kk_Blog

Landsbankadeild - 11-08-2005 -

2005-08-10T19:13:00.000-07:00

Akranes – Valur

Big match in Landsbankadeild.

The recent defeat to Fram costed Valur the last chances to reach FH on the top of the table and now the team from Reykjavik have to travel at Akranes to play vs the in-form IA with the task to strenghten their current 2nd place (UEFA Cup).
Have to say this match does not come in a good moment for Valur. Defeat apart, not only the performance by Henrikssen (scorer of the 2 goals for Fram), but even the fact he was training with Valur since few time ago has been used by the local press to hit Valur.
That’s why Valur’s players have written a long document (a “declaration”) in which they express much disappointment for what has happened.

On the other hand IA, if we exclude FH, are the best side of Landsbankadeild. The team come from 4 victories out of 5 (unbeaten) matches. This nice streak becomes even longer if we add the draw Akranes achieved away at FH in VISA-Bikar and the home win vs Derby County in a friendly game. Despite they could not start the season in a good way now they feel they can aim an important spot; maybe the 2nd place itself.
Akranes know the upcoming match can be decisive so they are going to sell, at the entrance of the Akranesvollur, yellow (social color) T-Shirt to their supporters. Buying (and wearing) a T-Shirt (sold at the popular price of 500 kr - 6 euro, more or less) will allow the supporter to enter the stadium for free.

For the match Valur will be at full strenght, while Akranes, that are going to confirm the 4-4-1-1 module, should miss Magnusson and Hjalmsson. Igor Pesic, who got a light injury in the match vs Fylkir should be fit.

Probable line-ups:
IA: Guðmundsson, Reynisson, Jónsson, Leósson, Sveinsson, Haraldsson, Pesic,Björnsson, Vilhjálmsson, Hjartarson, Júlíusson.
Valur: Sturluson; Sigfinnur, Þórarinsson, Ólafur, Steinþór, Aðalsteinsson, Hreiðarsson, Guðmundsson, Helgi , Benediktsson, Gunnlaugsson.
H2H:

2003: IA-Valur 2-0
2001: IA-Valur 2-0
1999: IA-Valur 0-1
1998: IA-Valur 1-1
1997: IA-Valur 3-2
1996: IA-Valur 2-1
1995: IA-Valur 1-0
1994: IA-Valur 2-1

I think Akranes can get 3 pts here. The team is well balanced and in good form, they’ll be 100% motivated and usually do well vs Valur (overall the H2H is 12-1-4). Tomorrow they must win, otherwise they’ll have to wait for the next season to try and get a UEFA spot.
When Valur lost to FH earlier this season, they reacted with another defeat, away at poor IBV. I think it can happen again: the things that follewed the derby have broken the quiet in the group. Furthermore the players could be a bit tired being this one the 4th match in 8 days (and they’ve all been hard-fought matches).

IA - Valur:

Pick: IA
Odds: 3,05
Bookmaker: Betandwin
Stake: 5/10
Confidence: 5/10

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 08-08-2005 -

2005-08-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

Fram - Valur (0-3 in reverse fixture)

Fram and Valur will meet each other by the end of September for the VISA-Bikar final match at Laugardalsvollur. Today they'll play in Landsbankadeild, but the game is not less important.

Fram want to avoid relegation; Valur want (at least) a place in next UEFA Cup.

The hosts come to this game after having defeted Throttur in the league and FH (after penalty shootout) in the national cup. Such achievements must have boosted thier morale and in fact today Fram will field a very offensive squad, with the central midfielder Leifsson who will join the forwards Ottosson and Dadasson to make the attack up.

Valur don't need an introduction. They're the second best team after FH, having collected 9 victories out of 11 matches.Although it's very unlikely they won't get the 2nd place Valur play every single match with strong motivations. Today's one included.

For the upcoming match Fram will miss Sveinsson and McLynn (injured), while the young midfielder Thorarinsson is doubtful.
Valur are expected to be at full strenght. They should only miss the defeender Hreidarsson (suspended).

H2H: (won't report it again :))

I think there are many signs of a high-scoring game today.
Fram need to win, Valur want to; stats and modules also suggest several goals. Stanleybet is offering 1,70 on over 2,5 and I'm going to take it with medium stakes (in the reverse fixture it just took half an hour to see 3 goals!!).
I'd avoid 1X2 bets here, although you can find tempting odds on guests I think there is no value under evens (and anyway I'd suggest low stakes only).

Fram - Valur:

Pick: Over 2,5
Odds: 1,70
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 4/10
Confidence: 6,5/10

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 07-08-2005 -

2005-08-07T15:42:00.000-07:00

Fylkir – Akranes (3-0 in reverse fixture).

If we agree about FH and Valur as sure winners and runners-up of Landsbankadeild 2005 then it would be correct saying the 3rd place, that provides a place in the next Intertoto Cup, is the only goal left.
Both Fylkir and Akranes are within its reach, having 4 points more than KR (7th in the table) and being just 1 point behind Keflavik (3rd), that, on the other hand, have already played 12 matches.

Fylkir come to this match after 3 losses in a row: in Landsbankadeild they’ve been defeated at home by Throttur (0-1) and away at Valur (1-3) that collected a second victory over them just a couple of days ago in the VISA-Bikar semi-finals (0-2). The biggest disappointment lies in the fact that Fylkir played quite well in both games vs Valur. They’ve made very offensive games, as they usually do, especially when playing on the road, but they could not achieve anything.

Akranes are going to play away from home for the 4th time in a row.
Few months ago I considered the away games were IA’s weak point (due to their awful start). Last year they had an excellent away record so I’ve thought this season they would rather have collected the most points at home. I was wrong: Akranes have just been unlucky to visit in the very first rounds both FH and Valur. Of course they’ve collected 0 points in those matches, but now things are different and Akranes enjoy playing on the road. They’ve got 2 victories (3-1 at Grindavik and 2-0 at KR) and a draw (0-0 at Throttur) in last 3 away games. Overall they’re unbeaten in last 4 matches, where they have conceded just 1 goal.

For the upcoming game Fylkir will miss several players: the forwards Gislason and Gudnason are injured as well as the midfielders Stigson and Kolbeinson. The striker Christiansen, who got a red card in the cup match vs Valur, is banned.

Akranes have a complete team to choose from.

Probabile line-ups:

Fylkir: Halldorson; Sigurdsson, Gisalson, Danielsson, Peturson; Hedinsson, Tranberg, Helgason, Arnarsson; Helgason, Takefusa.

Akranes:Gudmundsson; Reynisson, Leosson, Jonson, Sveinsson; Bjornsson, Haraldsson, Pesic, Vilhjamnsson; Hjartarsson; Juliusson.

Looking at Fylkir’s absences list you would say they will lack of some firepower. That’s partially true: Christiansen is a good striker and his miss is a blow, but the replacements are good players.
Helgason (Hfrankell) is an offensive midfielder, very dangerous. He was playing behind the forwards in last games, but tomorrow he’will be the partner of Takefusa in attack, while his role will be played by Arnarsson, another offensive player. The bad thing is the midfield : both Stigson and Kolbeinson are good experienced players and I think their absence will have an influence on the game. Fylkir are going toh ave some troubles in building the game IMHO and in a home game, where Fylkir usually struggle, this could be a decisive thing.

It does not seem Akranes want to change the well covered module they played in last matches, but we have an important difference: the forward Hjartarsson will be slightly behind Juliusson and this means they probably won’t rely only on counters, but also try and risk something in attack.
Defense and midfield are very solid like in last games.

H2H:

2004 Fylkir – IA 2-2
2003 Fylkir – IA 0-1
2002 Fylkir – IA 1-3
2001 Fylkir – IA 2-1
2000 Fylkir – IA 2-1

Still Fjolskylduhatid (family festival) time at Fylkir, but tomorrow it mostly involve the supporters rather than the players.
After the grill there will be some entertainment stuff, then the final parade to the Fylkirsvollur for the match.

I think too many things point to a hard time for hosts here. The bad streak and the disappointment for being out of the Cup are not good for Fylkir’s morale. This is the 3rd game in a week, so they could feel a bit tired, especially after having got nothing from their last matches. Add to this the several absences and the fact they’re usually poor at home. On the other hand we have a well rested team (last time they played on 26/07) that started and collecting points on the road. IA also have a good tradition in the most recent mutual matches.

Fylkir - IA + 0,5 (asian):

Pick: IA
Odds: 1,56
Bookmaker: Gamebookers
Stake: 8/10
Confidence: 9/10

IBV - Grindavik

At this point of the season the table clearly says just 4 teams will be fighting to avoid the relegation to 1 deild.
IBV and Grindavik are two of those and tonight they’ll meet each other in a very important match.

IBV come to this game after the narrow home defeat (0-1) to the table leaders FH. Meanwhile they have left the UEFA Cup, having lost to Far Oer side B36 with an aggregate score of 2-3.
Earlier they managed to get 2 useful results in a row, having defeated the other relegation – candidate Fram at home (2-0) and got a draw away at Keflavik.

Looking at the stats shows IBV don’t look capable to collect points away from home, whereas at ‘Hasteinsvollur’ they’re not bad at all.
At home IBV have lost to FH (but you must remember they were somewhat forced to field a weakened side since their players on loan by Hafnarfjordur are not allowed to play against their “mother-team”) Kefalvik and Fylkir, that are two of the best away sides of the league.
They defeated Fram, Valur and KR overall providing good performances (except the one vs Fylkir that simply destroyed them).

Grindavik played (and lost) at home the last two matches, while they managed to stay unbeaten in last two games on the road (1-1 draw at keflavik and 1-0 win at Fram). Such results improved a bit their away record, that now looks very similar to the other strugglers’ one..
Today they’ll try and achieve another positive result, but I guess it won’t be easy since UG have never had an easy way at IBV:

2004 – 2-0
2003 – 1-0
2002 – 0-0
2001 – 3-0
2000 – 1-2
1999 – 2-1
1998 – 2-0
1997 – 2-1
1996 – 2-1
1995 – 3-1

These H2H stats, IBV home form and Grindavik away record suggest an home win as a very possibile outcome. However I’m not really sure about it.
First of all Grindavik could have extra-motivations: they have one game in hands and in next two rounds (the very next one just in a couple of days) they’ll play both FH and Fylkir. The short distance between the low table teams makes even a single point very important, although usually draw between relegation – candidates are useless.
Even if we agree about Grindavik to play with extra motivation this could not be enough to stay unbeaten today.
The team news can then provide further clues..

IBV will have many absences: the first goalkeeper Kristinsson is, of course, still unavailable;
Te defenders Sigurdsson, Robinson and the forward Johanesson are injured as well, while midfielders Jeffs and Adalsteinnson are doubtful and it’s very unlikely they’ll be fit for the game.
Finally, defender Sigurdjonsson is unavailable. The new signing Vorenkamp should start from the bench.

Grindavik will miss the defender Albertsson (long term injury) as well as the forward Johansson, and the midfielders Jonsson and Hjaltalin. The experienced midfielder Niestroj is suspended.

We have a very unpredictable match. Although H2H seem to exclude an away win I think this game can go either way. Personally I find odds on draw (3,45 at Stanleybet) very valuable.
IBV should try and control the game, but they have too many injured players to be reliable today. Grindavik will defend, but also try to score and win: 3 points are really crucial. But it can also happen neither IBV nor UG will want to risk a defeat if at a certain point of the game the score shall be still tied.

IBV - Grindavik:

Pick: Draw
Odds: 3,45
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 2/10
Confidence: 3/10

KK_

VISA-Bikar - 03-08-2005 -

2005-08-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

Fram Reykjiavik - FH Hafnarfjordur

The bottom placed Fram host the table leaders FH in the first semi-final match of the Icelandic national Cup.

In Landsbankadeild Fram are fighting to avoid the relegation, so I think they'd be better to think about the league since their chances to win the Cup are very thin. On the other hand reaching the final could even mean a ticket to the next UEFA Cup, so I expect Fram to be motivated to do well.

FH Hafnarfjordur will be motivated as well and they surely won't understimate their opponents. They're pretty far from thinking it will be an easy victory just because Fram are struggling in the league. A team that reached this stage of the competition deserves respect and FH will show it tonight.

But FH will have extra-motivations IMHO. Last week they've been awarded for being the team with the best local players and they've got a money prize of 100.000 korons, to be spent on their youth teams, offered by the league sponsor Landsbanka.
Also the striker Allan Borgvardt has been awarded as the best player of the current season. Furthermore it was the birthday for two players: Saevarsson (27) and the top scorer Gudmundsson (31). I guess they'll want to celebrate all those achievements with a nice win .

For the upcoming game FH will field a squad very similar to the one that (despite being 1 man down) defeated IBV in the last round of Landsbankadeild. So they'll play a very offensive module with 3 forwards. Gudjohnssonwill be back in the team, while Vidarsson is banned and will miss the game.

In last days Fram signed the fast midfielder Johan Karlefjard (21) from the Swedish team Orgyte, but he's not expected to start today (still unsure, though). Fram's manager is going to field a well covered squad and it's not unlikely he'll play the same 5-3-2 module used in the derby vs Throttur. Ottoson and Andrason will be the forwards.

H2H:

2004 Fram - FH 1-2
2003 Fram - FH 1-0
2002 Fram - FH 5-4
2001 Fram - FH 1-1

Once again I'll be on FH. Just think it's all up to motivations and from what I've understood Hafnarfjordur have lots of them.

Fram - FH:
Pick: FH
Odds: 1,70
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10
Confidence: 6,5/10

Fram - FH -1 (european)
Pick: FH
Odds: 2,86
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10
Confidence: 4/10

KK_

Valur 3 - 1 Fylkir

2005-07-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

As expected we could see some goals in this match. Both teams have made a very offensive game, starting and press for the net from the very first minutes, so I'd say the Multi Goal choice was quite safe. Too bad for Fylkir that had to end an impressive away streak, also ruining my just-for-fun bet on them.
Rematch (in VISA-Bikar) next week. Stay tuned.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 27-07-05 -

2005-07-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

Valur - Fylkir (2-1 in reverse fixture):

Just 2 words since today I have not much time to properly write a preview..

We have the two most entertaining sides of the league this night.

The newly promoted Valur are flying high and it's not unlikely we'll see them playing in next UEFA Cup.

Fylkir Reykjavik are a sort of Dr. Jekyll - Mr. Hide: they struggle at home, but on the road this team looks almost unstoppable.

Both are surely in-form: Valur have seen the impressive winning streak they suddenly end due to 2 defeats in a row (away at IBV and at home to FH), but they managed to bounce back with 3 consecutive victories in Landsbankadeild and with the qualification to semi-finals in VISA-Bikar.

Filkyir come to this match from 4 away victories in a row (including 2 VISA-Bikar matches at HK and Grindavik), while overall they only lost 2 games in last 11 matches palyed.

For the upcoming game Valur should be at full strenght, while Fylkir still have some injury worries, but they don't look to care too much about them. Furthermore they fully recovered the important Helgason.

H2H stats show that Fylkir usually do well at Valur.

The most important thing to be considered is next week Valur and Fylkir will meet each other again for VISA-Bkar s/f.
I think Fylkir will be more motivated in the cup match because getting to the final (most probably vs FH, that will visit Fram for the other s/f) could mean achieving a place in next UEFA Cup, so they could even use this match to study their opponent, but I'm just guessing here.

I've seen the odds currently offered by most bookies and have to say I could not find any value in homewin. I would not touch Valur at less than 2,20/2,25. Fylkir are still unbeaten away and they won this fixture many times in the past, so why not today? Do 'mighty' Valur from 1. deild deserve odds like 1,85-1,90 to beat the 3rd team in the table? I don't think so.. This game can go either way and odds around 3,70/3,80 on guests are worth at least a single unit try.
Another interesting choice could be a high-scoring relate bet since the way these sides play and the tradition do suggest the goalkeepers won't have an easy night

Valur - Fylkir:
Pick: Multigoal Chance 4-6
Odds: 3,20
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10
Confidence: 4.5/10

KK_

Throttur 0 - 1 Fram

2005-07-26T00:17:00.000-07:00

Bad loss.. Throttur made an awful game, providing no efforts at all to grab the victory. First shot on target for the hosts at 40' 1st Half.
In the 2nd part of the game an own - goal killed the game.
Better luck next time..

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 25-07-2005 -

2005-07-25T09:45:00.000-07:00

Throttur - Fram (0-3 in reverse fixture)

Reykjavik derby between two low table sides.

Fram currently occupies the last place in the table. They barely collected 8 points out of 11 played games; also the team looks totally out of form having lost 5 games in a row, so it would be correct saying they're seriously risking to be relegated to 1. deild.
Fram's loosing streak had an end last week in VISA-Bikar. They managed to progress to semi-finals of the Icelandic national Cup at IBV's expenses. After being held on 1-1 draw at the end of 90' they defeated their opponent with the final score of 2-1. If you ask me I'd say such an achievement is not even worth the Extra Time needed to get rid of a poor IBV side: Fram have no chances to win the Cup (they'll host FH in next round) and they should be only concerned of the league.

The newly promoted Throttur have just 1 point more than Fram. They had an awful start and if you had been following them you would have agreed with the icelandic experts who said, before the season started, they're the poorest side in Landsbankadeild. But looking at the latest results reveals they're clearly on an up-trend.
A couple of weeks ago Throttur hired a new manager: Edvalsson, who is making a fine job. Under his management Throttur collected 4 points in 2 games and, most important thing, they did not allow a single goal.
Surely Edvalsson worked hard with the defense, being it the main weakness of the team. If you look at the table you'll notice that Throttur have the best attack amongst the 'strugglers', but their offensive potential did not match their poor defense. So Edvalsson set the forward Ludviksson (former IBV) as a starter, loosing a bit in offence, but gaining much in defense. Ludviksson does not score much, but he knows how to come back and cover the game.
Also the talented capitain Pall Einarsson have found his work doubled, but now the whole team is much more balanced.

For the upcoming game Throttur will miss the midfielder Sigurdsson (suspended), while Jens Saevarsson (very important) should be fit and ready to play after a little injury. Finally Jonasson and Haflidasson are doubtful.

Fram should be at full strenght, being the only Sveinsson unavailable for the game.

H2H:

2003 Throttur - Fram 2-1
1998 Throttur - Fram 0-0
1996 Throttur - Fram 3-3

I've seen the most common odds offered on homewin are around 2,45/2,50 (now they've dropped a bit at some bookie). I think it must be a joke.
IMHO Throttur are very close to a victory here. They know that 3 points today can be decisive and they'll fight to death to get them. Fram will be motivated as well, but I can't see how a team in freefall could properly oppose to a side that is revealing a very tough nut to crack even to the more skilled opponents.

Throttur - Fram:

Pick: Throttur
Odds: 2,50
Bookmaker: Betandwin
Stake: 7/10
Confidence: 5,5/10

KK_

IBV 0 - 1 FH

2005-07-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Close one, but FH had to play the whole 2nd half with only 10 men. Still too much for a team that probably will soon say goodbye to the Icelandic top league.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 24-07-2005 -

2005-07-23T13:11:00.000-07:00

IBV - FH (0-3 in the reverse fixture):

Lately I avoided backing Hafnarfjordur. So far FH won 10 out of 10 games and the recurring idea is they simply will have to end this impressive streak before or later, so why risking some money on the ridiculous odds that bookie usually offer on them?
But now FH palyed 3 winless matches in a row: they've lost to Neftchi, in Azerbaijan, in the 1st leg of CL preliminaries; then they've been held on 1-1 home draw by IA Akranes in VISA-Bikar - the Icelandic national Cup - (although they hammered their opponent in Extra Time, winning 5-1); they, finally, lost the 2nd leg of CL vs Baku.
I believe after this streak a new victory would be fine for their morale and their supporters, although they don't have an urgent need of points (I think the final victory in the Icelandic league is out of discussion for FH).

IBV are one of the strongest candidate for relegation. They were before the season started and they're now, when half of the season has gone.
Last round IBV managed to get a precious point away at Keflavik. A result far from being surprising, at least to me. Keflavik are a side that play better on the road, while at home they have many problems to hold the lead (the same happened in the game vs Fylkir).
A couple of days before IBV got another away draw, at Fram in VISA-Bikar. Useless result since Fram defeated them in extra time, so IBV are out of the national Cup and it's likely they will be out of UEFA Cup as well, since they weren't able do defeat at home the poor Far Oer side in the 1st leg, last week.
To strenghten the squad IBV have bought just few days ago the Danish player Rune Lind (former Esbjerg and Danemark U18), but it looks he won't play next game.

For the upcoming game FH will be able to field their best available team. It also look they'll want to make an offensive game since their manager is going to pass from 4-4-2 to 4-3-3 module.

IBV will have many important absence. First of all they'll field a weakened attack: Joahnssen (top scorer of the team) is injured and Petur Sigurdsson (loaned by FH themselves) is not allowed to play vs his team as well as the talented midfielder Gudmundsson. Finally, the defender Vidarsson will be serving 1 week ban. The offensive midfielder Matthew Platt will probably play as forward.

H2H:

2004 IBV-FH 1-3
2003 IBV-FH 1-3
2002 IBV-FH 2-0
2001 IBV-FH 0-0

Hard to see FH failing to win here. Even if IBV could play with the best available team I'd probably back the guests anyway. With 4 first-team players out IMHO Vestmannaejyar don't have a single chance to get something from this match.

IBV - FH:

Pick: FH
Odds: 1,55
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 9/10
Confidence: 9/10

KK_

HK 0 - 2 Fylkir

2005-07-21T14:36:00.000-07:00

Hard way (but I'v never taklked about an easy one ;)) for Fylkir, but finally they got rid of HK with two late goals.
This night will be played the last two clashes of 1/8 finals in VISA Bikar. Interesting odds, that's sure, but I'll avoid any bet. Maybe it's too early to say, but I feel next Landsbankadeild round could be very profitable so let's save the money for it!

KK_

VISA-Bikar - 20-07-2005 -

2005-07-19T22:19:00.000-07:00

HK - Fylkir

HK (1.deild) host Fylkir (Landsbankadeild) after having defeated Keflavik, another team from the top division, in the previous round of the Icelandic national Cup.

HK currently are in the mid-table of their division, with 13 points less than the table leader Breidablik and 6 less than Vikingur Reykjiavik (2nd in the table). Their home record reads as 2/2/2.

If you have been following Icelandic soccer you'll surely know Fylkir are currently at 3rd place in the table, but realistically they don't have many chances to catch Valur (2nd place) and get a place in next UEFA Cup.
VISA Bikar could then provide them a ticket to Europe and Fylkir are really optimistic about reaching at least the final rounds.

The most dangerous opponents are already out of the competition: IA Akranes have been thrashed by FH (that would not occupy the UEFA place for the national Cup winner) in the other 1/8 final match (5-1 AET), Keflavik is out as well and one between Valur and KR (that will meet each other at this stage) soon will.

Defeating HK and progressing would mean taking the first step toward an achievement that looks really possible. Fylkir do know that and they're going to travel to HK with the full squad.

In conclusion we have a team that collected 12 out of 17 points on the road and is going to play away vs an average side of a lower division with their best available squad and strong motivations.
I do believe HK will be highly motivated as well, but if Fylkir want to progress it should only be up to them.

HK - Fylkir:

Pick: Fylkir
Odds: 1,60
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 8,5/10
Confidence: 7/10

KK_

Fylkir 0 - 1 Throttur

2005-07-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

Guess the Fylkyr's player have had too many hamburgers at the grill before the game :)
Not much to say. Fylkir have been the better side in the first half, then in the middle of the 2nd period both teams took a forward off as they were satisfied with the draw, but Throttur managed to score and collect 3 important points.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 17-07-2005 -

2005-07-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

Fylkir - Throttur (R.F. 2-1)

After the scoreless home-draw vs IA Throttur will try and find another positive result in the derby vs Fylkir.

Fylkir are currently at 3rd place in the table (Intertoto Cup); last week they defeated away KR (3-1 FT), and I would say that game showed nothing of new:
KR are a poor side, while Fylkir, excellent on the road, will fight to finish in the top 3 (actually only the 3rd spot looks within their reach ).
If you look at Fylkir's home record, however, you'll find they're a very different team when playing on the home ground: no more micidial counters, but lots of struggling both with strong and weak opponents.

Throttur still need points desperately: they are in the last place in the table and they would be already relegated for sure if it weren't that other strugglers have just few points of advantage. A good result today, with an eye on the other fixtures (Keflavik - IBV and Fram - KR), could be very important.

For the upcoming game Fylkir should field the same team of the last games. They still have some injury worries (Stigsson, Gislasson, Kolbeinsson).
Throttur will miss Saevarsson, but it's very likely Tryggvason will be fit after a little injury. Jonasson and Haflidasson, injured as well, won't be ready for sure.

Fylkir:

Haldorsson; Petursson, Gislasson,Danielsson, Sigurdsson; Harnarsson, Helgason (Hfrankell, often used as forward), Helgason, Hedinsson; Christiansen, Takefusa.

Throttur:

Thorgeirsson; Karlsson, Lárusson, Einarsson, Sveinsson, Hilmisson, Sigurðsson, Hallsson, Hafliðason; Lúdvíksson, Kristjánsson.

Note that the new manager of Throttur (Edvaldsson) was the manager of Fylkir in 1997.

H2H:

2003 Fylkir – Thróttur 1 - 5
1999 Fylkir – Thróttur 2 - 1
1997 Fylkir – Thróttur 1 - 1
1995 Fylkir – Thróttur 1 - 1
1994 Fylkir – Thróttur 1 - 2

The game will be played after some entertainment stuff by both players and supporters of Fylkir, who will perform tricks and games (with and without the ball) because today there is the Fjölskylduhátíð festival. There also will be a grill (hopefully without the players).

At first sight we have a home banker, but I'm going to trust Throttur again. Odds on homewin are simply valueless since Fylkir are the worst home side of the league and today they'll face a very motivated team that IMHO can manage to stay at least unbeaten.

Fylkir - Throttur:

Pick: Draw/Throttur Double Chance
Odds: 2,38
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10
Confidence: 4,5/10

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 12-07-2005 -

2005-07-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

Throttur - IA (R.F. 0-1):

Hard match to predict.

The guests come from the away victory over KR, so they ended a 4 matches loosing streak, also managing to score the first goals on the road. I guess IA had a morale boost from such a result and this night they’ll want to try and repeat the good performance vs the strugglers Throttur.

Throttur Reykjavik currently sit in the last place of the table and with half the season already gone it will be very difficult avoiding the relegation. But if you look at the latest results you can find a slight improvement. Another interesting point is Throttur are the team that scored most than any other in the low part of the table. IMHO they’re not doomed yet and will be able to fight till the end at least with Fram and IBV (while I think Grindavik will have less troubles ).

For the upcoming match Akranes should miss Igor Pesic (suspended), while Martin is doubtful (although he is set as a starter).
Throttur will miss Saevarsson (suspended) and Jonasson (injured), while Jaic is back after having served 1 match ban.
The most important news is Throttur have a new manager. Atla Edvalsson, whose brother Johannes were Throttur’s manager himself till 1985.

Probable line – ups:

IA Akranes:

Gudmundsson; Llorenz, Jonsson, Leosson, Sveinnson; Reynisson, Haraldsson, Magnusson, Martin, Vilhjamsson; Hjartarson.

I think the absence of Pesic is a blow for IA that will lack of fantasy in the middle. Although Pesic scored only 1 goal he served many assists and today his missing can influence the game. IA will play with 5 midfielders and only Hjartarson as forward. Guess they’ll play for a draw.

Throttur Reykjavik:

Thorgeirsson; Tryggvason, Lárusson, Karlsson, Einarsson; Hafliðason, Eyjólfsson, Hilmisson, Maruniak; Sigurðsson, Kristjánsson.

H2H:

2003: Throttur – IA 1-3
1998: Throttur – IA 1-2

These recent stats are not very good for Throttur. But in the past the mutual matches provided even worst results for the team from Reykjiavik. The first 3 matches between these teams (we have to go back to 1954) were won by IA with a goal difference of 20-0 !!

Throttur have to risk here. They don’t need a draw so they’ll try and attack. IA will be satisfied by a draw. They’re very solid at home and I think they’ll try and chase the 3rd place in the table (best achievement they look able to get) on their own ground.

I like the home win here, but still can't decide my pick. Wait for an update!

7:45 PM

Finally I decided to go on the home team. I want to trust their needing of points and forget the bad record Throttur have vs Akranes. Not much confident though.

Throttur - IA:

Pick: Throttur
Odds: 3,00
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 1,5/10
Confidence: 1,5/10

KK_

KK_

KR 1 - 3 Fylkir

2005-07-11T08:02:00.000-07:00

Finally a winning pick! Hope it can bring some good luck for this evening when two other games from round 10 will be played.

Fylkir had an easier way than I expected and KR confirmed they'll have to fight in order to stay in the maximum Icelandic division.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 11-07-2005 -

2005-07-11T02:52:00.000-07:00

KR - Fylkir (R.F. 2-1)

In last round, a bit surprisingly, KR lost at home to IA Akranes (0-2 FT). They're now closer to the bottom of the table than to any useful placement for next European competitions.

Despite the many absences Fylkir won away at IBV (3-0 FT). The hosts got a red card in the 2nd half when Fylkir were 1-0 up so the visitors found an easy way to the victory and could score twice more.

For the upcoming game Fylkir should field the same team that thrashed IBV: they still have some injury worries. Gilason (3/0), Kolbeinson (6/0), Helgason (5/4), Ulfarson (4/0), Asbjornson (7/0), Gustafson (3/1) should miss the game.

KR are expected to play at full strenght. The defender Bjarnolfur Larusson, who got a red card in the match vs IA should play as well since his suspension has not been disposed yet.

Probable line - ups:

KR:Finnbogasson; Bjarnason, Larusson, Johansson, Olafsson; Hjartarson, Jacobsen, Palson, Elisabetarson; Sturluson, Kristianson.

Fylkir:Halldorson; Valdimarson, Gislason, Sigurdson, Petursson; Hedinsson, Danielsson, Helgason, Arnarsson; Christiansen, Takefusa.

H2H

2004- KR - Fylkir 1-1
2003- KR - Fylkir 4-0
2002- KR - Fylkir 1-1
2001- KR - Fylkir 0-0
2000- KR - Fylkir 2-1

I think Fylkir should be able to stay at least unbeaten today. They also have good motivations to achieve a positive result. Collecting 3 pts would mean reaching the 3rd palce in the table an getting +2 pts advantage on Keflavik (that also have 1 more game). Three things annoy me: nordic bookmakers are offering 1,80 avg. on the homewin (very short itself and in comparison with other bookies), it looks there is much money traffic on sign 1 and finally the absences for Fylkir. They managed to do well (especially the striker Takefusa is in great form) without the injured players, but KR are a bit better than IBV and IBV played with 1 less man a large part of the 2nd half.

KR - Fylkir:
Pick: Draw/Fylkir
Odds: 1,60
Bookmaker: Expekt
Stake: 2/10
Confidence: 6/10

KR - Fylkir:
Pick: Multigoal Chance 2/3
Odds: 2,00
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 2/10
Confidence: 3/10

KK_

KR 0 - 2 IA

2005-07-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

Another lost bet. I guess I shoud have gone for the safer option and take the straight under 2,5.
BTW KR got a red card early in the 2nd half as well as IBV two days ago.
I think I'll have a little break and maybe just put my thoughts on the upcoming games down, without making any picks. Stay tuned.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 07-07-2005 -

2005-07-06T20:29:00.000-07:00

KR - IA:

Two disappointing sides so far..

Before the season starded KR were expected to come back to the top of Icelandic soccer, after a year to forget. They collected 2 victories in the first 2 matches, then the black out.. KR are currently at 5th place in the table and have 17 less points than the leader FH Hafnarfjordur so they've no chances at all for the title and the CL. A UEFA spot also looks out of KR's reach: Valur (+11 pts) are firmly at 2nd place and already have given proof they're a very hard opponent. The only task left is Intertoto, but to be honest I don't really know if KR have an interest in it.

IA Akranes ended last season at 3rd place in the table, so they could play in Intertoto this year (although they're already out). If you compare the current table with last season one you'll notice a big difference in the away stats: while in 2004 Akranes had an impressive record on the road with only 1 defeat, this year they're simply awful (0/1/2 and not even a goal scored. Have to remember, on the other hand, they already visited both FH and Valur). This bad away form is leaving them at 5th place in the table, paired with KR Reykjavik themselves.

The first thought of mine is leaving this game alone: a team that is everything but trustable vs a team that cannot collect points away from home.

However there are few other points to be considered:

H2H:

2004 KR - IA 1-0
2003 KR - IA 1-0
2002 KR - IA 3-1
2001 KR - IA 2-1
1999 KR - IA 1-0
1998 KR - IA 2-0
1997 KR - IA 4-0
1996 KR - IA 1-0

KR at home is 2/0/1. They only lost to FH and both the victories were by 1 goal margin.

For the upcoming match KR will miss Laursson and Bjarnason (suspended); IA will play without Martin and Bjornsson who are going to be replaced by the experienced Valgeirsson and the young Akason, at his debut with Akranes.

Looking at this stuff I would say home win and under 2,5 are very possible, but I don't like odds at all (I have 1,80 on homewin and 1,65 on under 2,5).
Since I believe the most probable results are 1-0 and 0-0 I'm going to make my bets out of this thought and try the draw, giving KR - 1 goal (european handicap).

KR (-1) - IA:

Pick: Draw
Odds: 3,90
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 1,5/10
Confidence: 5/10

KR - IA:

Pick: Multigoal chance 0/1
Odds: 3,01
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 1,5/10
Confidence: 5/10

To make it safer go for the under 2,5 (I'm very confident about a low scoring game, but I'd recommend medium stakes only).

KK_

IBV 0 - 3 Fylkir

2005-07-03T00:02:00.000-07:00

The Fylkyr's players who were expected to miss the match did miss the match, but IBV could not take advantage of that and were totally outplayed by the guests. Bad loss and bad start for July.. Better luck next time.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 02-07-2005 -

2005-07-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

IBV – Fylkir

Both teams come from a defeat: IBV lost away at Akranes (0-2 FT), while Fylkir have been thrashed at home by the table leader FH (2-5 FT).

Looking at the current form you would say Fylkir have to be backed, especially at those tempting odds offered by most of the bookies: they have a fine away record (2/1/0) and it looks they play better on the road rather than at home (1/1/3). IBV on the other hand are struggling in the low part of the table having lost 5 out of 7 games played so far.

Maybe I’ll be wrong but I do believe hosts are very close to a win here. IBV are expected to collect the points they need to avoid relegation at home. When they play away they’re simply awful with 0/0/5, but on their home ground IBV won 2 out of 3 matches defeating the in-form Valur (2nd in the table) and KR Reykjavik and only loosing to FH in the first round. Also IBV have an impressive home record vs Fylkir and tomorrow they’ll face a side that might have some important missing: surely out will be the defender Ragnar Sigurdsson, who got a red card in the match vs FH; midfielders Stigsson and Kolbeinsson should be out through injuries as well as the forwards Gudnasson and Helgasson (top scorer of the team).

It’s time for the first away defeat for Fylkir and time for us to try and make some money out of it!

IBV - Fylkir:

Pick: IBV
Odds: 2,50
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 5/10
Confidence: 5/10

KK_

FH 3 - 1 Fram; Throttur 0 - 2 Valur

2005-07-01T06:18:00.000-07:00

Nothing to say here.. I'm a bit disappointed for the handicap bet (and for my MG selection as well), but overall we had another profitable day. More to come!

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 30-06-2005 -

2005-06-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

FH - Fram.

Hard to find some reasons not to back the home side. Everything, but the statistic (once again ) points to a sure, easy victory for the table leader Hafnarfjordur.

Fram are showing a poor form, they come from 2 disappointing defeats both at home vs Grindavik and Keflavik. Tomorrow they'll travel to FH looking for a positive result, but they will need more than a lucky, late equaliser like the one that saved them at Fylkir.

For the upcoming match Fram will miss defender Johansson (1 week ban), while the hosts will play without their top striker Gudmundsson (1 week ban), who scored the half of total goals for Hafnarfjordur.

H2H clearly shows FH have usually no problems vs Fram.

While I think homewin is only good for combos, I'd like to try and give FH -1 goal (european handicap) and go for a narrow win, backing the draw.

Throttur - Valur

First of all I already placed a bet (MultiGoal Chance 4-6 at 5,00 with low stakes and confidence), but odds are already dropped so forget about it.

I was very doubtful about 1X2 bets in this match.

Throttur are in - form and they do need points. Valur, on the other hand, after 2 defeats in a row managed to bounce back defeating KR at home (3-0 FT). Although KR are showing a poor game lately the victory ovber them have been a great achievement for Valur in terms of morale. Balanced game? I have to say I feel Valur have to be favourited here.

The guests have an excellent record vs Throttur; also the hosts are going to miss some players: the serbian Jaic and the midfielder Saevarsson will be out through suspension. Two absences that today will increase Throttur's lack oif quality.

FH (-1) - Fram:

Pick: Draw
Odds: 4,00
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 1/10
Confidence: 2/10

FH - Fram; Throttur - Valur:

Pick: FH + Valur
Odds: 2,31 (1,40/1,65)
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3,5/10
Confidence: 6/10

KK_

Akranes 2 - 0 IBV

2005-06-30T07:40:00.000-07:00

Another right selection. It looks we have left the bad luck behind. Fingers crossed for the future!

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 29-06-2005 -

2005-06-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

IA Akranes - Vestmannaeyar IBV

Islenskar Getraunir
H: 1.30
D: 3.50
A: 5.15

Really interesting these odds from a local bookie. It looks like the most common odds offerd (1,55-1,65 avg.) on homewin have a good value.

Surely IA are closer to the win than their opponents.
The hosts need points after some disappointing results. IBV are struggling on the botton of the table, so they need points as well, but their awful away record (0/0/4) should not take them too much far today.

Both teams have played few days ago: IBV got a precious victory over Valur, while IA collected 2 defeats : 0-2 away at Hafnarfjordur and 0-4 at home vs Inter Turku (Intertoto). I guess the morale will be on the guests side, but I feel it won't be enough to defeat a quite solid side.Also IBV showed they find very difficult scoring away from home (just 1 goal in 4 matches), and now they could even find it harder: few days ago the forward Ludviksson has left the club.

Finally the H2H.. I won't post it here because there have been too many mutual matches in the recent past between these sides. Just know that Akranes have a very good home record vs IBV.

Many things point to a home win here, and many others suggest Akranes have good chances to keep a clean sheet.

Akranes - IBV:

Pick: Akranes
Odds: 1,75
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10
Confidence: 4/10

Akranes - IBV:

Pick: IBV not to score
Odds: 2,35
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 5,5/10
Confidence: 6/10

KK_

Fram 2 - 3 Keflavik; Grindavik 1 - 1 Throttur; Fylkir 2 - 5 FH

2005-06-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

Nice profit this time. Hope it helps to forget the recent bad betting streak.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 26-06-2005 -

2005-06-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

I've just found something of sure interest.

First of all you must know that Stanleybet usually offers odds on a certain team to score/not to score.

Here is my idea:Keflavik, Throttur and Fylkir to score.

Having picked Keflavik to win It's a clear thing I believe they will score at least one. Let's see the other matches:

Grindavik - Throttur:

Despite the results Throttur is improving and should not have too much troubles in scoring at least 1 vs poor Grindavik. We have a match between two relegation candidates. Both will try and get 3 pts and both should score and concede (I do expect an open game).

Fylkir - FH:

Fh are still the table leaders thanks to 6 out of 6 victories achieved. I'm still convinced a stop for them is near, so why not today? By the way we don't need all this, but a single goal.Fylkir are a solid side; also they have a good home record vs Hafarfjordur and IMHO they should not have too many problems in scoring at least one.

Fram - Keflavik; Grindavik - Throttur; Fylkir - FH:

Pick: Keflavik to score; Throttur to score; Fylkir to score
Odds: 2,40 (1,35/1,35/1,35)
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 7,5/10
Confidence: 10/10

Alternative bet (safer choice):

Pick: Keflavik to score; Throttur to score
Odds: 1,83 (1,35/1,35)
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 9/10
Confidence: 10/10

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 26-06-2005 -

2005-06-26T11:08:00.000-07:00

Fram - Keflavik

These H2H stats (I'm not going to post them here) show Keflavik usually manage to do well away at Reykjavik and looking at the current form of both teams it's hard not to find the odds on guests very tempting.

Last round (a couple of days ago) Fram lost at home to Grindavik. Maybe a little upset, maybe a clear sign Fram will struggle a lot to avoid relegation.
Keflavik on the other hand have been held on the draw at home by Fylkir. Hosts managed to take the lead twice and twice Fylkir equalised for the full - time score of 2-2. It's not the first time this season that Keflavik cannot hold the positive result. It happened few weeks ago away at Throttur: another 2-2. In that match hosts equalised in the final part of the game thanks to a penalty kick.

Have to repeat odds around 3,20 (or better) on the away side is surely valuable, but a draw saver is needed here. Cannot see Fram winning this one, but the sharing of the points looks a possible outcome: hosts have a good defense with 1 single goal conceded in last 4 home games; guests have some problems in 'killing' the games and both could be a little tired having played just few days ago.

If you don't like coverage bets the safer choice is Draw/Keflavik Double Chance.

Fram - Keflavik:

Pick: Keflavik
Odds: 3,25
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3,5/10
Confidence: 4/10

Fram - Keflavik (alternative bet):

Pick: Keflavik
Odds: 3,25
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 6,5/10

Pick: Draw
Odds: 3,45
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10

Total confidence: 8/10

KK_

IBV 1 - 0 Vaur

2005-06-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

Ok.. I totally forgot the old, simple rule.. When a soccer match have the word 'over' written all OVER it, well.. you can guess how it ends. Another lost bet and another lesson learnt.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 23-06-2005 -

2005-06-23T10:03:00.000-07:00

IBV - Valur

When I look at this fixture I can only see an open, high - scoring match. Once again statistics and form suggest me a goal - feast and once again I'm going to trust them and heavily invest in the under/over market. I don't want to spend more words; just I think with a bit of luck we could see the goals we need to win in the first half.

IBV - Valur:

Pick: Over 2,5
Odds: 1,70
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 8/10
Confidence: 9/10

KK_

Icelandic Sources

2005-06-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

Last days I tried and translate Icelandic news I found on official websites or elsewhere. I looked for an online translator, but I was not able to find any, so I'm using an online Icelandic - English dictionary. It takes a lot of time translating the single words and it often happens the news have nothing to do with soccer matches. But I won't give up. I'd like to provide more detailed analysis, so I will keep on translating (in the worst case at least I'll have leart some Icelandic words!!).

KK_

Fylkir 1 - 1 Fram

2005-06-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

I hate late equaliser.. This one was very late: Fram managed to score at 90' (+3). Two lost bets in a row.. It's not a good sign, but don't worry and keep on following my Icelandic adventure!!

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 16-06-2005 -

2005-06-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

Fylkir - Fram:

Last week Fylkir got their first home win after 2 defeats in a row. They went 1-0 down, but managed to bounce back and collect the 3 pts.
My opinion is Fylkir have been understimated before the season started, but they do look like they have all the weapons to fight for a high - table place.

Fram Reykjavik started the season like an average table team: winning at home and loosing away. Last week, in their home ground they've been held on 0-0 by Akranes.

The current form suggests an home win here and so do the recent H2H stats:

15-0804 Premier Leag Fylkir vs. Fram 1 - 0
07-0604 Premier Leag Fram vs. Fylkir 1 - 1
14-0703 Premier Leag Fram vs. Fylkir 1 - 2
18-0503 Premier Leag Fylkir vs. Fram 3 - 1
11-0802 Premier Leag Fram vs. Fylkir 2 - 3
03-0602 Premier Leag Fylkir vs. Fram 3 - 3
20-0801 Premier Leag Fram vs. Fylkir 3 - 0
18-0601 Premier Leag Fylkir vs. Fram 4 - 2
09-0800 Premier Leag Fylkir vs. Fram 1 - 0
06-0600 Premier Leag Fram vs. Fylkir 1 - 2

Fylkir - Fram

Pick: Fylkir
Odds: 1,75
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 4,5/10
Confidence: 6/10

KK_

FH 3 - 1 Throttur

2005-06-11T23:03:00.000-07:00

Nothing to say.. The 'big giants' have crushed the 'little' team and my bet. Suddenly I feel I won't try any other experiments for a while..

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 11-06-2005 -

2005-06-11T00:52:00.000-07:00

FH - Throttur:

Thanks to the little profit made last rounds some experiments look now affordable. I would say it's time to back against the table leader FH. Odds on homewin are, of course, very short so maybe we can find some value in guests not to loose this one. The statistics suggest after 4 victories in a row FH could even get a phisiological stop and we know such things are very likely when the 'big giants' play the 'little' teams. On the other hand in the recent Throttur have never lost this fixture, collecting a draw and a win.

If you think you are not brave enough to place your money at odds - against, the under/over market (high scoring game is in the air) is more advisable than a classical 1X2 bet.

Throttur to stay unbeaten will be my only horse today.

FH - Throttur:

Pick: Draw/Throttur Double Chance.
Odds: 3,60
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 1.5/10
Confidence: 2,5/10

KK_

Valur 3 - 0 Fram

2005-06-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

It only took half an hour to win both the over 2,5 and the homewin bets. I told you: DO NOT understimate statistics.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 31-05-2005 -

2005-05-30T15:33:00.000-07:00

Valur - Fram:

Reykjavik derby.. again. The newly promoted Valur host Fram.

Valur Reykjavik comes to the Icelandic Premier after having dominated the lower league (Delid 1.) last year. They also had an excellent pre-season.

Fram Reykjavik is a team rich of history, but they have surely known better times. Last year they ended at 8th place in the table, just 1 point above the relegated Vikingur.

This year Valur have won the first 3 games, while Fram collected 2 wins and 1 defeat (in the derby vs KR: a cursed fixture for them), so both team look pretty in form, but I think Valur is the far better side: they have several interesting players, easily create chances and score goals for fun. Valur and Fram met each other many times in the past and here are some recent results:

10.02.05
2005
Fram - Valur
0-2

22.04.04
2004
Valur - Fram
2-1

14.09.03
2003
Valur - Fram
2-0

06.07.03
2003
Fram - Valur
2-1

24.11.02
2003
Valur - Fram
4-2

17.02.02
2002
Fram - Valur
2-1

12.01.02
2002
Valur - Fram
2-2

16.07.01
2001
Valur - Fram
3-2

04.07.01
2001
Valur - Fram
2-3

17.05.01
2001
Fram - Valur
2-3

11.09.99
1999
Valur - Fram
2-1

05.07.99
1999
Fram - Valur
2-2

The first thing to be noticed is the high number of goals recurring in almost every match between these teams; the second one is Valur's impressive home record vs Fram. If we went further in the past we would also notice that many years ago Fram were everything but an easy opponent to Valur, but as it often happens things have changed (the same about KR and FH).

I'm going to blindly trust the statistic stuff.

Valur - Fram:

Pick: Over 2,5
Odds: 2,35
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 8/10
Confidence: 8/10

Valur - Fram:

Pick: Valur
Odds: 2,00
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 6/10
Confidence: 6/10

KK_

KR 0 - 1 FH

2005-05-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

Close game, indeed.. but who cares? The important thing is the won bet. Let's try and continue this way.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 29-05-2005 -

2005-05-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

KR - FH:

Big match in Icelandic league. Let me first say I don't like KR Reykjiavik. Bookmakers offered them at odds on in the first round, for the away match at Fylkir. KR won (2-1 FT), but they have been very lucky: immediately 1-0 down KR managed to equalise and then to score the winning goal only at 90'. In the next round they collected 3 pts again, in the derby vs Fram, but it does mean nothing to me since KR always defeat Fram at home. Finally the defeat away at Keflavik (1-2 FT) a couple of days ago.

Icelandic experts rate FH Hafnarfjordur as the main title candidate this year. It looks they're right so far: FH lead the table thanks to 3 victories out of 3 games.
H2H statistics show a slight dominance of the guests in the recent past. A sort of 'countertrend' since years ago and for a quite long time KR had not many troubles in defeating FH at home.

I feel the visitors have good chances to leave Reykjavik with the full prize.

KR - FH:

Pick: FH
Odds: 2,35
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 5/10
Confidence: 5/10

KK_

Fram 3 - 0 Throttur

2005-05-28T09:31:00.000-07:00

Easy victory for the home side. We're starting to recover after the heavy loss in the previous round, but I feel some improvements can be achieved. Stay tuned.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 27-05-2005 -

2005-05-27T21:25:00.000-07:00

Fram - Throttur:

Reykjiavik derby (actually 5 teams out of 10 are from the Icelandic Capital, so we'll really see many derbies this season). My vote goes to Fram here: awful last year, it looks they have started the current season in a better way by winning at home vs IBV Vestmannaeyjar (3-0 FT). They then lost 'away' at KR (0-1 FT), but Fram usually loose that fixture.
Two defeats in the first two rounds for the newcomers Throttur.

Fram - Throttur

Pick: Fram
Odds: 1,90
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 3/10
Confidence: 5/10

KK_

Valur 2 - 0 Akranes

2005-05-24T00:10:00.000-07:00

Well.. Here is what I call a false start. It does look Valur won quite easily so my picks were totally wrong. Let's try and learn something by this loss for the next bets.

KK_

Landsbankadeild - 23-05-2005 -

2005-05-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

Valur – IA Akranes:

Icelandic league 2nd round. No news available at all. Just table and statistics (hey! Don't understimate them!). Here my experiment starts.

Both teams started the season with a home victory: Valur defeated Grindavik (3-1 FT), while IA Akranes got rid of Throttur Reykjavik (1-0 FT).

The newly promoted Valur hosted Akranes 3 times in the recent past and 3 times the team from Reykjiavik have been defeated with at least 2 goals margin. Last season IA ended the season at 3rd place in the table and they had a very good awat record (5/3/1). I want to trust the guests and I’ll go for the away win. I’d also try and give Akranes -1 goal (european handicap) since I find the offered odds very valuable.

Valur – IA:
Pick: IA
Odds :2,30
Bookmaker: Stanleybet
Stake: 6/10
Confidence: 6/10

Valur - IA (-1):
Pick: IA
Odds: 6,90
Stake: 1,5/10
Confidence: 6/10

KK_