Friday 15th January
Braehead Clan v Manchester Storm - 7.30pm (Live on Premier Sports)
Clan have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (5 to OT, 1 OT win)
Storm have won 5 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
Clan have played Storm in Braehead once this season. Clan won the game 4-3
Storm have played in Manchester Twice this season losing both games (6-4 & 5-2).
5 of Clan last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
7 of Storm last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Braehead which finished Over 5.5 goals
Just the one bet for me in this game which is for the first period to end a draw at odds of 3.42
I did consider backing Storm to win the 1st at 6.0 but think the value is a bit thin on that one.
Was hoping to back Clan & Over 5.5 goals combined but odds of 1.52 were quite a bit shorter than id hoped to see so i've left that).
Nottingham Panthers v Belfast Giants - 7.30pm
Panthers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 OT win & 1 SO win)
Giants have won 7 of their last 10 away games (2 to OT, 1 SO & 1 OT win)
Panthers have played Giants in Nottingham Twice this season. Giants won the first game 2-1 (AOT) & lost the second 4-3
Giants have played in Belfast twice this season losing one games 3-2 & winning the other 4-3.
8 of Panthers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
5 of Giants last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
Two games H2H in Nottingham, One finished under 5.5 goals the other over.
This match should be a tight affair. I've personally backed Nottingham to win by 1 goal at odds of 7.5 with Bet365. Certainly wouldn't dissuade backing the draw at 4.5 with Paddy Power either but havent pulled the trigger on that one myself.
Saturday 16th January
Edinburgh Capitals v Manchester Storm - 5.30pm
Caps have won 3 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO win)
Storm have won 4 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
Caps have played Storm in Edinburgh once this season. Caps won the game 5-4
Manchester won all 3 meetings between the sides in Manchester
8 of Caps last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
8 of Storm last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Edinburgh which finished Over 5.5 goals
Caps have just lost their biggest asset this week. Ryan Hayes left the club & moved to Sheffield Steelers (controversial). Not only was Hayes Caps top goal scorer but was topping the league stats as well! Will be interesting to see how well Caps are able to rally together after such a big loss.
Braehead Clan v Coventry Blaze - 7pm
Clan have won 6 of their last 10 home games. (4 to OT, 1 OT win)
Blaze have won 4 of their last 10 away games (1 OT win)
Clan have played Blaze in Scotland once this season. Clan won the game 6-0
They have played twice in Coventry winning 1 game apiece.
5 of Clan last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
5 of Blaze last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Braehead which finished Over 5.5 goals
If ever there was an example of general stats not telling the story its here... Blaze have just won 4 of their last 10 road game. Those 4 wins have come from their last 6 games though! They're in much better form than the stats suggest. Same goes for total goals. Just 5 of their last 10 going over 5.5. Those five games that went over were the last five they played. The last four games they played all saw 8 or more total goals.
Cardiff Devils v Belfast Giants - 7pm
Devils have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 OT loss)
Giants have won 7 of their last 10 away games (1 OT win)
Devils won their last meeting in Cardiff 6-3Three meetings in Belfast with a regulation win apiece & a Giants OT win.
6 of Devils last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
5 of Giants last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Cardiff which finished Over 5.5 goals
Sheffield Steelers v Nottingham Panthers - 7pm
Steelers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (None to OT)
Panthers have won 4 of their last 10 away games (1 SO win)
Steelers won 2 of their 3 meetings in Sheffield
2 of Steelers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Two Over 6.5, None Over 7.5)
7 of Panthers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
Three games H2H in Sheffield - All finished Under 5.5 goals
Fife Flyers v Dundee Stars - 7.15pm
Flyers have won 6 of their last 10 home games. (None to OT)
Stars have won 4 of their last 10 away games (4 to OT, 2 SO wins)
Flyers have played Stars 4 times in Fife. Flyers won two in regulation, one in OT & lost one.
7 of Flyers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
7 of Stars last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
Four games H2H in Fife- 3 finished Over 5.5 goals, 1 finished under.
Sunday 17th January
Manchester Storm v Fife Flyers - 5.00pm
Storm have won 2 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 OT loss, 1 SO loss)
Flyers have won 3 of their last 10 away games (2 to OT, 1 SO win, 1 SO loss)
Storm have played Fife in Manchester twice this season losing the first game 4-3 & winning the second 5-1.
Played 4 times in Fife with two wins apiece.
7 of Storm last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
4 of Flyers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Two Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
Two games H2H in Manchester - Both finished Over 5.5 goals
Since losing 5-1 at their last visit to Manchester Fife have looked a bit better on the road with two tight wins against Edinburgh & Dundee and even taking Nottingham to a SO last time out. Expect the game to be closer.
Maybe back Storm to win the 1st period?
Coventry Blaze v Dundee Stars - 5.15pm
Blaze have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 SO win, 1 OT loss)
Stars have won 5 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 1 OT win)
Blaze have played Stars once in Coventry where they won 4-3 in a SO.
Blaze won their one other meeting in Scotland 1-5 in December.
7 of Blaze last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
8 of Stars last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Coventry which finished Over 5.5 goals (7 inc OT)
Blaze to win? & Over 5.5? tough to call.
Cardiff Devils v Sheffield Steelers - 6.00pm
Devils have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO win)
Steelers have won 7 of their last 10 away games (2 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO loss)
Devils have played Sheffield in Cardiff 3 times already. Devils have won all 3 games comfortably by 2 or more goals.
Sheffield won both games in Sheffield against Cardiff.
6 of Devils last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
7 of Steelers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
Three games H2H in Cardiff - All 3 finished Over 5.5 goals (8, 6 & 8)
Devils have only lost 3 home games all year & only 2 in regulation.
Friday 15 January 2016
Thursday 7 January 2016
8th, 9th & 10th January Match Previews
Happy New Year! Firstly, apologies for the lack of tips & blog updates over the festive period. There were quite a few games but i barely had time to look at the odds let alone write up tips and blog posts so didn't even have any bets myself. 2016 is upon us though so we're back to publishing stats on the blog & including extra notes which i think could be of interest or relevance to the match.
Friday 8th January
Belfast Giants v Sheffield Steelers - 7pm
Steelers have won 5 of their last 10 away games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO win & 1 SO loss)
Giants have won 6 of their last 10 home games (1 to OT, SO win)
Steelers have played Giants in Belfast once this season. Giants won the game 4-1
Giants have played in Sheffield Three times this season losing all 3 games (6-1, 2-1 & 3-1).
8 of Steelers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
4 of Giants last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Belfast which finished under 5.5 goals
Tough Match to call. This is the first night of a double header in Belfast thing week.
Steelers are boosted by the return of Matthew Roy from injury who is one of their leading point scorers. They're likely still without the services of Colin Fretter though. Original thoughts were that Steelers may be able to win this one although looking at their road form, i'm not so convinced now. I was also thinking of backing Under 5.5 goals until i noticed how many goals recent Steelers road games have seen! Giants are a solid team & are in the hunt for silverware. I think this match could be a battle. Steelers should have Pinc in net who doesn't fill me with confidence. His save percentage isn't great (.889) which is actually the worst in the league. Murphy sits 5th in the league for save percentage (.902) & 3rd for GAA (Goals against average) with 2.61. Steelers have the fire power up front but are a bit weaker defensively.
Think i'm going to sleep on this one then see what value, if any i can spot tomorrow when the odds are out.
Saturday 9th January
Edinburgh Capitals v Coventry Blaze - 5.30pm
Capitals have won 3 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO win)
Blaze have won 3 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
This will be Blazes first visit to Edinburgh this season. Edinburgh have played away in Coventry just once this season losing 4-2.
7 of Capitals last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
5 of Blaze last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Coventry which finished over 5.5 goals (6)
This is a game where the stats above don't tell the whole story and quite misleading. They make it look like two poor teams going up against each other. The truth is that Blaze are actually in pretty good form and are a very solid hockey team now. Their 3 road wins mentioned above have come in their last 5 games & include wins away against both Sheffield and Nottingham.
Caps are the opposite story. They went on a nice run of results on home ice earlier in the season but have lost 5 of their last 6. 4 of those were by 2 or more goals.
Look to back Blaze regulation win.
Maybe back Blaze -1.5AH
Braehead Clan v Dundee Stars - 7pm
Clan have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (5 to OT, 1 OT win, 2 OT losses & 2 SO losses)
Stars have won 5 of their last 10 away games (4 to OT, 1 OT loss, 1 SO loss & 2 SO wins)
Played twice in Braehead this season. Clan won both 6-4 & 2-1 (AOT)
5 of Clan last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
7 of Stars last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Braehead: One over 5.5 goals (10) & One Under (3 AOT)
Dundee are statistically the most offensive team in the league.
Clan are without their netminder Holt who is out with injury however they have signed two replacements who have both had impressive starts to their careers in Braehead.
Both teams seem to attract draws so could be value in the draw
Cardiff Devils v Nottingham Panthers - 7pm
Devils have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, SO loss)
Panthers have won 4 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, SO loss)
Nottingham have visited Cardiff 3 times so far, winning once and losing the other two in OT & a SO
Cardiff won their most recent meeting in Nottingham (but lost earlier in the season up there)
7 of Devils last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
8 of Panthers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
Three H2H in Cardiff: One over 5.5 goals (10), the Other two finished under Both tied 1-1)
Devils have their new defenceman making his debut and are under pressure to get a result after recent criticism.
Panthers have a new Netminder debuting in Shane Madolora. This adds a bit of an unknown to the game as nobody knows much about the new player. The fact its a netminder makes it even more difficult to prepare for. Chris Lawrence also returns to the line up from injury which helps add some offence and team toughness.
Belfast Giants v Sheffield Steelers - 7pm
A repeat of Friday evenings match (see above). Steelers ran out comfortable 2-6 winners on Friday. I don't expect it to be so one sided tonight.
Fife Flyers v Manchester Storm - 7.15pm
Flyers have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (5 to OT, 1 OT win, 2 OT losses & 2 SO losses)
Storm have won 4 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
Played three times in Fife this season. Fife won twice 5-4 (AOT) & 5-3. Lost once 1-3.
5 of Flyers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
7 of Storm last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Fife: Two over 5.5 goals (8 & 9 AOT) & One Under (4)
Storm have lost their last 4 road games, all by 2 or more goals. Last time they met Fife just before Christmas, Fife won 5-3. I would expect to see another Fife victory this evening although wouldn't totally write off Storm who are stealing games every now and again.
Sunday 10th January
Manchester Storm v Braehead Clan - 5pm
Storm have won 3 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 OT loss & 1 SO loss)
Clan have won 6 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
H2H in Manchester. Clan won 6-4 in their only meeting.
Clan won their one other meeting in Braehead 4-3
7 of Storm last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
5 of Clan last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
H2H: Both games over 5.5 goals home & away
Nottingham Panthers v Fife Flyers - 5pm
Panthers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, OT win)
Flyers have won 5 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, SO win)
Panthers won 5-2 in their only match this season in Nottingham
9 of Panthers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (nine Over 6.5, nine Over 7.5)
5 of Flyers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
H2H in Fife: Two over 5.5 goals. Both finished with 7 goals
Coventry Blaze v Cardiff Devils - 5.15pm
Blaze have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (Two to OT, 1 SO win, 1 OT loss)
Devils have won 5 of their last 10 away games (Four to OT, won 3)
7 of Blaze last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
5 of Devils last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Coventry: 2 Over 5.5, 2 Under 5.5
Dundee Stars v Edinburgh Capitals - 6.30pm
Stars have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win)
Caps have won 0 of their last 10 away games (Two to OT)
8 of Stars last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
7 of Caps last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Dundee:
Friday 8th January
Belfast Giants v Sheffield Steelers - 7pm
Steelers have won 5 of their last 10 away games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO win & 1 SO loss)
Giants have won 6 of their last 10 home games (1 to OT, SO win)
Steelers have played Giants in Belfast once this season. Giants won the game 4-1
Giants have played in Sheffield Three times this season losing all 3 games (6-1, 2-1 & 3-1).
8 of Steelers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
4 of Giants last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Belfast which finished under 5.5 goals
Tough Match to call. This is the first night of a double header in Belfast thing week.
Steelers are boosted by the return of Matthew Roy from injury who is one of their leading point scorers. They're likely still without the services of Colin Fretter though. Original thoughts were that Steelers may be able to win this one although looking at their road form, i'm not so convinced now. I was also thinking of backing Under 5.5 goals until i noticed how many goals recent Steelers road games have seen! Giants are a solid team & are in the hunt for silverware. I think this match could be a battle. Steelers should have Pinc in net who doesn't fill me with confidence. His save percentage isn't great (.889) which is actually the worst in the league. Murphy sits 5th in the league for save percentage (.902) & 3rd for GAA (Goals against average) with 2.61. Steelers have the fire power up front but are a bit weaker defensively.
Think i'm going to sleep on this one then see what value, if any i can spot tomorrow when the odds are out.
Saturday 9th January
Edinburgh Capitals v Coventry Blaze - 5.30pm
Capitals have won 3 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 SO win)
Blaze have won 3 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
This will be Blazes first visit to Edinburgh this season. Edinburgh have played away in Coventry just once this season losing 4-2.
7 of Capitals last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
5 of Blaze last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
Only one game H2H in Coventry which finished over 5.5 goals (6)
This is a game where the stats above don't tell the whole story and quite misleading. They make it look like two poor teams going up against each other. The truth is that Blaze are actually in pretty good form and are a very solid hockey team now. Their 3 road wins mentioned above have come in their last 5 games & include wins away against both Sheffield and Nottingham.
Caps are the opposite story. They went on a nice run of results on home ice earlier in the season but have lost 5 of their last 6. 4 of those were by 2 or more goals.
Look to back Blaze regulation win.
Maybe back Blaze -1.5AH
Braehead Clan v Dundee Stars - 7pm
Clan have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (5 to OT, 1 OT win, 2 OT losses & 2 SO losses)
Stars have won 5 of their last 10 away games (4 to OT, 1 OT loss, 1 SO loss & 2 SO wins)
Played twice in Braehead this season. Clan won both 6-4 & 2-1 (AOT)
5 of Clan last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
7 of Stars last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Braehead: One over 5.5 goals (10) & One Under (3 AOT)
Dundee are statistically the most offensive team in the league.
Clan are without their netminder Holt who is out with injury however they have signed two replacements who have both had impressive starts to their careers in Braehead.
Both teams seem to attract draws so could be value in the draw
Cardiff Devils v Nottingham Panthers - 7pm
Devils have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, SO loss)
Panthers have won 4 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, SO loss)
Nottingham have visited Cardiff 3 times so far, winning once and losing the other two in OT & a SO
Cardiff won their most recent meeting in Nottingham (but lost earlier in the season up there)
7 of Devils last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
8 of Panthers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
Three H2H in Cardiff: One over 5.5 goals (10), the Other two finished under Both tied 1-1)
Devils have their new defenceman making his debut and are under pressure to get a result after recent criticism.
Panthers have a new Netminder debuting in Shane Madolora. This adds a bit of an unknown to the game as nobody knows much about the new player. The fact its a netminder makes it even more difficult to prepare for. Chris Lawrence also returns to the line up from injury which helps add some offence and team toughness.
Belfast Giants v Sheffield Steelers - 7pm
A repeat of Friday evenings match (see above). Steelers ran out comfortable 2-6 winners on Friday. I don't expect it to be so one sided tonight.
Fife Flyers v Manchester Storm - 7.15pm
Flyers have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (5 to OT, 1 OT win, 2 OT losses & 2 SO losses)
Storm have won 4 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
Played three times in Fife this season. Fife won twice 5-4 (AOT) & 5-3. Lost once 1-3.
5 of Flyers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
7 of Storm last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Fife: Two over 5.5 goals (8 & 9 AOT) & One Under (4)
Storm have lost their last 4 road games, all by 2 or more goals. Last time they met Fife just before Christmas, Fife won 5-3. I would expect to see another Fife victory this evening although wouldn't totally write off Storm who are stealing games every now and again.
Sunday 10th January
Manchester Storm v Braehead Clan - 5pm
Storm have won 3 of their last 10 home games. (2 to OT, 1 OT loss & 1 SO loss)
Clan have won 6 of their last 10 away games (None to OT)
H2H in Manchester. Clan won 6-4 in their only meeting.
Clan won their one other meeting in Braehead 4-3
7 of Storm last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
5 of Clan last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Four Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
H2H: Both games over 5.5 goals home & away
Nottingham Panthers v Fife Flyers - 5pm
Panthers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, OT win)
Flyers have won 5 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, SO win)
Panthers won 5-2 in their only match this season in Nottingham
9 of Panthers last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (nine Over 6.5, nine Over 7.5)
5 of Flyers last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
H2H in Fife: Two over 5.5 goals. Both finished with 7 goals
Coventry Blaze v Cardiff Devils - 5.15pm
Blaze have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (Two to OT, 1 SO win, 1 OT loss)
Devils have won 5 of their last 10 away games (Four to OT, won 3)
7 of Blaze last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
5 of Devils last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Coventry: 2 Over 5.5, 2 Under 5.5
Dundee Stars v Edinburgh Capitals - 6.30pm
Stars have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win)
Caps have won 0 of their last 10 away games (Two to OT)
8 of Stars last 10 (home) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
7 of Caps last 10 (away) Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
H2H in Dundee:
Friday 25 December 2015
26th/27th December Match Previews
Saturday 26th December
Sheffield Steelers v Nottingham Panthers - 4pm
Steelers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, win)
Panthers have won 6 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, SO win)
Steelers have played Panthers in Sheffield twice this season winning the first game 2-1 & losing the second 4-1.
Steelers have played in Nottingham Three times this season winning twice & losing once (2-3, 7-4 & 4-6).
3 of Steelers last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Two Over 6.5, None Over 7.5)
7 of Panthers last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
H2H in Sheffield both games finished Under 5.5
The first night of UK Hockeys biggest rivalry. Both teams well in the hunt for the league championship. A tough game to predict made tougher by the net minder situation at both clubs. Nottinghams starting net minder is carrying a minor muscle injury for the past few weeks. He has been getting starts but on a few occasions been pulled after conceding a few goals. There have been a couple of games where he was rested altogether. He may well be fit again after another weeks rest but it's impossible to tell without inside info. I expect him to start but is he 100%?
Sheffield aren't without their own netminder issues. Their main starter Tyler Plante picked up an injury earlier in the season. He was arguably the top netminder in the league prior to injury. Just as he was getting back to fitness this week, he decided to leave the club and sign in Germany (most likely for more money). Steelers had signed Pinc in his place on a temporary contract to cover for Plante although now he has left the club, it looks like Pinc is going to be their number 1 for the rest of the season. While Pinc has respectable stats & is worthy of his starting role, He isn't as consistent as Steelers would like and not the same standard as Plante.
I expect Steelers to be favourites on home ice and rightly so. They probably should win the game. They were putting together a very strong run until last time out when they lost 2-3 on home ice to Coventry. Having said that, i expect them to bounce back as they certainly won't be wanting back to back losses on home ice.
Total goals is again a bit of a tough call that could go either way. I'd be very surprised to see a very high scoring game so pretty much discounting Over 7.5 goals. Probably be looking at backing Under 6.5 or maybe Under 5.5 but all depends on the price. Given the uncertainty over Nottinghams netminding i may well swerve this market or whole game altogether.
Tough game to call although i think Sheffield look the stronger side going in to the match.
Netminder issues for both sides which brings an extra uncertainty.
Possibly back Unders total goals or maybe Under 3.5 Panthers goals but all odds dependant.
May avoid altogether unless i spot some value.
Fife Flyers v Edinburgh Capitals - 6.30pm
Flyers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, win)
Capitals have won 1 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 1 SO win)
Caps have lost their last 9 straight on the road
H2H: Played twice in Fife - Flyers won both (5-2 & most recently 8-3)
Played Three times in Edinburgh - Caps won twice & lost the other. (twice to OT - 1 each way)
5 of Flyers last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
8 of Capitals last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
H2H in Fife both games finished Over 5.5 (& Over 6.5)
Feel there could be some value to be had in this match. Capitals are in poor form with 9 straight losses on the road. Five straight regulation losses (home & away) the four most recent losses have all been by 2 or more goals. Wouldn't totally write Caps off as they have caused quite a few upsets this season so aren't to be under estimated. Fife should rack up another comfortable home win against them here.
Flyers comfortable favourites. Probably look at taking Fife -1.5 or maybe an even larger margin.
Total goals a little tougher to call although Over 5.5 will be a favourite. Perhaps look at Over 6.5 if we can get anything close to even money.
Caps have failed to score more than Two goals in their last 5 straight games (Home or Away). Look at Under x caps goals & Fife Over x goals
Dundee Stars v Braehead Clan - 7.00pm
Stars have won 6 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT - 1 OT win, 2 OT losses)
Clan have won 5 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 OT loss, 1 SO loss)
H2H: 2 games in Dundee, early season, Stars won both 2-1 & 4-3 (AOT)
8 of Stars last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
5 of Clan last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
H2H: 2 games in Dundee. One finished Over 5.5, the other Under 5.5
A bit of a strange match this one. Despite what the stats suggest, i think i make Clan favourites here. Clan are in reasonable form recently winning 4 of their last 5 road games managing to pick up regulation wins recently in Cardiff (1-3) & Sheffield (1-2)! I was at the Cardiff game last weekend and Clan played a fantastic road game. Totally shut down Cardiffs offence and gave them few chances. They have a very solid netminder in Chris Holt who is now ranked number 1 in the league for goalie stats after Nottinghams recently issues & Clans recent upturn in form.
We could see a comfortable Clan victory however its not quite that straight forward. Clan do seem to have a couple of bogie teams this season. They lost both their recent visits to Fife (which on paper should be an easier game for them) and they have lost both their visits to Dundee this season (albeit a good few months ago now).
Having said that, i think Clan should get the win tonight provided they don't underestimate Dundees firepower.
Not a clear cut game.
Potentially back Clan at inflated odds due to them being the road team & past record in Dundee.
Stats point at this being a higher scoring game. Clans recent success has come from playing quite a defensive style though so i would be reluctant to take a particularly high Overs line. In fact, there is potentially value in backing Unders. This will all depend on the price.
Cardiff Devils v Coventry Blaze - 7.00pm
Devils have won 8 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT - SO win)
Blaze have won 3 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, 1 SO win)
H2H: 2 games in Cardiff, Devils won both 6-4 & 4-1
3 games in Coventry, Devils won 2, lost one. 4-6, 4-1 & 1-2
6 of Devils last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
4 of Blaze last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Two Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
H2H: 2 games in Cardiff. One Over 5.5, the other Under 5.5
This game is likely to be a 'value bet' type of match if i choose to bet on it at all. I'm expecting Cardiff to be comfortable favourites despite Coventrys recent form (& Cardiffs recent wobbles).
After an unbeaten start to the season (at home - 13 straight wins) Cardiff have lost 2 of their last 3 on home ice. This is seen by many as an 'easy' game for Cardiff which just puts added pressure on the team to get a result when they've actually been struggling recently.
I'm expecting a bounce back win for Cardiff although don't think the bookies are going to have considered all the facts. While Cardiff should be favourites Blaze have a real chance to cause an upset here and we could see a fairly big price on them doing so which could be worth considering. Unfortunately, the way i see the bookies pricing the match is the opposite type of situation i typically look for whereby the team i think will win (Cardiff) and probably going to be priced too short leaving the likely value with the outsiders. We'll have to wait and see what prices they put out. Perhaps I'll be pleasantly surprised.
Blaze have struggled in the offence department this season but have had one of the leagues top net minders between the pipes which has helped keep the score lines on the low side.
The bookies usually pick up on this though and will likely price the game accordingly.
A couple of interesting sub plots to this match although they aren't relevant to betting aspect so won't bother going in to details now.
Expecting a bounce back victory for Cardiff although think the value may lie with Coventry.
Most likely a lower scoring game. Potentially back Under 6.5 although not hopefully of finding too much value. Maybe find something in one of the sub markets. Failing that hope for a christmas present from the bookies.
May end up with no tips on this match.
Sunday 27th December
Nottingham Panthers v Sheffield Steelers - 4.00pm
Reverse of yesterdays matchup
Manchester Storm v Fife Flyers - 5.00pm
Coventry Blaze v Cardiff Devils - 5.15pm
Reverse of yesterdays matchup
Braehead Clan v Belfast Giants - 6.00pm
Edinburgh Capitals v Dundee Stars - 6.00pm
OVERS!
Sheffield Steelers v Nottingham Panthers - 4pm
Steelers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, win)
Panthers have won 6 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, SO win)
Steelers have played Panthers in Sheffield twice this season winning the first game 2-1 & losing the second 4-1.
Steelers have played in Nottingham Three times this season winning twice & losing once (2-3, 7-4 & 4-6).
3 of Steelers last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Two Over 6.5, None Over 7.5)
7 of Panthers last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
H2H in Sheffield both games finished Under 5.5
The first night of UK Hockeys biggest rivalry. Both teams well in the hunt for the league championship. A tough game to predict made tougher by the net minder situation at both clubs. Nottinghams starting net minder is carrying a minor muscle injury for the past few weeks. He has been getting starts but on a few occasions been pulled after conceding a few goals. There have been a couple of games where he was rested altogether. He may well be fit again after another weeks rest but it's impossible to tell without inside info. I expect him to start but is he 100%?
Sheffield aren't without their own netminder issues. Their main starter Tyler Plante picked up an injury earlier in the season. He was arguably the top netminder in the league prior to injury. Just as he was getting back to fitness this week, he decided to leave the club and sign in Germany (most likely for more money). Steelers had signed Pinc in his place on a temporary contract to cover for Plante although now he has left the club, it looks like Pinc is going to be their number 1 for the rest of the season. While Pinc has respectable stats & is worthy of his starting role, He isn't as consistent as Steelers would like and not the same standard as Plante.
I expect Steelers to be favourites on home ice and rightly so. They probably should win the game. They were putting together a very strong run until last time out when they lost 2-3 on home ice to Coventry. Having said that, i expect them to bounce back as they certainly won't be wanting back to back losses on home ice.
Total goals is again a bit of a tough call that could go either way. I'd be very surprised to see a very high scoring game so pretty much discounting Over 7.5 goals. Probably be looking at backing Under 6.5 or maybe Under 5.5 but all depends on the price. Given the uncertainty over Nottinghams netminding i may well swerve this market or whole game altogether.
Tough game to call although i think Sheffield look the stronger side going in to the match.
Netminder issues for both sides which brings an extra uncertainty.
Possibly back Unders total goals or maybe Under 3.5 Panthers goals but all odds dependant.
May avoid altogether unless i spot some value.
Fife Flyers v Edinburgh Capitals - 6.30pm
Flyers have won 7 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT, win)
Capitals have won 1 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 1 SO win)
Caps have lost their last 9 straight on the road
H2H: Played twice in Fife - Flyers won both (5-2 & most recently 8-3)
Played Three times in Edinburgh - Caps won twice & lost the other. (twice to OT - 1 each way)
5 of Flyers last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
8 of Capitals last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
H2H in Fife both games finished Over 5.5 (& Over 6.5)
Feel there could be some value to be had in this match. Capitals are in poor form with 9 straight losses on the road. Five straight regulation losses (home & away) the four most recent losses have all been by 2 or more goals. Wouldn't totally write Caps off as they have caused quite a few upsets this season so aren't to be under estimated. Fife should rack up another comfortable home win against them here.
Flyers comfortable favourites. Probably look at taking Fife -1.5 or maybe an even larger margin.
Total goals a little tougher to call although Over 5.5 will be a favourite. Perhaps look at Over 6.5 if we can get anything close to even money.
Caps have failed to score more than Two goals in their last 5 straight games (Home or Away). Look at Under x caps goals & Fife Over x goals
Dundee Stars v Braehead Clan - 7.00pm
Stars have won 6 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT - 1 OT win, 2 OT losses)
Clan have won 5 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 1 OT loss, 1 SO loss)
H2H: 2 games in Dundee, early season, Stars won both 2-1 & 4-3 (AOT)
8 of Stars last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Seven Over 6.5, Six Over 7.5)
5 of Clan last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
H2H: 2 games in Dundee. One finished Over 5.5, the other Under 5.5
A bit of a strange match this one. Despite what the stats suggest, i think i make Clan favourites here. Clan are in reasonable form recently winning 4 of their last 5 road games managing to pick up regulation wins recently in Cardiff (1-3) & Sheffield (1-2)! I was at the Cardiff game last weekend and Clan played a fantastic road game. Totally shut down Cardiffs offence and gave them few chances. They have a very solid netminder in Chris Holt who is now ranked number 1 in the league for goalie stats after Nottinghams recently issues & Clans recent upturn in form.
We could see a comfortable Clan victory however its not quite that straight forward. Clan do seem to have a couple of bogie teams this season. They lost both their recent visits to Fife (which on paper should be an easier game for them) and they have lost both their visits to Dundee this season (albeit a good few months ago now).
Having said that, i think Clan should get the win tonight provided they don't underestimate Dundees firepower.
Not a clear cut game.
Potentially back Clan at inflated odds due to them being the road team & past record in Dundee.
Stats point at this being a higher scoring game. Clans recent success has come from playing quite a defensive style though so i would be reluctant to take a particularly high Overs line. In fact, there is potentially value in backing Unders. This will all depend on the price.
Cardiff Devils v Coventry Blaze - 7.00pm
Devils have won 8 of their last 10 home games. (1 to OT - SO win)
Blaze have won 3 of their last 10 away games (1 to OT, 1 SO win)
H2H: 2 games in Cardiff, Devils won both 6-4 & 4-1
3 games in Coventry, Devils won 2, lost one. 4-6, 4-1 & 1-2
6 of Devils last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Five Over 6.5, Four Over 7.5)
4 of Blaze last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Two Over 6.5, Two Over 7.5)
H2H: 2 games in Cardiff. One Over 5.5, the other Under 5.5
This game is likely to be a 'value bet' type of match if i choose to bet on it at all. I'm expecting Cardiff to be comfortable favourites despite Coventrys recent form (& Cardiffs recent wobbles).
After an unbeaten start to the season (at home - 13 straight wins) Cardiff have lost 2 of their last 3 on home ice. This is seen by many as an 'easy' game for Cardiff which just puts added pressure on the team to get a result when they've actually been struggling recently.
I'm expecting a bounce back win for Cardiff although don't think the bookies are going to have considered all the facts. While Cardiff should be favourites Blaze have a real chance to cause an upset here and we could see a fairly big price on them doing so which could be worth considering. Unfortunately, the way i see the bookies pricing the match is the opposite type of situation i typically look for whereby the team i think will win (Cardiff) and probably going to be priced too short leaving the likely value with the outsiders. We'll have to wait and see what prices they put out. Perhaps I'll be pleasantly surprised.
Blaze have struggled in the offence department this season but have had one of the leagues top net minders between the pipes which has helped keep the score lines on the low side.
The bookies usually pick up on this though and will likely price the game accordingly.
A couple of interesting sub plots to this match although they aren't relevant to betting aspect so won't bother going in to details now.
Expecting a bounce back victory for Cardiff although think the value may lie with Coventry.
Most likely a lower scoring game. Potentially back Under 6.5 although not hopefully of finding too much value. Maybe find something in one of the sub markets. Failing that hope for a christmas present from the bookies.
May end up with no tips on this match.
Sunday 27th December
Nottingham Panthers v Sheffield Steelers - 4.00pm
Reverse of yesterdays matchup
Manchester Storm v Fife Flyers - 5.00pm
Coventry Blaze v Cardiff Devils - 5.15pm
Reverse of yesterdays matchup
Braehead Clan v Belfast Giants - 6.00pm
Edinburgh Capitals v Dundee Stars - 6.00pm
OVERS!
Monday 21 December 2015
Midweek Matches - December 23rd
Being the festive season, We have a couple of midweek games to enjoy this week.
Belfast Giants v Cardiff Devils - 7pm
Giants have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 2 SO losses)
Devils have won 6 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 2 OT wins, 1 OT loss)
Devils have won their last 4 straight on the road.
Cardiff have played in Belfast twice this season winning the first game 3-2 & losing the following night 4-3 in OT. Devils played the Giants in Cardiff once this season winning that game 6-3.
3 of Giants last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
6 of Devils last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
H2H in Belfast 1 under and 1 over 5.5
I don't expect to see any runaway victory in this game, it's likely to be a close hard fought affair. Devils road form has been pretty solid recently. Cardiff are yet to lose in regulation to the Giants this season so i would probably make Cardiff slight favourites despite being the away side. Giants have a very solid team so i wouldn't underestimate them.
Probably looking to back Cardiff for the win, maybe DNB for security.
Potentially back Over Cardiff total goals depending on the line and price.
Dundee Stars v Coventry Blaze - 7.30pm
Stars won 6 of their last 10 at home (4 OT - 1 OT win, 3 OT losses)
Blaze won 2 of their last 10 on the road (1 OT - SO Win) Shut out twice.
The sides have met just once so far this season in Coventry where Blaze won in a SO 4-3
8 of Stars last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Seven Over 7.5)
Blazes last five straight Under 5.5 on the road
4 of Blazes last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
Blaze continue to be a very tough team to predict, consistently losing easier games to the likes of Manchester then winning games against the likes of Sheffield & Braehead. I put it down largely to their goalie. While his stats look pretty average (8th in the league with a 3.25 GAA) he is actually one of the best goalies in the league O/A. The trouble is, if he has an off night, the team in front of him aren't good enough to pick up the pieces. This is backed up by the total goals stats. Most of Blazes games are low scoring (under 5.5). The games that aren't will usually comfortably clear the 7.5 goal line even.
This is a pretty tough game to call which could easily go either way. Dundee will likely be favourites being the home team with a strong record on home ice. I think there could be a bit of value in backing the draw in this one. Despite Dundees generally high total goals tally, i think the value may be in backing Under 5.5 goals and hoping Brian Stewart steps up and has another big night. All depends on how the bookies price the market up though. Over 5.5 will definitely be a big favourite. I'm hoping to see close to 2/1 on Under
Stars should be favourites on home ice but should be close. Possibly value in the draw.
Should go Over 5.5 goals although value may lie in backing Unders and hoping Brian Stewart can shut down Dundees offence.
Overall a tough game to call all round so may swerve it all together.
Thats all the hockey until Boxing day now so Merry Christmas all. Lots of games after christmas to look forward to.
Belfast Giants v Cardiff Devils - 7pm
Giants have won 5 of their last 10 home games. (3 to OT, 1 OT win, 2 SO losses)
Devils have won 6 of their last 10 away games (3 to OT, 2 OT wins, 1 OT loss)
Devils have won their last 4 straight on the road.
Cardiff have played in Belfast twice this season winning the first game 3-2 & losing the following night 4-3 in OT. Devils played the Giants in Cardiff once this season winning that game 6-3.
3 of Giants last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, One Over 7.5)
6 of Devils last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Six Over 6.5, Five Over 7.5)
H2H in Belfast 1 under and 1 over 5.5
I don't expect to see any runaway victory in this game, it's likely to be a close hard fought affair. Devils road form has been pretty solid recently. Cardiff are yet to lose in regulation to the Giants this season so i would probably make Cardiff slight favourites despite being the away side. Giants have a very solid team so i wouldn't underestimate them.
Probably looking to back Cardiff for the win, maybe DNB for security.
Potentially back Over Cardiff total goals depending on the line and price.
Dundee Stars v Coventry Blaze - 7.30pm
Stars won 6 of their last 10 at home (4 OT - 1 OT win, 3 OT losses)
Blaze won 2 of their last 10 on the road (1 OT - SO Win) Shut out twice.
The sides have met just once so far this season in Coventry where Blaze won in a SO 4-3
8 of Stars last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Eight Over 6.5, Seven Over 7.5)
Blazes last five straight Under 5.5 on the road
4 of Blazes last 10 Over 5.5 goals (Three Over 6.5, Three Over 7.5)
Blaze continue to be a very tough team to predict, consistently losing easier games to the likes of Manchester then winning games against the likes of Sheffield & Braehead. I put it down largely to their goalie. While his stats look pretty average (8th in the league with a 3.25 GAA) he is actually one of the best goalies in the league O/A. The trouble is, if he has an off night, the team in front of him aren't good enough to pick up the pieces. This is backed up by the total goals stats. Most of Blazes games are low scoring (under 5.5). The games that aren't will usually comfortably clear the 7.5 goal line even.
This is a pretty tough game to call which could easily go either way. Dundee will likely be favourites being the home team with a strong record on home ice. I think there could be a bit of value in backing the draw in this one. Despite Dundees generally high total goals tally, i think the value may be in backing Under 5.5 goals and hoping Brian Stewart steps up and has another big night. All depends on how the bookies price the market up though. Over 5.5 will definitely be a big favourite. I'm hoping to see close to 2/1 on Under
Stars should be favourites on home ice but should be close. Possibly value in the draw.
Should go Over 5.5 goals although value may lie in backing Unders and hoping Brian Stewart can shut down Dundees offence.
Overall a tough game to call all round so may swerve it all together.
Thats all the hockey until Boxing day now so Merry Christmas all. Lots of games after christmas to look forward to.
Friday 18 December 2015
19th/20th December Match Previews
Saturday 19th December
Edinburgh Capitals v Belfast Giants - 5.30pm
Giants won their only visit to Edinburgh this season 5-3 back in September
Capitals have lost all 3 visits to Belfast (2 in regulation, 1 in OT)
9 of Caps last 10 home games went Over 5.5 goals
(Eight Over 6.5 & Seven Over 7.5)
6 of Giants last 10 away games went Over 5.5 but last 3 games all under
(Six Over 6.5 & Four Over 7.5)
Edinburgh are a tough team to predict this season...
Thursday 17 December 2015
Welcome!
Welcome to my blog.
Firstly, let me give a brief introduction to who i am &
then i’ll explain what the future holds for Eliteice tips.
then i’ll explain what the future holds for Eliteice tips.
 |
| Me & Emma |
If you don’t know me already, my name is Matt & I live in Cardiff, Wales with my girlfriend of many years. I’m 29 years old and have made a living from a combo of sports betting and poker for the past 6+ years. We’re expecting our first child in April so I’d best knuckle down & get winning some dollar. Exciting times!
I began sports betting a couple years after turning pro at poker as fancied another challenge. From the beginning i’ve enjoyed success but quickly started getting my accounts limited and in some cases closed. This was & still is really frustrating so i thought I’d get my revenge by sharing my success with others. A bit salty i know but it made me feel better. This led me to find a platform on which i could offer my British Ice hockey tips (EIHL) and that’s where Betting Kingdom comes in…
I had little proven track record of my profits other than my personal written records which don’t count for much. Betting Kingdom allowed me to prove myself in the public domain, preview the games and compete for a bit of extra money on the side if i was profitable each month. I was never going to get rich from it but it seemed like a great way to prove myself while making a bit of beer money (not that i drink but you know what i mean), network with fellow tipsters, share a bit of my betting success all while promoting the sport i love. Win, Win, Win.
Two years on, I have a pretty solid proven record of my profits and have a few loyal followers. It feels like a great time to take it to the next level. Having my own blog will allow me to reach out to more people as well as provide more detailed previews of upcoming games.
I typically price the games up the day before so i’m not influenced by seeing the bookmakers prices in advance. I’ll price the games up to 100% so if the bookmakers prices are bigger than mine, there should in theory be profit in the bets. Just having a larger price than mine isn’t always enough for me though. I’m greedy & a bit of a bankroll nit so try to limit my variance as much as possible by only taking the larger edges. Once the bookies odds are out, i’ll not only look for the value in the price, I study the stats & take the best angle i can find for the game. Sometimes that means backing the straight victory, other times it may be one of the submarkets such as first goal scored or similar. Whatever it takes to maximise our profits. I’m a believer in quality over quantity in sports betting which is what i feel has led to me maintaining a 20%+ return on investment after more than 150 tips (Not including my pre BK days).
After spending hours researching & with the bookies odds not coming out till midday on game day sometimes, it leaves me with little time to do full write ups before the matches. If i’m out during the day or going to watch an away match (I’m a Cardiff Devils season ticket holder), i run out of time & as a result can’t get any tips out that day. I can only see this problem getting worse with a little one on the way.
It seems a shame to have done the hard work then not have time to share that effort. So that leads us on to….
It seems a shame to have done the hard work then not have time to share that effort. So that leads us on to….
The Future…
My plan is to do my game previews and write ups in advance. I may share my tissue prices at times although i’m not too sure just yet as don’t want them getting into the wrong hands (namely the odds compilers). I plan to preview each game from a few different potential betting angles probably on the Thursday or Friday before that weekends games. Followers can use the previews to pick their own bets if they wish or people can wait for my tips to be released on Betting Kingdom in the afternoon on game days.
Thats my general plan at the moment. It’s a bit of a working progress so we’ll see how it pans out but hopefully you’ll enjoy the statistic based write ups & we’ll be able to make some profit together over the rest of this season and many more to come.
If anyone has any questions about me, the blog, the plan, the EIHL, Sports betting in general, my poker career or pretty much anything, feel free to ask & i’ll get back to you asap. I want to keep the service as personable & tailored to each follower as possible!
I look forward to hearing off you
I look forward to hearing off you
Give me a follow on Twitter!
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