Roughyeds 2-1 to make flying start

SPORTS BETTING: MAJOR events in both rugby codes get under way this week, with tomorrow bringing the start of RL’s Super League as Leeds host Warrington.

Last year’s dominant side, who will be without inspirational Oldhamer Kevin Sinfield this time round, are 4-1 to go all the way and win the Grand Final again, while Wigan are favourites at 3-1, St Helens 7-2 and Warrington 13-2.

Oldham will be competing in the Championship – the sport’s second tier – and know only too well the huge challenges ahead. The Roughyeds’ price of 100-1 to win the title is entirely realistic, given the strength of the opposition. But the bookies have others at bigger prices so must reckon Scott Naylor’s men will be able to hold their own against several of the competing clubs.

Leigh are 2-7 to win the title, while Bradford are next best at 13-2. London Broncos, whom Oldham entertain at Bower Fold this weekend, are 20-1 shots.

As for Sunday’s game, Oldham are 2-1 to win, with Broncos 4-11 and the draw 20-1.


SIX Nations rugby union action this weekend sees the championship launched with a Calcutta Cup tie at Murrayfield. Despite new England coach Eddie Jones’ assertions that Scotland will start favourites, the bookies don’t agree.

England are 4-9 to win the game, with the hosts 9-4 against. England, so disappointing in the World Cup, are 7-4 to win the title, with Wales 3-1, Ireland 7-2, France 6-1, Scotland 16-1 and Italy 100-1.


ENGLAND’S cricketers began their five-match ODI series against South Africa today and, despite winning the recent Test series, were 6-5 to come out on top in Bloemfontein with the hosts 4-5.

As for the series, the hosts were rated 4-6 shots and England a generous 13-8.

Lancashire, promoted as champions, begin their LV= County Championship campaign in April, but are one of the outsiders at 16-1 to lift the title. Reigning champions Yorkshire are the 7-2 favourites.


ARSENAL are 4-1 favourites to retain the FA Cup after another home draw against Hull in the last 16.

The draw was also kind to Manchester United, who are 5-1 second favourites after being paired against Shrewsbury away.

But Manchester City (6-1) and Chelsea (13-2) have both drifted after being drawn together at Stamford Bridge. Tottenham are next best at 7-1.