October 3 2008

The Football League

At last there is some optimism surrounding Selhurst Park and there is every chance Crystal Palace will go into the international break with another victory, by Danny Hayes.

Two fine performances back-to-back and perhaps more importantly four points have edged the Eagles out of the relegation zone and they should travel to bottom of the table Nottingham Forest confident of claiming another three points.

Forest have struggled this year, with just one win to show for their efforts and they are currently on a six-game winless run. That is likely to see Colin Calderwood revert to a 4-4-2 formation but it is in front of goal where the Midlanders have struggled this season.

They are without a goal in three and with Robert Earnshaw a doubt it is difficult to see an ageing Andy Cole and out-of-his-depth Nathan Tyson troubling the Palace defence.

Therefore if Palace can perform to the standard they have done in their last two games I’m more than confident they will bring the three points back to London.

Crystal Palace to win @ 9/5 with Bet 365 and Paddy Power

It looks a difficult weekend for punting purposes in the Championship this weekend but I’d happily take a chance on Plymouth continuing their fine recent form at home to Sheffield Wednesday.

The other side I would want to back would be Derby away at Norwich; Paul Jewell has finally restored some confidence to his squad and they should have too much quality for their opponents.

Back Derby and Plymouth Double @ 6/1 with all leading bookmakers.