Hibs v Celtic: Betting Preview & Tips

SPL | selectabet | August 29, 2009 at 10:43 pm

Hibs v Celtic
Live on ESPN. Kick off 1.30pm

It’ll be like Friends Re-united at Easter Road today when ex-Hibs boss Tony Mowbray returns to Edinburgh for the first time since he left as the Hibees boss back in 2006 and comes face to face with former Celtic centre-half, John Hughes in the opposing dugout. Mowbray should expect a decent reception from the home fans but I doubt that will extend to his team on the park.

Despite an inept pre-season, Hibs have made a good start to the campaign, although it’s fair to say their two league wins have come against teams likely to fighting a relegation battle this season. Celtic represent a significant step up in quality but the Hibees will not fear a visit from the Hoops. The Glasgow side have won just once in their last 5 visits, losing 3, so I wouldn’t dissuae anyone who fancies the best odds of 5/1 (Expekt, SkyBet) on an in-form Hibs win.

As usual, every game is a must win game for Celtic but whether 7/10 (Canbet) represents good value is debatable. They starte off the season with 3-1 win at Pittodrie – a ground they always do well at - but it was last season’s lamentable away from that handed the SPL trophy to Rangers. The Bhoys dropped 21 points on the road so 7/10 looks a bit on the short side to me.

In a game that could go either way I think the value bet might be in backing the match to finish with Over 2.5 goals. Hibs have scored 8 in three games, whilst Celtic have managed 8 in their opening two league fixtures so there’s plenty of goals in either side. Celtic are also prone to shipping a goal or two on the road too and even lost 2 at home to newly promoted St. Johnstone at home last week. Betfair go 4/5 on the game finishing with more than 2 goals. If you like the thought of that you might also fancy both teams to score, available at a reasonable look 8/11 with Bet365 and Paddy Power.