Lions Tour 2013
Australia vs. British & Irish Lions – Sat. 11:00 Sky Sports 1
The match we have all been waiting for is finally here, the first test match between Australia and the Lions. The Lions have had a good start to this tour with 5 victories in their opening 6 games, their one defeat coming against the Brumbies in the mid-week fixture.
The Lions have named a squad that has raised a few eyebrows. The call up of Alex Corbisiero to the Loosehead Prop has surprised many as in-form Mako Vunipola was expected to get the call for the first test. Australia have a squad with some serious threats including out-half James O’Connor and right-wing Israel Folau, who has been in great form in this season’s Super Rugby.
Can the Lions strike first blood in the test series or, will the Wallabies get the upper hand on their northern hemisphere opponents?
Australia (+3): 11/10
Draw (+3): 16/1
British & Irish Lions (-3): 10/11
Royal Ascot 2013
Sat. 14:30 Channel 4
The highlight tomorrow live on Channel 4, will be the Diamond Jubilee Stakes over six furlongs. Gordon Lord Byron is the selection, who should relish this stiff six furlongs and lightning fast ground. Currently trading at around 6/1, we expect him to reverse placings with Society Rock on their most recent York run.
Confederations Cup 2013
Italy vs. Brazil - Sat. 20:00 RTE 2 & BBC 3
Bet here.
The pick of this weekend’s games has to be the meeting between Italy and Brazil, with both sides undefeated so far in the tournament. Brazil disposed of Japan and Mexico with ease. On the other hand, Italy have had two eventful games including a 4-3 thriller with Japan.
This is the 16th meeting between these two giants of international football. Brazil have won 7, Italy 5 and 3 draws. The last meeting between the two happened in March of this year, ending in a 2-2 draw with Italy coming from 2-0 down to level the game. Though this time around Brazil will have the advantage of being in front of a roaring home crowd.
Can Italy beat the Samba Boys at home or will Neymar & co. finish the group stages on a high?
Italy: 17/4
Draw: 13/5
Brazil: 8/13
Nigeria vs. Spain – Sun. 20:00 RTE 2 & BBC 3
Bet here.
Sunday’s pick see’s the champions of Africa take on the champions of Europe and the world. Spain are riding high since their 10-0 trashing of Tahiti on Thursday night, while Nigeria will look to upset the Spanish and seal a place in the semi-finals after their loss to Uruguay. As expected, Spain are heavy favourites to continue their wining streak and march on towards the semis.
The one and only meeting between these teams was in the group stages in the 1998 World Cup. Nigeria came out on top 3-2 then but things have changed significantly since that game in Nantes 15 years ago.
Can the Super Eagle claim a major upset over the world’s number 1 team or will Spain continue their long winning streak?
Nigeria: 10/1
Draw: 9/2
Spain: 2/9
