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The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 12

Join Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard as they debate all the news and look ahead to each match in the top flight this weekend.

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All the pressure is on Chelsea manager Andre Villas Boas. The much sought after 33-year old has overseen Chelsea's worst start to a Premier League season in 8 years, with the Blues losing 3 of their last 4 in the league and 4 of their last 7.

Leaders Manchester City will look to bounce back from their midweek Champions League defeat, which leaves them in a precarious position in their group. But it's been near perfect from them domestically, dropping just two points all season. It's a difficult trip for them however as they head to Liverpool, still fresh from their victory at Stamford Bridge last time out.

For horse racing fans Charlie's back to give you a full preview of the Hennessey Gold Cup.

Make sure you kick off your sporting weekend in the best possible way!

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 11

Sepp Blatter has grabbed all the attention this week with his controversial views on racism, whilst the Premier League is back again after the international break.


Join Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard as they debate all the news and look ahead to each match in the top flight this weekend.

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We're back with another preview podcast ahead of the weekend, as FIFA President Sepp Blatter faces a backlash over his comments on racism in football. The 75-year old claimed racist behaviour, with allegations currently facing England skipper John Terry and Liverpool's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, was solved by a simple handshake at full time.

Let it not detract from the fantastic action we're sure to witness in the top division this weekend however. There's a clash between the Premier League's two remaining unbeaten records as Man City take on Newcastle United. 2nd placed Man Utd travel to Wales to face newcomers Swansea City, whilst the Super Sunday match sees Chelsea face Liverpool.

Make sure you don't miss this explosive episode of the Ultimate Sport Preview.

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 10

Internationals dominate this weekend's proceedings in the Ultimate Sports Preview Podcast as the Republic of Ireland face their Euro 2012 destiny and England face a mouth-watering friendly against Spain.

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Internationals dominate proceedings this week with the Republic of Ireland facing a double-header against Estonia in their Euro 2012 Playoff. Is this Ireland's best chance to reach an international tournament for the first time in a decade?

They'll be looking to keep it tight in Talinn before Tuesday's return clash at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

For England so many off-field issues have taken the spotlight away from what should be a veritable footballing feast. World & European Champions Spain are in London with the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, David Villa and Fernando Torres likely to feature.

The Poppy argument has been settled whilst the England squad claim they haven't discussed John Terry's alleged behaviour towards Anton Ferdinand.

Elsewhere a resurgent Welsh side host Norway, whilst Scotland, who desperately hoped to be involved in the playoff stage, make their first trip to Cyprus since 1989.

With so much debate raging on, Kevin Hatchard and Daniel Freeman are here to guide you through the controversial issues of the week, as well as giving their opinions on the games at hand.

And in horse racing Charlie Owens looks ahead to the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham.

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 9

We're back again as the Premier League dominates this weekend's proceedings.

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It's another Premier League action-packed weekend as Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard are back to debate all the weekend's matches coming up.

Manchester City will look to consolidate their position at the top of the Premier League when they travel to QPR in the tea-time kick off.

Manchester United celebrate 25 years of Sir Alex Ferguson's tutelage when Sunderland, managed by former captain Steve Bruce and including ex-United players such as Wes Brown and John O'Shea, make the trip to Old Trafford.

Arsenal will be looking to continue their revival at home to West Brom, whilst Chelsea hope to avoid a third straight defeat when they visit troubled Blackburn Rovers, whose manager Steve Kean is desperate for a result of his own.

Plenty more to look forward to so enjoy what we have to offer, including the opinions of all the big name managers looking forward to the weekend!

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 8

We're back again as the Premier League dominates this weekend's proceedings.


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Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard, virtually neck and neck in their season predictions so far, are back to debate all the key issues of the week, including can anyone stop Manchester City? After their demolition of rivals United last weekend and a midweek League Cup thumping of Saturday's opponents Wolves is it just a question of how many trophies the club can pick up this season?

There are some mouthwatering clashes this weekend as Chelsea take on a resurgent Arsenal side, who have won 7 of their last 8 matches in all competitions. AVB's side will be without Didier Drogba but Fernando Torres returns having just ended his three-game ban.

Will Manchester United respond in the way Sir Alex Ferguson wants them to after his 'worst ever' result as manager? They face a tough trip to Everton where Wayne Rooney will face his old club.

Plenty of issues to listen to, so sit back, relax and get your sporting weekend off to a flyer.

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 7

Another weekend of crucial action in the sporting world as the Rugby World Cup Final dominates proceedings.

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Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard are back to chew the fat over the weekend's upcoming action.

Often dubbed the perennial 'bottlers', New Zealand will be looking to set the record straight when they host France to crown the winner of the 2011 competition.

These two sides have plenty of history, with the French knocking the All-Blacks out at the quarter-final stage back in 2007. It's also the second meeting of the sides this tournament, with New Zealand beating Les Bleus 37-17 in the Pool stage.

We hear from a number of key figures from both camps as Final fever sweeps 'Down Under and slightly to the right'.

In the Premier League the Manchester Derby takes centre stage as 2nd placed United host top of the table City. Could this be the game where power finally shifts to the Blue side of the city?

Plenty of debate and star audio to be listened to, so don't miss out on this week's episode!

The Sporting Day Today - Tue 18/10

The Champions League is back tonight and we look ahead to all the action.

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Football
Both Manchester clubs are in action tonight with both still seeking their first wins in the competition. Last year's runners-up United are on the road against Champions League debutants FC Otelulu Galati in Romania, having drawn their opening two group games against Benfica and FC Basel.

City meanwhile will look to bounce back from their loss, controversial for Carlos Tevez' off-field antics, against Bayern Munich. They host Spanish side Villareal at the Eastlands.

In other football news, Patrice Evra says he will pursue claims of alleged racist abuse by Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.

Good news for Arsenal as Thomas Vermaelen signs a new long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium.

In the SPL, Celtic midfielder Beram Kayal has also committed his future, signing a new deal until the end of the 2014/15 season.

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 6

Another must-listen podcast as debate rages across our two hosts, Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard in the wake of Wayne Rooney being banned for the entirety of England's Euro 2012 group stage.

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We've got two hosts with completely different ideas over whether Rooney should even be included in the squad that's going to Poland and the Ukraine next summer, following his red card against Montenegro last week.

England made it through, however one national team facing big questions this week is the Rugby side after Martin Johnson's side were stunned by France in the Quarter-Finals. Numerous off-field antics served as a distraction to the side, with incidents such as the Mike Tindall nightclub saga attracting attention. There's a complete post-mortem of where it went wrong for the side.

The Premier League is back this weekend with Liverpool v Manchester United the pick of the ties as Dalglish and Ferguson renew old rivalries.

Plenty for you to listen to this week, so make sure you don't miss out!

The Sporting Day Today - Tue 11/10

It's the final round of Euro 2012 qualifiers tonight. England have finished their campaign but there's still a lot left to be decided for the remaining home nations.

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Football
It's a simple scenario for Scotland. If they equal or better the Czech Republic's result in Lithuania, when they face Spain, then they will make it through to next month's playoffs. But that's no easy task against the best side in the world, meaning the Scots will be praying for a Lithuanian win.

Ireland can still win Group B but that looks unlikely as current leaders Russia face minnows Andorra, who have scored just once whilst losing all their 9 games so far. Giovanni Trappatoni's side are without leading scorer Robbie Keane when they effectively face Armenia in a decider over who progresses through to the play-offs.

Northern Ireland's play-off hopes evaporated following their loss to Estonia at the weekend. Nigel Worthington ends his four-and-a-half year reign against Group C winners Italy in Pescara, after announcing his resignation earlier in the week.

Wales will be looking to end their campaign on a high. Gary Speed's men have won two of their last three matches against Montenegro and Switzerland but will be aiming for their first victory on the road against Bulgaria.

Fancy a flutter? Visit Skybet for all the latest football odds. Please bet responsibly.

Horse Racing
In Horse Racing there's action on the jumps at Huntingdon, whilst Leicester and Newcastle host the flats.

General
West Ham United's proposed move to the Olympic Stadium has collapsed. The stadium will now instead be rented out, with the Mayor of London Boris Johnson claiming the Hammers will probably the club selected. Leyton Orient will now re-enter the bidding process and possibly suggest a ground share whilst Tottenham are expected to pursue compensation through the courts.

The 2015 Open Championship in Golf will take place at the Old Course in St Andrews, ending what will be a five-year hiatus from its spiritual home. The tournament is worth around £220m to the Scottish economy.

And England take on a Hyderabad XI again in their final warm-up match ahead of the One Day International Series against India, which starts on Friday. In their last match on Saturday, Steven Finn picked up his first ever career hat-trick.

The Sporting Day Today - Mon 10/10

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The quiet before the storm today with just a few bits going on:

Football
The only game of the night takes place in League 1. 13th placed Oldham host MK Dons, who are currently in the playoff places.

Horse Racing
For race goers there's action on the flats at Salisbury, Windsor and Great Yarmouth.

General
Lots of news coming from the sporting world today. UEFA have announced they'll decide Wayne Rooney's fate over his sending off in England's 2-2 draw with Montenegro on Thursday.

Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley has penned a new four-year contract at the club, having impressed during his run in the side at the start of the season. The 22-year old enjoyed a successful loan spell at Wigan last season.

Olympic champion Rebecca Romero has quit the GB Cycling Olympic Programme. The only Brit to win two medals in two different Olympic Sports, having picked up a silver in the 2004 games in Rowing before her 2008 success on the track, Romero said a series of setbacks has made her believe she won't fulfil her potential in London next year. The Individual Sprint, the event in which she won Gold in Beijing, has been scrapped for 2012.

And fresh from their Super League Grand Final victory, no fewer than seven Leeds Rhinos' players have been named in England's Four Nations Squad. The tournament kicks off later this month.

The latest Ultimate Sport Preview Podcast is out and make sure you don't find any excuse to miss it as the Rugby World Cup enters the business end of the competition and it's a pivotal week for the home nations in Euro 2012 qualification.

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We're back to mull over the latest sporting weekend ahead. Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard are once again in the hot seat as they look ahead to the big action this weekend.

In the Rugby World Cup, England take on France with Toby Flood and Jonny Wilkinson both starting - but who'll be taking the kicks with Wilko struggling? We hear from Martin Johnson and Wilkinson ahead of the game, whilst Wales coach Warren Gatland looks ahead to their clash with Ireland. Hosts New Zealand face Argentina whilst arguably the tie of the round sees Australia and South Africa lock horns.

It's also a crucial week in Euro 2012 qualifying. England need just one point to qualify for next year's tournament when they face Montenegro tonight. Scotland simply must beat Liechtenstein tomorrow to hold any hopes of progressing through to their first major tournament since World Cup 98. Wales & Northern Ireland are playing for pride against Switzerland and Estonia respectively.

John Terry, Fabio Capello, Scott Parker discuss the mood in the England camp, whilst Scottish assistant manager Peter Houston talks about their clash, and we also hear from Welsh striker Steve Morison predicting better times ahead for the national team.

As always we have a preview of the big horse racing action taking place this weekend at York and Newmarket.

The Ultimate Sport Preview Podcast - it's not just a name, it's a fact!

Predictions update - Freeman marches on

Having closed the gap on Daniel Freeman last week, Kevin Hatchard has fallen further behind after this weekend's set of results.
 

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Unbelievably, Daniel Freeman missed out on a perfect weekend by failing to predict arguably the banker of the weekend with Chelsea winning at Bolton, instead opting for the draw.

But it's 9/10 for the Oxford United fan, whilst Kevin Hatchard correctly predicted 7 out of ten, missing out on Liverpool's win at Everton, Aston Villa's win against Wigan, calling both a draw, and Sunderland's draw with West Brom, having predicted a home win.

That means it's now 26-23 to Freeman going in to the international break.

The latest Ultimate Sport Preview Podcast is out and make sure you don't find any excuse to miss it!

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There may be an international break on the horizon but what a way for the Premier League to bow out for a fortnight with no less than three local derbies taking place.

Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard are back to discuss the latest goings on from the world of sport, including the Rugby World Cup as well as the football, whilst Charlie Owens is back again after his hiatus last week to look ahead to all the racing news before Sunday's Arc de Triomphe from Longchamps.

In the Premier League we hear from the likes of Kenny Dalglish ahead of the first Merseyside derby of the season, as Liverpool make the short trip across Stanley Park to face Everton, whilst Sunday sees two London derbies, with Fulham taking on QPR and the much-anticipated clash between North London's two clubs at White Hart Lane.

Big weekend for the Rugby World Cup as England host Scotland knowing a win for Martin Johnson's side will send the Scots back home having already lost to Argentina.

It's a bumper edition this week, so there's no excuse to miss out as we delve in to the most comprehensive sports preview of the weekend.

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - it's not just a name, it's a fact!

The Sporting Day Today - Wed 28/09

After yesterday's fascinating clashes in the Champions League, none more so than Carlos Tevez' apparent refusal to come on for Manchester City in their 2-0 defeat to Bayern Munich, there's still a ton of action in tonight's round of matches from Europe's elite competition.

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Football
After Manchester's results yesterday, it's London's turn tonight to try and go one better as Chelsea and Arsenal will look to maintain their undefeated starts to the competition. Andre Villas-Boas' side face a tough trip to Valencia, who suffered their first La Liga defeat of the season over the weekend. Arsenal take on Olympiakos at the Emirates Stadium minus the services of Laurent Koscielny, Gervinho and Theo Walcott. Jack Wilshere will also be missing having had surgery to fix a niggling injury picked up in the summer. Arsene Wenger defended his medical team from criticism by England boss Fabio Capello, who claimed the 19-year old wasn't treated properly by the Gunners' staff after becoming injured with the England squad in June. Holders Barcelona are also in action when they make the long trip to Belarus to face BATE Borisov.

In the Championship there's two games as Southampton will look to strengthen their lead at the top. They'll have to overcome Cardiff City in Wales however. Middlesbrough could go top if Southampton slip up though and they beat Leicester City at the Riverside.

Rugby World Cup
One result from New Zealand today and that's in England and Scotland's pool. Georgia beat Romania 25-9 in Palmerston North. That means Romania will end their World Cup adventure bottom of the Pool B, having lost all four of their games.

Horse Racing
Today's racing action on the flats is at Newcastle, Nottingham and Salisbury, whilst Kempton hosts the all-weather meeting this evening. There's jumps action at Sligo in Ireland.

Prediction league update

Hatchard pips Freeman to close the gap

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Sports Preview presenters Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard were both on great form in this week’s Premier League predictions but it was father-of-one Hatchard that came out on top.

Hatchard correctly predicted 8 out of 10 correct results, one better than Freeman who remains the outright leader. Both broadcasters called home wins for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Norwich and a away win for Tottenham. Hatchard also correctly predicted wins for Manchester City and Newcastle and that QPR would draw with Aston Villa. Freeman rightly picked draws between Stoke and Manchester United and West Brom versus Fulham.

The Sporting Day Today - Tue 27/09

Here's your quick run down of the day's sporting action:

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Football
It's Champions League action tonight as both Manchester clubs take centre stage. United will be looking for their first win when they face Swiss side FC Basel at Old Trafford, having to make do without Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez. Manchester City face a tough ask as they arrive in Munich to take on Bayern.

There's a near-full programme in the Championship, with 9 matches taking place on Tuesday. Derby will go top if they pick up three points against Barnsley, with Southampton and Middlesbrough having to wait until tomorrow for their matches. Brighton could also make serious ground on the top should they overcome Crystal Palace at the Amex Stadium.

Rugby World Cup
Two results from New Zealand today as Canada and Japan drew 23-23 in Napier, whilst Italy beat the USA 27-10 in Nelson.

Horse Racing
There's racing at Ayr, Sedgfield and Chepstow today.

The Sporting Day Today - Mon 26/09

Another week begins, another week of action-packed sport is on the horizon, so here's what's going on today.


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Football
The one remaining Premier League match from the weekend takes place tonight as Norwich City host Sunderland at Carrow Road.


Rugby World Cup
There's been one result from New Zealand today, as Wales thrashed Namibia 81-7 in New Plymouth. There are two early games on Tuesday when Canada face Japan in Pool A, and in Pool C it's Italy v USA.

Speedway
King's Lynn Stars take a slender three point lead to Poole Pirates tonight for the Elite League Playoff Semi-Final 2nd Leg, having won 48-45 at the Norfolk Arean last time out. They'll play the winners of the other semi-final, where Lakeside Hammers hold the slenderest of leads (1 point) against Eastbourne Eagles ahead of their meet at the Arlington Stadium.

Horse Racing
Plenty of racing to be had today, with meetings at Ffos Las, Roscommon, Hamilton and Bath.

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 3

The latest Ultimate Sport Preview Podcast is out!

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It's another action packed weekend of action across the sporting world and we've got all the debate and predictions you'll want with our resident pundits Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard.

Having caused plenty of controversy off the field in recent weeks, Mike Tindall has been recalled to the side for the clash against Romania, having been rested for last week's 41-10 win over Georgia. He's just one of 7 changes as Martin Johnson's side look to maintain their 100% record in Pool B. Meanwhile Wales will wait until Monday to face Namibia, who were hammered 87-0 by South Africa in recent days. We have the thoughts of Martin Johnson on England as well as Welsh fly-half Stephen Jones.

We hear from a host of managers ahead of the Premier League's weekend programme, including Arsene Wenger, Steve Bruce, Owen Coyle and Roberto Martinez as Manchester United aim to strengthen their grip on the top spot having pulled away from rivals City last week.

In Formula 1 Sebastien Vettel will look to win his third race on the trot as he finds himself with the chance of securing a second consecutive Driver's Championship. However, it's a complicated route and you'll need to listen to Kev's explanation to understand just how the German driver can be crowned in Singapore this Sunday.

And following a 4th and an 8th last week at the Ayr Gold Cup, Charlie Owens' shame has forced him to take a much needed break this weekend, so Dan and Kev discuss their tips.

The Sporting Day Today - Thu 22/09

The quietest day in the sporting world this week, but there's still plenty that's happened and will happen today. 


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Rugby World Cup
South Africa have hammered Namibia in Pool D by a 87-0 scoreline in the only game of the day. England have recalled Mike Tindall to the side for the match against Romania. It's the first time since his controversial night out in a New Zealand club that Zara Phillips husband has been involved, having captained the side in the opening match against Argentina. He's one of seven changes to the side who beat Georgia 41-10 and is joined by Jonny Wilkinson and Mark Cueto.

Horse Racing
There's action on the flats at Newmarket and Pontefract, whilst Wolverhampton hosts the all-weather meeting in the evening. For jumps action there's Perth and Fairyhouse.

The Sporting Day Today - Wed 21/09

There's more League Cup action tonight so here's a quick run down:

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Football
The Six remaining League Cup ties take place tonight including high-flying Championship side Brighton who welcome Liverpool to the Amex Stadium. There's a West London derby at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea face Fulham. Will Fernando Torres get the chance to put that nightmare miss against Manchester United behind him? Manchester City welcome reigning champions Birmingham to Eastlands, whilst there's an all-Premier League clash between Everton and West Brom. Cardiff face Leicester and Championship leaders Southampton face League 1's Preston.

Rugby World Cup
Tonga have beaten Japan 31-8 in the only game of the day in New Zealand. 

Cricket
The Champions T20 League continues as Leicestershire will look to bounce back from yesterday's heavy loss when they face Sri Lankan side Ruhuna Rhinos in Hyderabad, needing a win to have any chance of progressing further. No such pressures on Somerset, who'll be hoping to continue their fine form, having beaten Auckland Aces yesterday, they're now up against Kolkata Knight Riders where defeat may still see them through to the next stage.

Horse Racing
Plenty for racegoers to look forward to today. There's action on the flats at Goodwood and Redcar, all-weather racing at Kempton this evening, and Perth & Downpatrick hosting the jumps meetings.

The Sporting Day Today - Tue 20/09

A big night of League Cup action ahead, so here's a quick run down:

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Football
Lots of football tonight as the League Cup enters its 3rd Round stage. The tie of the night sees an old rivalry come to a head as Leeds United host league leaders Manchester United in what is sure to be a sweltering atmosphere at Elland Road. Arsenal's youngsters have home advantage as they welcome League 2 side Shrewsbury. There are two all-Premier League ties tonight as Aston Villa welcome Bolton, whilst Spurs make the trip to face Stoke at the Britannia. Wolves take on Millwall, Newcastle make the trip to Nottingham Forest, whilst Blackburn will look for a second successive win when they take on League 1's bottom side Leyton Orient. There's also Aldershot v Rochdale, Burnley against MK Dons and Crystal Palace v Middlesbrough.

Cricket
England's two representatives at the Champions T20 League kick off their campaigns today in India. T20 Cup winners Leicestershire play Trinidad & Tobago, whilst Somerset face New Zealand's Auckland Aces in Hyderabad.

Horse Racing
There's racing today on the flats at Beverley and Folkestone, whilst Newton Abbot hosts the jumps.

The Sporting Day Today - Mon 19/09

It's going to be a relatively quiet Monday but there's still plenty going on, so here's your quick run down.

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Football
Just one game tonight with a host of teams involved in the League Cup's 3rd Round. The game's in the Championship at Portman Road as Ipswich play host to Coventry City, with both teams 19th & 20th respectively following poor starts to the campaign.

Speedway
King's Lynn Stars host Poole Pirates in the 1st leg of their Elite League Playoff Semi-Final at the Norfolk Arena. 

Horse Racing
There's meetings today at Leicester and Hamilton on the flats, Kempton on the all-weather and Ballinrobe for the jumps.

Weekend Predictions - The Results!

Freeman roars back as Hatchard stumbles

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Sports Preview presenters Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard continue their bids to come out on top in the Premier League prediction league.

Freeman correctly predicted 6 out of 10 results this weekend. The Oxford United fan rightly called newly promoted Norwich and Swansea getting their first victories of the season as well as Everton, Spurs and Manchester United picking up all three points. He also correctly called the draw between Aston Villa and Newcastle.

Hatchard also predicted victories for Manchester United and Everton as well as Sunderland. From 5-4 ahead, the Liverpool supporter now trails Freeman 10-8.

In Horse Racing, Charlie Owens failed to continue his winning run. The Luton tipster blamed the Soft ground at Ayr for his bets not coming off but did get a place with Colonel Mak taking 4^th at 16/1. Waffle finished in 8^th..

The Ultimate Sport Preview podcast - Episode 2

Welcome to another installment of our epic podcast, The Ultimate Sport Preview, back for a second episode after the roaring success of Episode 1.

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Daniel Freeman and Kevin Hatchard are back in the hot-seat as they debate and discuss the big action over the weekend.

We have an in-depth look ahead to the Premier League weekend, and hear from a number of managers involved. Sunday sees Tottenham take on Liverpool, whilst it's Manchester United v Chelsea to complete a truly Super Sunday.

Arsenal are back in the North West for the first time since their 8-2 mauling at Old Trafford. They're taking on struggling Blackburn at Ewood Park this time around though.

Out in New Zealand, England's progress at the Rugby World Cup is attracting headlines on both the front and back pages. Martin Johnson's side will be looking for a far better performance against Georgia on Sunday, whilst we discuss Mike Tindall who attracted attention after being spotted out with the rest of the team in a Queenstown bar. The husband of Zara Phillips was caught on CCTVgetting up close and personal with one of the locals.

Friday's a big day in the world of horse racing as the Ayr Gold Cup takes place. Our resident tipster Charlie Hoynes, who correctly called the winner of the St Leger last week, is back in the hot seat as he tells us who we should keep an eye on.

We also look ahead to the Tour of Britain, which enters its final strait over Saturday & Sunday.

The Sporting Day Today - Fri 16/09

Even though there's no football there's still plenty of action across the sporting world today, so here's your quick run down.

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Cricket
The fifth and final ODI between England and India takes place today in Cardiff. Alastair Cook's side have won the series but will look to shut out India one more time and claim as dominant a summer as there can be against the visitors. Having won each of the four-match Test series, they currently hold an unassailable 2-0 lead in this series, with the first ODI at Durham washed out and last week's thrilling tie at Lord's.

Rugby World Cup
Hosts New Zealand have thrashed Japan 83-7 in Hamilton in the only Friday game. The pick of Saturday's games sees one of the favourites Australia take on Ireland. South Africa take on Fiji whilst Argentina face Romania.

Tour of Britain
Stage 6 of the Tour of Britain takes in Taunton to Wells along a 90-mile route. Team Sky currently lead the overall team standings, whilst Dutchman Lars Boom still holds the IG Markets Gold Jersey.

The Sporting Day Today - Thu 15/09

Big big day in the sporting world so here's all you need to know about what's going on

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Football
No fewer than five British teams taking part in the first group games of the Europa League. A young Spurs squad makes the trip to Greece to take on PAOK Salonika. Stoke City have made the long trip to the Ukraine to take on Dynamo Kiev, who knocked out Manchester City in this competition last season. Fulham host Dutch side FC Twente, whilst Birmingham City welcome last year's Europa League runners-up Braga to St Andrews. Despite being knocked out in the playoff stages, Celtic are in action as they make the prestigious trip to face Atletico Madrid, after their conquerors FC Sion of Switzerland were kicked out of the competition for fielding ineligible players against last season's runners-up in the SPL.


Cricket
It's the final day of the County Championship season and it seems as if we have a clearer picture over who will play where next year. Hampshire joined Yorkshire in being relegated to Division Two after failing to pick up maximum batting points against title favourites Warwickshire. The Bears are now expected to cement their role as Champions needing to pick up just 7 more wickets at the Rose Bowl, leaving Lancashire languishing in 2nd. In Division Two it looks like heartbreak for Northamptonshire, who led the league for a long period during the season, despite beating Gloucestershire by 9 wickets inside three days. Surrey confirmed their promotion to Division 1 after thrashing Derbyshire by an innings and 126 runs, meaning Middlesex need just to avoid defeat against bottom club Leicestershire to join their London rivals in next year's top flight.

Rugby Union
Just the one game occurring early on Friday and that's the hosts New Zealand taking on Japan.

In Thursday's only game the USA beat Russia 13-6 in New Plymouth.


Cycling
Lars Boom currently holds the IG Markets Gold Jersey despite Stage 4 going to Thor Hushovd. Today it's Stage 5 and that will take in Exeter to Exmouth along a 112 mile route through the South West of England. Team Sky's Geraint Thomas is 2nd overall.

The Sporting Day Today - Wed 14/09

Another busy day on Wednesday so here's what's going on.

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Football
After Arsenal's 1-1 draw in Dortmund and Chelsea's 2-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen, it's the turn of the Manchester sides as United and City begin their Champions League campaigns.

Roberto Mancini's side make their first appearance in the competition at home to Italian club Napoli, whilst United travel to Benfica - a venue where last time out they lost and crashed out of Europe altogether having come bottom of the group stage in 2005.

Cricket
Day 3 of the final round of County Championships takes place as it looks as if Worcestershire will have to wait and see whether they'll survive after falling just 12 runs short of picking up the batting bonus points which would have guaranteed their place in Division 1. Despite a collapse they're still hot favourites to send Hampshire down along with Yorkshire. But the main battle is at the top and despite making big scores, both Warwickshire & Lancashire are facing tough asks against Hampshire & Somerset respectively, with both teams yet to complete their first innings halfway through the game.

In Division 2 Middlesex need only to avoid defeat at bottom side Leicestershire in order to clinch promotion, having picked up maximum batting points on Day 2. That puts the pressure on Northants & Surrey who are fighting it out for the remaining promotion place.

Cycling
After Dutch rider Lars Boom won Stage 3 of the Tour of Britain which passed through Stoke, riders head west to Wales for Stage 4. The grueling 184km route starts in Welshpool before ending up in Caerphilly.


Rugby World Cup
Scotland overcame Georgia 15-6 in Invercargill, whilst Canada kicked off their campaign with a 25-20 win over Tonga in Whangarei, and Samoa thrashed Namibia 49-12 in Rotorua.

England woke up to the news that Andrew Sheridan is out of the competition after a recurrence of a shoulder injury, with Matt Stevens favourite to replace him for the clash against Georgia on Sunday. Courtney Lawes is also out of that game having been cited for "recklessly striking" Argentina's Mario Ledesma, and picked up a two-match ban meaning he'll also miss the match against Romania on September 24th. 

Seems we know our onions!

Kev comes out on top in opening podcast predictions!

On a weekend of little surprises in the Premier League, it was Kevin Hatchard that predicted the most correct results in the first ever SPORTS PREVIEW podcast.

The 30-something who hails from Gloucestershire but claims to be a Scouser correctly predicted that Arsenal would beat Swansea, Everton and Aston Villa would draw (although he did say bore draw), Manchester City would beat Wigan, Tottenham would win at Wolves and Manchester United would come out on top at Bolton.

Daniel Freeman only correctly predicted four correct results. The 20-something balding Oxonian matched Kev by saying that Arsenal, and the two Manchester clubs would win but also picked QPR and Newcastle to draw.

The big result of the weekend predictions came from Racing expert Charlie Hoynes who correctly picked Masked Marvell to win the St Leger.

The Sporting Day Today - Tue 13/09

We continue our look ahead to the sporting week on a day-by-day basis.

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Football
The Champions League group stages begin tonight with two English clubs kicking off their European campaigns. Arsenal begin with a trip to German champions Borussia Dortmund whilst Chelsea host another German side in the shape of 2002 finalists Bayer Leverkusen at Stamford Bridge. Current Champions League holders Barcelona open their campaign with a visit from AC Milan.

There's a full midweek programme in League's One & Two. Sheffield United will be looking to strengthen their lead at the top of League One with 2nd placed Charlton in Carling Cup action.

Rugby World Cup
After a two day break the next set of the 2011 Rugby World Cup fixtures take place overnight. Samoa face Namibia at 03:30 BST, before Tonga take on Canada and Scotland will look for their second win when they face Georgia, who are England's opponents on Sunday.

Cricket
The last round of County Championship matches enter Day Two of their games as Hampshire & Worcestershire continue to fight it out at the bottom after Yorkshire were relegated. At the top Warwickshire & Lancashire are still locked in a battle to claim the Division One title. Meanwhile Middlesex, Northants and Surrey continue their promotion pushes as the three teams contest the two spots available.

In International news Jonathan Trott won the coveted ICC Player of the Year award for his blistering form in both Tests and ODI's, whilst Alastair Cook won the Test Player of the Year.

Meanwhile Eoin Morgan and bowlers Tim Bresnan and Chris Tremlett have been awarded 12-month central contracts, meaning they're now officially on the ECB's payroll. Stalwart Paul Collingwood however has been released from his contract which he's held for six years.

Cycling
After yesterday's postponement of Stage Two of the Tour Britain, it's now Stage Three as the contestants face a gruelling ride around Stoke. Geraint Thomas is the current holder of the IG Markets Gold Jersey.

The Sporting Day Today - Mon 12/09

Lot's going on in the world of sport today, so here's your quick guide.

UPDATE 15:30

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Football
Joey Barton makes his debut ... against the club he just left as QPR host Newcastle United in the Premier League at Loftus Road.

Tour of Britain
Stage 2 from Kendal to Blackpool has been called off due to high winds along the 85.5 mile route.

Cricket
It's the last round of County Championship matches starting today and finishing on Thursday. There's everything to play for as bottom hosts top. A defeat for Hampshire will relegate the Hawks to the 2nd Division, but visitors Warwickshire need a good win to secure the title. Second placed Lancashire travel to Somerset, just 3 points behind the leaders. Only a massive defeat for Worcestershire will see Yorkshire avoid the drop. Yorkshire are outside the bottom two places by just a single point but have played all their games, meaning Worcestershire need just two bonus points regardless of result to condem Yorkshire to a season of Division 2 cricket.

UPDATE - Yorkshire have been relegated to Division Two after Worcestershire picked up the necessary two bonus points. Worcestershire & Hampshire are now fighting it out over the one remaining place in the drop zone.

Middlesex go in to the last game of their season top of the second tier and travel to bottom club Leicestershire, who Middlesex thrashed a fortnight ago. That game at Lord's saw the first time under the current scoring system a team pick up maximum bonus points whilst the opposition failed to register a single point. With the title seemingly heading to Lord's, just one point separates Northamptonshire and Surrey in the bid to join the Panthers in Div 1 next year. The Steelbacks host Gloucestershire and it's Surrey v Derbyshire at the Oval.

Speedway
There are three matches in the Elite League today. Eastbourne Eagles host Coventry Bees, Peterborough Panthers face Swindon Robins and Wolverhampton Wolves take on Belle Vue Aces.

Sportsmedia Comment: Lies, damned lies and statistics – the delusions of Steve Kean

By Kevin Hatchard

Blackburn Rovers boss Steve Kean insists he has an excellent relationship with the club’s Indian owners, and therefore has no concerns over his job security. He says that rock-solid rapport with Venky’s means he needn’t be concerned about a fans’ letter calling for him to be sacked. Kean claims the transfer business he did this summer has made the Rovers squad stronger than last season, and that a top-ten finish is well within reach.

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The reality is that Rovers have failed to claim a single point in three Premier League games, and are joint-bottom. While the acquisition of rugged defender Scott Dann from Birmingham City appears prudent, some of Blackburn’s other summer dealings have been questionable. The much-vaunted interest in Spanish striker Raul showed the board’s naivety – Raul was merely using Rovers’ interest to try and negotiate a contract extension, and had no intention of moving to Ewood Park. Scottish forward David Goodwillie has promise, but the decision to sell the improving Nikola Kalinic is looking increasingly foolhardy.

I covered the recent Aston Villa-Blackburn game, and Rovers looked like relegation material. David Dunn hurtled around the midfield smashing into people, showing none of the class and skill he once possessed. Goodwillie missed a sitter and showed an inability to beat players, while Jason Roberts offered almost nothing in attack. Even defensive bedrock Ryan Nelsen was below par. Only impish winger/forward Junior Hoilett shone, creating Rovers’ only goal in a 3-1 defeat.

Kean’s post-match press conference was extraordinary. I asked him whether he was alarmed by Rovers’ lack of attacking penetration, and he brazenly reeled off a stat which showed that both Villa and Blackburn had the same number of “penalty-box entries”. He appeared unfazed by the fact that his side had been outplayed by a Villa team still finding its feet under Alex McLeish. He came out with other banal stats which I forgot almost as soon as I left the room, such was their irrelevance.

You see our Steve loves a stat, and he loves a display of unwarranted optimism (he once claimed Rovers could be Champions League contenders), but it’s tough for fans to match his gusto when the team is joint-bottom of the league. That excellent relationship with the club’s owners might be tested sooner rather than later, and Kean may find that he can’t con the fans as easily as he seems to think he can.