Friday, March 12, 2010

Australia Cup horse racing update

We expect a bold showing from Zipping ... just when some might least expect it.

ZARITA BACKED FOR AUSTRALIAN CUP

Sportingbet Australia punters are looking past the favourites in the Australian Cup with the best early money coming for Pat Hyland’s stable star Zarita.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said bets on Zarita included one of $2000 each way at $15 while Heart Of Dreams was proving hard to lay.

“We’ve had a little bit of money for Shocking but punters just aren’t interested in the favourite at this stage.”

“But punters definitely think Zarita can repeat her Sunline Stakes win and have been keen to snap up the $15 about her.”

AUSTRALIAN CUP
Sportingbet Australia Market
Heart Of Dreams 6.00
Zipping 7.00
Shocking 8.00
Sirmione 8.00
Miss Maren 9.00
Barbaricus 10.00
Extra Zero 13.00
Zagreb 15.00
Zarita 15.00
Littorio 16.00
Master O’Reilly 17.00
Tobique 21.00
Divine Rebel 41.00
Growl 51.00
Moatize 61.00

Clarke to be next Australian cricket captain

This is a no-brainer. Of course Michael Clarke will succeed Ricky Ponting, unless he's injured in the meantime. It's as solid an investment as there is at $1.25 - that is, if you can wait long enough for Ricky Ponting to retire in order to collect your dividend.

Credit to Shane Watson for his recent performances with bat and ball, but he's got about as much chance of becoming Australian test captain as my mother.


WHO WILL BE AUSTRALIA’S NEXT TEST CAPTAIN?

Sportingbet Australia has opened a market on who will be succeed Ricky Ponting as Test captain following the controversy over Michael Clarke’s departure from the tour of New Zealand.

Despite the controversy surrounding Clarke, he has been installed $1.25 favourite to take over from Ponting.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said there appeared to be a lack of serious contenders to the incumbent vice-captain.

“Michael Clarke would have been $1.01 had we put this market up a few weeks ago and while he still looks the next captain, he isn’t the certainty he once was,” Sullivan said.

“Some have suggested Cameron White but, while he has outstanding leadership credentials, the fact remains he appears to be behind Steve Smith for a spot in the side.

“Simon Katich and Michael Hussey have longevity issues while there’d have to be some doubt about the suitability of both Brad Haddin or Shane Watson for the role when they don’t even captain their state sides.

“Michael Clarke remains favourite essentially by default in the current side and unless Ponting lasts another four or five years, he looks the only choice.”

Sullivan revealed there had been some backing for Shane Watson with his odds shortening from $41.00 to $31.00 in the last twenty-four hours.

NEXT AUSTRALIAN TEST CAPTAIN
Sportingbet Australia Market
Michael Clarke 1.25
Michael Hussey 6.00
Cameron White 7.00
Simon Katich 9.00
Brad Haddin 12.00
Shane Watson 31.00
Marcus North 67.00
George Bailey 101.00
Any Other 21.00

So You Think You Can Dance

Public vote tends to be rather fickle, particularly early in the competition. If you can identify some good value among the outsiders, now is the time to get on.

Essentially, you're looking for someone who could make an impression three or four weeks out from the final. Easier said than done, I know!


ROBBIE IS THE ONLY DANCER PUNTERS WANT

After weeks of chopping and changing favourites at Sportingbet Australia the SYTYCD market has finally sorted itself out with Sydney contemporary dancer Robbie a dominant $2.50 favourite.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said Robbie was the only dancer punters wanted to be on.

“Robbie started out as a $13.00 chance in the competition with several punters smart enough to take those odds,” said Sullivan.

“His confidence has grown since he’s been partnered with Ivy and punters have backed him into his current price with several on to win $2000.”

Another Sydney dancer in Hip Hopper Jess S is second favourite at $8.00 ahead of Melbourne Ballroom dancer Kieran at $9.00.

SYTYCD - WINNER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Robbie 2.50
Jess.S 8.00
Kieran 9.00
Nick 10.00
Heath 10.00
Ivy 11.00
Renee 12.00
Jessica.P 14.00
Carly 14.00
Jessie H 17.00
Matt 21.00
Philipe 41.00

Randwick Guineas update

Update from the bookmakers:

GUINEAS BACKING FOR SHOOT OUT AND MONTON

Sportingbet Australia punters are banking on the Hobartville Stakes quinella being repeated in tomorrow’s Randwick Guineas with strong money coming for Shoot Out and Monton.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said Shoot Out’s odds had been trimmed from $4.00 to $3.50 with Monton’s quote almost halved from $17 to $9.

“The money says these two will again be fighting out a feature race,” said Sullivan.

“All the early money was for Shoot Out before punters stepped in to Monton in a big way.

“They snapped up the $17, came again at $13 and are still not afraid to take the $9 on offer now.”

RANDWICK GUINEAS
Sportingbet Australia Market
Shoot Out 3.50
Hanks 8.00
Monton 9.00
Sir Halowell 9.50
Viking Legend 10.00
Kidnapped 11.00
Captain Sonador 12.00
Zabrasive 15.00
Indian Ocean 21.00
Cosmocrat 21.00
More Than Great 26.00
Leicester Square 26.00
Run For Naara 26.00
Delago Bolt 41.00
Gathering 91.00
Saint Encosta 126.00

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Big bets on Solar Charged into Typhoon Tracy

I love stories about big bets:

PUNTER ON TO WIN $360,000 ON BOOM FILLY DOUBLE

One Sportingbet Australia punter stands to win himself $360,000 after outlaying $10,000 on a feature double featuring the two boom females of Australian racing .

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the punter had backed Solar Charged to win the Golden Slipper and Typhoon Tracy to salute in the Doncaster.

“It’s a good bet and I can think of worse horses that you’d want to be on in these races,” said Sullivan.

“Solar Charged brained some other good fillies in the Kindergarten and Typhoon Tracy has dominated in Melbourne and showed the mile is no problem.

“With Solar Charged now a $4.20 favourite for the Slipper and Typhoon Tracy at $7.00 for the Doncaster this punter has got himself some pretty good value.”

Sullivan said Solar Charged continued to be well backed in Golden Slipper betting with punters keen to get on at the $4.20.

GOLDEN SLIPPER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Solar Charged 4.20
Star Witness (nn) 7.00
Beneteau 8.00
Chance Bye 10.00
Military Rose 10.00
Zutara 11.00
Elimbari 13.00
Ambers Waltz 14.00
Crystal Lily (nn) 15.00
Psychologist 17.00
Shaaheq 17.00
Divorces 18.00
Hinchinbrook 19.00
Georgette Silk 20.00
My Amelia 21.00
Others 23.00 Plus

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

South Australian election result

It is very rare that punters get elections wrong. They're often a good way of cashing up. Bet on the upset if you dare, but we believe that to be unwise.

Here's the latest from the bookies on the South Australian election:

PUNTERS BACK REDMOND TO BEAT RANN

Isobel Redmond and the Liberals are certainly attracting the support of punters with a series of big bets seeing their South Australian state election odds slashed from $5.00 to $2.90 at Sportingbet Australia.

The Liberals were rank outsiders and given little chance by bookmakers a couple of months ago but Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the tide had certainly turned and 95% of bets in the past week had been for the Liberals.

“Before the Mike Rann affair story broke, Labor looked a certainty to be returned in South Australia but he now faces a real fight with polls showing Isobel Redmond’s numbers continuing to improve,” Sullivan said.

“Labor still remain $1.40 favourites but we haven’t written a bet on them this week while there has been a number of big bets placed on the opposition.

“The party that firms in the betting market in the last couple of weeks of the campaign have a tremendous record of winning and I would expect to see the Liberals to continue to shorten.”

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN STATE ELECTION
Sportingbet Australia Market
Labor 1.40
Liberals 2.90

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Western Bulldogs not worth $50,000

This one's a brave bet, given that the Doggies looked quite vulnerable on their way to the pre-season final. Yes, winning form is promising, but do they have what it takes to carry through the entire season?

People at times forget St Kilda and Geelong are still in the running, and Collingwood's midfield is every bit as good as the Dogs this year. Barry Hall could make a difference, but he'll have to kick 80-100 goals for the season to make a true impact in my book.

Here's the latest from sportingbet:


PUNTER BACKS BULLDOG FLAG TO WIN $275,000

The Western Bulldogs may have only won one premiership in eighty-five years of AFL/VFL but one Sportingbet Australia punter is confident that Barry Hall can help provide them with a second after outlaying $50,000 on them at $6.50.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said it was a massive vote of confidence in the Cinderella team.

“We’ve got used to writing these kind of bets on the likes of Geelong, St Kilda and Hawthorn in the last few seasons but $275,000 to $50,000 is by far the biggest flag bet we’ve ever written on the Doggies,” said Sullivan.

“While they’ve fallen short at the penultimate hurdle each of the last two years punters are certainly in agreement with Jason Akermanis that 2010 is their best chance of winning the big one.

“While most of Australia wouldn’t begrudge a smiling Brad Johnson holding the premiership cup aloft it’s looking like costing Sportingbet Australia plenty.”

The Bulldogs are now into $5.50 with last year’s Grand Finalists Geelong and St Kilda heading betting at $4.00 and $4.75 respectively.

2010 AFL PREMIERSHIP
Sportingbet Australia Market
St Kilda 4.00
Geelong 4.75
Western Bulldogs 5.50
Adelaide 9.00
Hawthorn 9.00
Collingwood 11.00
Brisbane 13.00
Carlton 26.00
Essendon 41.00
Sydney 51.00
Port Adelaide 67.00
West Coast 67.00
Fremantle 81.00
North Melbourne 101.00
Melbourne 126.00
Richmond 151.00

Saturday, March 6, 2010

The Hurt Locker to win Oscars

Bookmakers are seeing a plunge for The Hurt Locker leading into the Academy Awards, and with good reason.

As good as Avatar might have been - and it will go down in history alongside the likes of Star Wars - it's not the type of film usually adopted by the Academy suits. They seem to like it real, and that's what punters are banking on.

But while the last round of awards saw The Hurt Locker take ascendency, don't forget the Golden Globes as a key indicator, where Avatar was the winner.

Here at Aussiepunt, we're tipping Avatar to walk away with three gongs.

Meanwhile, here's Sportingbet's take:


PUNTERS DESERT AVATAR

Sportingbet Australia punters have shunned box office smash Avatar ahead of Monday morning’s (Australian Time) Academy Awards ceremony.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the James Cameron blockbuster had drifted from $1.66 to $2.25 over the past two weeks.

“Avatar had all the momentum two weeks ago with us taking several four figure bets at the $1.66,” said Sullivan.

“But with The Hurt Locker picking up the last couple of lead in awards the betting has been turned on its head.”

Sullivan said The Hurt Locker had firmed from $2.25 to $1.75 in the same period with some big bets being written.

“It’s been all The Hurt Locker recently with bets including one of $3000 at $1.75,” Sullivan said.”

“Despite enjoying only moderate success at the box office this film has all the momentum in the race for Best Picture.”

Sportingbet Australia is also offering betting on how many Oscars Avatar picks up with five the favourite at $3.00.

2010 ACADEMY AWARDS – BEST PICTURE
Sportingbet Australia Market
The Hurt Locker 1.75
Avatar 2.25
Inglorious Basterds 15.00
Up In The Air 41.00
Up 41.00
Precious 67.00
The Blind Side 101.00
An Education 151.00
District 9 151.00
A Serious Man 201.00

2010 ACADEMY AWARDS – HOW MANY OSCARS FOR AVATAR?
Sportingbet Australia Market
Five 3.00
Six 4.25
Four 4.50
Three 5.50
Seven 6.50
Eight 9.00
Two 12.00
Nine 26.00
One 51.00
None 101.00

Friday, March 5, 2010

Golden slipper betting

Sportingbet has taken some big bets on Solar Charged, but we wouldn't be jumping on the bandwagon quite yet.

John O'Shea seems to have a happy knack of getting horses up for this time of year, but let's just wait to see how the horse fares in the Kindergarten Stakes before making a solid call.


SOLID BACKING FOR SOLAR CHARGED

The John O’Shea trained Solar Charged has been heavily backed for the Golden Slipper at Sportingbet Australia ahead of return to racing in the Kindergarten Stakes on Saturday.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said Solar Charged was now a clear Golden Slipper favourite after another two big bets arrived for her this week.

“She has been backed from $8.50 to $7.00 this week after we took bets to win $30,000 and another to win $25,000,” Sullivan said.

“We all saw how impressive she was in the trial and she should be very hard to beat in the Kindergarten on Saturday.”

Solar Charged is currently a $1.85 at Sportingbet for the Kindergarten ahead of impressive last start winners Elimbari and Georgette Silk at $5.00.

“The trial was very impressive but a few of the others have won well already this preparation and I will definitely be looking to lay here at $1.85,” Sullivan said.

KINDERGARTEN STAKES
Sportingbet Australia Market
Solar Charged 1.85
Elimbari 5.00
Georgette Silk 5.00
Agister 14.00
Triple Crown 15.00
Top Drop 17.00
Gold Arena 26.00
Manahara 26.00
Howdiddydoit 61.00
Hour Of Peril 126.00

GOLDEN SLIPPER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Solar Charged 7.00
Chance Bye 8.00
Beneteau 9.00
Military Rose 12.00
Zutara 12.00
Psychologist 15.00
Ambers Waltz 15.00
Elimbari 16.00
Hinchinbrook 17.00
Divorces 18.00
Georgette Silk 20.00
Shaaheq 21.00
My Amelia 21.00
Run For Wilson 23.00
Maules Creek 26.00
Others 35.00 Plus

So You Think You Can Dance elimination shock

If you can pick the winner of this one, there's some value to be had!

SHOCK ELIMINATIONS CAUSE MARKET RESHUFFLE

The shock elimination of one time favourite Grace and Doug from So You Think You Can Dance has caused a market reshuffle at Sportingbet Australia.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said this year’s voting was proving tough for both punters and bookies.

“We probably would have bet 200/1 if you’d wanted to back the combinations that landed in the bottom three on Thursday evening,” said Sullivan.

“We were shocked about all of them with the possible exception of Doug and Jess and so were our punters who had heavily backed Don and Issi to get the chop.”

NSW contemporary dancer Robbie heads the market at $6.50.

SYTYCD - WINNER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Robbie 6.50
Heath 8.00
Nick 8.50
Renee 9.00
Keiran 9.00
Jess.S 10.00
Ivy 12.00
Carly 12.00
Jessica.P 14.00
Jessie H 17.00
Matt 21.00
Don 26.00
Philipe 34.00
Issi 34.00

Newmarket horse racing field

Latest Newmarket odds from Sportingbet:

PUNTERS STILL RIGHT ON THE PULSE

The Michael Moroney trained King Pulse continues to be backed to cause a first up surprise in the Newmarket shortening to $12 at Sportingbet Australia.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the gelding has shortened from $15 to $12 in the past 24 hours as a number of big bets were written.

“One client has had $10,000 each way at $15 so he stands to collect nearly $200,000 alone,” Sullivan said.

“He showed tremendous promise in his three runs in the Spring and this level of support certainly suggest he is flying on the track.

“It is a massive step up to the Newmarket but there is obviously a degree of confidence that he can take the next step.”

All Silent retains favouritism in a very open Newmarket at Sportingbet at $5.50 ahead of Starspangledbanner at $7.50 and Eagle Falls and Nicconi at $9.00.

“The favourites have actually been a little easy here with punters betting very wide, we have laid every horse in the race,” Sullivan said.

“There has also been good money for Turffontein, Wanted and Tollesprit who are all big odds.”

NEWMARKET HANDICAP
Sportingbet Australia Market
All Silent 6.00
Starspangledbanner 7.50
Nicconi 9.00
Eagle Falls 9.00
King Pulse 12.00
Wanted 14.00
Turffontein 17.00
Gran Sasso 17.00
Headway 17.00
Tollesprit 17.00
Tickets 18.00
Trusting 18.00
El Segundo 19.00
Duporth 21.00
Arinos 21.00
Shellscrape 26.00
Light Fantastic 31.00
Cannonball 61.00
Five Card Stud 81.00

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Lay against Denman in Australian Guineas

This statement came from IASbet in an effort to attract money for Denman. But if you believe the argument - and there's plenty of substance to it - rather than trying to find another pick to back, the wise thing to do would be to lay Denman with Betfair.

That way, you've got the field covered, especially if Denman is indeed to struggle in the wet from the outside barrier.


IASbet.com take on Denman

Form analysts at IASbet.com believe that the Peter Snowden trained superstar Denman is vulnerable in Saturdays Group One Australian Guineas and are prepared to take him on. While other bookmakers and the TAB have him between $1.55 and $1.65, IASbet.com is willing and able to lay him at $1.80. Its not a foregone conclusion, there is rain forecast and the race may well be set up for horses to run over him. I expect Denman to lead from his outside barrier and it may not be an advantage to be on the rail said IASBets John Dow. The son of Lonhro has won nine of his last ten with his only defeat being at the same distance in the Caulfield Guineas. I think history is about to repeat itself. said Dow.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

AFL NAB Cup tips

To some, it might be the "Who Cares Cup", but with the pre-season AFL competition at the pointy end, the sides might just be starting to give a damn.

I've watched a number of the games, and Freo have been more impressive than the $9.50 which punters have them at to win the competition. If they can sneak past St Kilda (who have had two one-point wins so far), they'll firm to favourites.

A lot of questions remain unanswered for the Bulldogs, particularly with a new structure featuring Barry Hall at full forward. What happens when their new focal point loses some of his effectiveness? At this point, I'd be more inclined to bet against them than with them.

And after a horror end to their 2009 season, Port will have a lot to prove.

My advice: Ignore the odds and go with your gut. The Saints are rightly favourites, but we'd have the other three on an equal second line of betting.

Here's Sportingbet's take:

PUNTERS WANT SAINTS AND DOGS

Sportingbet Australia punters think favourites St Kilda and the Western Bulldogs will each earn a spot in the NAB Cup Grand Final.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the two top four sides from last season had each been well backed to win the pre season cup.

“There hasn’t been a great deal for the Saints this week, with their odds into $2.30 but we’ve written bets to take out $15,000 and $10,000 along the way,” said Sullivan.

“Punters chimed in with $2000 at $2.75 and another $2000 at $2.65 for the Doggies over the weekend as well as one who outlaid $1000 at the good odds of $10 before the competition began.”

Sullivan said while both non Victorian clubs would start outsiders in their Semi Final matches there had been a couple of punters who managed to get on at big odds pre tournament.

“We have one punter who stands to win them self $5000 by having what would have seemed a brave $200 on the Dockers at $26,” Sullivan said.

“But an even better story is the punter who placed $200 on Port at the massive odds of $51 and stands to win $10,000 if they can win their next two matches.”

NAB CUP - WINNER
Sportingbet Australia Market
St Kilda 2.30
Western Bulldogs 2.60
Port Adelaide 5.50
Fremantle 9.50

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Australia Cup tips

There seems to be plenty of action in early Australia Cup betting.
But there is one horse which starred last Spring in the leadup to the Melbourne Cup, yet has fallen out of favour with punters - Speed Gifted.
The horse, if we remember rightly, didn't quite step up to the two mile despite being well backed prior to the Melbourne Cup. It did, however, cover the ground over 2000m extremely well. With maturity on its side, we won't be minding an each way dabble on the promising stayer.
Meanwhile, here's the latest from Sportingbet:


EXTRA ZERO BACKED TO WIN AUSTRALIAN CUP

Punters are questioning the strength of the older horses in the Australian Cup with three year old, Extra Zero clearly the best backed runner this week at Sportingbet Australia.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the David Hayes trained colt had been backed from $18 to $13 since his win at Caulfield on Saturday.

“In the 48 hours since we reposted the market, he has been the only one punters have wanted,” Sullivan said.

“We took a bet to win $20,000 and a couple of others to win $10,000 and there is still strong support coming for him.

“There aren’t many genuine group one weight for age horse entered so the pull in the weights as the only three year old entered could be a huge advantage for Extra Zero.”

Heart Of Dreams and Zipping still head the Sportingbet market at $7.00 and $7.50 respectively.

“They are the obvious two, especially Zipping who is a dual Cox Plate place getter and has been aimed at this race,” Sullivan said.

AUSTRALIAN CUP – ALL IN
Sportingbet Australia Market
Heart Of Dreams 7.00
Zipping 7.50
Shocking 8.00
Our Aqaleem 10.00
Extra Zero 11.00
Speed Gifted 12.00
Miss Maren 12.00
Master O’Reilly 14.00
Littorio 15.00
Sirmione 16.00
Zagreb 17.00
Snipers Bullet 19.00
Changingoftheguard 19.00
Zarita 21.00
Divine Rebel 35.00
Barbaricus 35.00
Tobique 35.00
Joku 51.00
Growl 71.00
Moatize 101.00

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Barry Hall backed for Coleman medal

When we look at those full forwards who can score a high number of goals, for mine it's a contest between Fevola, Franklin (albeit still struggling for form) and Hall. Lecras might be an outside chance along with Bradshaw and Riewoldt.

But in essence, the price is definitely right for Big Bad Barry.

Here's the latest from Sportingbet:


Former Sydney Swans bad boy Barry Hall is into $13 to win the Coleman Medal after a more than impressive debut for the Western Bulldogs in last night’s NAB Cup demolition of Hawthorn.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said Hall had already been well backed at odds of $21 and $15,

“The punters came for Hall at $21 at the start of the week with one punter on to win over $4000,” said Sullivan.

“And he was well backed at $15 immediately after last night’s match.”

Sullivan said Hall’s chance of winning the medal depended on his ability to keep his mind and body together for the bulk of the season.

“Hall’s disciplinary problems have been well publicised and at thirty three he must be a little susceptible to soft tissue injury,” Sullivan said.

“But if he can keep it all together the big bloke must be salivating at the prospect of having the pill delivered by the likes of Cooney, Murphy, Gilbee and co.”

Gun Brisbane recruit Brendan Fevola is $3.75 favourite to win the Coleman ahead of Lance Franklin at $4.50.

COLEMAN MEDAL - WINNER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Brendan Fevola [BRIS] 3.75
Lance Franklin [HAW] 4.50
Matthew Pavlich [FRE] 11.00
Daniel Bradshaw [SYD] 13.00
Barry Hall [WBD] 13.00
Jonathan Brown [BRIS] 13.00
Jarryd Roughead [HAW] 15.00
Nick Riewoldt [STK] 15.00
Kurt Tippett [ADL] 19.00
Mark Lecras [WCE] 23.00
Jason Porplyzia [ADL] 34.00
Daniel Motlop [POR] 34.00
Justin Koschitzke [STK] 34.00
John Anthony [COL] 34.00
Jesse White [SYD] 34.00
Cyril Rioli [HAW] 41.00
Mark Williams [ESS] 41.00
Others 51.00 Plus

Early Brownlow Medal tips

It's still in the pre-season, but some punters are already lodging speculators on the Brownlow medal, at least one which stands to make someone a millionaire.

The first is from Sporsbet:


One punter is hoping AFL number one draft pick Tom Scully will have a standout debut season – and then some.

Scully has been backed to win more than a million dollars to win the Brownlow Medal with leading online bookmaker Sportsbet.com.au.

“We’ve just taken a bet of $700 on Tom Scully to win the Brownlow at the astronomical odds of $1501 to win $1,050,000,” said Sportsbet.com.au’s Haydn Lane.

“There’s no doubt he’s a star and will get plenty of game time in Melbourne’s midfield, although it’s a pretty big ask to take Charlie home in your first season.

“We’re still happy to take him on, yet we’ve had to shorten him into $501 on the back of this bet.”

Another youngster to shorten in Brownlow betting is West Coast’s Nic Naitanui, who has tightened from $301 into $81 following his best on ground performance in the NAB Cup opener.

The big move for Scully follows a bet of $1000 to win $500,000 on 28-year old rookie James Podsiadly to win this year’s Coleman Medal.

The next is from Sportingbet and focuses on young superstar Nick Natanui. While he'll be part of my supercoach team, I can't see him doing quite enough to pick up the prized gong.

Take a sneaky look, however, at a couple on the $67 line, notably Brad Sewell and Scott Pendlebury:


NATANUI BACKED FOR BROWNLOW

Exciting West Coast Eagles youngster Nick Natanui has been backed to win the Brownlow Medal at big odds to win the Brownlow Medal at Sportingbet Australia.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said Natanui represented one of the worst results in the book at this stage.

“There was solid support for him at odds as long as $251 before Friday night’s best on ground performance and there’s been steady support at $101 since,” said Sullivan.

“We have several punters on to win over $10,000 and it’s fair to say he’s generating plenty of interest with us holding more money on him than we are on favourite Gary Ablett.”

2010 BROWNLOW MEDAL
Sportingbet Australia Market
Chris Judd [CARL] 10.00
Dane Swan [COLL] 13.00
Sam Mitchell [HAW] 14.00
Joel Selwood [GEEL] 19.00
Jonathan Brown [BRIS] 19.00
Nick Dal Santo [STK] 19.00
Adam Goodes [SYD] 23.00
Lenny Hayes [STK] 23.00
Nick Riewoldt [STK] 23.00
Lance Franklin [HAW] 26.00
Simon Black [BRIS] 26.00
Marc Murphy [CARL] 31.00
Adam Cooney [WBD] 34.00
Brendon Goddard [STK] 34.00
Jimmy Bartel [GEEL] 34.00
Alan Didak [COLL] 41.00
Leigh Montagna [STK] 41.00
Paul Chapman [GEEL] 41.00
Steve Johnson [GEEL] 41.00
Bryce Gibbs [CARL] 51.00
Cyril Rioli [HAW] 51.00
Daniel Kerr [WCE] 51.00
Daniel Rich [BRIS] 51.00
Luke Hodge [HAW] 51.00
Matthew Boyd [WBD] 51.00
Matthew Pavlich [FREM] 51.00
Bernie Vince [ADEL] 67.00
Brad Sewell [HAW] 67.00
Scott Pendlebury [COLL] 67.00
Aaron Sandilands [FREM] 101.00
Ben Cousins [RICH] 101.00
Brent Harvey [NTH] 101.00
Brent Stanton [ESS] 101.00
Brett Deledio [RICH] 101.00
Dean Cox [WCE] 101.00
Justin Koschitzke [STK] 101.00
Leon Davis [COLL] 101.00
Nicholas Naitanui [WCE] 101.00
Paddy Ryder [ESS] 101.00
Ryan Griffen [WBD] 101.00
Ryan Okeefe [SYD] 101.00
Shaun Higgins [WBD] 101.00
Others 126.00 Plus

Friday, February 26, 2010

So You Think You Can Dance odds Australia

KEIRAN NEW DANCE FAVOURITE

Melbourne ballroom dancer Keiran is Sportingbet Australia’s new favourite to take out season three of So You Think You Can Dance.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said while bookies were finding it hard to sort out favouritism Keiran had impressed with his consistency.

“Keiran is our third different favourite in three weeks of betting,” said Sullivan.

“While some of the other fancies have struggled with injury and consistency this youngster has been right on the money every time he steps up to dance.”

SYTYCD - WINNER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Keiran 7.00
Grace 7.50
Heath 7.50
Nick 8.00
Robbie 9.00
Renee 11.00
Jessica.P 11.00
Carly 12.00
Jessie H 14.00
Jess.S 14.00
Matt 15.00
Don 17.00
Issi 17.00
Doug 21.00
Ivy 26.00
Philipe 34.00

Strange but true betting options

We've seen some strange betting options come through as bookmakers try to capture their share of the market. This one from Victor Chandler in the UK is high on the weird list: Will two players shake hands after the game?

Granted, not just any two players:

Victor Chandler have opened several markets on Chelsea v Man City at Stamford in the light of the continual spat between John Terry and Wayne Bridge. The firm make it a 5/2 shot that they shake hands on the pitch after the match, and spokesman Neal Wilkins admits that despite everything that has happened they might just do it.

“There appears to be no love lost between them, but a quick shake of the hands on a professional level is not out of the question. It might help both parties to make the effort so that they can move on. The alternative argument is that with Bridge now ruling himself out of the England squad he might feel it’s time for a few fireworks. It should be an interesting 90 minutes.”

The firm make it a 7/1 shot that both Terry and Bridge get booked in the same incident, and 33/1 that they both get sent off in the same incident. It’s a 11/2 chance that Bridge gets booked for a challenge on Terry and 13/2 the other way around.

Bridge & Terry to both get booked in same incident 7/1
Bridge & Terry to both get sent off in same incident 33/1
Bridge to be booked for challenge on Terry 11/2
Terry to be booked for challenge on Bridge 13/2
Bridge & Terry to shake hands after final whistle on pitch 5/2
Bridge to be sent off 22/1
Terry to be sent off 25/1
Terry to be booked 3/1
Bridge to be booked 5/2

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Australian Cup update

BIG BARBARICUS BET

Punters are expecting an improved showing from Barbaricus in this Saturday’s Futurity Stakes after the grey gelding was backed from $81 to $41 for the Australian Cup at Sportingbet Australia.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the money suggested the Caulfield Cup place getter could be ready to show a glimpse of his best form following two runs from a long spell with one punter backing him to win over $100,000.

“We took a bet of $120,000 to $1500 each way on him for the Australian Cup which would certainly suggest he is getting back to his best,” Sullivan said.

“He is up to the mile in the Futurity on Saturday and you’d think he would have to show something as this will be his final run before the Australian Cup.”

Heart of Dreams retains favouritism for the Australian Cup at $7.00, in Sportingbet’s market, ahead of Zipping at $8.50 and Our Aqaleem at $9.00 but Sullivan said some improved runs on Saturday had seen other contenders emerge.

“Melbourne Cup winner Shocking put in nice run on Saturday and has trimmed up to $11 while Viewed, Littorio and La Rocket all look contenders as well.”

2010 AUSTRALIAN CUP
Sportingbet Australia Market
Heart Of Dreams 7.00
Zipping 8.50
Our Aqaleem 9.00
Shocking 11.00
Speed Gifted 11.00
Miss Maren 11.00
Daffodil 11.00
Viewed 14.00
Master O’Reilly 14.00
Littorio 15.00
Sirmione 16.00
Changingoftheguard 17.00
Extra Zero 18.00
Zagreb 18.00
La Rocket 18.00
Zarita 23.00
Snipers Bullet 26.00
Joku 31.00
Growl 31.00
Divine Rebel 35.00
Tobique 35.00
Barbaricus 41.00
Moatize 81.00

Punters getting in early for Melbourne Cup

It seems punters are keen to invest in the Melbourne Cup market nice and early with some big speculation bets being placed:

PUNTER SMELLS THE PERFUME OF BART'S THIRTEENTH CUP VICTORY

One Sportingbet Australia punter is confident that Cups King Bart Cummings can win a thirteenth Melbourne Cup with Faint Perfume, backing the VRC Oaks winner to collect over $80,000.

Sportingbet Australia CEO Michael Sullivan said the Shamardal filly had shown plenty of staying potential as a three year old with Oaks winning fillies always fancied for the Cups.

“The punters had $2500 on Faint Perfume at $35 and we have now trimmed her up to $26,” said Sullivan.

“She got better in the spring as the distances got longer and the VRC Oaks winner is always well backed for the Cup, especially when they are trained by Bart Cummings.

“There’s a long way to go until November but it’s a fairly confident bet this far out.”

Alcopop is just favourite for the Cup at Sportingbet at $22 just ahead of Shocking at $23 and a host of horses at $26.

“There has been strong support the obvious contenders such as Shocking and Efficient while there has also been some big bets struck on some of the new blood such as Linton,” Sullivan said.

2010 MELBOURNE CUP
Sportingbet Australia Market
Alcopop 22.00
Shocking 23.00
Changingoftheguard 26.00
Viewed 26.00
Speed Gifted 26.00
Monaco Consul 26.00
Faint Perfume 26.00
So You Think 26.00
Linton 28.00
Shamoline Warrior 31.00
Valdemoro 31.00
Mourilyan 31.00
Efficient 35.00
Vigor 35.00
Hanks 35.00
Trusting 35.00
Oken Bruce Lee 35.00
Profound Beauty 41.00
Purple 41.00
Daffodil 41.00
Metal Bender 41.00
Scouting Wide 41.00
Passchendaele 41.00
Divine Rebel 41.00
Master O'Reilly 51.00
Crime Scene 51.00
My Scotsgrey 51.00
Viking Legend 51.00
Think Money 61.00
Predatory Pricer 61.00
Rebel Raider 61.00
Hume 71.00
Roman Emperor 71.00
Basaltico 71.00
Hissing Sid 71.00
Spacecraft 71.00
Driffield Gold 71.00
Miss Maren 71.00
Whobegotyou 71.00
My Bentley 71.00
Others 81.00 Plus