SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager: A Deep Dive into the Best Bets
The latest edition of SUNSPORT’s Weekend Wager brings together a team of top sports analysts to sift through the data and offer the most promising bets for the upcoming weekend. Featuring Will Pugh, football broadcaster Kweku Afari, and Betfair betting expert Sam Rosbottom, the panel provides razor-sharp insights into the biggest matches and events. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best bets for this weekend.
Manchester United vs Arsenal: A Clash of Titans
This weekend’s marquee Premier League match sees Arsenal travel to Old Trafford to face Manchester United. The panel has offered a range of intriguing bets based on deep statistical analysis.
Kweku Afari is backing Arsenal to win and over 2.5 goals at odds of 21/10. He notes the Gunners’ inconsistent form, which can swing from struggling to score to putting multiple goals past the opposition. Afari points out that Manchester United has conceded at least two goals in six of their last seven home games, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities. The absence of a commanding goalkeeper like Andre Onana only adds to these concerns, making Arsenal’s victory and a high-scoring match a compelling bet.
Will Pugh, on the other hand, has his eye on Mikel Merino to score first at 13/2. Merino has been in great form, netting three goals in his last four appearances, including a brace off the bench against Leicester. Pugh also highlights that Manchester United has conceded the opening goal frequently this season, with only Leicester having done so more often. Arsenal, known for their offensive prowess, have scored in each of their last 10 away games against Manchester United, making Merino a solid choice.
Sam Rosbottom takes a different approach, suggesting Arsenal HT/Draw FT at 12/1. He argues that while Arsenal might not win the game, they have a good chance of leading at halftime. Manchester United has only won the first half once since December, but they have a strong second-half record, winning 8 out of their last 11 matches. This trend suggests that Manchester United could stage a comeback, making Rosbottom’s bet a smart strategic move.
Wolves vs Everton: The Fight for Survival
In the bottom-of-the-table battle, Wolves host Everton, and the panel offers some shrewd selections based on the players’ recent performances.
Kweku Afari is backing Beto to score anytime at 21/10. Beto has been in stellar form, scoring five goals in his last five Premier League games—a significant improvement over his previous 44 games. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin still sidelined, Beto has become a crucial figure for Everton, and his consistent performance in front of goal makes him a strong bet.
Will Pugh is looking at Jorgen Strand Larsen to have 2+ shots on target at 11/4. Larsen has been a focal point for Wolves, receiving the most passes in the box (85) this season and making 237 forward runs into the opposition penalty box. His recent form and key role in the team’s attack make him a valuable target for bettors.
Sam Rosbottom is backing Jack Harrison to have 1+ shot on target at 6/4. Despite having the highest expected goals total (2.9xG) of any player yet to score in the Premier League this season, Harrison has been unlucky. He has taken seven shots in his last six games, and the odds suggest that one of these attempts could finally find the target, making his bet a potentially rewarding one.
England vs Italy: Six Nations Showdown
The Six Nations this weekend sees England take on Italy, and the panel offers a smart handicap bet for those looking to add a twist to their wagers.
Sam Rosbottom is backing Italy +16 at 2/1. England are heavy favorites, but recent tournaments have shown that their games can be surprisingly tight. Italy, despite not being the traditional whipping boys, have shown resilience this year, and a handicap of +16 seems generous. Rosbottom believes that while England will likely win, the margin might not be as large as many anticipate, making this a savvy bet.
Betfair Imperial Cup at Sandown: The Punters’ Paradise
The Betfair Imperial Cup at Sandown offers a wealth of betting opportunities, and Sam Rosbottom provides a selection of horses that could offer value.
Rosbottom is particularly keen on Go Dante, who has seen his odds drop from 25/1 to 11/2, making him a joint favorite. He is also looking at Bo Zenith, who is also at 11/2. The market movement suggests significant confidence in these horses. Additionally, he highlights Lump Sum, whose odds have moved from 5/1 to 8/1, and Knickerbockerglory, which he believes is a sweet each-way shout at 14/1.
Conclusion
The weekend of sport is packed with exciting fixtures and events, and the SUNSPORT’s Weekend Wager team has provided a range of carefully considered bets. Whether you’re backing Arsenal’s high-scoring win, betting on Beto’s goals, or taking a chance on Italy’s performance in the Six Nations, these insights can help you make the most of your weekend wagers. With a mix of statistical analysis and expert opinions, you’re well-equipped to enjoy the action and potentially bring home some winnings.
