ODDS ’N’ ENDS

It’s hard to make case for defence

THERE’S never a dull moment in a Scotland rugby international these days. Gregor Townsend favours an expansive style. Last week’s try fest against Samoa proved we really can play. It also showed we really can’t defend. Not what you want to hear when the All Blacks come to town. I thought Scotland would be a lot bigger than 12/1 (betway) to win this evening. Go for a 31-40 POINTS margin of victory for New Zealand (9/2, Ladbrokes).

Today’s treble

1 C PALACE Home (6/4) 2 ASTON VILLA Away (6/4) 3 Dundee DRAW (9/4) (Paddy Power coupon)

Just look at the Belgians

WE’RE on Belgium for the Davis Cup at 13/2 (now a best priced 10/3 with Sky Bet). France in Paris is a tall order next weekend and is heavily dependent on the wellbeing of David Goffin (pictured) after his ATP Tour finals exertions. But he can stand strong for Belgium to go one better than two years ago — when runner-up to Great Britain — for their first ever triumph.

CELTIC are 28/1 to win in the Parc des Princes on Wednesday evening. The imperious Paris Saint-Germain are not to be trifled with, however, so try a correct score of PSG 4 CELTIC 1 (11/1, Sky Bet). On Tuesday, SEVILLA are worth a decent stake to see off Liverpool at 8/5 (sportingbet). Thursday’s Europa League tie in Cologne looks sure to go the way of ARSENAL at 17/10 (Boylesports).

Bet of the day

FOXTAIL HILL can finish on top in this afternoon’s Bet Victor Gold Cup at 9/1 with the sponsors (2.25, Cheltenham).