The Scottish Cup takes centre stage in Scotland this weekend and it kicks-off tonight at New Douglas Park, Hamilton where Premiership side Hearts are the visitors.
The Accies looked doomed just over a month ago, defeat at Ayr Utd left them six points adrift at the foot of the Championship table and 10 points from the safety of 8th place. But they’ve gone on a run of six unbeaten which has seen them close the gap to three points, secure a place in Scottish Challenge Cup final and get the better of Premiership side Ross County in the Scottish Cup.
So they’ll be in confident mood ahead of the Jambos’ visit to South Lanarkshire.
Hearts last lifted the trophy in 2012 but have reached the final in three of the last four seasons, losing to Celtic (twice) and Rangers at the final hurdle. You wouldn’t back against them making it to the Hampden showpiece in June once more. They’re 8/1 on the outright market and as long as they can avoid the two Glasgow giants it’s not a bad each-way bet.
Despite Hamilton’s recent upturn in form Hearts should swot them aside. Skipper and top scorer Lawrence Shankland is suspended after seeing red in their 3-0 win over Hibs in the previous round but the Jam Tarts should have enough in reserve to progress.
Hearts are just 2/5 to win but there are a few potential ways to approach this one. Hearts/Hearts on the half-time/full-time market are 6/5 but Hamilton could prove stubborn to break down.
Although they’re unbeaten in six Accies still aren’t scoring many so a Hearts win to nil appeals a bit more at 5/4.
In the Championship the Sky Sports cameras are at St Andrew’s tonight for the midlands derby between Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion.
Baggies boss Carlos Corberán has distanced himself from speculation surrounding him becoming the next Leeds United manager but it’s a testament to the job he’s done at the Hawthorns since taking over in October that he’s already being linked to high-profile positions in the top flight.
His side got back to winning ways at Coventry last weekend following defeat to league leaders Burnley and a disappointing FA Cup exit at the hands of Bristol City.
It’s now all about promotion and taking points from games like tonight’s.
Birmingham secured just their second win in eight thanks to two late, late goals in a 4-3 win over Swansea at the weekend but they’ve struggled against teams currently in the top 10 – the only one they’ve beaten is tonight’s opponents, but that was when West Brom were struggling earlier in the season.
Corberán’s revitalised men look a good option tonight at 11/10.
Super Singles
Upcoming Match Previews & Tips
- Fri 19:45 Hamilton Accies vs Hearts
- Fri 19:45 AC Milan vs Torino
- Sat 12:30 West Ham United vs Chelsea
- Sat 15:00 Arsenal vs Brentford
- Sat 15:00 Leicester City vs Tottenham Hotspur
- Sat 15:00 Crystal Palace vs Brighton & Hove Albion
- Sat 15:00 Fulham vs Nottingham Forest
- Sat 17:30 AFC Bournemouth vs Newcastle United
- Sat 17:30 Celtic vs St Mirren
- Sun 16:00 Rangers vs Partick Thistle
- Mon 20:00 Liverpool vs Everton
Racing Tips
Rizzel bounced back to form on Thursday with two selections landing. He has picked out three fancies for Friday’s horse racing including one in the North Wales National Handicap Chase.
As always, let us know your best betting tips and predictions for today in the comments section below and good luck with all your bets!
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