Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Dec 29-30

Ten draws: Leicester v Cardiff, Norwich v Derby, Preston v Aston Villa, Accrington v Peterborough, Coventry v Southend, Gillingham v Doncaster, Rochdale v Bradford City, Walsall v Luton, Cheltenham v Forest Green, Hamilton v Motherwell.

Best draws: Preston v Aston Villa, Accrington v Peterborough, Coventry v Southend, Walsall v Luton, Cheltenham v Forest Green.

Best weekend away bets: West Ham, Blackpool, Wycombe, Lincoln, Bury, Oldham.

Best weekend home bets: Fulham, Watford, Birmingham, Bristol City, Millwall, Oxford, Sunderland, Carlisle, Crewe, Newport.

Pick of the draws: Aston Villa's habit of leaking Championship goals - five at home to Nottingham Forest, three at home to Leeds - may deny them victory at Preston, who are fairly solid at Deepdale. Accrington emerged from a dodgy spell in League One with a 3-0 win at Plymouth last Saturday but they are bound to be tested more by Peterborough, who have chalked up seven away victories this season. Coventry, who are on a downward spiral, could find beating mid-table Southend beyond them. I've a hunch that second-placed Luton's incredible run - nine wins and a draw from their past 10 matches - will be checked by Walsall, who came away from Peterborough with a creditable draw last weekend. Lowly Cheltenham in League Two had the better of a goalless draw at Swindon last Saturday and can share the points again when they host Forest Green.

Away days: West Ham were unlucky in losing at home to Watford last Saturday and I think they'll recover quickly at struggling Burnley on Sunday. In League One, bottom of the table Wimbledon's miserable home record will encourage Blackpool, who aim to contest the play-off places. The progress of promoted Wycombe has been one of the features of the season and they will fancy themselves at relegation-threatened Scunthorpe. League Two leaders Lincoln must rate as an away banker at Cambridge while fast-improving Bury look a good thing at second last Notts County. Oldham are recommended at Port Vale, who are up and down like a yo-yo.

Homes sweet homes: It's been a miserable campaign for Fulham but they should get a lift from the visit of Huddersfield, whose Premier League form is even worse. Millwall, in the Championship drop zone, are worth a punt against Nottingham Forest who appear to be flattered by their seventh position.  Crewe, who won 1-0 at Stevenage in October, have the chance of a rare League Two double against their inconsistent opponents from Hertfordshire.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Dec 22-23

Ten draws: Bournemouth v Brighton, Everton v Tottenham, Huddersfield v Southampton, Hull v Swansea, Nottingham Forest v Queens Park Rangers, Reading v Middlesbrough, Portsmouth v Sunderland, Bury v Tranmere, Grimsby v Notts County, Morecambe v Cambridge.

Best draws: Bournemouth v Brighton, Everton v Tottenham, Hull v Swansea, Portsmouth v Sunderland, Grimsby v Notts County.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester United, Sheffield United, West Bromwich, Preston, Carlisle, Kilmarnock.

Best weekend home bets: Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Stoke, Charlton, Plymouth, Southend, Forest Green, Stevenage.


Pick of the draws: Bournemouth have lost their mojo recently, dropping into the bottom half of the Premier League, and although Brighton are weak away from home, they can come away with a point. Tottenham are the only team in the top four divisions not to have drawn a league game - a record that could end at Goodison Park on Sunday as Everton will be eager to make amends for some disappointing results. Swansea are aiming to make the Championship play-offs but won't find it easy at Hull, who have moved five points clear of the relegation zone. Portsmouth v Sunderland is a clash between the League One promotion favourites (Pompey are first, Sunderland are third) and I don't expect either side to give much away. Notts County, second last in League Two, beat Tranmere 3-2 at home last Saturday to boost their chances of avoiding the drop, so don't be surprised if they share the spoils at improving Grimsby.

Away days: Expect a Man Utd resurgence now that manager Jose Mourinho has departed. They are strongly recommended at struggling Cardiff. Although Ipswich won at home for the first time in the Championship this season last weekend, I cannot see them repeating the trick against fourth-placed Sheffield United, who have six away victories to their credit. West Bromwich Albion appear to be the team most likely to catch front-runners Leeds and Norwich and they should have too much for Rotherham. On-form Preston are worth a wager at off-colour Sheffield Wednesday and Carlisle, fresh from their 4-0 trouncing of Colchester in League Two, won't fear a journey to Crawley. Kilmarnock, one of five sides in the mix for the Scottish Premiership title, must be fancied at lowly Hamilton.

Homes sweet homes: High-scoring Aston Villa are well worth a punt against Championship leaders Leeds on Sunday. Villa's results haven't quite matched their performances lately but they look capable of climbing into the play-off places. Plymouth, fourth from bottom of League One, are also worth backing against Accrington, who are slipping down the table and lost 3-0 at Southend last Saturday. League Two Stevenage can beat the best when they are on song and I believe they'll end Mansfield's unbeaten away record.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Dec 15-16

Ten draws: Huddersfield v Newcastle, Liverpool v Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers v Middlesbrough, Barnsley v Portsmouth, Oxford v Blackpool, Southend v Accrington, Carlisle v Colchester, Forest Green v Mansfield, Macclesfield v Crawley, Newport v MK Dons.

Best draws: Huddersfield v Newcastle, Queens Park Rangers v Middlesbrough, Barnsley v Portsmouth, Oxford v Blackpool, Macclesfield v Crawley.

Best weekend away bets: Chelsea, West Ham, Birmingham, Leeds, Tranmere, Aberdeen.

Best weekend home bets: Manchester City, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Ipswich, Swansea, Doncaster, Sunderland, Cambridge, Northampton, Rangers.

Pick of the draws: Huddersfield have scored only 10 Premier League goals this season while their opponents on Saturday, Newcastle, have managed just 13. It all points to this relegation clash being a stalemate and probably a goalless one. Middlesbrough have gone off the boil in the Championship recently and I can't see them getting more than a point at QPR, whose dreadful start to the season is well behind them. Although League One leaders Portsmouth suffered only their second defeat of the season in midweek - 2-1 at home to Charlton - they have enough about them to share the spoils at high-scoring Barnsley. With their creditable 2-2 draw at Peterborough last Saturday, Oxford moved five points clear of the League One drop zone. I reckon they'll gain their first home draw of the season against Blackpool, who are challenging for the play-off places. Macclesfield, now managed by former England defender Sol Campbell, are six points from safety at the foot of League Two but can take advantage of Crawley's bad away record.

Away days: Chelsea received an enormous boost by inflicting Manchester City's first Premier League loss of the season last weekend. I fancy them to follow that up by winning at Brighton. Consecutive victories over Newcastle (3-0) and Crystal Palace (3-2) have put an extra spring in West Ham's step and I'm backing them to make it a hat-trick at bottom club Fulham, who can't stop leaking goals. I feel that Birmingham's home defeat by Bristol City last Saturday was just a blip and they can return to winning ways at Blackburn. Leeds, second in the Championship, look a sure thing at Bolton, who are second last. In League Two I expect Tranmere to pile more misery on relegation-threatened Notts County and believe Aberdeen will assert their superiority over St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership.

Homes sweet homes: Ipswich, rock bottom in the Championship and without a home win all season, can rectify that by beating Wigan, who have lost eight out of 10 away games. I'm tipping Cambridge, third last in League Two, to leap-frog ailing Yeovil by beating them on Saturday and improving Northampton are well worth a punt against inconsistent Stevenage.

Pools info: Sheffield United v West Bromwich (No 20 on coupon) and Livingston v Hearts (47) have been brought forward to Friday and are therefore void.

Betting info: With Sunderland's match at Accrington abandoned last Saturday, four of my five away selections were correct: Wolves, Doncaster, Northampton and Forest Green. I was also one of the few pundits to tip Chelsea to beat the previously undefeated Manchester City.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of December 8-9

Ten draws: Burnley v Brighton, Leicester v Tottenham, Brentford v Swansea, Millwall v Hull, Sheffield Wednesday v Rotherham, Burton v Shrewsbury, Wycombe v Barnsley, Stevenage v Lincoln, Swindon v Newport, Hamilton v Hibernian.

Best draws: Burnley v Brighton, Brentford v Swansea, Burton v Shrewsbury, Wycombe v Barnsley, Stevenage v Lincoln.

Best weekend away bets: Wolves, Sunderland, Doncaster, Grimsby, Northampton, Forest Green.

Best weekend home bets: Chelsea, West Ham, Birmingham, Leeds, Stoke, Wimbledon, Colchester, Tranmere, Falkirk, Barrow.

Pick of the draws: A tremendous effort by Brighton in midweek - beating Crystal Palace 3-1 at home despite being a man short for over half the match - may catch up with them at Burnley, who badly need points to boost their hopes of Premier League survival. Brentford halted their slide down the Championship by holding West Bromwich Albion to a draw at The Hawthorns on Monday. Don't discount another stalemate when mid-table Swansea visit west London on Saturday. Shrewsbury have climbed away from the League One relegation zone and will be disappointed not to get something from their trip to Burton, who are immediately below them. Promoted Wycombe have adapted very well to a higher division and can frustrate the promotion-seeking and free-scoring Barnsley. Lincoln, hot favourites to go up from League Two, have a tough task at Stevenage, who beat leaders MK Dons at home recently and lie just below the play-off places.

Away days: Wolves, who halted their slump by defeating Chelsea at home in midweek, are better than their hosts Newcastle and I expect them to show that on Sunday against a team who have already lost six matches at St James' Park. Sunderland, second in League One with only one defeat to their name, should overcome Accrington, who have slipped down the table. Doncaster's 2-0 victory at Charlton in last weekend's FA Cup second round was well deserved. This weekend Doncaster appear to have an easier assignment at relegation-threatened Bristol Rovers. League Two Grimsby are suddenly finding the net after a barren run in front of goal and will fancy themselves at lowly Cheltenham. Northampton, who have markedly improved under Keith Curle, are worth a punt at Crawley while successful travellers Forest Green are highly recommended at Yeovil.

Homes sweet homes: If any team can inflict Manchester City's first Premier League defeat of the season it's Chelsea, who are difficult to contain when in full flow. League One strugglers Wimbledon have a new manager in Wally Downes and can celebrate his appointment by beating erratic Rochdale. Falkirk, second from bottom in the Scottish Championship, were surprise 3-2 winners at Inverness last Saturday. That should encourage them to break their duck at home, especially when their opponents are fellow strugglers Alloa.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of December 1-2

Ten draws: Arsenal v Tottenham, Newcastle v West Ham, Bolton v Wigan, Middlesbrough v Aston Villa, Livingston v Motherwell, Dunfermline v Morton, Dumbarton v Brechin, Stranraer v Forfar, Roma v Inter Milan, RB Leipzig v Borussia Monchengladbach.

Best draws: Arsenal v Tottenham, Newcastle v West Ham, Bolton v Wigan, Middlesbrough v Aston Villa, Dunfermline v Morton.

Best weekend away bets: Stoke, Oldham, Newport, Rangers, Ross, Cowdenbeath.

Best weekend home bets: Crystal Palace, Huddersfield, Birmingham, Bristol City, Norwich, Inverness, Arbroath, Clyde, Chesterfield, Leyton Orient.

Pick of the draws: In the past five seasons there have been three 1-1 draws between Arsenal and Tottenham at the Emirates and it wouldn't surprise me if that was the score on Sunday. Apart from losing at Watford, Spurs have been faultless on their Premier League travels this term (winning seven out of eight) and Arsenal, although unbeaten in 11 league matches, will have to raise their game to prevail. Three consecutive victories have eased Newcastle's fears of relegation. West Ham, their visitors on Saturday, missed some good opportunities against Manchester City last weekend and I don't think they'll be as wasteful against less frightening opponents. Bolton v Wigan is a Championship clash between two out-of-form sides. Bolton have slid into the relegation zone but Wigan's away record is terrible (eight defeats out of nine). Aston Villa are getting into their stride under new manager Dean Smith and can gain a point at Middlesbrough, who have automatic promotion in their sights. Dunfermline's artificial surface seems to have hindered their home form in the Scottish Championship and visitors Morton should benefit.

Away days: Stoke have an ideal opportunity to climb the Championship table at Reading, who appear destined for a season of struggle. League Two Oldham had a scare before coming through their televised FA Cup first-round tie at Hampton & Richmond. They'll have learnt a few lessons from that and ought to see off National League strugglers Maidstone. Promotion hopefuls Newport have the flair and character to overcome National League high-flyers Wrexham. Rangers, who are steadily improving, must be backed to beat long-time leaders Hearts, who have suddenly hit the wall in the Scottish Premiership. Ross, seeking promotion from the Scottish Championship, look a sound bet at lowly Alloa and I'm taking League Two Cowdenbeath to make it three wins from three at Albion.

Homes sweet homes: Crystal Palace are long overdue a home win in the Premier League and I believe it will come against Burnley, who are badly out of sorts. Huddersfield's display when winning 2-0 at Wolves last Sunday was exemplary and I'm backing them to follow it up against Brighton, who are fragile away from home. Relegated Chesterfield's struggles in the National League have been a major surprise. Perhaps the FA Cup will provide some relief and they are worth a punt against Grimsby, of League Two.

Pools info: West Bromwich v Brentford (No 20 on coupon) has been moved back to Monday and will be judged by the pools panel. Dundee United v Ayr (25) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Nov 24-25

Ten draws: Fulham v Southampton, Watford v Liverpool, Stoke v Queens Park Rangers, Swansea v Norwich, Wimbledon v Southend, Bradford City v Oxford, Rochdale v Accrington, Colchester v Exeter, Crawley v Crewe, St Johnstone v Kilmarnock.

Best draws: Fulham v Southampton, Watford v Liverpool, Swansea v Norwich, Wimbledon v Southend, Bradford City v Oxford.

Best weekend away bets: Middlesbrough, Derby, Luton, Portsmouth, Bury, Brora.

Best weekend home bets: Everton, Wolves, Hull, Leeds, Preston, Wigan, Barnsley, Charlton, Carlisle, Ross.

Pick of the draws: Rumours abound that if Southampton lose to Fulham, the Premier League's bottom club, at Craven Cottage on Saturday, manager Mark Hughes will be out of a job. Poor though Southampton are, I believe Hughes will be spared that indignity. Fulham have appointed Leicester's title-winning boss Claudio Ranieri as their new manager but he has a lot of work to do to restore their shattered confidence. Watford have already beaten Tottenham at home and they have the ability to hinder Liverpool's title challenge. Liverpool remain unbeaten after 12 league games but they have faltered a bit recently and could be denied at Vicarage Road. The confidence of Championship leaders Norwich must be sky high after their surge to the top and they can take a point off Swansea, who lie just outside the play-off places. Wimbledon must be at their lowest ebb after sacking manager Neal Ardley. Only a superior goal difference keeps them off the bottom of League One but I believe they'll share the spoils with Southend, who may feel the effects of being taken to extra time in their FA Cup first-round replay victory at Crawley in midweek. Improving Oxford have drawn six of their nine away matches. I can see them making it seven at bottom club Bradford City, who at least held high-flying Peterborough to a draw last weekend.

Away days: Middlesbrough's mean defence is their chief asset and it should see them through at Brentford, who have slid down the Championship table since the departure of manager Dean Smith to Aston Villa. Derby's 3-0 home defeat by Villa last time out was a surprise and I think they'll bounce straight back by winning at Sheffield Wednesday, who are in the doldrums. If Luton's away form matched their home record they would be certainties for promotion from League One and a trip to lowly Gillingham is a good opportunity for them to make a statement. Leaders Portsmouth, unbeaten away, look a sound proposition at Scunthorpe and Bury, joint top scorers in League Two, must fancy themselves at struggling Cambridge. Brora, flying high in the Highland League, have the best chance of causing an upset in the Scottish Cup third round at the weekend. They travel to Cowdenbeath, who in League Two have lost more at home than they've won.

Homes sweet homes: Although in the Championship relegation zone, Hull continue to show their battling qualities and they are worth a punt against maddeningly inconsistent Nottingham Forest. Preston are another club who are displaying the fighting spirit to ward off the drop and they have a reasonable chance of upsetting Blackburn, who are eight points better off. League Two Carlisle are due a good result at home and I'm backing them to get it against Forest Green, who are experiencing a blip.

Pools info: Burnley v Newcastle (No 3 on coupon) is being played on Monday and will be judged by the pools panel.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Nov 17-18

Ten draws: Northern Ireland v Austria, Italy v Portugal, Moldova v Luxembourg, Accrington v Barnsley, Burton v Coventry, Shrewsbury v Rochdale, Southend v Blackpool, Grimsby v Crawley, Airdrieonians v East Fife, Montrose v Stranraer.

Best draws: Italy v Portugal, Accrington v Barnsley, Shrewsbury v Rochdale, Southend v Blackpool, Grimsby v Crawley.

Best weekend away bets: Scotland, Belgium, Tranmere, Raith, Harrogate, Wrexham.

Best weekend home bets: England, Greece, Serbia, Doncaster, Luton, Peterborough, Sunderland, Bury, Oldham, Ayr.

Pick of the draws: In the latest Uefa Nations League fixtures, Portugal, the European champions, have a difficult assignment at Italy, who rarely give much away. Barnsley, fourth in League One, made impressively short work of Notts County in the FA Cup first round last Saturday, which should serve them well at sixth-placed Accrington, who have already recorded four home draws. Lowly Shrewsbury, who have sacked their manager John Askey, will find it hard to improve on a draw against Rochdale, who are more effective on their travels. I rate Southend v Blackpool as one of the best draws on the coupon. Both are lying in mid-table and Blackpool have registered seven draws from their 15 League One games this season. Grimsby's 3-1 victory over high-riding MK Dons was one of the eye-catching results in the FA Cup last weekend and they look good for at least a point against Crawley, who have lost six away matches out of eight in League Two.

Away days: The Nations League trip to Albania is a heaven-sent opportunity for Scotland to get some much-needed points on the board. Belgium, World Cup semi-finalists in the summer, show no signs of losing their focus and are recommended at Switzerland. Tranmere, fourth in League Two and favourites to gain their second consecutive promotion, must be backed at Crewe, who have lost their past three league games without scoring. Although Raith were beaten at East Fife last weekend, they should have too much for Stenhousemuir, who are bottom of Scottish League One. Harrogate, who are in the National League promotion shake-up, are well worth a punt at struggling Maidenhead while leaders Wrexham ought to prevail at Maidstone, who have won only once at home.

Homes sweet homes: I expect England, buoyed by their fine 3-2 win in Spain, to gain some measure of revenge over Croatia, who were England's conquerors in this summer's World Cup semi-finals. The goals are flowing for Bury in League Two and I'm tipping them to put Stevenage to the sword. Oldham survived an almighty FA Cup scare at Hampton & Richmond on Monday and I believe they'll celebrate their escape by defeating Cambridge.

Pools info: the following matches have been postponed and will be judged by the pools panel: Portsmouth v Charlton (No 23 on coupon), Dundee United v Alloa (37), Ross v Dunfermline (40), Cowdenbeath v Queen's Park (48) and Edinburgh v Peterhead (49).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Nov 10-11

Ten draws: Bolton v Swansea, Nottingham Forest v Stoke, Queens Park Rangers v Brentford, West Brom v Leeds, Hearts v Kilmarnock, Ross v Dundee United, Dumbarton v Stenhousemuir, East Fife v Raith, Borussia Dortmund v Bayern Munich, Werder Bremen v Borussia Monchengladbach.

Best draws: Bolton v Swansea, Queens Park Rangers v Brentford, West Brom v Leeds, Hearts v Kilmarnock, Borussia Dortmund v Bayern Munich.

Best weekend away bets: West Ham, Bournemouth, Watford, Peterhead, Burton, Coventry.

Best weekend home bets: Arsenal, Cardiff, Leicester, Blackburn, Norwich, Sheffield United (Friday), Aberdeen (Friday), Dundee, Chesterfield, Sutton.

Pick of the draws: Although nothing is going right for Bolton at the moment in the Championship, they can salvage something from the visit of Swansea, who unexpectedly lost at Rotherham last weekend. Queens Park Rangers v Brentford is a clash between two mid-table teams. QPR have blown hot and cold under Steve McClaren while Brentford have faltered since the departure of their manager, Dean Smith, to Aston Villa. Despite West Brom dropping out of the Championship play-off places, they still pose a threat to Leeds, whose 2-1 victory at Wigan last Sunday enabled them to return to the top of the table. That 5-0 away defeat to Celtic last Saturday may have damaged the confidence of the Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts, so don't be surprised if they fail to defeat Kilmarnock. Bayern Munich, who lie third in the Bundesliga, aren't quite the force of last season. They face a tough assignment at leaders Borussia Dortmund, who have yet to lose.

Away days: Huddersfield gained their first Premier League win this season at home to Fulham on Monday but I doubt whether they can follow that up against West Ham, who won well against Burnley last weekend and are fancied to make it two in a row. Bournemouth will make the long journey to Newcastle with confidence, having already beaten West Ham, Watford and Fulham away this season. Newcastle got off the mark at home against Watford last Saturday but were grateful for their opponents' wastefulness and may not be so fortunate this weekend. A trip to Southampton won't hold any fears for Watford, who deserve their place in the top half of the Premier League. Saints are without a home win this season, having scored only three goals at St Mary's. It's hard to oppose Scottish League Two leaders Peterhead at Queen's Park while in the FA Cup first round, on-form Burton and Coventry are worth a punt at Scunthorpe and Walsall respectively.

Homes sweet homes: Cardiff, in the Premier League relegation zone, have a good opportunity for some respite in the Saturday early kick-off against Brighton, who struggle on the road. Aberdeen, 2-1 winners at Kilmarnock last Sunday, will overtake Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership if they defeat them on Friday and the signs look good. Bottom club Dundee, who have lost all six home games, host second from bottom St Mirren, who have lost all five away. Something has to give and I believe ground advantage will have the last word here.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of November 3-4

Ten draws: Arsenal v Liverpool, Newcastle v Watford, Nottingham Forest v Sheffield United, Rotherham v Swansea, Stoke v Middlesbrough, Coventry v Accrington, Wycombe v Peterborough, Carlisle v Newport, Morecambe v Yeovil, Alloa v Dunfermline.

Best draws: Arsenal v Liverpool, Rotherham v Swansea, Stoke v Middlesbrough, Wycombe v Peterborough, Morecambe v Yeovil.

Best weekend away bets: Leicester, Bristol City, Norwich, Portsmouth, Mansfield, Rangers.

Best weekend home bets: West Ham, Wolves, Aston Villa (Friday), Barnsley, Blackpool, Gillingham, Lincoln, Stevenage, Tranmere, Hibernian.


Pick of the draws: Liverpool, third in the table, are one of three unbeaten Premier League teams and I believe that record will be intact after Saturday's visit to the Emirates for the early evening kick-off. Arsenal themselves have been undefeated for the past 13 matches but this will be their sternest test since they last lost - at Chelsea in August. Rotherham's battling draws at Middlesbrough and Preston in the Championship should encourage them for the visit of Swansea, who are edging closer to the play-off positions and the hosts look set to record their fourth home draw. Stoke at last seem to be getting to grips with the Championship but they face Middlesbrough, who have the meanest defence in the division, having conceded just eight goals in 15 games. Peterborough's away record in League One is fantastic - seven wins and a draw from eight matches - but I feel they have a tricky assignment at promoted Wycombe, who are coping reasonably well in the higher division. In League Two, struggling Morecambe have yet to draw at home and mid-table Yeovil, their opponents, have yet to draw away but I've a hunch that will change on Saturday.

Away days: After the tragic death of their chairman last Saturday, Leicester will be more determined than ever to get a good result at Cardiff, who have yet to show Premier League quality. Bristol City, of the Championship, were unlucky to lose at home to Stoke last weekend and I suspect they'll have too much for Reading, who are in the drop zone and seem destined for a season of struggle. Norwich are one of the most improved sides in the Football League and I rate their chances at Sheffield Wednesday, who are heading in the opposite direction. League One leaders Portsmouth look an away banker at bottom club Bradford City, who are shipping goals left, right and centre. Mansfield, unbeaten away in League Two and 3-0 winners at Crewe in midweek, are a confident selection at lowly Cheltenham while Rangers should see off the challenge of St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership.

Homes sweet homes: Although Wolves have lost their past two matches in the Premier League, they are still a good bet to finish in the top half of the table. Molineux is also an intimidating place to visit and I've a hunch Wolves will upset Tottenham on Saturday. Gillingham, of League One, are a difficult side to predict but when they are on song they are irresistible. They made short work of Bradford City last weekend and they can beat Joey Barton's Fleetwood this weekend. Tranmere, aiming for their second consecutive promotion, put five past Crawley in League Two last Saturday, which suggests that they can get the better of Exeter, who lie third.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 27-28

Ten draws: Brighton v Wolves, Bristol City v Stoke, Middlesbrough v Derby, Preston v Rotherham, Accrington v Portsmouth, Burton v Peterborough, Fleetwood v Blackpool, Walsall v Wycombe, Colchester v Lincoln, Mansfield v MK Dons.

Best draws: Brighton v Wolves, Middlesbrough v Derby, Burton v Peterborough, Walsall v Wycombe, Colchester v Lincoln.

Best weekend away bets: Chelsea, Arsenal, Luton, Charlton, East Fife, Raith.

Best weekend home bets: Leicester, Bolton, Leeds, Swansea, Oxford, Sunderland, Newport, Notts County, Queen of South, Chesterfield.


Pick of the draws: Promoted Wolves suffered only their second loss in nine Premier League matches when they were beaten 2-0 at home by Watford last Saturday. They might be wiser for the experience and I'm backing them to gain at least a point at Brighton, despite the hosts showing no signs of being involved in a relegation struggle. Championship promotion contenders Middlesbrough have not scored in their past three home games and Derby aren't the best team to be playing if you intend to return to winning ways. Don't be surprised if this ends in another low-scoring draw. Although Peterborough's away record in League One is exemplary (won six, drawn one, lost none), they may stumble at Burton, who are putting together an impressive run of results, including a 2-2 draw at leaders Portsmouth in midweek. Walsall appear to be on the slide, having lost twice in succession. On the other hand, Wycombe, their visitors, are rapidly climbing the table and they can come away with a point here. Two consecutive home draws have slowed Lincoln's progress at the top of League Two. On Saturday they travel to Colchester, who are strong at home, and I can also see this fixture ending all square.

Away days: Chelsea are one of three unbeaten Premier League sides and playing attractive football. I really can't see them faltering at Burnley, who are not the same force as last season. I'm also taking Arsenal's remarkable winning streak to continue at Selhurst Park on Sunday. Crystal Palace, just two points above the relegation zone, have still to score at home this season. Luton moved into the League One play-off positions with a 4-1 midweek home victory over Accrington. The Hatters are on a roll and strongly fancied to prevail at lowly Wimbledon. Rochdale's poor home record has kept them in the bottom half of the table and visitors Charlton should be good enough to take advantage of that. East Fife, third in Scottish League One and bang in form, are warmly recommended at struggling Dumbarton and second-placed Raith look a good thing at Forfar.

Homes sweet homes: Oxford, in the League One drop zone, gained a well merited point at Charlton in midweek and can climb out of immediate trouble with a maximum points haul against Shrewsbury, who are without a win on their travels. Notts County's revival in League Two has been abruptly halted by two successive away defeats but I believe they'll get back on track when they host Swindon, who are on the crest of a slump. Finally, there are signs that Chesterfield have turned things around in the National League and I've a hunch they'll defeat promotion-chasing Wrexham.


Weekend pools info: Queens Park Rangers v Aston Villa (match No 18 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 20-21

Ten draws: Cardiff v Fulham, Derby v Sheffield United, Reading v Millwall, Stoke v Birmingham, Bradford City v Rochdale, Charlton v Barnsley, Plymouth v Burton, Southend v Coventry, Crawley v Newport, Morecambe v Colchester.

Best draws: Cardiff v Fulham, Derby v Sheffield United, Plymouth v Burton, Southend v Coventry, Morecambe v Colchester.

Best weekend away bets: West Bromwich, Oxford, Sunderland, Carlisle, Mansfield, Rangers.

Best weekend home bets: Bournemouth, Newcastle, Wolves, Aston Villa, Blackpool, Doncaster, Portsmouth, Bury, MK Dons, Livingston.


Pick of the draws: Although bottom-of-the-table Cardiff are odds-on favourites to go straight back down and are without a win in the Premier League this season, they should salvage something from the visit of Fulham, who were heavily defeated at home by Arsenal last time out and are showing  defensive frailties. Sheffield United, with four away wins under their belt, have surged to the top of the Championship and can deny Frank Lampard's Derby. Plymouth sank to the bottom of League One after being beaten at Oxford. They have won only once this season and may not add to that against Burton, who are at least defensively efficient. Two teams in better shape are Southend and Coventry, who meet at Roots Hall. Both won their previous match and only two points separate them. Stalemate is the likeliest result. Colchester, in the League Two play-off positions, could find their trip to Morecambe harder than expected. The Lancashire club are enjoying a revival, which was confirmed by their 2-0 victory at Carlisle last time out.

Away days: Free-scoring West Bromwich Albion, second in the Championship, have an excellent chance of sending Wigan to their first home defeat of the season. Oxford's 2-0 home victory over Plymouth last weekend was only the second time they've picked up maximum points in League One this season but they are worth a wager at Bristol Rovers, who are only one point better off and desperately out of form. Sunderland, handily placed for a promotion push, will feel confident of returning from Shrewsbury with three points. Carlisle's best results in League Two have come on the road, winning four matches out of six. They'll fancy achieving their fifth victory at rock-bottom Macclesfield, who are without a win of any kind. Mansfield have drawn all five of their away games. I believe they'll go one better at Swindon, who have slipped into mid-table mediocrity. Steven Gerrard's Rangers will be disappointed if they don't prevail at Hamilton in the Scottish Premiership.

Homes sweet homes: Newcastle, who have lost all four Premier League fixtures at St James' Park, will feel that the tide must turn soon, so don't be surprised if it happens on Saturday against Brighton, who are consistently weak away. Aston Villa, now managed by former Brentford chief Dean Smith with John Terry as his No 2, are worth a punt against Swansea, who surprisingly lost 3-2 at home to struggling Ipswich in their previous match. Although Villa are in the bottom half of the Championship, they are only four points off a play-off place and will be anxious to improve their indifferent home record. Despite Notts County climbing clear of the League Two relegation zone under new manager Harry Kewell, I don't rate their chances at ninth-placed Bury, who are playing good football and were unlucky not to win at Crewe last Saturday.

Pools info: Sheffield Wednesday v Middlesbrough (match No 17 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Betting info: You'd have been in the money if you had backed my away predictions last weekend. I got six out of six. The successful sides were Portugal, Portsmouth, MK Dons, Lincoln, Wrexham and Gateshead.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 13-14

Ten draws: Rep Ireland v Denmark, Holland v Germany, Russia v Turkey, Rochdale v Doncaster, Scunthorpe v Peterborough, Colchester v Crawley, Boreham Wood v Maidenhead, Bromley v Barrow, Eastleigh v Aldershot, Halifax v Chesterfield.

Best draws: Holland v Germany, Rochdale v Doncaster, Colchester v Crawley, Eastleigh v Aldershot, Halifax v Chesterfield.

Best weekend away wins: Portugal, Portsmouth, MK Dons, Lincoln, Wrexham, Gateshead.

Best weekend home wins: Accrington, Coventry, Fleetwood, Oxford, Crewe, Exeter, Northampton, Tranmere (Friday), Fylde, Leyton Orient.


Pick of the draws: I sense that Germany have not recovered from their World Cup flop of the summer and I'm backing Holland to share the spoils in this Uefa Nations League match. Doncaster's 4-0 loss at home to Fleetwood in League One last Saturday raised more than a few eyebrows but I believe it was a temporary lapse and think they will avoid defeat at Rochdale, who have won only one home game. A 3-1 defeat at Stevenage last Saturday meant that Colchester dropped out of the League Two play-off positions. Improving Crawley sit one place below them on the same number of points and can come away with a draw. Aldershot have found it hard going in the National League this season but they were boosted by an emphatic 3-0 home victory over Halifax last Saturday. Although their away form is terrible, I've a hunch they'll surprise the better-placed Eastleigh. Chesterfield's further decline after their relegation from League Two has been unexpected but two consecutive draws suggest that the rot may have been stopped. Don't be surprised if they are involved in another stalemate at Halifax.

Away days: Portugal will be anxious to make amends for their World Cup disappointment and should have too much for Scotland in this friendly international on Sunday. League One leaders Portsmouth owe their top placing to their away record, where they have won five out of six and are unbeaten. This weekend Pompey visit lowly Wimbledon, whose home is hardly a fortress, and I expect them to return to winning ways after their home defeat by Gillingham. I get the feeling that MK Dons are finally hitting their stride. Their 3-0 home success over Cheltenham last Saturday enabled them to climb to fourth in League Two and they look an away banker at second-from-bottom Cambridge. Lincoln, four points clear at the top of the table, are recommended at Port Vale, whose revival has stalled. Wrexham, promotion contenders in the National League, will fancy their chances at ailing Dagenham & Redbridge and Gateshead will be no less confident when visiting Havant & Waterlooville.

Homes sweet homes: Oxford, bottom of League One, had much the better of their goalless draw at Southend last weekend and are due a break. I'm backing them to get it against promoted Plymouth, who are also in the relegation zone and finding life difficult in the higher division. Crewe's faltering progress in League Two has nothing to do with their record at home, where they have conceded only once and won three out of five. Those stats suggest they ought to get the better of Bury. Remarkably, the unfancied Forest Green Rovers are the only unbeaten team in the Football League. They'll be short odds to maintain that record at struggling Northampton but the Cobblers, now managed by Keith Curle, can cause an upset here.


Weekend pools info: Sunderland v Blackpool (28), Walsall v Charlton (29), Cheltenham v Yeovil (32) and Notts County v Oldham (38) have been postponed owing to international calls and will be judged by the pools panel.

Betting info: Five of my six away selections were correct last weekend: Arsenal, Sunderland, Notts County, Eastleigh and Salford.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of October 6-7

Ten draws: Leicester v Everton, Liverpool v Manchester City, Watford v Bournemouth, Bolton v Blackburn, Norwich v Stoke, Peterborough v Barnsley, Bury v Mansfield, Forest Green v Newport, Morecambe v Tranmere, Motherwell v Livingston.

Best draws: Leicester v Everton, Watford v Bournemouth, Norwich v Stoke, Peterborough v Barnsley, Motherwell v Livingston.

Best weekend away bets: Arsenal, Sunderland, Notts County, Exeter, Eastleigh, Salford.

Best weekend home bets: Burnley, Tottenham, Preston, Swansea, West Bromwich, Blackpool, Southend, Crawley, Stevenage, Rangers.


Pick of the draws: Everton gained a badly needed Premier League win over Fulham at Goodison Park last Saturday and, as a result, will be more confident of getting something at Leicester, although the hosts are a team in form. To their great credit, Watford and Bournemouth, who meet on Saturday, are hovering just outside the Champions League qualification places. Watford deserved better than to lose 2-0 at Arsenal last weekend and Bournemouth were worthy winners against Crystal Palace 2-1 at home last Monday. The teams are evenly matched and I think that will be reflected in the result. Stoke are starting to find their feet in the Championship and steadily climbing the table. I believe they'll hold Norwich, who have themselves improved. League One high-flyers Peterborough have had two recent setbacks at home, losing to Portsmouth and only drawing with Blackpool. Barnsley's fine away record suggests that the Posh may be disappointed again on Saturday. Livingston's 1-0 home win over Rangers last Sunday showed they are no easy touch in the Scottish Premiership and they will probably prove a tough nut for Motherwell to crack.

Away days: Arsenal, boasting five consecutive Premier League wins, will be short odds to make it six at Fulham, who are finding it difficult to adjust to life in a higher division. Relegated Sunderland are handily placed to make an immediate return to the Championship and will approach their League One fixture at lowly Bradford City with confidence. Notts County have climbed clear of the League Two drop zone with two successive home victories over Crewe and Crawley respectively. They have no reason to fear a trip to Macclesfield, who prop up the table and have yet to win in the league this season. Exeter moved three points nearer to League Two leaders Lincoln by beating Stevenage 1-0 in midweek and I can see them dishing out similar treatment to Yeovil, who appear to have hit a wall. It's shaping up to be a bumper weekend for away wins in the National League. The most likely victors are Eastleigh, who visit rock bottom Braintree, and new leaders Salford, who go to Dover, who are second from last.

Homes sweet homes: Although Preston are bottom of the Championship, they aren't playing as poorly as their results suggest. They gave West Bromwich Albion a battle before going down 3-2 last weekend and forced a 3-3 draw at Aston Villa in midweek. I've a hunch that they'll surprise Wigan on Saturday. Stevenage have begun to impose themselves in League Two after an uncertain start to the season. They won 1-0 at Carlisle last Saturday and only lost narrowly at promotion-chasing Exeter in midweek. On Saturday they play Colchester, another side in the play-off positions, and I believe they'll make home advantage count. Rangers will want to make amends for their 1-0 loss at Livingston in the Scottish Premiership last Sunday and I'm backing them to send leaders Hearts to their first league defeat this season.

Pools info: Six of my 10 selected draws were correct last weekend. The matches were Rotherham v Stoke, Bradford City v Bristol Rovers, Coventry v Sunderland, Luton v Charlton, Port Vale v Exeter and Swindon v Oldham.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Sept 29-30

Ten draws: Arsenal v Watford, Cardiff v Burnley, Rotherham v Stoke, Bradford City v Bristol Rovers, Coventry v Sunderland, Luton v Charlton, Plymouth v Doncaster, Grimsby v Morecambe, Port Vale v Exeter, Swindon v Oldham.

Best draws: Arsenal v Watford, Luton v Charlton, Plymouth v Doncaster, Grimsby v Morecambe, Port Vale v Exeter.

Best weekend away bets: Tottenham, Leicester, Sheffield United, Portsmouth, Forest Green, Rangers.

Best weekend home bets: Wolves, Birmingham, Brentford, Norwich, Burton, Peterborough, Colchester, Notts County, Hamilton, Hearts.

Pick of the draws: Watford, lying fourth in the Premier League and unbeaten away, are playing better than Arsenal and can force a draw at the Emirates. Watford have already won there in league (2017) and FA Cup (2016) and were unlucky not to beat Fulham at Craven Cottage last weekend. Despite winning their past six matches, the Gunners have yet to convince and need to raise their game on Saturday. Luton, who are mid-table in League One, are not generous opponents at Kenilworth Road but sixth-placed Charlton have looked the business recently and can come away with a point. Although Plymouth are bottom and without a victory, they played well in defeat at Charlton last Saturday and are capable of halting Doncaster's charge towards the top of the table. Two out-of-form sides meet each other as Grimsby (22nd) host Morecambe (21st) in League Two. They are both desperately short of goals and the odds on a scoreless draw must be short. Second-placed Exeter have really hit their stride but may have to settle for a draw at Port Vale, who are steadily climbing the table.

Away days: Tottenham stopped the rot with a 2-1 win at Brighton last Saturday and will aim to dish out similar treatment to Huddersfield, who prop up the Premier League. Although Leicester are inconsistent, I believe they'll have too much for Newcastle, who have lost all three home matches and show no signs of escaping the relegation zone. Sheffield United have bounced back into promotion contention in the Championship and will fancy themselves at third-from-bottom Millwall, who are playing more like lambs than Lions. Portsmouth, chasing promotion in League One, seem more comfortable away than at Fratton Park and look a good thing at Rochdale, who have disappointed at home. Forest Green, in the League Two play-off places, should relish a trip to demoralised Macclesfield while Steven Gerrard's Rangers, who have climbed to second in the Scottish Premiership, are recommended at Livingston.

Homes sweet homes: Norwich appear to be on the upgrade with recent wins in the Championship and League Cup and are worth a bet against Wigan, who are not the same force away from their own pitch. League One Burton will have benefited enormously from knocking Premier League Burnley out of the League Cup in midweek and I'm taking them to be victorious again, this time against better-placed Scunthorpe. After last season's near miss with promotion, it's incredible that Notts County are in the bottom two in League Two and without a win to their name. I've a feeling that will change on Saturday when Harry Kewell's men play Crewe, who are bad travellers and have yet to score on the road.


Pools info: Bristol City v Aston Villa (match No 13 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Sept 22-23

Ten draws: Burnley v Bournemouth, Manchester United v Wolves, Queens Park Rangers v Norwich, Reading v Hull, Barnsley v Burton, Blackpool v Luton, Cambridge v Mansfield, Morecambe v Macclesfield, Northampton v Notts County, Aberdeen v Motherwell.

Best draws: Burnley v Bournemouth, Barnsley v Burton, Blackpool v Luton, Morecambe v Macclesfield, Northampton v Notts County.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester City, Chelsea, Coventry, Peterborough, Hibernian, Ayr.

Best weekend home bets: Crystal Palace, Leeds, Sheffield United, Stoke, West Bromwich, Charlton, Doncaster, Oldham, Tranmere, Hearts.


Pick of the draws: Although Burnley are bottom of the Premier League with no wins from five matches, they haven't become a bad team overnight and they are capable of gaining a point from the visit of high-flying Bournemouth. Relegated Burton have picked up in League One and had a particularly good result at home to Sunderland last Saturday, winning 2-1. Barnsley went down to their first defeat of the season at Coventry last weekend and I believe they'll be held by Nigel Clough's side. Blackpool had two players sent off for fighting each other in their 1-0 triumph at Plymouth last Saturday and the suspensions will probably harm their chances against Luton, who are coping well with playing in a higher division. Morecambe and Macclesfield, who face one another, seem destined for a season of struggle in League Two and a point apiece is the most likely result here. New manager Harry Kewell has a job on his hands at bottom club Notts County. They have lost all four away games so far but they will be disappointed not to come away with something at Northampton, who are only four points above them.

Away days: Manchester City will be anxious to make amends for their unexpected midweek defeat by Lyon in the Champions League - their first of the season - and it is hard to see them failing again against Neil Warnock's Cardiff. Chelsea, the Premier League leaders, have given their title hopes a real shot in the arm with maximum points from their first five matches and are in the mood to make it six wins in a row on Sunday at West Ham, who were pointless before last weekend. Coventry have won their past two fixtures in League One, so don't be surprised if they collect another three points at Bristol Rovers, who have slid into the relegation zone. Peterborough have been replaced at the top of League One by Portsmouth, who beat them 2-1 away last Saturday. I think that will be only a temporary setback and I expect Posh to come away from ailing Gillingham with a victory. In the Scottish Premiership, Hibernian are recommended at Dundee, who are still without a point, while Ayr are a confident selection at struggling Alloa in the Scottish Championship.

Homes sweet homes: Relegated Stoke have been slow to adjust to the demands of the Championship but there are signs they are getting their act together and they are worth a punt against shot-shy Blackburn, who have only eight goals from the same number of matches. Oldham's 3-0 success at Grimsby last Saturday caught the eye in League Two and I'm backing them to inflict Colchester's first away defeat this season. A home win would lift Oldham above Colchester in the upper reaches of the table. Tranmere, who lie just outside the League Two play-off positions, are in good nick. They host third-placed Newport, whose confidence must have been adversely affected by their shock 6-0 home loss to Yeovil last Saturday.


Pools info: Wigan v Bristol City (match No 21 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void. Three of my five best draw selections were correct last weekend - Sheffield Wednesday v Stoke, Cheltenham v Crewe and Notts County v Stevenage.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of Sept 15-16

Ten draws: Huddersfield v Crystal Palace, Bristol City v Sheffield United, Hull v Ipswich, Sheffield Wednesday v Stoke, Peterborough v Portsmouth, Walsall v Doncaster, Cheltenham v Crewe, Grimsby v Oldham, Notts County v Stevenage, Swindon v Bury.

Best draws: Hull v Ipswich, Sheffield Wednesday v Stoke, Cheltenham v Crewe, Notts County v Stevenage, Swindon v Bury.

Best weekend away bets: Arsenal, Leeds, Derby, Charlton, Lincoln, Harrogate.

Best weekend home bets: Chelsea, Wolves, Blackburn, Preston, Swansea, Fleetwood, Luton, Shrewsbury, Crawley, Rangers.


Pick of the draws: Hull and Ipswich have only one win between them in the Championship this season and it wouldn't surprise me if neither of them managed to gain maximum points from this fixture. Stoke, just down from the Premier League, are surely better than their 18th position in the Championship suggests and I think they can come away with a draw at Hillsborough. Crewe have not  scored away from home in League Two but they visit Cheltenham, who have lost all their three home matches, so I suspect the teams will cancel each other out. Notts County's demise has been one of the shocks of the season so far. They lie bottom of League Two and have sacked manager Kevin Nolan but at least they should be able to get something from the visit of Stevenage, who are mediocre at best. Swindon won 1-0 at Morecambe last Saturday but Bury's 4-0 home triumph over Grimsby was even better and I'm backing them to hold the Wiltshire side.

Away days: Arsenal have got their Premier League season up and running with two consecutive wins and they'll be disappointed not to make it a hat-trick at Newcastle, who will do well to finish out of the bottom three. Leeds, the free-scoring Championship leaders, are unbeaten and I believe that record will still be intact after they've played at Millwall on Saturday. The south-east Londoners have faded after a promising start to the season. Manager Frank Lampard has managed to squeeze something extra from his Derby players and they are looking good for three points at Rotherham. Lee Bowyer's appointment as Charlton manager was confirmed last week and the team responded by beating Wycombe at home. They can go one better this weekend by winning at ailing Bradford City. Although League Two leaders Lincoln suffered an unexpected home defeat by Crawley last Saturday, I'm taking them to bounce straight back at Macclesfield, who await their first win after clinching promotion last season. Harrogate, the surprising leaders of the National League, will be confident of more success at Maidstone.

Homes sweet homes: Although Blackburn are no great shakes, they must fancy their chances against Steve Bruce's Aston Villa, who are sliding down the Championship table after an encouraging start.
Joey Barton is doing well as the manager of unfashionable League One club Fleetwood. They lie sixth and gained a creditable 1-1 draw at Sunderland last weekend. That should give them the confidence to see off the challenge of Accrington. Lowly Shrewsbury had the better of their 1-1 draw at promotion-chasing Portsmouth last Saturday and I've a hunch they'll land their first victory of the season at the expense of off-colour Southend.


Pools info: Birmingham v West Bromwich Albion (match No 9 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of September 8-9

Ten draws: England v Spain, Luxembourg v Moldova, Barnsley v Walsall, Bristol Rovers v Plymouth, Oxford v Coventry, Scunthorpe v Rochdale, Cambridge v Carlisle, Oldham v Newport, Tranmere v Colchester, Aldershot v Bromley.

Best draws: England v Spain, Bristol Rovers v Plymouth, Oxford v Coventry, Oldham v Newport, Tranmere v Colchester.

Best weekend away bets: Serbia, Peterborough, Wrexham, AFC Fylde, Leyton Orient, Partick.

Best weekend home bets: France, Switzerland, Charlton, Gillingham, Portsmouth, Bury, Forest Green, Lincoln, Barrow, Salford.

Pick of the draws: England make their bow in the new Uefa Nations League and are bound to have the Wembley crowd behind them after their convincing show in the World Cup when they reached the semi-finals. However, Spain will be eager to make amends for their disappointing tournament. Plymouth have slumped to the foot of League One and are without an away point but they have a chance to change that at Bristol Rovers, who are also in the relegation zone, having lost all three of their home matches. Goals are in short supply at Coventry, where they have found the net only three times in six games. They travel to another struggling side in Oxford on Sunday. Mike Flynn's Newport continue to confound the pundits. They have climbed to second in League Two after their 

2-1 victory at Port Vale last weekend and are capable of gaining a point at Oldham. Fourth-placed Colchester, 3-1 winners at Cheltenham last Saturday, are worthy promotion contenders and can hold promoted Tranmere.

Away days: One cannot ignore Serbia's chances of maximum points at minnows Lithuania in the Uefa Nations League. League One leaders Peterborough dropped their first points of the season when held to a 1-1 home draw by Doncaster last Saturday but I believe they'll bounce straight back by defeating mid-table Southend. Wrexham were knocked off the top of the National League in midweek but they have a great opportunity to reclaim first place as they visit bottom club Braintree. AFC Fylde are unbeaten away and that should still stand after they've played at Eastleigh, who have yet to hit their stride. Leyton Orient are unbeaten anywhere after nine matches and have jumped to second in the National League. They won at Chesterfield last weekend and I've a feeling they'll do the same at FC Halifax, even though the Yorkshiremen are having a good season. It's Irn-Bru Cup weekend in Scotland and I recommend Partick, of the Championship, at East Fife, who are last in League One.

Homes sweet homes: Switzerland, who reached the last 16 of the World Cup in Russia, should make the most of ground advantage against Iceland, who failed to repeat their Euro heroics of two years ago. Despite off-the-pitch distractions, Charlton did well to win 2-1 at Southend in League One last Saturday. They have yet to click at home but I think they'll make a start by beating Wycombe. Gillingham's progress has stalled recently but I've a hunch they'll get back on track when they host Wimbledon, who look to be in for a long hard winter.

Pools info: Crewe v Mansfield (No 30 on coupon) and Yeovil v MK Dons (39) have been postponed because of international calls and their results will be judged by the pools panel.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of September 1-2

Ten draws: Brighton v Fulham, Bristol City v Blackburn, Preston v Bolton, Reading v Sheffield Wednesday, Shrewsbury v Bristol Rovers, Exeter v Lincoln, Grimsby v Yeovil, Mansfield v Carlisle, Port Vale v Newport, Celtic v Rangers.

Best draws: Brighton v Fulham, Preston v Bolton, Reading v Sheffield Wednesday, Port Vale v Newport, Celtic v Rangers.

Best weekend away bets: Arsenal, Tottenham, Wolves, Derby, Luton, Dundee United.

Best weekend home bets: Chelsea, Everton, Brentford, Ipswich, Sheffield United, Wigan, Portsmouth, Sunderland, Northampton, Oldham.


Pick of the draws: Fulham gained their first Premier League points of the season with a convincing  win over Burnley at Craven Cottage last Sunday. They have the firepower to trouble Brighton, although the Seagulls showed what they were capable of when they beat Manchester United at home two weeks ago. Preston, who could be in for a mediocre season in the Championship, host Bolton, whose early progress was halted when they lost 3-0 at home to Sheffield United last Saturday. This fixture looks to have stalemate written all over it. Struggling Reading have been boosted by consecutive away draws at Blackburn and Aston Villa. They face Sheffield Wednesday, who have run into some form themselves. Cash-strapped Newport are again confounding expectations in League Two. They lie fifth after five matches and have no need to fear a trip to Port Vale. Rangers are unbeaten under Steven Gerrard's managership and should relish going toe-to-toe with their bitter rivals Celtic, who have yet to spark this season. Both sides are playing catch-up to Hearts, the Scottish Premiership leaders.

Away days: Cardiff are without a goal in three Premier League games. Although they will probably break their duck against Arsenal's fragile defence, it is hard to see them containing the Gunners attack and the visitors seem on course for their second win in a row. Tottenham's 3-0 triumph at Old Trafford last Monday was a terrific result and gave them maximum points from their opening three fixtures. They are worth backing at Watford, who also have nine points but were lucky (a) to finish with 11 players on the pitch and (b) to beat Crystal Palace last Sunday. Promoted Wolves are winning many friends with their approach to the Premier League. They deserved their 1-1 home draw against champions Manchester City last weekend and should be too strong for West Ham, who remain pointless. Derby defeated Hull 4-0 in the midweek League Cup and visit Hull again in the Championship on Saturday. I predict the same result, if not the same score. In League One there are signs that Luton are getting into their stride and they are worth a punt at Wycombe. Dundee United are expected to be serious promotion contenders in the Scottish Championship and are highly recommended at lowly Alloa.

Homes sweet homes: Ipswich may be bottom of the Championship with no wins from five games but I've a hunch they'll pull out something extra for the visit of Norwich in the eagerly awaited East Anglian derby on Sunday. Norwich themselves have been none too impressive this season. Sheffield United have woken up after starting sluggishly and I fancy them against Aston Villa, who dropped two points at home to Reading last weekend and were knocked out of the League Cup by League One Burton in midweek. Relegated Northampton's 2-1 victory at high-riding Colchester in League Two last Saturday caught the eye and I'm taking them to follow that up by beating promoted Tranmere at home.


Pools info: Leeds v Middlesbrough (No 15 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of August 25-26

Ten draws: Bournemouth v Everton, Watford v Crystal Palace, Bolton v Sheffield United, Norwich v Leeds, Blackpool v Accrington, Doncaster v Portsmouth, Oxford v Burton, Crawley v Bury, Tranmere v Port Vale, Hibernian v Aberdeen.

Best draws: Bournemouth v Everton, Norwich v Leeds, Blackpool v Accrington, Oxford v Burton, Tranmere v Port Vale.

Best weekend away bets: Chelsea, Manchester City, Sunderland, Peterborough, Barnsley, Rangers.

Best weekend home bets: Arsenal, Fulham, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Derby, Bradford City, Charlton, Luton, Newport, Lincoln.


Pick of the draws: Everton secured a well deserved draw at newly promoted Wolves on the first Saturday of the Premier League season, despite going down to 10 men shortly before half-time. If they can keep 11 players on the pitch I fancy them to share the spoils at Bournemouth, who have begun the campaign with two wins out of two. In the Championship, Norwich have not really got going yet but their 2-0 home win over Preston in midweek suggested that better days lie ahead. They can get something when they host Leeds, who lost their 100% record in a 2-2 draw at Swansea in midweek. Accrington keep punching above their weight, this time in League One. Their most recent victory, 3-2 at Oxford, should stand them in good stead at Blackpool, who are still hindered by problems off the field. Oxford are the only League One team without a point but they can get off the mark against relegated Burton, who have started the season disappointingly. Tranmere, back in the Football League, have had mixed fortunes so far in League Two. So have their opponents, Port Vale, and a point apiece is the most likely outcome here.

Away days: Chelsea have maximum points from their first two Premier League fixtures and although their win over Arsenal last Saturday was not without its flaws, I cannot see their hosts, Newcastle, causing an upset on Sunday. You have to feel sorry for anybody playing Manchester City at the moment. Pep Guardiola's side look unstoppable and they are strong favourites to take three points off Wolves in Saturday's early game. Sunderland are looking for an instant return to the Championship. A 4-1 triumph at Gillingham in midweek was just what the doctor ordered and they will be confident of more success at Wimbledon. Peterborough lead League One with a perfect record after four matches. I'm taking them to make it five in a row at Plymouth. High-riding Barnsley have yet to concede and I've a feeling they'll extend that run after visiting Scunthorpe on Saturday. Scunthorpe have just sacked their manager Nicky Daws. Rangers are higher than their fierce rivals Celtic after two matches in the Scottish Premiership. I think that will still be the case after Rangers have played bottom club Motherwell on Sunday.

Homes sweet homes: Although promoted Fulham are second from bottom of the Premier League and without a point, I expect them to rectify that on Sunday against Burnley, who may not be the force they were, especially as they are now involved in European competition. Charlton should be doing better than mid-table in League One and they are worth a punt against Fleetwood, even though Joey Barton's team have already recorded two away victories this season. Promoted Luton gained a much needed triumph at home to Southend in midweek and ought to cope with the challenge of Shrewsbury, who don't seem a patch on the Shrewsbury who just missed going up last season.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of August 18-19

Ten draws: Chelsea v Arsenal, Leicester v Wolves, Millwall v Derby, Reading v Bolton, Wigan v Nottingham Forest, Burton v Doncaster, Bury v Forest Green, Crewe v MK Dons, Northampton v Cambridge, Swindon v Tranmere.

Best draws: Chelsea v Arsenal, Millwall v Derby, Burton v Doncaster, Bury v Forest Green, Northampton v Cambridge.

Best weekend away bets: Manchester United, Stoke, Charlton, Lincoln, Wrexham, Hearts.

Best weekend home bets: Everton, Hull, Leeds, West Bromwich, Barnsley, Portsmouth, Stevenage, Barnet, Halifax, Hartlepool.


Pick of the draws: Arsenal played out two goalless draws at Chelsea last season - in the Premier League and League Cup - and another Stamford Bridge stalemate is looming. Both clubs are adjusting to new managers and a point each is the most likely outcome of Saturday's early evening contest. That 4-1 home defeat by Leeds last weekend must have jolted Frank Lampard's Derby but they have a chance of getting back on track at Millwall, who have failed to score in their past two fixtures. Burton are pointless from their first two games in League One since being relegated but a League Cup victory at Shrewsbury in midweek must have settled them down. They face Doncaster, who have got off to a flyer with three wins from three. League Two Bury almost claimed a notable scalp in Championship side Nottingham Forest in the League Cup but Forest Green have made an encouraging start to their campaign and can come away with a point. Cambridge's last-gasp success last Saturday, 3-2 at home to Notts County, will put them in good heart for their trip to Northampton, who have yet to fire.

Away days: Jose Mourinho's close season problems at Old Trafford have rather obscured the fact that Manchester United still have some very good players. They should be too good for Brighton, who were poor when beaten 2-0 at Watford last Saturday. One point from their first two Championship matches was not the start that relegated Stoke were hoping for. Away at Preston will be no easy task either but I've a hunch that the men from the Potteries will come good at Deepdale this weekend. In League One, Charlton seem well equipped to take advantage of Accrington, who crashed 6-1 at League Two Mansfield in the midweek League Cup. League Two promotion contenders Lincoln, six points from their opening two fixtures, are a confident selection at Grimsby and table-topping Wrexham look a good bet at Eastleigh in the National League. Hearts, the Scottish Premiership leaders, are highly recommended at Dunfermline in the Scottish League Cup.

Homes sweet homes: Hull, who often punch above their weight in the Championship, are well worth a punt against promoted Blackburn, who have drawn their first two matches of 2018-19. Barnet have made a terrible start to life back in the National League (no wins and only two points from four games) but they have an opportunity to turn things round when they play Ebbsfleet at The Hive on Saturday. I believe they'll take it. Hartlepool are another National League team who have failed to get going but I'm backing them to gain three points at the expense of struggling Maidenhead.


Pools info: Five of my draw selections were correct last weekend. The matches were Southampton v Burnley, Bolton v Bristol City, Sheffield Wednesday v Hull, Luton v Sunderland and Carlisle v Northampton.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of August 11-12

Ten draws: Southampton v Burnley, Bolton v Bristol City, Derby v Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday v Hull, Gillingham v Burton, Luton v Sunderland, Carlisle v Northampton, Colchester v Port Vale, Lincoln v Swindon, Hearts v Celtic.

Best draws: Southampton v Burnley, Derby v Leeds, Gillingham v Burton, Luton v Sunderland, Lincoln v Swindon.

Best weekend away bets: Chelsea, West Bromwich, Ipswich, Portsmouth, Exeter, Mansfield.

Best weekend home bets: Liverpool, Wolves, Aston Villa, Blackburn, Stoke, Swansea, Charlton, Scunthorpe, MK Dons, Rangers.


Pick of the draws: Burnley's season has already begun because of their involvement in the Europa League. That may make them more ready than their hosts for Sunday's Premier League visit to Southampton, who had a narrow escape from relegation last season and could struggle again this time. Derby and Leeds kicked off their Championship campaign with impressive victories (Derby 2-1 at Reading, Leeds 3-1 at home to Stoke). I believe they'll both be in the mix for promotion and a point apiece on Saturday will confirm they are well matched. Relegated Burton suffered a surprising 2-1 home defeat by Rochdale in League One last weekend but apparently played well. I suspect they'll have better luck at Gillingham, who began their campaign by winning 2-0 at Accrington. Sunderland are odds-on to return to the Championship at the first attempt but could have to settle for a point at Luton, who give little away at home and are expected to adapt quickly to life in a higher division. Swindon's two goals in added time when beating Macclesfield 3-2 was the comeback of last weekend and I'm backing them to get something at Lincoln in League Two.

Away days: Although Chelsea have experienced an unsettled close season, they should have too much in the tank for Huddersfield, who will do well to escape relegation again. West Bromwich Albion slipped up at home to Bolton last Saturday but recovered to hold Nottingham Forest to an away draw in midweek. I'm sure there's more to come from them and they are worth a punt at Norwich, who failed to set the Championship alight last season. I fancy Ipswich to obtain maximum points at promoted Rotherham, who had an uncomfortable introduction to the Championship when they were thrashed 5-1 by Brentford. Gary Bowyer was the first managerial casualty of the season, leaving after Blackpool's goalless draw at Wycombe in League One last Saturday. The seaside club are in turmoil off the pitch and Portsmouth, their opponents this weekend, are poised to take advantage. Exeter, at Morecambe, and Mansfield, at Yeovil, are two of my more confident selections. Exeter and Mansfield are likely to be front-runners for promotion in League Two, whereas their opponents will probably struggle.

Homes sweet homes: Promoted Wolves are even stronger now than when they were running away with the Championship last season. They'll be raring to go after making several signings this summer and in the mood to take it out on Everton, who have plenty to prove to their new manager. Only a late Ipswich goal deprived promoted Blackburn of an away victory in their opening game of the Championship season. Tony Mowbray's team are back at Ewood Park this weekend and well capable of defeating Millwall. Stoke's start to the season wasn't ideal (losing 3-1 at Leeds last Sunday) but I think they'll bounce straight back against Brentford, who are less assured on their travels.


Pools info: Manchester United v Leicester (No 6 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of August 4-5

Ten draws: Millwall v Middlesbrough, Sheffield United v Swansea, Wigan v Sheffield Wednesday, Coventry v Scunthorpe, Portsmouth v Luton, Bury v Yeovil, Port Vale v Cambridge, Aberdeen v Rangers, St Mirren v Dundee, Forfar v Airdrieonians.

Best draws: Sheffield United v Swansea, Wigan v Sheffield Wednesday, Coventry v Scunthorpe, Portsmouth v Luton, Aberdeen v Rangers.

Best weekend away bets: Derby (Friday), Nottingham Forest, Plymouth, MK Dons, Partick, Brechin.

Best weekend home bets: Birmingham, Brentford, West Bromwich, Barnsley, Fleetwood, Crewe, Exeter, Grimsby, Swindon, Ross.


Pick of the draws: Swansea appointed Graham Potter as manager after their relegation from the Premier League was confirmed. Potter worked wonders at Swedish club Ostersund last season and is expected to do well at Swansea. He could have had easier opponents to start with than Sheffield United but Swansea can come away with a point. Wigan were not only promoted but ended their Division One campaign as champions. I suspect they will adjust quickly to the Championship and should be good enough to frustrate Sheffield Wednesday, who often flatter to deceive. Coventry, up from Division Two, are another promoted club who are capable of further progress and I'm backing them to share the spoils with Scunthorpe. After last season's disappointment Portsmouth need to hit the ground running but may struggle to defeat a Luton team moving in the right direction. Rangers will be boosted by the appointment of Steven Gerrard as manager and I believe he'll begin his new career in the Scottish Premiership with a point at Aberdeen on Sunday.

Away days: Derby, now managed by England centurion Frank Lampard, kick off the Championship season with a visit to Reading on Friday evening and after Reading's troubles in 2017-18 he'll be confident of three points. No club has signed more players in the summer than Nottingham Forest. Their away record left much to be desired last season but I believe they'll get off to a flier with victory at Bristol City, who faded badly in the run-in. Plymouth, who qualified for the League One play-offs last season, have more going for them than their hosts Walsall and are well worth a punt. MK Dons are determined to bounce straight back after relegation to League Two and have a winnable fixture at Oldham, as do relegated Partick at Ayr in the Scottish Championship. Brechin will probably be relieved to return to Scottish One football after their disastrous experience in the Championship last season when they failed to win a game. I'm tipping them to win at Stenhousemuir.

Homes sweet homes: Birmingham finished last season's disappointing Championship campaign with a flourish and are fancied to start 2018-19 by beating Norwich, who failed to rise above mediocre. Former tough guy midfielder Joey Barton is cutting his managerial teeth with League One Fleetwood, who host Wimbledon. Whatever the season has in store for the controversial Barton, I'm taking Fleetwood to gain all three points on Saturday. League Two looks a good division for home selections this weekend and the two who most appeal to me are Crewe (v Morecambe) and Grimsby (v Forest Green).

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of May 12-13

Ten draws: Burnley v Bournemouth, West Ham v Everton, Alaves v Athletic Bilbao, Getafe v Atletico Madrid, Roma v Juventus, Verona v Udinese, Angers v Nantes, Lille v Dijon, Maritimo v Sporting Lisbon, Rio Ave v Braga.

Best draws: Burnley v Bournemouth, West Ham v Everton, Getafe v Atletico Madrid, Roma v Juventus, Angers v Nantes.

Best weekend away bets: Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Rangers, Villarreal, Valencia.

Best weekend home bets: Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Manchester United, Swansea, Tottenham, Dundee, Motherwell, St Johnstone, Kilmarnock, Cowdenbeath.


Pick of the draws: Burnley, with Europa League football assured next season, may take their eye off the ball on Sunday. If that's the case then Bournemouth, who can finish in the top half of the Premier League, are well equipped to take advantage. Although West Ham guaranteed Premier League safety with a 2-0 win at Leicester last weekend, their home record does not inspire confidence and Everton can nick a point. Atletico Madrid, with one eye on next Wednesday's Europa League final, may rest some key players at Getafe, which should help the mid-table hosts to salvage something. Juventus need only a draw for their 35th Italian League title and I think they'll oblige at third-placed Roma. In the French League, two late goals by Angers gave them a 2-1 victory over relegated Metz. They will face sterner opposition this weekend in Nantes and I believe the points will be shared.

Away days: Arsene Wenger will want his last match as Arsenal's manager to end with maximum points against Huddersfield. Wenger will also be determined to halt Arsenal's abysmal away form - they have lost their last seven in the league - which has resulted in them missing out on Champions League qualification for the second season in a row. Chelsea have rediscovered their spark in recent weeks and are a confident selection at Newcastle, whose minds appear to be elsewhere now they are safe from the drop. It's impossible to ignore the claims of Premier League champions Manchester City at Southampton, even though Saints gained a crucial victory at Swansea in midweek. Rangers could benefit from the Steven Gerrard effect when they visit Hibernian and three points on Sunday will probably clinch a runners-up spot in the Scottish Premiership. In the Spanish League, Villarreal and Valencia, both in the top half, are recommended at Deportivo and Girona respectively.

Homes sweet homes: Put your money on Crystal Palace to end the season with a flourish against West Bromwich Albion, especially now that West Brom's relegation from the Premier League has been confirmed. Swansea need results elsewhere to go their way if they are to survive but they should have enough in their locker to overcome relegated Stoke, who just want the season to end. Although Cowdenbeath finished last in Scottish Two by some distance, I expect them to retain their league status. They forced a goalless draw at Cove Rangers in the first leg of their relegation play-off final and I'm backing them to finish the job on Saturday.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of May 5-6

Ten draws: Everton v Southampton, Leicester v West Ham, West Bromwich v Tottenham, Bolton v Nottingham Forest, Ipswich v Middlesbrough, Leeds v Queens Park Rangers, Preston v Burton, Carlisle v Newport, Forest Green v Grimsby, Swindon v Accrington.

Best draws: Everton v Tottenham, Leicester v West Ham, Leeds v Queens Park Rangers, Preston v Burton, Forest Green v Grimsby.

Best weekend away bets: Crystal Palace, Fulham, Wolves, Wigan, Walsall, Luton.

Best weekend home bets: Arsenal, Cardiff, Derby, Wimbledon, Blackburn, Portsmouth, Shrewsbury, Barnet, Coventry, Lincoln.


Pick of the draws: Southampton's 2-1 home win over Bournemouth, coupled with the weekend's defeats of Swansea and Huddersfield, has given the Saints a fighting chance of avoiding relegation from the Premier League. They won't find it easy at Everton, given that Sam Allardyce's men are staging something of a revival themselves, but a repeat of the spirit shown last Saturday should see them come away from Goodison Park with a point. Leicester host West Ham and it's hard to know which team is playing worse at the moment. Both suffered heavy defeats last weekend and a stalemate seems the most likely outcome. Leeds have finished well off the pace in the Championship and I wouldn't rule out yet another change of manager during the close season. They play Queens Park Rangers, who are one place and one point below them, and cannot be confident of coming out on top. Nigel Clough's Burton, after three consecutive victories, are on the verge of a remarkable escape from relegation. A point at seventh-placed Preston may well be enough to keep them up and I've a feeling they will achieve it. Forest Green, who have just about preserved their League Two status, entertain Grimsby, who were once in free-fall but have recently revived, including beating high-flying Notts County last Saturday.

Away days: Crystal Palace, buoyed by last weekend's 5-0 thrashing of Leicester, are strongly fancied to end Stoke's stay in the Premier League. Stoke have managed only six wins all season and are desperately short of goals. Fulham probably need maximum points to have any chance of automatic promotion from the Championship, so in their final fixture they are a good bet for all three at Birmingham, who could still go down. Wolves, the Championship champions, need only a draw at relegated Sunderland on Sunday to total 100 points but I think they'll do better than that as they are determined to end their great season in style. Promotion-bound Wigan have been a credit to League One and victory at mid-table Doncaster will ensure they go up as champions. A midweek draw at Bradford City ensured Walsall's safety and they are worth backing at Fleetwood, who are ending the season with a whimper. Luton, runners-up to Accrington in League Two, are recommended at Notts County, who have let automatic promotion slip from their grasp.

Homes sweet homes: Whatever happens on Thursday against Atletico Madrid in the Europa League semi-final, second leg, I expect Arsenal to give Arsene Wenger a winning send-off in his final home match as manager on Sunday. It's been a very disappointing season for the Gunners but they are efficient at home and I believe they'll continue in that vein against Burnley. In League One, Portsmouth have flopped just when they needed to raise their game. They owe their fans a good performance in the final match of their campaign and I tip them to beat Peterborough. The great escape is on for Barnet, who have four wins and a draw from their past six matches. Victory over relegated Chesterfield, combined with defeat for Morecambe at Coventry, will keep Barnet in League Two. Their position looked hopeless this time last month but Martin Allen, their recently appointed manager, looks like being their saviour.


Pools info: Brighton v Manchester United (match No 3 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of April 28-29

Ten draws: Newcastle v West Brom, Norwich v Leeds, Nottingham Forest v Bristol City, Reading v Ipswich, Bradford City v Southend, Charlton v Blackburn, Crawley v Crewe, Newport v Cambridge, Port Vale v Carlisle, Stevenage v Exeter.

Best draws: Newcastle v West Brom, Norwich v Leeds, Reading v Ipswich, Bradford City v Southend, Port Vale v Carlisle.

Best weekend away bets: Chelsea, Manchester City, Portsmouth, Northampton, Wycombe, Barnet.

Best weekend home bets: Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Manchester United, Burton, Wolves, Blackpool, Peterborough, Wigan, Luton, Barrow.


Pick of the draws: Although West Bromwich Albion have almost certainly left it too late to avoid relegation from the Premier League, their recent form under interim manager Darren Moore has been encouraging. They've beaten Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford and held Liverpool to a 2-2 draw at The Hawthorns. I fancy them to gain at least a point at Newcastle, who are no more than average. Two of the Championship's under-achievers, Norwich and Leeds, meet at Carrow Road. They have equal points from the same number of matches and are next to each other in the table. I rate this as the most likely draw on the whole 49-game coupon. Reading don't inspire confidence but will probably do just enough to stay up. They must be relieved they are only playing Ipswich, who have also had a disappointing season. A last-minute equaliser saved Bradford City from a shock League One defeat at Rochdale last Saturday. They face tougher opposition this weekend in Southend, who scored four without reply at home to MK Dons and won 3-0 at Oldham in midweek. A point at Mansfield last Saturday preserved Port Vale's League Two status. It was their 14th draw this season and No 15 is on the cards when they host mid-table Carlisle.

Away days: Chelsea, FA Cup finalists for the second consecutive season, have not given up hope of overtaking Tottenham in the Premier League and three points against relegation-fearing Swansea will help their cause. Champions Manchester City are determined to reach 100 points and finish the campaign with a flourish. If they play half as well as they did against Swansea when facing West Ham, then maximum points will follow. Portsmouth have probably missed out on the League One play-off places but should be backed at Bury, who are destined to finish bottom. Two wins in a row have improved Northampton's chances of avoiding the drop to League Two. I'm backing them to make it three on the bounce at Walsall, who are precariously placed themselves. Despite promotion-seeking Wycombe crashing 4-0 at home to prospective League Two champions Accrington last Saturday, they will surely bounce back at Chesterfield, who are going to drop out of the Football League. Barnet must win their two remaining matches to stay in League Two and are worth a wager at struggling Morecambe.

Homes sweet homes: One more victory in the Premier League should ensure Crystal Palace's safety and I've a feeling they'll be celebrating on Saturday after they have defeated Leicester, who have gone off the boil. Wins over Derby (3-1, home) and Sunderland (2-1, away) have given Burton a fighting chance of Championship survival. Another victory on Saturday will see them leapfrog Bolton, who are their visitors and woefully off form. Blackpool, 10th in League One, are on a roll at the moment and are recommended against Shrewsbury, who are now resigned to contesting the play-off positions after challenging for automatic promotion for so long.


Pools info: Fulham v Sunderland (match No 13 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void.

Betting info: Five from six of my away selections last weekend were correct. Wolves, Aston Villa, Blackpool, Macclesfield and Woking all obliged.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of April 21-22

Ten draws: Stoke v Burnley, Birmingham v Sheffield United, Bristol City v Hull, Derby v Middlesbrough, Leeds v Barnsley, Doncaster v Oxford, Cambridge v Cheltenham, Wycombe v Accrington, Bromley v Boreham Wood, Dagenham & Redbridge v Maidenhead.

Best draws: Stoke v Burnley, Birmingham v Sheffield United, Bristol City v Hull, Derby v Middlesbrough, Bromley v Boreham Wood.

Best weekend away bets: Crystal Palace, Wolves, Aston Villa, Blackpool, Macclesfield, Woking.

Best weekend home bets: Manchester City, Cardiff, Preston, Sunderland, Rotherham, Scunthorpe, Barnet, Notts County, Swindon, Leyton Orient.


Pick of the draws: Although Stoke's chances of remaining in the Premier League have probably vanished as a result of their 1-1 draw at West Ham on Monday, they have enough spirit and cussedness to make life difficult for Burnley on Sunday. Burnley are striving for a Europa League place next season but this is no easy assignment. Sheffield United, contenders for a Championship play-off place, have dropped quite a few points lately and I can see the same thing happening against Birmingham at St Andrew's. Birmingham, who are fighting to stay up, look a better proposition under manager Garry Monk and can nick a point here. I believe that Hull's 1-0 home defeat by Sheffield Wednesday last weekend was only a temporary blip and I'm confident they can get something at Bristol City, who are not the force they were earlier in the season. Derby are having their usual late-season collapse. That shock 3-1 defeat at Burton last Saturday must have shaken them and will have encouraged their visitors Middlesbrough, who are fellow play-off candidates. Boreham Wood can strengthen their hold on the National League play-off positions by sharing the spoils at Bromley.

Away days: Crystal Palace, whose 3-2 home victory over Brighton last Saturday put them six points clear of the Premier League relegation zone, are recommended at Watford, who are ending the season lamely. Wolves, already assured of promotion to the top flight, will be in the mood to celebrate at Bolton, whose only concern is staying in the Championship. Fourth-placed Aston Villa must fancy themselves at Ipswich, who are marooned in mid-table with little to play for save pride. Blackpool are finishing the League One season with a flourish (three consecutive wins) and look a good thing at Gillingham, who seem to have switched off. A win for Macclesfield on Saturday will guarantee them promotion to the Football League and I think the National League leaders will realise their ambition at Eastleigh. Woking have slid into the National League relegation zone and are desperate for points. I believe they'll get them at bottom club Guiseley, who are doomed to relegation.

Homes sweet homes: The chances of Sunderland avoiding relegation for the second season in a row are almost zero but a home fixture against fellow sufferers Burton at least gives them the opportunity of recording their third home success of the Championship campaign. Barnet, second from bottom of League Two, have three matches left and really need to win all of them to have a realistic chance of avoiding relegation. They are worth backing against mid-table Newport. Leyton Orient have improved under manager Justin Edinburgh and are worth a punt against Wrexham, who are ending the season on a low.


Pools info: Everton v Newcastle (match No 4 on coupon) has been moved back to Monday and will be assessed by the pools panel. Millwall v Fulham (16) and Blackburn v Peterborough (21) are being played on Friday and Thursday respectively so are therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of April 14-15

Ten draws: Newcastle v Arsenal, Swansea v Everton, Nottingham Forest v Ipswich, MK Dons v Doncaster, Plymouth v Portsmouth, Walsall v Wimbledon, Accrington v Exeter, Crawley v Coventry, Newport v Swindon, Gateshead v Eastleigh.

Best draws: Newcastle v Arsenal, Plymouth v Portsmouth, Walsall v Wimbledon, Crawley v Coventry, Newport v Swindon.

Best weekend away bets: Derby, Northampton, Mansfield, Notts County, Barnet, Fylde.

Best weekend home bets: Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Hull, Queens Park Rangers, Wolves, Oldham, Wigan, Luton, Solihull Moors, Inverness Caledonian Thistle.


Pick of the draws: The sun is finally coming out for Newcastle after a troubled season. Consecutive wins over Huddersfield (1-0 home) and Leicester (2-1 away) enabled them to move into the top half of the Premier League and on Sunday they host Arsenal, who have already lost eight away matches this campaign and may be a bit "leggy" after their midweek Europa League trip to Moscow. Plymouth, who lie fifth in League One, were not wholly convincing in defeating Peterborough at home last weekend. This should encourage Portsmouth, who are only two places and one point behind them. Walsall and Wimbledon, two teams fighting to avoid relegation from League One, meet on Saturday and a point apiece is the likeliest outcome. Coventry's League Two play-off place has been endangered by defeats against Yeovil (6-2 home) and Notts County (2-1 away) but I think they'll salvage something at Crawley, who are more vulnerable at home than away. Newport have drawn more home games (10) than any other League Two side. Don't be surprised if that becomes 11 against Swindon, whose best results this season have come on their travels.

Away days: Promotion-seeking Derby are a "must" selection at Burton, who lost 5-0 at home to Hull in midweek and will almost certainly be saying goodbye to the Championship at the end of the season. Northampton's chances of escaping relegation from League One look bleak but there's an excellent opportunity of maximum points at Bury, who are rock bottom and seemingly doomed. Mansfield, in contention for a League Two play-off place, cannot buy a win at the moment but that should change at Chesterfield, who appear to be losing their battle to stay up. Notts County emerged from an indifferent spell by beating Coventry last Saturday and they are still in with a shout of automatic promotion. They are worth a punt at mid-table Colchester. Victory for Barnet at fellow strugglers Grimsby would put the cat among the pigeons in the League Two relegation scrap and I've a hunch that Martin Allen's team will do it. Fylde are in fine form in the National League and are recommended at lowly Maidstone.

Homes sweet homes: Crystal Palace have the goal power to ensure they stay in the Premier League and I'm backing them to defeat their fierce rivals Brighton on Saturday. Hull are making great strides in the Championship under manager Nigel Adkins - nine goals in their past two games - and are fancied to make Sheffield Wednesday their next victims. QPR can generally be relied on at home and are my tip to overcome Preston, whose play-off hopes have faded. Oldham, admittedly at the wrong end of League One, are capable of upsetting Gillingham, who seem to have forgotten how to score.


Pools info: Aston Villa v Leeds (No 9 on coupon) is now being played on Friday and is therefore void.

Pools tips and best bets for weekend of April 7-8

Ten draws: Bournemouth v Crystal Palace, Hull v Queens Park Rangers, Sheffield Wednesday v Fulham, Wimbledon v Scunthorpe, Blackpool v Bradford City, Oxford v Oldham, Colchester v Accrington, Grimsby v Chesterfield, Notts County v Coventry, St Johnstone v Motherwell.

Best draws: Bournemouth v Crystal Palace, Sheffield Wednesday v Fulham, Oxford v Oldham, Colchester v Accrington, Notts County v Coventry.

Best weekend away bets: Tottenham, Burnley, Sheffield United, Charlton, Kilmarnock, Hibernian.

Best weekend home bets: Arsenal, Leicester, West Bromwich, Derby, Leeds, Walsall, Wigan, Barnet, Port Vale, Rangers.

Pick of the draws: Crystal Palace's recent results have dragged them back into the Premier League relegation scrap. Although they were beaten at home by Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool, their performances deserved something better. They are due a change of luck and may get it at Bournemouth on Saturday. Fulham's chances of promotion from the Championship were enhanced over Easter when they defeated Norwich (away) and Leeds (home) but Sheffield Wednesday, their hosts on Saturday, have also struck form with victories over Preston (home) and Sunderland (away). The appointment of Karl Robinson as manager has not had a beneficial effect on Oxford so far and now they face Oldham, who are only three points behind them at the wrong end of League One. Accrington, who top League Two by three points, are probably the success story of the season, having done this well while operating on the tightest of budgets. However, their winning streak could end at Colchester, who are making a late charge for the play-off places. Coventry's 6-2 home defeat by Yeovil on Easter Monday was a huge upset. It feels like it was just one of those days and I expect them to bounce straight back at Notts County, whose hopes of automatic promotion are fading.

Away days: Tottenham, deserved 3-1 winners at Chelsea last Sunday and hot favourites to qualify for next season's Champions League, are an appealing proposition at Stoke, who cannot find the goals to lift them out of trouble near the foot of the Premier League. Burnley followed their 3-0 win at West Ham with a 2-1 away victory against doomed West Bromwich Albion. A hat-trick of triumphs on the road is on when they visit Watford, who are becalmed in mid-table. Sheffield United, who are still in Championship play-off contention, were annoyed not to have beaten Cardiff on Easter Monday  and I believe they'll take their anger out on relegation-threatened Barnsley. Since taking over as interim manager, Lee Bowyer has galvanised Charlton, who have won three League One games on the bounce. I believe they'll make it four in a row at Bristol Rovers. In the Scottish Premiership, Kilmarnock look set for three points at bottom club Partick and Hibernian are strongly recommended at struggling Ross.

Homes sweet homes: Alan Pardew's disastrous managerial reign at the Hawthorns came to an end this week. It often happens that a team win their first match after the manager has been sacked and I've a hunch that will occur on Saturday when West Bromwich Albion, bottom of the Premier League by some distance, host Swansea, who could soon be back in the mire. Barnet, bottom in League Two, are effectively drinking in the last-chance saloon and anything less than three points against Forest Green will be greeted with despair. I've a hunch that Martin Allen's side will respond positively to the crisis and gain their second consecutive home victory. Port Vale, who are still not safe from the drop, were only denied an away win by Crewe's injury-time equaliser in the 2-2 draw on Easter Monday and I think they'll have better luck against Crawley.


Pools info: Cardiff v Wolves (No 13 on coupon) has been brought forward to Friday and is therefore void. Northampton v Shrewsbury (27) and Lincoln v Wycombe (39) are postponed and will be assessed by the pools panel.

Betting info: For the second week running eight of my nine home selections last weekend were correct. Arsenal, Newcastle, Birmingham, Fleetwood, Peterborough, Aberdeen, Falkirk and Raith obliged.

Pools tips and best bets for March 31-April 2 coupon

Ten draws: Chelsea v Tottenham, West Ham v Southampton, Ipswich v Millwall, Sheffield United v Cardiff, Doncaster v Wimbledon, Oldham v Blackpool, Dunfermline v Queen of South, Morton v Dundee United, Alloa v Arbroath, Elgin v Stirling.

Best draws: Chelsea v Tottenham, West Ham v Southampton, Sheffield United v Cardiff, Dunfermline v Queen of South, Morton v Dundee United.

Best weekend away bets: Bournemouth, Aston Villa, Blackburn (Monday), Livingston, St Mirren, Ayr.

Best weekend home bets: Arsenal, Brighton, Newcastle, Birmingham, Bradford City (Monday), Fleetwood (Monday), Peterborough (Monday), Aberdeen, Falkirk, Raith.

Pick of the draws: Tottenham look more likely to qualify for the Champions League than Chelsea. They are five points ahead of the Blues, having played the same number of Premier League matches, and I believe the situation will be unchanged after Sunday's London derby at Stamford Bridge. West Ham are in turmoil again after briefly reviving under David Moyes and may even struggle against third-from-bottom Southampton, who have appointed Mark Hughes as manager. The Saints have been boosted by reaching an FA Cup semi-final and should be in a better frame of mind. Neil Warnock's Cardiff are clear favourites to accompany Wolves to promotion to the Premier League but they cannot be guaranteed victory at Sheffield United, who remain in play-off contention in the Championship. Dunfermline v Queen of South is a mid-table clash in the Scottish Championship and it's hard to separate them. It's been a disappointing season for Dundee United, who were expected to challenge for promotion, and I can't see them getting more than a point at Greenock Morton, who are just above them in the Championship table.

Away days: I suspect Bournemouth, who are showing great fighting spirit under their manager Eddie Howe, will be more motivated than their hosts Watford, who seem to have switched off after reaching 36 points. Aston Villa, fourth in the Championship, will be itching to put things right after consecutive defeats by Queens Park Rangers (home) and Bolton (away) and I'm backing them to return to winning ways at Hull on Saturday. League One promotion contenders Blackburn will be disappointed if they fail to record their 12th away win this season at MK Dons, who are still stuck in the drop zone. Livingston, second in the Scottish Championship, are strongly recommended at Dumbarton, second from bottom, while runaway leaders St Mirren look a good call at Inverness Caledonian Thistle. Ayr, three points clear at the top of Scottish League One, should retain that lead after they visit East Fife.

Homes sweet homes: Brighton, who are gradually moving away from danger in the Premier League, must have a fighting chance against Leicester, whose hopes of winning the FA Cup for the first time were ended by Chelsea, who defeated them in the quarter-finals. Relegation-troubled Birmingham enjoyed a long-awaited success by beating Hull 3-0 at St Andrew's two weeks ago. That will encourage them against Ipswich, who have little to play for save pride. A point for Birmingham on Saturday will lift them out of the Championship relegation zone but I think they'll get more than that. Fleetwood's League One fortunes have improved since John Sheridan was appointed manager. They are now five points clear of the relegation zone and worth a punt against the higher-placed Bristol Rovers.

Betting info: Eight of my nine home selections last weekend were correct. Portsmouth, Shrewsbury, Coventry, Luton, Aldershot, Wrexham, Ayr and Peterhead all obliged.