Saturday 1/24/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

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[superbeets]

English FA Cup Sa 24Jan 12:45

Blackburn

v

Swansea

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
BBC1		21/10	5/2	11/8	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT BLACKBURN	RECENT FORM
HWALHDAWHLAD​ Most recent​	4 - 2 4 - 1 0 - 0 3 - 0	HWALADAWHDHL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Swansea have conceded 13 goals in five matches

EXPERT VERDICT: Swansea were routed by Chelsea last time out and this looks a good opportunity for Blackburn to cause an upset. The Championship outfit are not in sparkling form themselves but they have a potent goalscorer in Jordan Rhodes and he can set the hosts on their way against a leaky defence.

RECOMMENDATION: J Rhodes first goalscorer
1


REFEREE: Craig Pawson STADIUM:

 

[superbeets]

English FA Cup Sa 24Jan 17:30

Liverpool

v

Bolton

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BT1		1/3	19/4	9	More markets

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RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT LIVERPOOL	RECENT FORM
HWHDAWAWAWHD​ Most recent​	3 - 1 2 - 1 2 - 0 3 - 0	AWHWALHWHDAW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Liverpool have won ten of their last 11 meetings with Bolton

EXPERT VERDICT: Bolton have enjoyed a huge revival under Neil Lennon and many will fancy their chances of beating Liverpool at Anfield for the first time since 2003. The Trotters have lost only once in their last 12 matches and could hit the target but Liverpool are also in decent form and should progress from a high-scoring encounter.

RECOMMENDATION: Liverpool to win 2-1
1


REFEREE: Kevin Friend STADIUM:

 

[superbeets]

Scottish Premiership Sa 24Jan 12:45

Ross County

v

Celtic

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SS1		11	6	2/11	More markets

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RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT ROSS COUNTY	RECENT FORM
ADHLADHLADHL​ Most recent​	0 - 5 1 - 4 1 - 1 3 - 2	HWALHDAWAWHW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Ross have won just two of 21 league matches

EXPERT VERDICT: Celtic have won six of their last seven games and it would be a huge surprise if they could not get past the strugglers having already collected a 5-0 victory at Dingwall this season. The Bhoys, who have plenty of teams challenging them to be top dog this season, have led at half-time in five of their seven away Premiership victories this season.

RECOMMENDATION: Celtic-Celtic double result
2

 

[superbeets]

Spanish Primera Liga Sa 24Jan 17:00

Elche

v

Barcelona

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SS5		18	6	1/6	More markets

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RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT ELCHE	RECENT FORM
HLHDALAWHLHW​ Most recent​	0 - 4 0 - 0	ALHWHWAWAWHW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Both teams have scored in only two of Barcelona's ten away league games

EXPERT VERDICT: Barcelona had to grind out a 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday and a similar performance may be required at Elche. Barca's defensive record on the road is very good while Elche have managed only nine goals in ten league matches on their own patch this season.

RECOMMENDATION: Barcelona to win 2-0
1

 

[superbeets]

Scottish League One Sa 24Jan 17:30

Morton

v

Dunfermline

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ALBA		13/10	13/5	9/5	More markets

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RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT MORTON	RECENT FORM
HDHLAWHLAWAD​ Most recent​	2 - 1 0 - 1 4 - 2 0 - 2	HLALHLHDADHD​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Dunfermline have found the net in nine of their last 11 league away games

EXPERT VERDICT: Dunfermline were expected to ease to the League One title this season but it has not turned out that way and they have struggled to justify their pre-season favouritism. A run of two wins form 11 league matches is not good form, but they could still surprise Morton, who have fallen to 1-0 defeats in their last two home matches.

RECOMMENDATION: Dunfermline
1


REFEREE: Alan Muir STADIUM:

 

[superbeets]

Dutch Eredivisie Sa 24Jan 17:30

Cambuur

v

PSV Eindhoven

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SS3		17/4	3	3/5	More markets

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RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT CAMBUUR	RECENT FORM
AWHLHLAWHWAD​ Most recent​	1 - 2 0 - 1	AWHLHWHWHWAW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: PSV have kept just two clean sheets in 17 away matches this season

EXPERT VERDICT: Improving Cambuur didn’t help themselves by having a player sent off in the first half of their 4-0 defeat to PSV in September but this one should be a lot closer. The hosts have won three of their last four and PSV, who suffered a shock Dutch Cup exit in midweek, may struggle to keep a clean sheet.

RECOMMENDATION: Both teams to score
2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mahoning Valley Race Course

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 6 - Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 82

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE DECEMBER 24 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 EMOTIONAL LADY 3/1


# 3 HOLY MACARONI 6/1


# 4 LOVE IN EGBERT 9/5


EMOTIONAL LADY looks to be a very good contender. Has put up sound Equibase Speed Figures in dirt sprint races in the past. Win percentage one of the most respectable in this group of animals. It's a good sign that Clouston is using Houghton on this one. HOLY MACARONI - With a respectable 79 Equibase Speed Fig last time out, will unquestionably be a factor in this race. With better than average trips to the winner's circle, Pilares will almost certainly have this filly in excellent position to win the outing. LOVE IN EGBERT - She has been running soundly and the Equibase Speed Figures are among the strongest in this group. A solid 78 avg class figure may give this mare a distinct class edge against this field.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Parx Racing

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 1 - Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $22000 Class Rating: 58

FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. WEIGHT, 121 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE DECEMBER 24, 2014 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000, FOR EACH $1,000 TO $8,000 2 LBS.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 HOT OUT WEST 9/2


# 4 TAMARS GIRL 3/1


# 7 LEGAL RING 6/1


I favor HOT OUT WEST here. Ought to compete very well in the early pace contest which bodes well with this group. Displays the look of a profitable play, averaging a solid 52 Equibase Speed Figure which is one of the best in this field. I like the jock on this filly - formidable chance to win the contest. TAMARS GIRL - Have to look at solely on class, with some of the most competitive class figures of this group. A nice return on investment of +11 with this jockey and trainer duo. LEGAL RING - Her 52 average has this filly with among the strongest Equibase Speed Figs in this contest. Recorded a sound Equibase Speed Figure in the last race. Can run another good one in this affair.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Aqueduct - Race #8 - Post: 4:13pm - Optional Claiming - 9.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $69,000 Class Rating: 107

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 PERCUSSION (ML=7/2)
#1 MARKET BLASTER (ML=12/1)


PERCUSSION - I'm looking forward to this thoroughbred to run a good race this time. MARKET BLASTER - I certainly see good things for this thoroughbred right here.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 WEALTH TO ME (ML=9/5), #6 CLASSIC SENSE (ML=5/2), #5 CONSPIRACY (ML=8/1),

WEALTH TO ME - Doesn't appear to be in a satisfactory spot in today's event. CLASSIC SENSE - Have to put a question mark next to the most recent speed fig since it was acquired in the mud. CONSPIRACY - Registered a most unsatisfactory speed rating last out in a $40,000 Claiming race on December 27th. Doubtful to see an improved performance off of that rating.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #7 PERCUSSION to win. Have to have odds of at least 7/5 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Turf Paradise - Race #8 - Post: 4:12pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $6,300 Class Rating: 59

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 RYLEIGH RULER (ML=2/1)


RYLEIGH RULER - Took a significant drop in class rating last out at Turf Paradise. Returning to a similar class level in today's race. Should do well. Lopez comes to ride again after getting to know the filly in the last race. Diodoro brings her right back. I propose you stick with this hot filly. Earnings per race is something that I believe can be a key selection factor. This thoroughbred is ranked numero uno in this group. Out of the top three finish in the last race at Turf Paradise was better than it looked on paper. She improved position in the lane and never gave up.

Vulnerable Contenders: #8 SEQUESTERED (ML=3/1), #2 LADY SWANN (ML=7/2), #4 SOCIETY'S JOY (ML=8/1),

SEQUESTERED - Don't believe this horse will do much running in today's event. That last speed fig was disappointing when compared with today's class rating. SOCIETY'S JOY - This filly garnered a rating in her last race which probably isn't good enough in today's race.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - RYLEIGH RULER - This filly's superior last speed number of 59, against these thoroughbreds, makes her the overwhelming choice.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#7 RYLEIGH RULER is going to be the play if we are getting 1/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
7 with 6

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Pompano Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 3 - Post: 8:06 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 86 - Purse:$8000 - LATE-CLOSING EVENT 6 - THE`MURDOCK HANOVER` - CLAIMING $10,000 - FIRST LEG CLAIMING PRICE - $11,000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 RING LEDA 4/1


# 2 M G HOME RUN 2/1


# 1 IN MINT CONDITION 7/2


RING LEDA will have you running to the cashier's window for this one. The brain trust gives this horse a competitive chance to come home a winner, class numbers are tops in the group. This standardbred recorded a really good speed figure last time out. Looks in good form to come right back. M G HOME RUN - Don't let a harness racer with such a bang-up winning statistic like this be passed over. Has the makings of a profitable play, averaging a rather good 88 TrackMaster Speed Rating. IN MINT CONDITION - The number crunching team noted a sharp affair out of this nice horse last time. Hoping for a duplicate of that to take the whole enchilada. Considered a solid wager based solely on his high ultimate prize percent.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 11 - Post: 10:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 95 - Purse:$18000 - NON-WINNERS OF $18,000 IN LAST 6 STARTS


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 MACHS BEACH BOY 5/2


# 5 PANONGAHELA 3/1


# 3 SKY IS THE LIMIT 7/2


MACHS BEACH BOY sure does look ready to score. Feel the need for speed, this solid standardbred has been turning in some terrific speed figures averaging around 97. The consortium gives this race horse a nice chance to come home a winner, class numbers are tops in the group of animals. Had one of the most respectable TrackMaster Speed Ratings of the grouping in his last outing. Must use in your wagers. PANONGAHELA - It's dangerous to consider on class alone, but this gelding has among the top class numbers of the group of horses. Has to be given a look based on the respectable TrackMaster Speed Rating recorded in the most recent race. SKY IS THE LIMIT - His 95 avg has this gelding among the most compelling speed ratings today. Could positively better this field of starters given the 95 TrackMaster SR earned in his most recent race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Saturday 1/24 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY $1 PICK 4:

1,5,9 / 3,8 / 2,5,9 / 1,4,5 = $54

MEET STATS: 17 - 42 / $118.40 BEST BETS: 2 - 4 / $13.20 SPOT PLAYS: 1 - 4 / $21.60

Best Bet: HIT AND GIGGLE A (8th)

Spot Play: SOMEWHERE FANCY (6th)


Race 1

(3) COUGAR HALL gapped his cover a bit on the final turn last time then came again in the lane to fall just short against a better group. This slight drop in class should do the trick. (2) SUNNY BEACH DAY also drops slightly and could be powering up late to complete the exacta. (7) JM JET SET exits the same dash as the choice and certainly showed big improvement in that mile; in the mix.

Race 2

In a race that looks loaded with early speed types, (1) LIFEIMITATESART looks best equipped to take advantage with a late rally; top call. (2) PUSH BACK left hard, took a shuffle then caused interference in the stretch. He could do much better here even with the class rise with a more patient steer. (3) TOUCH OF LIGHTNING stung a prohibitive favorite enough early to enable a successful late rally and returns in five days; some things to like here.

Race 3

(7) POWER MOVE has performed quite well since being claimed three back and moved up into the conditioned ranks. He should contend with this group. (2) LIMITLESS ships in from Dover where it appears he was facing better. He could take these with a trip. Note: Top choice STAR RUFFNREADY was an early scratch.

Race 4

(9) A REAL COMMITMENT was inexplicably kept in by Filion last week and spent the rest of the mile twisting, turning and running up the backs of rivals looking for room. She remains razor-sharp and should offer a great price here. (5) GIVE ME AN AMEN had a similar trip just in front of the choice and gets a massive driver change here; beware. (1) WILDCAT BEAUTY will take big money at the windows dropping out of the Mares Preferred and drawing the rail. She is no lock, however.

Race 5

(3) SIX BAX closed okay belatedly first off the claim also off a 25-day break. He switches to Waples who is sure to send him hard and get good early position; he can topple this group. (8) EW FISHER remarkably wasn't taken when dropped into 12 claimers last week and looks for his third straight here. These are tougher and he might need more late speed to hold some of these off. (5) OUR MOJO had some serious traffic troubles last week and can certainly make some noise here if moved off the rail at some point.

Race 6

(2) SOMEWHERE FANCY got too far back behind too much cover last week but he certainly retained his sharpness coming home in 53 3/5. He should lay closer and move earlier. (5) GEAR BOX has lost twice in a row mainly due to driver error. There's no guarantee it won't happen again. (9) URBAN BAYAMA made two moves in a big winning mile but may get a similar trip to his penultimate race from out here.

Race 7

(4) MUSSELSFROMBRUSSELLS drops out of the Preferred where he stormed home in :53 to fall just short. He looks best but will likely be overbet. (5) KG DRAGONATOR went a big trip to take down a decent NW 4 group but steps back into the deeper waters here. He should get a good piece with his closing brush though. (1) WAZZUP WAZZUP drops from the top class and is a big threat from the rail.

Race 8

(9) HIT AND GIGGLE A went a monster first-over trip to beat a couple that would be major contenders here. Henry will likely move this one to the front on the backside and be long gone. (8) I SCOOT SAM was overbet last week but had too much cover to pass in a pace that wasn't slowing up late. He remains a sharp contender. (7) CURATOR was perfectly steered by Drury to blast off cover late for the win. He is another of many contenders in a contentious dash.

Race 9

(9) THE ONLY ONE fired a huge effort on the 5-day quickback, parking most of the route and getting up late. Right back into the same class this one gets top billing. (6) WILD AND CRAZY GUY also had a long overland journey in the same race and tired late. He gets a big driver switch and is one of the ones. (4) QUIT SMOKING NOW took down a weak group off a covered trip when finding room very late. A repeat is doubtful.

Race 10

(3) ALEXAS JACKPOT went a huge trip parked the route from the 10-hole last week to just miss and the best part is he'll be a square price against some class droppers. (2) MACHAL JORDAN drops and is an obvious contender. (4) AVATARTIST moves down into a class where he can contend but needs a perfect trip to get the job done. He will be an underlay for sure.

Race 11

The finale is a tough dash to figure with several contenders but we'll side with (5) HES A SENSATION, whose late kick should be much more effective with the class drop. (1) LEAFS AND WINGS returns from the top class at London; in with a good chance. (2) MCKINNEY takes another drop in class and has enough talent to compete with these. This one's form is a bit darkened and he could pop at a price here. (3) CANBEC KINGKAZMIR was involved in the early pace and couldn't keep up in a fast third 1/4 but he's usually good for a piece. (7) GOLDSTAR BADLANDS gets away from the London Preferred company and could better this placing.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Saturday 1/24 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 63 - 268 / $372.40 BEST BETS: 8 - 19 / $26.20

Best Bet: LONEWOLF CURRIER (9th)

Spot Play: JL CRUZE (3rd)


Race 1

(1) WILLIAM H BONNIE was used hard two starts back and closed with some late pace last time, both from outside starting posts. Lightly raced 4-year-old draws inside this week and has a chance to step up versus a suspect group. (5) THEY CALL ME GORDY has the early speed to make some noise and possibly go a long way. (8) WELL SAID STRIDE drops out of the Escort Series and would be my top pick with a better post. I just don't trust that he can leave strong and still finish the mile.

Race 2

(4) PRINCE SHARKA comes off a complete throw-out mile. He is in as cheap as he has been in a long time and should have every chance to score the upset. (6) CANE RIDGE comes off a professional score and should be leaving strong again. (2) YOU BET YOUR GLASS blew away his competition last time but faces slightly tougher foes.

Race 3

(4) JL CRUZE did all the work on the engine and got nipped at the wire most recently. Round one winner of the Super Bowl might be better chasing a target and should have that opportunity tonight. (1) PROPULSION looks for the series sweep but will have to trot faster this time around to accomplish the feat. As part of a powerful three-horse entry, he is a must use on every ticket. (5) TWO HIP DIP rallied impressively to win last week. Glidemaster 4-year-old seems to have some ability.

Race 4

(3) WARP FACTOR THREE doesn't look like much on paper recently, but there are some lines back during the summer which says he can go a bit. Although his qualifier wasn't great, he did face some good older foes and paced a quick mile. (2) WESTERN WEAR takes what is usually a big step up from NW2 to NW3, but this field doesn't look that tough. (1) LILYS REAL BOY comes off a good speed try and drew well again.

Race 5

(4) SIR CARY'S Z TAM returns to the Meadowlands at a reduced level and is the type of horse that should benefit from the slightly longer distance of this race. (6) JETTY is very sharp now and merits serious consideration. (1) ROAD UNTRAVELED has been pacing well at the ends of his miles against better competition. (11) ROCK STAR has a pair of seconds at this level recently. (12) HERE COMES SWIFTY disappointed on the drop to this condition but deserves a second chance.

Race 6

(5) DONTTELLRUSS took care of business out of the pocket in round two and blew the field away in round one of the Worldly Beauty. She is perfect in three starts for trainer Ron Burke and deserves to be the favorite now. (9) WITCH DALI suffered her first defeat in some time to the top choice last week. She is clearly imposing but has her work cut out for her from post 10. (1) FRAME WORTHY hasn't been bad in this series and might work out a good trip from the inside; exotics player. (2) SAFE FROM TERROR could be coming into her own in her second year of racing.

Race 7

(1) MAJOR UPTREND had all kinds of trouble last week and I'm not sure where that came from. The bottom line is that if they all bring their A game, he should win. (2) COMPANY MAN is clearly fast enough to win and only needs a smooth trip to make his presence felt. The fact that Tetrick chose him over Linda Toscano trainee (4) KHAN BLUE CHIP is interesting. The latter seems to be getting stronger each week. He'll certainly be a major factor on the win end. (5) WHAT I BELIEVE has been on a tear lately but will have to work really hard on the engine if he wants to win this final.

Race 8

(1) SAMANDAR gets in against a group that doesn't appear to have a ton of early speed. He could end up sitting the pocket or making one brush for a good trip. (7) GAMBLERS TALE closed well on the class drop and keeps Pierce. (8) NEW KIND was gaining ground in the stretch last week when he ran into a wheel on the winner's bike. He fits and should offer some value. (6) IAM BONASERA drops down and is very capable. Don't be shocked if he wakes up this week. (5) MISTER VIRGIN has been picking up big checks every week.

Race 9

(2) LONEWOLF CURRIER has been done in by outside posts the last two weeks. He is in a prime spot to brush and crush. (7) GOLD ROCKS closed well with no shot last Saturday. I'd love to see him leave this week. (4) BURKENTINE HANOVER figures to get an aggressive steer from this post. (1) SASSY HANOVER is feeling good but faces more seasoned foes this week.

Race 10

(1) OK COMMANDER was an even fourth at the B-2 level last week and now drops to face C-1 types. This is a winning spot. (2) VOICE OF TRUTH is another dropping down. His form looks awful, but the outside posts weren't doing him any favors. (5) IDEAL MAGIC has plenty of form.

Race 11

(1) DIAL OR NODIAL seems to be sitting on a big race and now gets a better post position to help set him up. (5) ROCKIN WIZARD has been as consistent as they come. (2) BLATANTLY BEST couldn't be any sharper.

Race 12

(7) WINDSONG GORGEOUS didn't leave hard and wound up stuck in the outer flow behind a slow pace. Let's see him head to the top this time. (5) FOUR STARZZZ Z should be sitting no worse than the pocket this week. (4) LENNON BLUE CHIP needs a trip but is fast enough to win.

Race 13

(2) WHY DON'T YOU STAY moves into the Burke barn and clearly has a chance to step forward. (3) QUIK MAGIC has missed a few weeks of action but drops into the basement condition. (1) RELENTLESS G is racing well now. (4) CODE WORD was okay from an outside post most recently; moves inside.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Saturday 1/24 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 13 - 47 / $65.10 BEST BETS: 3 - 4 / $12.30

Best Bet: AWESOME VALLEY (9th)

Spot Play: CLASSIC GENT (8th)


Race 1

(1) SIR MELO'S Z TAM escapes the Lachance barn via private purchase and with the best draw he can pay instant dividends. (4) MAN HE CAN SKOOT was erratic in the pocket last week, pulled, drifted very wide possibly costing him the win. Big threat if he keeps his mind on business. (3) BJ'S BEQUIA showed some forward progress last out and he's worth following.

Race 2

(1) BROOKSTONE drops a notch in class, draws best off some decent efforts and Bartlett should be able to work out a perfect trip. (5) OFF LIKA PROMDRESS jogged last week as my best bet and he gets a free ride at the same level, but he moves outside and loses Bartlett. (6) AUSSIE REACTOR A has been pretty solid for these connections since that claim last August.

Race 3

(6) POP COP ships in and debuts for the Brainard barn sporting relatively decent form; worth a look in this tough-to-figure event. (4) SAM'S ESCAPE raced well for second in his first start off a long layoff. (2) THE LADIES MAN gets class relief for the Burke barn and can be more involved.

Race 4

(6) MALAK USWAAD N is another veteran who debuts for Brainard and he certainly knows his way around this racetrack. (1) SIMPLY BUSINESS is up a notch in class but he does draw best and he's been second best in his last two. (5) TWIN B FAMOUS doesn't seem to win as often as he should but he's been racing well and is a good fit at this level.

Race 5

(7) NOT AFRAID jogged here two weeks ago and the Takter trainee should be tough if he can make the lead. (6) COUNT ME IN ships in for Burke and he's guaranteed to be firing early. (4) STAR PHOTO qualified very nicely and could be ready for action.

Race 6

(3) TAKE IT BACK TERRY finished with plenty of pace after a tough-luck trip last week; Burke trainee has proven that he can be a legitimate Open contender. (1) WARRAWEE NEEDY powered away impressively from weaker last out and we know he's a major speed threat when in the mood. (2) MCERLEAN should be best of the rest starting from this good inside spot.

Race 7

(4) CASIMIR JITTERBOG couldn't reach the well-rated Michaels Power last week; veteran faces slightly softer tonight and should be able to get the job done. (3) STATESMAN N debuts for Burke off a winning qualifier and he's got plenty of class to call upon. (1) GLASS PRINCE turned it around last week defeating lesser and he could be good enough for a small share tonight.

Race 8

(4) CLASSIC GENT has been rock-solid in his last two starts since returning locally; gelding has good early speed and can have a tactical edge on his main competition from this spot. (7) IRA CHIEF was a solid eight-hole winner last out and he can be involved with another alert getaway. (1) UPFRONT COUNTRYBOY was off a month and was nowhere to be found last week in a needed start; Godinez trainee should be closer tonight.

Race 9

(2) AWESOME VALLEY hit town and won impressively; trotter gets a free ride at this level and should repeat at a short price. (5) STIR ME UP has raced well in his last two for owner/driver Jimmy Marohn, Jr.; Goodell drives tonight and he could be a closing threat. (7) HOME TURF is another horse switching barns and we'll see how he fits in here.

Race 10

(6) SPINARAMA was a good second to the tough Fameous Western last week; this isn't the easiest of spots tonight but I'll stick with him. (3) SECOND WIND N isn't a prolific winner but he did jog versus lesser when last seen here; veteran looms large from this spot. (4) ODYSSEUS BLUECHIP was an easy winner versus cheaper in his second start for Lachance.

Race 11

(4) MACHS BEACH BOY has finished with good pace in his last two despite having no realistic chance of winning; classy gelding drops, gets an improved post and should be very tough in here. (3) SKY IS THE LIMIT just failed in a good front-end try two back; main threat. (1) BIG GAME HUNTER beat much lesser wire-to-wire just five days ago and he draws best again.

Race 12

(1) STOLEN CAR had impossible outside spots in his last two; three back he went wire-to-wire versus similar from the four post. (3) AMERICAN RAGE beat lesser off the brief layoff last week and he's capable of repeating. (2) EIGHTEEN gets some class and post relief tonight.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Saturday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (7th) Majestic Marquet, 3-1
(9th) Good Harbour, 10-1

Charles Town (1st) Singing Harvest, 6-1
(4th) Mountain Sprite, 8-1


Delta Downs (5th) Gypsy's Dream, 4-1
(7th) Shadenlight, 3-1


Fair Grounds (1st) Feedemtothelion, 9-2
(7th) Peaceful Pride, 5-1


Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Che Che, 7-2
(7th) Sun of Malibu, 6-1

Gulfstream Park (1st) Peter Castleboy, 10-1
(4th) Jack Tripp, 9-2



Mahoning Valley (3rd) Keenwah, 4-1
(5th) Capitano Cielo, 6-1


Oaklawn Park (2nd) Cedar Creek, 6-1
(3rd) Karlyrae'swarrior, 3-1


Parx Racing (2nd) Timbia Woods, 6-1
(9th) Twill Be, 3-1


Penn National (4th) Tazewell County, 3-1
(8th) Payton's Victory, 9-2

Sam Houston (2nd) Almostevenwithevan, 4-1
(3rd) Mula Boss, 6-1


Santa Anita (4th) Upbeat Tempo, 6-1
(5th) Singing Kitty, 5-1

Sunland Park (6th) Hollywood Royalty, 3-1
(8th) Finnerty's Fortune, 6-1


Tampa Bay Downs (5th) Quiet Rebel, 6-1
(6th) Crown Thy Good, 3-1


Turf Paradise (3rd) Gray Elixir, 3-1
(4th) Vision of Roses, 4-1


Turfway Park (2nd) Four and Five Red, 9-2
(4th) Night Warden, 8-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Grand Salami - January

The Grand Salami in pro hockey is decided by adding up all the goals scored in every game scheduled for that particular day. You can wager on 'over' or 'under' the Grand Salami total. The total is set by adding up all listed 'over/under' odds for each game on that particular day.

Note: The Grand Salami will have no action if any game is suspended or cancelled before the regulation time of three twenty minute periods. Also, regardless of the number of goals scored during the shoot out portion of the overtime, the final scored recorded for the game will give the winning team on more goal than its opponent based on the score at the end of regulation time.

*The majority of sportsbooks do not put out a total on the Grand Salami when there is only one game on the card. For tracking purposes, we will continue to show the 'over/under' for goals and combined goals scored on days with just one game.

NHL GRAND SALAMI

Date No. of Games Total Goals Combined Goals Scored Result
1/1 2 10.5 10 UNDER
1/2 8 43 37 UNDER
1/3 10 52.5 74 OVER
1/4 7 37 46 OVER
1/5 1 5 5 PUSH
1/6 10 55.5 51 UNDER
1/7 4 22 23 OVER
1/8 10 55.5 58 OVER
1/9 5 26.5 33 OVER
1/10 11 58 58 PUSH
1/11 3 16 20 OVER
1/12 3 17.5 15 UNDER
1/13 10 54.5 64 OVER
1/14 4 21.5 18 UNDER
1/15 10 55.5 47 UNDER
1/16 6 32 34 OVER
1/17 12 64.5 69 OVER
1/18 4 21.5 33 OVER
1/19 7 37.5 37 UNDER
1/20 8 45.5 47 OVER
1/21 6 33.5 36 OVER
1/22 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/23 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/24 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/25 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/26 No games scheduled/All-Star break
1/27 11 - - -
1/28 3 - - -
1/29 11 - - -
1/30 5 - - -
1/31 11 - - -

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL Foligno, Toews are All-Star game captains

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Nick Foligno of the Columbus Blue Jackets and Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks have been named team captains for the 2015 NHL All-Star weekend Jan. 23-24 in Columbus, league officials said Wednesday.

The NHL said the all-star teams will now be designated as Team Foligno and Team Toews.

In addition, Drew Doughty of the Los Angeles Kings and Patrick Kane of the Blackhawks have been named assistant captains of Team Foligno, while Ryan Getzlaf of the Anaheim Ducks and Rick Nash of the New York Rangers will assist Toews.

The captains and assistants were selected by NHL Hockey Operations in consultation with players selected for the game. The captains will oversee the selection of their teams on Jan. 23, will set the rosters for the team skills competition the following day, and then will wear the ''C'' on their jerseys during the game the day after that.

Team Foligno, coached by the reigning Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings coach, Darryl Sutter, and his staff, is designated as the home team and will wear the black uniforms previously unveiled by the NHL. Team Toews, coached by Nashville head coach Peter Laviolette and his staff, will wear white uniforms.

Representing the hometown Blue Jackets, Foligno is playing in his eighth NHL season and third with Columbus. The 27-year-old Buffalo, New York, native leads the Blue Jackets in goals (18) and points (40) in 2014-15, and is among the NHL leaders in goals (T12th), points (T15th), power play goals (9, T3rd) and power play points (20, 3rd).

Toews, also captain of the Blackhawks, will be making his fourth career NHL All-Star appearance. The 26-year-old Winnipeg, Manitoba, native ranks second on the Blackhawks in goals (13), assists (25) and points (38) this season and collected 1,217,210 votes to finish third overall in this year's fan vote.

Among the assistant captains, Nash is a former Blue Jackets captain who will be returning to Columbus. He is tied for the league lead in goals with 26.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

See spot. See spot bet: This week's best spot bet opportunities
By BEN BURNS

Spot bets are classic handicapping practices that have proven profitable no matter what sport you're betting. Whether it's a team looking past this week's opponent, one coming off a hard-fought victory, or a rough patch of schedule, bettors can find value picking their spots. Ben Burns points out his favorites:

Letdown spot

The UTEP Miners are in a tight race in the C-USA, one of three teams at 4-1 in conference play and just behind 5-0 Louisiana Tech and Western Kentucky in the standings. The Miners have a trying stretch of schedule that has them on the road for three straight contests, taking care of business in the first stop of this road run with a 73-55 win at Texas-San Antonio Saturday.

The big test of this span comes Thursday when UTEP takes on the Hilltoppers in Bowling Green, Kentucky – a game that could propel the Miners to the top of the conference. However, they only have a day off from that high-pressure matchup before visiting Marshall Saturday. The Thundering Herd, at 4-14 on the year, will be catching a ton of points at home and may catch UTEP in a bad letdown at the end of an extended road trip.