English Premier League preview

Is this the beginning of a new era? Has the old guard been deposed? If all the media hype is to be believed, there is a Blue Moon on the rise and there is little anyone can do to stop it. So emphatic was Manchester City’s dismantling of the champions that they have been installed as odds-on favourites for the title, while Sir Alex Ferguson cries on the shoulder of Arsene Wenger, his former nemesis. The run of derby matches continues this weekend, with the London Derby taking centre stage. Expect fireworks, both literally and figuratively. Happy Diwali!

Australia 9/10 to sneak series

South Africa vs Australia, 3rd ODI, Friday 28th October 2011, 14:30, Kingsmead

There are few fixtures in world cricket today that make for such a mouth-watering prospect as a series decider between South Africa and Australia. Two power houses of the one-day game, meeting to battle it out over a series poised precariously at 1-1. The first rain-affected game of the series ended with Australia emphatically triumphant against a South African team that had not yet shaken the rust from the hinges. Early wickets and poor shot selection left the South African team in disarray, losing to an Australian unit that was just far better on the day.

Napoli 19/20 to knock Udinese off their perch

Napoli vs Udinese, Serie A, 26 October 2011, 20:45, Stadio San Paolo

The Serie A continues midweek as teams attempt to make up for lost time at the beginning of the season. The most intriguing of those matches comes from the Stadio San Paolo as Napoli host Serie A league leaders Udinese in what is bound to be a tight affair. Having enjoyed some good results against this opposition in recent years, the Bianconeri should take some confidence into this one.

Stoke 24/10 to send Reds crashing

Stoke vs Liverpool, Carling Cup 4th Round, 26th October 2011, 20:45, Britannia Stadium

Liverpool face Stoke on Wednesday night at the Britannia, a ground on which they haven’t had much success in recent years. Having lost there in the league a couple weeks back, Kenny Dalglish will have to come up with some fresh ideas if he is to progress in this competition. Stoke’s FA Cup run last season was built around their form at the impenetrable fortress that they call home. It’s could be a long night for the Reds.

Everton 21/10 to rub salt in Chelsea's wounds

Everton vs Chelsea, Carling Cup 4th Round, 26th October 2011, 20:45, Goodison Park

Chelsea have the chance to get over their lacklustre showing over the weekend with a 4th round Carling Cup tie at Goodison Park. Everton will come into the match with some confidence having arrested a recent slump in form by beating Chelsea’s West London rivals, Fulham, over the weekend. Chelsea will be looking to gain some revenge for their 4th round exit from the F.A. Cup at the hands of the Toffees earlier this year.

Coetzee 33/1 to end year on high

The Andalucia Masters, European Tour, 27 - 30 October, Valderrama

The last stop in Europe for this year’s tour is the stunning Valderrama. Located in Southern Spain and situated on a private estate along the coast of Marbella the breath taking course was once described by Seve Ballesteros as perfect. The wide fairways and small greens make for an interesting four days and I for one am looking forward to seeing how players fair on the iconic 17th, famous for its green which is protected by water. I’m more excited to make money though, so let’s see where the value lies

Crane 14/1 to lift the trophy again

CIMB Asia Pacific Classic, PGA Tour, 27 - 30 October, Malaysia

The second edition of the CIMB Asia Pacific Classic tees off this weekend. This year the field has been expanded by 8 to 48 and interestingly there is no cut. Last year the scoring average was 68.6, which ranks it as the easiest par-71 since 2007, and half of the field of 40 completed the 72 holes double digits under par. If nothing else it will be great to watch the shots played here and expect to see eagles aplenty. The question is…. Who will perform? Let’s try and find out.

Westwood 9/2 heads up strong field in Shanghai

The Shanghai Masters, 27 October-30 October, Shanghai

This weekend a high class field tees off in Shanghai for the Lake Malaren Shanghai Masters. The tournament, which is unsanctioned by any Tour, has come under fire recently for creating opportunities for the world’s elite, whilst failing to assist the development of golf in China. This has not deterred players though and the organisers have managed to assemble an impressive field which includes three Major champions, Schwartzel, McIlroy and Keegan as well as World No. 2 Lee Westwood. All will be competing for one of the richest prizes in golf ($2 million) so expect them to come out firing. Now let’s see where the value lies. 

India 4/7 look to complete whitewash

India vs England, 5th ODI, Tuesday 25th October 2011, 10:00, Eden Gardens

Of all the questions asked of the English team thus far on their return tour of India (and their have been many), I think the most pertinent one would be, simply, how does it feel? After the comprehensive dominance shown by England during their home ODI series, taking the 5-match series 3-0, India have replied resoundingly from the safety of the sub-continent, thumping England on four out of four occasions.