Aide 'n' A Bet 20 Sept 2008

Smythy is away this week, so I have asked myself to take over the column. I took a lot of persuading but eventually I caved in when I promised myself a few extra beers as a reward. I was holding out for a bottle of fizzy but I'm a tough negotiator and I wouldnt give in. Anyway, Smythy said to keep an eye on the Tyrone price and I can tell you they're currently 13/8.

Obviously the Ryder Cup is the main attraction of the week, and as long as my betting goes better than Nick Faldo's opening ceremony speech I'll be happy. He probably looked more comfortable than that when his ex-wife found out he'd been having an affair. Europe are rightly favourites here, but all the evens has gone, so I've been looking around for other bets. Paul Casey famously hit a hole in one to win his foursomes match in 2006 and another hole in one appeals at 6/1. For the first bet though, we'll go for Harrington and Karlsson to beat Kim and Mickelson at 7/5. In the top point scorers section I'm going to go for Casey for Europe at 9/1 and Stricker for the USA at 16/1.

In the Premiership, the most appealing prices are Fulham to win at Ewood Park at 5/2 and Wigan at Spuds, at 9/2. In the Championship, Reading should have too much for Watford and should definitely be backed at 6/4. If they lose, Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd (yes, that's where the title comes from) may face the sack. Another interesting fixture is the top of the table clash between Preston and Wolves. I know a young North End fan. He recently said to his dad "Is it true North End have got 14 points in the league dad?" "Yes" his dad said, "where's me f**king Christmas presents then?" said the son. Wolves are 9/5 to extend their lead at the top of the table at Deepdale and I've a feeling that's one of the best prices we'll see for them for a while. Bury have some appeal at 7/5 away at Barnet in League Two.

Smythy's Tips
2 pts Harrington/Karlsson Day 1 foursomes win @ 7/5
3 pts Watford v Reading @ 6/4
1 pt Spurs v Wigan @ 9/2