[Keith]

Port Vale v Brentford

Time to test my new system

I reckon that this year any away side in CC1 playing on a Monday night in front of the Sky cameras under floodlights will have a very clear advantage.

Think that I am serious? Well its the sort of thing that they write on a well known gambling forum whose name I shall not mention.

Port Vale have done nothing particularly wrong so far this season. They took all 3 points at Southend but were then held to a goaless draw by Gillingham in a game of few chances.

Last season they struggled and were not helped by a number of injuries. They finished 18th but their home form was quite strong (13-2-8) for a team finishing just above the relegation places.

Brentford finished 4th and made the play offs losing to Sheff W. They are my tip at 20/1 to be Champions this year. When I look at whether a team is likely to improve I note where their signings come from. Brentfords in the main come from higher divisions. Although they may be cast offs, the players still have the experience of having played at a higher level and are taking a drop in class.

3 of Brentfords recruits come from Reading and 1 is from Chelsea. They also signed a midfielder from Arsenal but unfortunately he has been struck down with a serious injury.

Brentford have had a perfect start to the season. Two victories and both were by two clear goals. 3-1 at Chesterfield and 2-0 at home to Scunthorpe. Both victims, whilst not expected to be in the running to win the league though, have each won against other sides. (Chesterfield beat Blackpool and Scunthorpe won against Barnsley).

Not one to go overboard with as it is still early days when assessing relative form but I fancy Brentford to win at 7/4 (4pts)