The game of the weekend at Old Trafford offers some very tasty betting options, and here are our picks.
It is, at least for Arsenal fans, the most eagerly awaited clash of these two teams in years. Manchester United, despite what some would say, have been very decent in the league of late, winning three and drawing one of their last four. Their only defeat at home was the 2-1 loss to West Brom over a month ago, and with Adnan Januzaj offering a spark, United are certainly still a force to be reckoned with.
The folks at Ladbrokes reckon so too, making them favourites at 6/5 to get the win.
But the bookies seem to be a bit unsure on how the game will go, with all three options priced up well. The draw is 12/5 and Arsenal are a very tempting 11/5.
Normally away teams at Old Trafford are, rightly, priced up quite high but Arsenal’s price, while skinnier, has a lot of appeal.
Away from the Emirates, Arsenal have been sensational for a very long time. That midweek win in Dortmund means they have now won 14, and drawn one, of their last 15 games. That sort of form has to be respected, and with that in mind, Arsenal’s price of 11/5 looks a bit too generous.
Over the last decade there have only been two 0-0 results in this fixture at Old Trafford, the last being in May 2009, so we expect this game to have goals (though you can back a 0-0 at 11/1).
The lowest price on any scorecast is 1-1 (6/1) while both teams to score is 8/13. If you fancy going for the always popular over 3.5 goals bet, it is a decent looking 37/20 and if you are feeling very generous, seven goals or more is a very tasty 25/1.
As for first goalscorer, that man RVP is favourite at 4/1, while goal machine Aaron Ramsey is 10/1 to strike first.
There are a few more unusual, but very attractive bets available too. How about the masters of the comeback, Manchester United, going behind before going on to win? That’s at 9/1, though the absence of ‘Fergie time’ this time may put some of you off. And as you might remember, Wayne Rooney drove a penalty wide in this game last season. It’s 9/1 a peno will be missed in Sunday’s game.
For United fans, the bet of the lot has to be RVP to score and United to win, at 11/5, while a similar bet for Arsenal fans, with Ramsey to score and their side to win, is at 7s.
Oh yes, and before you ask, Ladbrokes have priced up an 8-2 win for Manchester United. 500/1 if you reckon the trick will be repeated.
