If you have started to take an interest in Australian Rules Football (AFL) then this weekend sees a game that you must not miss. The two fiercest rivals in the competition, Carlton and Collingwood, go head to head in front of around 100,000 screaming fans at the home of football, the MCG. This game represents the first time that new Carlton coach Mick Malthouse – who guided Collingwood to the premiership just three years ago – will coach against his former club in what is a bizarre situation given the hatred that exists between the two clubs. This game is a real grudge match for players and fans alike and it promises to be one hell of a ride. The Blues with a few goals head start look like good value.
There is a great day of racing this week at Rosehill with the running of The BMW Stakes and Australia’s most prestigious two-year-old race The Golden Slipper. I like Hathras (8/1) and Foreteller (6/1) in the BMW and both are attractive options each way. The Slipper is all about the flying favourite Overreach who should start the race at a little better than even money. My advice is to shop around and take 5/4 ($2.25) if you can find it.
Manchester United has the English Premier League title wrapped up but the race is still on to see which team will claim the final spot in the Champions League next year. With Tottenham looking good and Manchester City safe, it will come down to Chelsea, Arsenal and Everton to fight it out which will at least keep the competition interesting over the final few weeks. The Manchester derby will be the game of the weekend and is always an exciting contest.
Rugby league, golf, Super 15 rugby, NBA, ice hockey and tennis are all on the menu as well so you shouldn’t have any problem getting your sporting fix this weekend.
Good luck and good punting.
