ARSENAL VS WEST HAM LIVE BETTING TIPS FOR THE FA CUP
We're just a few minutes away from kick-off in what has been an incredible day in the FA Cup- a day sure to live long in the hearts and minds of Leeds United fans as their side rolled back the clock to score one of the biggest cupsets of all time. As a United fan, the loss stings, but you have to look at the bigger picture and realize this is one of the things that makes the FA Cup the most special footballing trophy on the planet.
West Ham will be looking to capture a bit of that giant-killing form as they take on high-flying Arsenal, who look like they can match wits with anybody at the moment. Ladbrokes has listed Arsenal at 1.57 to win their match against 5.5 West Ham. The draw, which would force a replay, pays out at 4.0.
The correct score betting indicates a low-scoring affair with just 1 or 2 goals between the sides. The slimmest-priced selection is 6.5 for a 1-1 draw. This is likely West Ham's best outcome with Arsenal 1-0 and 2-0 commanding a 7.0 price. West Ham to win 1-0 pays 10.0 while 2-0 is a massive 23.0.
Arsenal to win both halves trades at 2.25 while draw/Arsenal is listed at 4.5. The first option looks the value bet for Gunners fans and I wouldn't be afraid of them not scoring in the first half- they seem to be finding the back of the net on a regular basis these days. I think the bookies are too confident of a low-scoring affair and I feel as though the derby atmosphere will make this one open up.
If you're betting live, one of your best bets is always next goalscorer. During the in-play odds, I expect to see Eduardo the cheapest-priced Arsenal player (should he get the start) and you'll find him at around 5.0. See how his marker is picking him up over the first 5 minutes or so and see just how incisive Arsenal look. If West Ham appear to have the better of the Arsenal forward line, I would look to Samir Nasri to notch the first goal- you'll find him at an enticing 9.0 for first goalscorer. He will likely be 7.0 to score next in-play. Jack Wilshere will likely be around 10.0.
Another live betting tip for this fixture is to see how much Arsenal deploy their defenders during set-pieces in the West Ham box. Thomas Vermaelen has an eye for goal and he is 17.0 to score first. William Gallas could also make a difference here and he is well-priced at 21.0.
Remember that Abou Diaby is also in great form at the moment and is 7.0 to score first.
If you can get a quick bet in before the match, Arsenal to win to nil is well-priced at 2.4.
You've got to go with Arsenal here, but today may be another one of those magic FA Cup days. Back West Ham 2-1 (as I think that's the only scoreline that works for them) and then use the in-play wagering at Ladbrokes to stack more value on Arsenal!