9 December 2008 - Champions League

LOST -2

Match: Chelsea vs Cluj
Pick: Ballack to score first goal
Odds: 8 (Skybet)
Stake: 2 units

Chelsea go into this must-win game, and to me their home form seems very baffling. They are missing many first team players, such as Lampard and Malouda. I believe Cluj will approach the game just as they did in Romania; sit back and defend deep with lots of body in the box and frustrate Chelsea. They know it works, and they would be foolish not to try it.

Chelsea will be frustrated, especially if Anelka is up front wandering around like a lost sheep in a crowded box. However, Chelsea will be desperate to score goals, and the only way would be from outside the box or through corners.

Ballack hasn't been sensational lately, quietly toiling match in match out. However, he will probably be taking all the free kicks and penalties in the absence of Lampard, as well as being a big threat in corners and crosses. The odds on him (8+) to score the first goal is ridiculous... the goal is likely to come from outside the box or from a dead ball, and who better than Ballack?

Small stakes for this bet, as its just for fun while watching the game but the returns are great.

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