There’s no need for the Monday blues this week as England and Wales are both back in action for their final group games at Euro 2016.
Both British teams have every reason to think they’ll secure their respective places in the round of 16. In addition to backing both home nations from a sporting perspective, we’ll be looking to nick a little extra profit too.
Come on!
Monday’s Matches: England v Slovakia (8PM, ITV); Russia v Wales (8PM, ITV 4)
All four teams have something to play for heading into Group B’s final round of matches, and each nation knows that three points would be enough to secure their spot in the last 16. Having said that, it’s Roy Hodgson’s England that hold all the aces.
Daniel Sturridge’s dramatic late winner against Wales means the Three Lions are tip of the group, and they can be extremely confident about beating a Slovakian team that are largely dependent on the quality of start man Marek Hamsik. If England can keep the Napoli man quiet, there’s no reason that they can’t top the ground with seven points.
Whatever happens in St Etienne, Wales and Russia can concentrate solely on their game knowing that three points will see them through, even if that’s one of the best third-placed teams. Chris Coleman’s side will be eager to bounce back in style after that crushing late loss against England, and they need Gareth Bale to do more than take a free-kick. However, the Russians have been one of the poorest sides in the competition, so the Dragons can be optimistic.
Both games promise to provide bags of drama. Let’s just hope it’s a positive end to the group stage for England and Wales. Either way, it’s gotta be better than watching Eastenders.
Toe Punter v The Bookies
Our Monday night selections will see us place two £10 singles with the knowledge that even one winner would return a profit. Having said that, we’re quietly confident of returning two winners.
England have shown plenty of potential as well as the determination to overturn a half-time deficit for the first time ever in their European Championships history. One issue that may worry Hodgson, however, is the lack of a first-half goal. We’re backing the Three Lions to end that run by scoring before the interval here.
And we think they’ll go on to win the game with relative ease too.
Bet: HT/FT – England/England @ 19/10 with Coral (£10 stake)
Regardless of the England result, Wales know that a win will secure a top two finish. Three points could yet be enough to see them top the group but, in truth, they’d be more than happy to qualify.
Even a draw should be enough against a Russian side that’s lacking in quality and confidence. Wales could easily get the win. However, we’re aware of the situation and will be including the safety net of a possible refund.
Bet: Wales 0 Asian handicap @ 43/40 (£10 stake)
