. Although Tranmere lost a thriller against Brentford by the odd goal in seven last Saturday, they will be encouraged by their display and should be too strong for Notts County, who are marooned at the bottom of League One with just one point. Preston are reviving under manager Simon Grayson and will be confident of maximum points against off-form Sheffield United. Carlisle gained their first home victory of the season last Saturday. Don't be surprised if they break their away duck at Stevenage.

Homes sweet homes: Crystal Palace were unlucky to go down to 10 men in their defeat by Manchester United last weekend. That sense of injustice may inspire them to beat Swansea, who have begun the season unconvincingly. Birmingham could do with a change of luck in the Championship and they could get it against Sheffield Wednesday, who are also falling below expectations. Leyton Orient are the only team in the top four divisions to have a 100 per cent record. The Os are really flying and scoring for fun but if any side can halt their progress it's Brentford, who were only a failed penalty kick away from clinching automatic promotion from League One last season.

Pools tips for weekend of September 14-15

Ten draws: Hull v Cardiff, Ipswich v Middlesbrough, Leicester v Wigan, Bristol City v Peterborough, Crawley v Shrewsbury, Tranmere v Brentford, Hartlepool v Accrington, Plymouth v Wycombe, Barnet v Lincoln, Forest Green v FC Halifax.

Best draws: Hull v Cardiff, Bristol City v Peterborough, Tranmere v Brentford, Hartlepool v Accrington, Barnet v Lincoln.

Away wins: Chelsea, Arsenal, Derby, Oxford, Morecambe, Mansfield.

Home wins: Tottenham, Bournemouth, Huddersfield, Nottingham Forest, Queens Park Rangers, Watford, Carlisle, Leyton Orient, Preston, Chesterfield.


Pick of the draws: Two of the promoted clubs, Hull and Cardiff, have made reasonable starts in the Premier League and they appear well matched. Peterborough showed their fighting qualities when they recovered from 2-0 down to force a draw at Crewe last weekend. That should serve them well against Bristol City, who have yet to register a victory in League One. By all accounts Tranmere were unlucky not to beat Stevenage last Saturday. Their display should encourage them to get something from the visit of Brentford, who crashed 4-0 at Bradford City. Hartlepool have lost all three of their League Two home matches this season while their opponents Accrington have lost all three away. Sounds like the perfect recipe for a stalemate between teams who are 23rd and 24th respectively. Barnet's progress in the Skrill Premier was halted when they lost at FC Halifax, and they may find it hard to regain their winning habit against Lincoln, who are just behind them in the table.

Away days: Early signs have been worrying for Everton, who are still searching for their first Premier League win of the season. They will surely struggle against a revitalised Chelsea, who are fancied to take all three points. Arsenal, with their new £42 million signing Mesut Ozil poised to make his debut, seem a good bet at Sunderland, who look as though as they could be in for a long, hard winter. Derby have maximum points from their two Championship away fixtures so far. I'm taking them to make it three against Millwall, who are struggling to get going. The same cannot be said of Oxford, who are among the early front-runners in League Two. They will be confident of beating Cheltenham. Morecambe's 3-1 win at Southend in League Two was one of the best results of last weekend and they can repeat the dose against promoted Newport. Mansfield, another promoted club, are adapting well to a higher division and are worth a punt at struggling York.

Homes sweet homes: Unfancied Bournemouth have not dropped a point at home in the Championship and I'm tipping them to surprise the leaders Blackpool, who are so far unbeaten. Carlisle's lowly position in League One may be misleading. Although they have lost all three home games, they deserved better than last-minute defeat against Port Vale last weekend and I believe their luck will change against Sheffield United, who are completely out of sorts. League Two leaders Chesterfield are favourites to make an instant return to League One. I'm backing them to come out on top against AFC Wimbledon, who have surprised even themselves by climbing into the top three. 

Please note: Hereford v Aldershot (match No 48 on the coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips for weekend of September 7-8

Ten draws: Carlisle v Port Vale, MK Dons v Swindon, Tranmere v Stevenage, Northampton v Scunthorpe, Plymouth v Bristol Rovers, Rochdale v Bury, Braintree v Forest Green, FC Halifax v Barnet, Stalybridge v Solihull, Worcester v Bradford PA.

Best draws: MK Dons v Swindon, Tranmere v Stevenage, Northampton v Scunthorpe, Rochdale v Bury, FC Halifax v Barnet.

Five aways: Peterborough, Portsmouth, Mansfield, AFC Wimbledon, Cambridge United.

Nine homes: Bristol City, Crawley, Leyton Orient, Wolves, Chesterfield, Fleetwood, Aldershot, Luton, Welling.


Pick of the draws: League One Swindon recorded the biggest win in the Football League last weekend (5-0 at home to Crewe) and they'll be confident of gaining at least a draw at MK Dons. Tranmere broke their duck with a last-minute victory at Oldham but they are struggling to convince and may not improve on a point against fellow toilers Stevenage. Northampton, League Two play-off finalists last season, have not got going at all so far and may be hard-pushed to beat relegated Scunthorpe. On the other hand, Bury have exceeded expectations and are a fair bet for a point at Rochdale. High-flying Barnet are a good prospect for an immediate return to the League but their hosts, FC Halifax, have won all three home games in the Skrill Premier, so will not be easily vanquished.

Away days: Peterborough's home defeat by Crawley in League One last Saturday was an upset. They will be eager to bounce straight back and will probably do so at Crewe, who are strangely out of sorts. Relegated Portsmouth are hardly setting League Two alight but I'm backing them to do better at Cheltenham, who have yet to show last season's form. Mansfield are gradually getting into their stride, so don't be surprised if they come away from Newport with all three points. AFC Wimbledon are in the early promotion shake-up and must be fancied to prevail at lowly York. Cambridge United, top of the Skrill Premier, will surely strengthen their position by beating second from bottom Hyde.

Homes sweet homes: Bristol City are still without a win after five matches in League One but I believe they will stop the rot against Shrewsbury. Aldershot, at the foot of the Skrill Premier, are coping well with their 10-point penalty for going into administration and should have enough in their locker to see off Macclesfield. Luton are making their mark after a slow start to the season and will leapfrog Grimsby if they beat them in Saturday's early evening game. Welling are adapting well to a higher division and I think they will take maximum points against Kidderminster, who are just above them. 


Please note: The mini-pools coupon (homes and aways) is being discontinued after this weekend but I shall still be giving home and away tips for you punters.

Pools tips for weekend of August 31-September 1

Ten draws: Liverpool v Man Utd, West Brom v Swansea, Blackburn v Bolton, Birmingham v Ipswich, Leeds v QPR, Colchester v Leyton Orient, Shrewsbury v Coventry, Scunthorpe v Newport, Wycombe v Southend, Dundee Utd v Celtic.

Best draws: Liverpool v Man Utd, West Brom v Swansea, Blackburn v Bolton, Colchester v Leyton Orient, Dundee Utd v Celtic.

Five aways: Southampton, Leicester, Bristol City, Wolves, Bradford City.

Nine homes: Man City, West Ham, Brighton, Derby, Doncaster, Brentford, Sheff Utd, AFC Wimbledon, Bury.

Pick of the draws: Liverpool have begun the season well with maximum points from two matches but Manchester United have a good record at Anfield and can share the spoils. Swansea find themselves bottom after two games but have enough quality to force a draw at West Brom, who are also looking for their first Premier League victory. In the Championship, Bolton are playing better than their position suggests and can get something at Blackburn, who were flattered by the margin of their victory against Barnsley. Leyton Orient, top of League One, face their toughest test of the season so far at Colchester while in Scotland, Dundee United are capable of depriving Celtic of an away win.

Away days: Southampton are looking a good bet to finish in the top half of the Premier League and I fancy them to prevail at Norwich. Championship side Leicester have also started like they mean business and are well worth a punt at out-of-sorts Charlton. In League One, Bristol City, League Cup conquerors of Crystal Palace, must be fancied at Gillingham and the same can be said for Kenny Jackett's Wolves at promoted Port Vale. Bradford City are adjusting well to life in a higher division and are recommended at strugglers Stevenage.

Homes sweet homes: Doncaster are still smarting from having last weekend's match abandoned at Charlton when they were leading 3-1. I have a hunch they will take their anger out on Bournemouth. Sheffield United are capable of better than they have so far shown in League One and are worth backing against MK Dons. I'm taking the spirit of AFC Wimbledon to triumph over the more fancied Fleetwood in League Two and believe improving Bury will take maximum points off Cheltenham. 

Pools Info: Accrington v Burton (match No 35 on the coupon), which was originally scheduled for Friday, has been switched to Saturday and is therefore no longer void.

Pools tips for weekend of August 24-25

Ten draws: Aston Villa v Liverpool, Hull v Norwich, Blackburn v Barnsley, Blackpool v Reading, Watford v Nottingham Forest, Rotherham v Shrewsbury, Accrington v Cheltenham, Mansfield v Portsmouth, Morecambe v Exeter, Dundee United v St Johnstone.

Best draws: Aston Villa v Liverpool, Blackburn v Barnsley, Blackpool v Reading, Accrington v Cheltenham, Morecambe v Exeter.

Five aways: Manchester City, Queens Park Rangers, Derby, Gillingham, Peterborough.

Nine homes: Fulham, Stoke, Leicester, Wigan, Coventry, Leyton Orient, Notts County, Burton, Chesterfield.


Pick of the draws: Aston Villa's merited victory over Arsenal last Saturday will have given them confidence and taking Liverpool's encouraging start into consideration, this fixture looks one of the best  three-pointers on the coupon. In the Championship, Blackburn have done nothing to allay their supporters' fears and may be hard-pressed to take more than a point off Barnsley, who have also begun poorly. Blackpool have made early progress under Paul Ince but will probably find relegated Reading a tough nut to crack. Hosts Accrington and visitors Cheltenham have been slow out of the blocks in League Two and a stalemate is on the cards. There could be a similar outcome at Morecambe, where Exeter are the visitors.

Away days: Manchester City looked terrific in beating Newcastle 4-0 on Monday and must be fancied to carry on the good work at promoted Cardiff, who gave West Ham few problems in their 2-0 defeat last weekend. Queens Park Rangers have hit the ground running in the Championship and I'm taking them to beat Bolton, who have started the season sluggishly. There are early signs that Derby are a stronger side this season and must be a good bet to prevail at Yeovil. In League One, Gillingham have played better than their results suggest and a worth a wager at Swindon, who fail to convince. With maximum points from their opening three matches, Peterborough seem set for a quick return to the Championship and should gain their fourth consecutive win - at troubled Tranmere.

Homes sweet homes: It's a good time to play Arsenal, who are in turmoil. Fulham face them at Craven Cottage on Saturday and will be confident of three more points, following their victory at Sunderland last weekend. Things have not gone according to plan for relegated Wigan so far. Owen Coyle's team are capable of better and should send Middlesbrough home pointless. A 10-point points deduction has inspired rather than deflated Coventry at the foot of League One, so they are certainly worth a punt against mid-table Preston. In the top-of-the-table League Two clash, I believe Chesterfield will come out on top against Southend.

Pools tips for weekend of August 17-18

Ten draws: Norwich v Everton, Swansea v Man Utd, West Brom v Southampton, Middlesbrough v Blackpool, Reading v Watford, Crawley v Rotherham, Preston v MK Dons, Exeter v AFC Wimbledon, Rochdale v Chesterfield, Scunthorpe v Dagenham & Redbridge.

Best draws: Norwich v Everton, Swansea v Man Utd, Reading v Watford, Crawley v Rotherham, Exeter v AFC Wimbledon.

Five aways: Tottenham, Wolves, Coventry, Brentford, Bradford City.

Nine homes: Chelsea, Sunderland, West Ham, Burnley, QPR, Crewe, Sheffield Utd, Walsall, Newport.

Pick of the draws: Everton, under new manager Roberto Martinez, have a tricky opening Premier League fixture at Norwich and will do well to come away with more than a point. Swansea, bolstered by some shrewd summer signings, have had an encouraging pre-season and, just as they did last season, can hold the champions Manchester United at the Liberty Stadium. Watford have got off to a flyer in the Championship but Reading's promotion credentials are also sound and this match-up is probably the likeliest draw on the coupon. Rotherham, promoted to League One last season, have shown they have no need to fear anybody in this division and will be confident of getting something at Crawley. In League Two, it's hard to separate Exeter and AFC Wimbledon.

Away days: I expect Tottenham's boldness in this summer's transfer window to reap immediate dividends at Crystal Palace, who are favourites to go straight back down. There are signs that new manager Kenny Jackett has stopped the rot at relegated Wolves and I'm taking them to win their League One fixture at Bristol City, who shipped five goals last weekend. Despite being deducted 10 points for going into administration, there is a lot of life left in Coventry and I'm tipping them to prevail at Carlisle, who have already suffered two heavy defeats. Brentford's quality should be enough for three points against promoted Gillingham while in League Two, a revitalised Bradford City look a good bet at Port Vale.

Homes sweet homes: A much-changed Sunderland are worth a punt against Fulham, who may struggle to stay in the Premier League this season. League One side Crewe have no wins from three matches but I believe they will break their duck against Tranmere, who finished last season on a downer. Colchester are among the division's front-runners but don't be surprised if they are defeated by Sheffield United, who are capable of beating the best at Bramall Lane. Newport, promoted to League Two after prevailing in the play-offs, are relishing the challenge and can see off injury-hit Bristol Rovers.

Info: Man City v Newcastle (No 5 on the coupon) is being played on Monday and the result will be decided by the pools panel.

Doncaster v Blackburn (No 16 on the coupon) is being played on Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips for weekend of August 10-11

Ten draws: Bolton v Reading, Ipswich v Millwall, Sheffield Wednesday v Burnley, Rotherham v Preston, Tranmere v Crawley, AFC Wimbledon v Wycombe, Mansfield v Exeter, Dundee United v Inverness, Hearts v Hibernian, Dumbarton v Falkirk.

Best draws: Bolton v Reading, Ipswich v Millwall, Sheffield Wednesday v Burnley, Tranmere v Crawley, AFC Wimbledon v Wycombe.

Five aways: Queens Park Rangers, Bristol City, Peterborough, Portsmouth, Fleetwood.

Nine homes: Manchester United, Charlton, Leicester, Watford, Bradford City, Brentford, Leyton Orient, Wolves, Oxford.


Pick of the draws: I expect Bolton and Reading to be involved in the promotion race to the Premier League this season. Both had good results at the weekend, which makes a stalemate likely on Saturday.  That League Cup loss to Stevenage will have shaken Ipswich's confidence, so don't be surprised if Millwall snatch a point at Portman Road. Sheffield Wednesday's record reads two away games played, two defeats. However, they are a tougher proposition at home and I believe they will share the spoils with Burnley. League One team Tranmere have been on a downer since the end of last season and will find it difficult against free-scoring Crawley. Wycombe seem to be on the up in League Two and I'm backing them to hold AFC Wimbledon.

Away days: There's a spring in the step of Queens Park Rangers and they can gain their third victory in eight days at Huddersfield. With Coventry having to play their home matches 30 miles away at Northampton this season, you've got to fancy their opponents. This weekend it's Bristol City, who are eager to make an immediate return to the Championship. Relegated Peterborough have got off to a flyer  with wins over Swindon and Colchester (League Cup) and should be backed at Notts County. Portsmouth's home defeat by Oxford in League Two was probably the upset of last weekend, but I'm tipping them to bounce straight back at Accrington. Fleetwood, who travel to Plymouth, are another confident selection.

Homes sweet homes: Leicester, two wins out of two so far, can confirm their Championship promotion credentials by beating Leeds on Sunday. Promoted Bradford City did well to come away with a draw from Bristol City last Saturday and will probably make life awkward for Carlisle, who suffered a heavy home defeat on the first day of the season. Also in League One, it's worth having a punt on Brentford, who just missed out on promotion last season. They host Sheffield United, who were knocked out of the League Cup by League Two Burton. Relegated Wolves have yet to score after two matches but they will surely break their duck against promoted Gillingham at Molineux on Saturday. 

Pools tips for weekend of August 3-4

Ten draws: Doncaster v Blackpool, QPR v Sheff Wed, Carlisle v Leyton Orient, Preston v Wolves, Shrewsbury v MK Dons, Cheltenham v Burton, Rochdale v Hartlepool, Torquay v AFC Wimbledon, Aberdeen v Kilmarnock, Heerenveen v AZ Alkmaar.

Best draws: QPR v Sheff Wed, Preston v Wolves, Shrewsbury v MK Dons, Cheltenham v Burton, Torquay v AFC Wimbledon.

Five aways: Wigan, Blackburn, Leicester, Brentford, Chesterfield.

Nine homes: Leeds, Millwall, Reading, Crawley, Gillingham, Peterborough, Fleetwood, Newport, Portsmouth.

Pick of the draws: There have been rumblings of discontent at relegated QPR during the close season, so don't be surprised if that works to Sheffield Wednesday's advantage when they meet at Loftus Road.  Wolves, under new manager Kenny Jackett, will be eager to get off to a good start in League One after consecutive relegations and they will be pleased by a point at Preston. Also in League One, Shrewsbury v MK Dons looks one of the best match-ups on the coupon. Cheltenham and Burton narrowly missed promotion from League Two last season and there still seems nothing between them. At the other end of the table, Torquay and AFC Wimbledon narrowly escaped relegation and a close encounter is in prospect.

Away days: Relegated Wigan, now under new manager Owen Coyle, will probably have too much for Barnsley on the first weekend of the Championship season. Blackburn are promising to be in better shape and heart than last term and are worth a punt at Derby, who are difficult to predict. Leicester underachieved last season but are a confident prediction to prevail at Middlesbrough, for whom the 2012-13 campaign could not end quickly enough. Brentford, who were a penalty kick away from promotion from League One last season, should be backed at Port Vale. In League Two, Chesterfield will go to cash-strapped Bury with confidence.

Homes sweet homes: Leeds must improve at home if they are to have any chance of promotion to the Premier League. They have a good opportunity to make a statement of intent against Brighton, who may take time to adapt to a new manager. Crawley must be fancied to beat Coventry, whose problems go from bad to worse, while Gillingham, promoted to League One as champions, are tipped to get off to a flyer against Colchester. League Two newcomers Newport have a winnable first match against Accrington, who narrowly avoided relegation last season.

Australian pools tips for weekend of July 27-28

Ten draws: Albany Creek v Rochedale, North Star v Capalaba, Sydenham v Brunswick, Langwarrin v Mornington, Noble Park v Morwell, Inglewood v Sorrento, Dianella v Wanneroo, Ad Hills v Seaford, Northern v Cove, Olympic (SA) v Salisbury.

Best draws: Albany Creek v Rochedale, Langwarrin v Mornington, Inglewood v Sorrento, Dianella v Wanneroo, Ad Hills v Seaford.

Five aways: Wolves, East Altona, Armadale, Canning, Blue Eagles.

Nine homes: Sutherland, Avondale, Clifton Hill, Malvern, Cockburn, Stirling, Ashfield, Swan, Enfield.