Gameweek 19 Preview

Bodø/Glimt took another giant step towards securing their first ever title last week, and this week they travelled to Milan for a huge game against AC Milan in Europa League.

Molde and Rosenborg were also in midweek European action and they have to balance those games with another round of league fixtures this weekend. Eight games over the two days, will Vålerenga be the team that can finally stop Glimt in their tracks, and will Aalesund ever win again.

Saturday 26th September

Molde v Sandefjord (Home Win)

The league form of Molde has completely disappeared, as has any chance of a title repeat. They are 16 points behind Glimt now after another defeat, their 6th in the last 9 games. 

Last weekend it wasn't a surprise off of the back of their European exploits, but Vålerenga beat them fairly comfortably, a late goal from Henry Wingo making the scoreline respectable in a 2-1 defeat, although they had played the 2nd half with 10 man after Kitolano was sent off.

Sandefjord played out a tactical affair with Strømsgodset in which they were probably a little lucky to come out with a 0-0 scoreline. It was a poor offensive display from Sandefjord and they will look to offer more this weekend.

Molde played Ferencvaros Wednesday night, fighting back from 2-0 down to lead 3-2, before a late penalty denied them a win. They play the return leg on Tuesday in Hungary, so I'm expecting plenty changes to the team on Saturday.

Molde have the ability to rotate with Brynhildsen, Ulland Andersen, Holmgren Pedersen, Omoijuanfo and Tobias Christensen, so expect to see all of them this weekend. They are all good players and although obviously Erling Moe doesn't see them as first choice right now, they are all capable.

I think being at home, and with the way they fought back on Wednesday night, I can see Molde being good enough to beat Sandefjord, but not as comfortably as they normally would if they didn't have the Champions League games.

Despite their defeats, Molde have still scored in every game this season, so no doubt that will continue here. Sandefjord have won 3 times away from home, but they have lost the other six, and they concede two goals on average on the road.

Molde have won every home game, except one, and they have scored 24 goals in the process, conceding just five. Although in their previous four games, they have failed to score in the first half, so maybe expect them to do their damage in the second half in this one.

Molde have conceded 4+ corners in every game, except two, this season. Sandefjord will be a good price to hit 4+, and given the rotation and fixture list for Molde, it is well worth it. 

Bet Builder: Molde to win 2nd half, 9+ corners in the match (2.33)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Eirik Andersen (2.05), Brynhildsen (2.20) or Gussiås (4.00)

Strømsgodset v Sarpsborg (Draw)

Godset played out that 0-0 draw with Sandefjord last week, they hit the bar and were slightly the better team, but now they are four without a win, and infact it's only two wins in their last ten games as they sit in 12th place in the table.

Sarpsborg won 2-0 at home to beleaguered Mjøndalen, as first half goals from Mos and Halvorsen were enough to give them a comfortable and deserved win. They have jumped up to 8th with their second win on the bounce, although they are only two points ahead of Godset in 12th.

This is a real tough one to pick a winner, two pretty even and inconsistent teams, with pretty different styles. Godset press high and score enough goals at home (15) but concede even more (18). Sarpsborg prefer to hit on the break away from home, as they have only scored 8, so they don't throw bodies forward.

Godset do generally score goals at home, at least two in 5 of their last 7 home games, but they leave themselves open, so both teams to score is quite likely this week. The reverse fixture finished 2-3 in Sarpsborg, two penalties helping the away side.

Last week is only the second time this season a Godset match has had had fewer than two goals in it, so I think we can expect them to return to their mean this weekend.

Sarpsborg beat Aalesund in their last away game, but their three previous were heavy defeats, conceding 3, 5 and 4 respectively.

I think we could see a high scoring draw here, but it is definitely a game in which I won't be surprised by any result, so it is tough to back results.

Corners can be looked at here as well, Godset games have had at least 9 corners in 11 games in a row, Sarpsborg have had at least 9 in 9 of their last 12 games. 

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, 9+ corners (2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Salvesen (2.60), Mos Abdellaoue (2.60) or Heintz (4.33)

Sunday 27th September 

Aalesund v Rosenborg (Away Win)

Aalesund remain cut adrift at the bottom of Eliteserien as they remain on just one win all season. Goals from Nordli and Haugen last time out, only consolations as they shipped five against Viking.

Rosenborg come into this one after an excellent win over Alanyaspor in the Europa League. Anders Konradsen giving them a 1-0 win, and a tie against PSV in the next round.

Last week RBK came from behind to beat Haugesund, second half goals from Islamovic and Hedenstad giving them a narrow 2-1 win.

The away form of Rosenborg is the main worry in this one, winning only one in the previous 5 away fixtures. Although Aalesund obviously are a long way behind, I can see them causing Rosenborg a little bit of trouble in the first half here.

Aalesund have scored in the first half in 12 of their games, compared to only in the second half of 7 games. Add to that the European exploits for Rosenborg, I can see the home side getting a first half goal here.

RBK have scored 65% of their goals in the second half, so they usually take time to get going, and I can imagine it will be similar this week.

They have also scored 2+ in 8 of their previous 10 games, including the last 6 in a row. add to that they hit at least 5 corners almost every week(9 in last 10), you can guarantee RBK will be attacking plenty and we know how vulnerable Aalesund can be, especially to set pieces.

Islamovic is suspended this week, so Børven will be up top on his own, and hitting penalties, so worth a look at him scoring.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, RBK 2+ goals, 9+ match corners (3.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Børven (1.95), Zacahriassen (3.10) or Haugen (4.33)

Haugesund v Odd (Away Win)

Haugesund were the latest team to lose at Lerkendal last week, despite Kristoffer Velde continuing his decent season with his 6th goal.

Odd on the other hand were back to winning ways with a comfortable 2-0 home win over Stabæk. The very impressive Elbasan Rashani got the opener, and the win was confirmed by the evergreen Espen Ruud, continuing to defy his 36 years of age.

Odd have won 7 out of 9 games now, only Molde and Glimt beating them in the current run, and they currently sit level on points with Molde, on 3rd place by their inferior goal difference.

Haugesund lost their last two games, and in fact it is four of the previous six they have lost, as they slip to 11th in the table. They are a decent side, particularly at home, where they have picked up 13 of their 21 points. They have however lost four times, and Odd come here in great form and are the superior team.

Odd have a great midfield 5, they all stand out and that is where they do most of their good work. If they had a top striker I am sure they would win even more games. I think they can win that midfield battle with Haugesund, 

Haugesund have only managed 19 goals all season, so they do struggle to find the net often, although their 27 conceded is the fewest of any team in te bottom half. I don't think it will be a hugely open encounter, but I do think Odd will win.

Haugesund home games average well over 12 corners, so I will be adding corners to the bet builder, at least 9 in eight of their nine home games.

Bet Builder: Odd draw/win double chance and 9+ corners (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet builder: Rashani (3.00), Velde (4.33) or Lunding (4.50)

Kristiansund v Brann (Home Win)

Kristiansund saw off Start last weekend 2-1 in the Kristian derby, as they travelled south to Kristiansand. It was two direct free kicks that gave them the win, Amahl Pellegrino with his right, then Christofer Aasbak with his left.

Brann are really struggling now, early season promise has given way to mediocre displays, and their early season star, Gilbert Koomson has diseappeared on the pitch, and wants to disappear out the club before the end of the month.

Amahl Pellegrino is Kristiansund this season, he is the main candidate to win player of the year outside of half of the Glimt team, as he now sits on 18 league goals. Six games in a row he has scored, so I will be backing him to do so again against a Brann team that has given away 9 goals in 3 games. 

Two wins in 11 games for Brann is really not good enough, and Kristiansund will fancy their chances, having won 6 of their previous 8 games. They also score plenty goals usually, scoring at least two in 7 of their previous 8 games, just 1 against Odd.

Both teams have scored and conceded in 8 of the last 10, so I think it is likely both teams will score, but KBK will get at least one more than their visitors.

KBK sit two points behind 4th and 5th placed teams, Rosenborg and Vålerenga, so they will be out chasing a European spot. Meanwhile Brann sit only two points clear of Strømsgodset in 13th, as they risk being dragged down the league from 10th.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals, Kristiansund to win either half (2.50)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino (2.05), Bye (2.75) or Strand (3.75)

Mjøndalen v Viking (Away Win)

Mjøndalen suffered their 11th defeat in 13 as they were well beaten at Sarpsborg at the weekend as they now find themselves six points behind safety. 

Viking scored five goals for the second consecutive gameweek, putting 5 passed Aalesund in a 5-2 victory. That is 13 goals in three games, as Bytyqi and Berisha continue their excellent form in attack.

This is a game of two teams in completely opposite form, and I find it hard to see how Mjøndalen can stop Viking this weekend. Viking have scored at least two goals in their previous 6 games, and have won four in a row. 

Mjøndalen are in freefall, just two wins in 13, surrounded by those 11 defeats. Even worse reading is the 3 goals scored in the last 9 games. They have managed only 13 goals all season, stark comparison to the 34 scored by Viking.

Viking do concede plenty, 35 in total, but even that doesn't give much hope to Mjøndalen given how poor they are in attack.

I can't understand why Viking are better than evens for this game, and it is worth backing completely. Mjøndalen haven't done a lot well recently. The solid defense they built some decent early results on has disappeared, conceding 12 in their last 4 games.

Viking are up to 7th, and a win this weekend could see them close the gap on teams above them as they continue their push for a return to Europe, after they were beaten by Aberdeen last Thursday.

Bet Builder: Viking 2+ goals, and Viking to win either half (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Bytyqi (3.60), Berisha (2.50) or Ibrahimaj (4.33)

Stabæk v Start (Home win)

Stabæk lost at Odd last weekend 2-0, and they are in a little bit of trouble with one win in the last nine. They sit 7 points clear of Start who sit in that relegation playoff spot, so this week is a big game for both clubs.

Start lost 2-1 at home to Kristiansund, a late Christian Bolanos goal was only a consolation, and now they need to start perofmring better on the road, only two points so far.

Stabæk are very steady at home, 3 wins, draws and defeats as they seem to struggle for consistency. Nine goals for and 10 against in their nine home games tells the story of a team that maybe struggle to open up at home.

Start have scored only 7 goals on the road, so I'm not expecting many goals in this game, although Start have conceded 17 goals in their previous four away games. A quick note though, that includes Glimt, Molde and Kristiansund, the top 3 scorers in the league.

The reverse fixture perhaps unsurprisingly was 0-0, and although I think we will see at least one goal in this one it will be tight. Emil Bohinen is likely to miss out for Stabæk, the midfielder is a big part of play from central midfield. For Start, Eirik Schulze is suspended, so both teams missing crucial players.

At least 8 corners is likely, that has happened in 9 games in a row for Stabæk, and in 10 of the last 12 for Start.

I think Stabæk will get the win here, but it will be very tight and a 0-0 or 1-1 draw would not surprise me come the end of the game Sunday.

Bet Builder: Stabæk to win either half, 8+ corners in the match, 4 or fewer goals in the match (2.60)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Vetlesen (4.33), Skytte (4.33) or Bringaker (3.75)

Bodø/Glimt v Vålerenga (Home Win) 

Glimt were introduced to the rest of Europe on Thursday night with that impressive display in Milan on Thursday. Losing 3-2 at the San Siro, but playing some excellent front foot football, they won many plaudits and deservedly so. Jens Petter Hauge was outstanding, and now the rumour mill is well and truly under way as he could well be on the way out for a lot of money.

Last week they remained unbeaten in the league with a nice 3-1 win against Brann in Bergen. Goals from Hauge, and an excellent double from Philip Zinckernagel takes them on to 14 and 13 goals respectively.

Vålerenga beat Molde at home 2-1, a good display as they remained unbeaten at home. Another goal from Kjartansson was added to by Aron Dønnum as they held on against 10 man Molde. 

This is a tough game for Glimt 3 days after that game in Milan, but they return from that with even more confidence in themselves I'd imagine. They have won every home game this season and Vålerenga will know how tough this is.

The away side have not got a great record, just three wins in nine games, completely different to how good they have looked at home. This long journey to Bodø will not be easy, but I think we will see goals as usual in Glimt games.

Glimt have scored six in their last two home games, but I doubt we will see so many. Their matches have all had at least three goals, something that has happened in all of the last eight Vålerenga games. 

Glimt do concede, and with Vålerenga in scoring form, at least a goal in nine in a row, they should get on the scoresheet, but they only have nine away goals, so it might be tough for them here.

I fancy Glimt to remain unbeaten, and I think they will win again. It might be tough with the Milan game not long ago, but I'm sure they have the energy and quality to create and score chances.

Brunstad Fet is suspended for this one, so we will probably see Solbakken, and it is possible Hauge has a slight injury, so it will be interesting to see how the odds are come kick off.

Bet Builder: Glimt to win either half, both teams to score, over 2.5 goals in the game (2.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Boniface (2.10), Saltnes (3.75) or Kjartansson (2.50)

Eliteserien Bets of the Week

Viking to beat Mjøndalen (2.1) NAP

Odd 0.0 Asian Handicap v Haugesund (1.97) 

Amahl Pellegrino to score v Brann (2.05)

Vålerenga to score in the First Half v Glimt (2.2)

Gameweek 18 Preview

Gameweek 18 in Eliteserien as Glimt continue to remain unbeaten. Four teams come into this gameweek after European games, Molde in particular will likely feel the effects of a trip to Cyprus and 120 minutes of football.

This week all 16 teams are back in action, with two games on Saturday and six games on Sunday, as the battle intensifies for European spots, as well as at the bottom.

Saturday 19th September

Vålerenga v Molde (Home Win)

Normally I'd be backing Molde to get the job done in Oslo against Vålerenga, but three days after a grueling 120 minutes in Cyprus, they travel to Vålerenga for a really tough game. 

The home side remain unbeaten at home this season, and last week the headlines were written by new signing Vidar Kjartansson, who scored a first half hattrick on his return to the club. 

They were 5-1 up at half time Vålerenga, and Brann had no answer for their attacking play. Kjartansson gives them a real finisher up top, something they have been lacking.

Molde come in to this game on a mental high having beaten Qarabag on penalties on Wednesday night. A tough match in the heat of Cyprus, but they have a chance of Champions League football for the first time since 1999, if they can get passed Ferencvaros.

I think given the game on Wednesday, and the fact Vålerenga are unbeaten this season at home, I can see Molde losing this one. They have lost 4 in a row away from home, which is really surprising, but now the league is gone, they can rest some legs and really go for that Champions League spot.

I'm definitely looking at goals here, Vålerenga have scored and conceded in 7 in a row now, Molde have scored in their last 4 away games, even in defeat. 

I think Vålerenga to score in the first half will be a good bet, given how they started the game last week, and that Molde will maybe be feeling the effects of Wednesday night.

Can probably look at corners too, the previous 11 Vålerenga, and 7 Molde games have had at least 8 corners, so something to add it to a bet builder.

The price of the home team has really dropped since Wednesday night, and I think Vålerenga will get the job done here as they push for a European spot themselves.

Bet builder: Both teams to score, Over 2.5 goals, 8+ corners (2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Kjartansson(2.37), Brynhildsen(3.00) or Sahraoui(4.75)

Sarpsborg v Mjøndalen (Home Win)

Sarpsborg got a really good 1-0 win at Aalesund last week despite losing Larsen and Coulibaly in the build up to the game. New man Tobias Heintz, brought in to replace Coulibaly, got on the scoresheet with a calm finish in the first half. He looked very lively and could have had another goal in the second half.

Mjøndalen are in deep trouble as they languish in 15th place in the table, 5 points from safety. Last week was a huge game for them at home to Sandefjord, but they lost 2-0. Markus Nakkim missed a penalty at 0-0 which proved extremely costly, and they have now lost 10 of their last 12 games.

This game is massive again for Mjøndalen, if they lose here they are cut adrift, and it is a game I think will not be one to watch. Two defensive teams that don't score a lot of goals, just 32 between them in the 17 games so far.

Sarpsborg are a decent enough side, and before Glimt came to town two gameweeks ago, they had gone 5 at home without losing. Mjøndalen have picked up 8 points on the road, with their two wins coming at Brann and Aalesund. 

The last time Mjøndalen scored more than 1 goal in a game, was on the 18th of July in a 3-2 defeat, so I can't see them scoring more than one here, if they do at all. Sarpsborg have scored twice at home in four of their nine games, so they aren't exactly prolific.

The reverse fixture at Mjøndalen was 1-0 to the home side, and I think a reverse scoreline could be on the cards here. Mjøndalen have not had a 0-0 since gameweek 1, but plenty of 1-0 and 2-0 score lines.

Bet Builder: Under 3.5 goals, Sarpsborg to win either half (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Heintz(3.60), Jonathon Lindseth(3.60) or Olden Larsen(5.00)

Sunday 20th September

Brann v Bodø/Glimt (Away Win)

Brann are the latest team to try and stop Glimt going unbeaten all season. But they come into this after a 5-1 hammering in Vålerenga, and having dropped to 9th in the table having won only 2 out of 9 games.

Glimt beat Odd 6-1 last weekend, an incredible display had them 4-1 up at the break, despite going behind after 45 seconds. More goals from Hauge, Boniface and Saltnes as they each bagged a brace.

They followed that up with a win in the Europa League, 3-1 over Zalgiris Vilnius, with goals from Zinckernagel, Boniface and Patrick Berg. They now go on to face AC Milan in Milan, which is a huge test for the club and a very exciting tie for the players.

This game comes three days after that Europa League win, but given the game was at home, and nowhere near as draining as Molde's game, I expect they should recover fine. It isn't a big squad they have, but we might see one or two changes, but definitely not the full team.

Last week again Glimt scored in both halves(my NAP of the week), and that makes it 14 of 17 they have done that, scoring in 31 of 34 halves of football.

Brann have only kept one clean sheet at home all season, so they are not likely to be the defense to stop the Glimt train rolling on. Glimt won 5-0 in the reverse fixture, and although I don't see such a hammering again, I can't see Brann winning this one.

Glimt have only kept 4 clean sheets all season, so they do concede, and all 17 of their games have had at least 3 goals in them, so as usual goals is the angle in this game.

At least 9 corners in the game has happened nine in a row for Brann, and seven in a row for Glimt, so worth adding it to the bets.

Bet Builder: over 2.5 goals, both teams to score, 9+ corners (2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Hauge(1.95), Strand(4.00) or Boniface(2.10)

Rosenborg v Haugesund (Home Win)

Rosenborg fought back from 3-1 down at Strømsgodset last weekend to snatch a late draw thanks to an 87th minute Islamovic header. Torgeir Børven also got a goal, as well as a first goal back at RBK for Per Ciljan Skjelbred.

They followed that up with an easy 5-1 away win in Europe at an extremely windy Ventspils in Latvia. The pitch was poor, and the weather awful, but they got the job done nice and easily.

Haugesund were perhaps a little unlucky in losing 2-1 at Stabæk. They should have been ahead in the game, but lost it late on after failing to take a number of chances.

Rosenborg lost the reverse fixture 1-0 at Haugesund, but their home form as been very decent this year despite early season problems. They have won 5 and drawn 3 of their home games, only Glimt managing to beat them at Lerkendal.

Haugesund have picked up 8 of their 21 points on the road, but have managed to score only 6 goals in the 8 games so far, so it is clear where their problem lies.

With some potential tiredness and a few injury doubts, I can actually see Haugesund scoring in this one, but Rosenborg have been scoring plenty goals recently. It is 15 in the last 5 games for the Trondheim club, so expect maybe another 3 here to keep that going.

Haugesund games usually have plenty corners in them with the way they defend the box and attack with plenty crosses. At least 8 corners in 16 games, they average over 11 corners, as do Rosenborg.

I think the home side will win this one, it might take them until the second half to get going, 20 goals in the second half compared to 12 in the first half shows that has been the general story.

Bet Builder: RBK 2+ goals, 9+ match corners (2.07)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Islamovic (2.60), Holse (3.75) or Velde (5.50)

Sandefjord v Strømsgodset (Draw)

Sandefjord got another really impressive win away at Mjøndalen last week, and there was another goal from Sivert Gussiås who continues to look like a good young striker with a big future in Norway, 7 now for the season.

Vidar Jonsson got the other goal as Sandefjord moved four points clear of the relegation playoff spot.

Strømsgodset should have beaten Rosenborg after Lars Jørgen Salvesen and Johan Hove had helped to give them a 3-1 lead. But they only drew which leaves them in 12th place, just above Sandefjord, having won only 2 of their last 9 games.

The goals conceded column is the story for Strømsgodset, 35 in 17 games, the second worst in the league, and Sandefjord having scored in 10 of their previous 11 games will fancy their chances to do so again here.

This game finished 3-4 at Godset in a thrilling contest, and lets hope for more of the same. Goals are expected from both teams, Sandefjord themselves getting only their third clean sheet of the season last week.

Neither of these teams have had a 0-0 draw yet this season, so we shouldn't expect a tight game.(have I jinxed it?) 

It could be a competitive game, both teams like a card, and I'd be looking at the likely event of at least a couple cards each in this one.

It is hard to call this one, any result with goals in it wouldn't surprise me. The only thing that would surprise me is a low scoring game with few chances.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals (1.90)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Salvesen(2.75), Gussiås(2.87) or Celorrio (3.20)

Start v Kristiansund (Draw)

Start are still fighting to get out of the relegation playoff spot, and it is their home form that will give them the chance to do it. They had a free week last week, so it has been 3 weeks since their last game, that crucial 1-0 win over Aalesund.

Kristiansund were on the wrong end of an 8 goal thriller with Viking last weekend. Despite that there was another two goals from Amahl Pellegrino, taking him on to 17 goals for the season and well clear at the top of the race to become top scorer.

Start have managed to win their previous three home games, and are unbeaten in six at home now. That has been crucial as they have picked up 13 of their 15 points in the Sør Arena.

KBK are a good away side though, picking up13 points on the road, the joint second highest total in the table, obviously behind Glimt. They counter attack pretty well, doing so effectively in recent wins at Sandefjord and Viking. 

The pace of Pellegrino could well be a problem for Start, especially if they open up. They need to win so I expect they will leave some gaps at the back. KBK have scored in 15 of 17 games, so I expect they will do so again.

They have also conceded in 14 of 17, so although I maybe don't see loads of goals, I can see at least 1 each. Kevin Kabran is suspended for Start in this one, and they will miss his creativity however. 

The reverse fixture was won 3-2, Pellegrino, Bye and Coly scoring, but I'd be surprised if it is quite as high scoring this time.

Hard to find an angle in this game for betting as corners is pretty inconsistent for both, and unsure if Start will really open up, especially in the first half.

Again a game I can see any result happening, KBK chasing European spots, Start looking to get closer to the teams above them, this could go anywhere.

Bet Builder: 4 or fewer goals in the game, Both teams to score (2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino(2.20), Skålevik(2.50) or Bye(3.00)

Viking v Aalesund (Home Win)

Viking were dumped out of Europe on Thursday night by Aberdeen as they lost 2-0 on their home patch. It was a disappointing result in what was a fairly even game in which both sides missed chances.

They had scored five at the weekend against Kristiansund, Veton Berisha continuing his great form, 8 in the last 6 games now. Zymer Bytyqi and Ibrahimaj are both playing well too and they should manage some goals this weekend.

Aalesund lost their second consecutive 1-0 under new management, although they were a touch unlucky, twice hitting the woodwork. Also there was bad news as top scorer Fridjonsson was injured early on, he probably should have scored but he has rolled his ankle from the challenge during the chance, and will miss out this weekend.

Viking have won three in a row, five unbeaten, to take them up to 8th in the table as they look to challenge the top six. A win here is pretty likely, despite the three days rest, but they have to be wary of Aalesund on the break.

One thing I do like potentially is Aalesund to score in the first half. They score 66% of their goals in the first half, and maybe Viking will have a slight Europa League hangover.

Fifteen goals in five games for Viking, they can expect to add to it here against a team that has conceded in every game this season, 48 in total. They do look more solid, but they still give up chances with individual mistakes.

Viking do concede plenty, nearly two a game on average, so I can see Aalesund creating chances, but without their main striker someone else will have to score for a change. That means this is likely to end in a home win.

Bet Builder: Aalesund to score in FH, Both teams to score (2.40)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Berisha (1.95), Haugen (3.60) or Bytyqi (2.75)

Odd v Stabæk (Home Win) 

Odd were embarrassed by Glimt last week, but they weren't the first, and won't be the last this season. In general Odd have been excellent, only Glimt and Molde have stopped them winning in their last eight games.

Stabæk picked up that great win over Haugesund, a fantastic curling winner from Darren Maatsen, his first for the club after injury issues have stopped him so far this season. Captain Andreas Hanche-Olsen celebrated his national team call up by scoring, then scoring at the wrong end, but Maatsen got 3 points to lift Stabæk to 7th in the table.

Odd have won 5 in a row at home, including 6-1 last time out against Mjøndalen. They have a nice fluidity about their attack with Kitolano, Kaasa, Lunding and Rashani all good ball players. Bakenga has picked up a few goals too as they try to take second place from Molde, currently three points back.

Stabæk have only won twice on the road, but they have only lost twice as well, the draw specialists of the league picking up 10 points from the 8 games.

Odd's last four home wins have produced plenty goals, as they have scored and conceded in all four of them, but the reverse fixture in this game was 0-1, so it is the only doubt I have regarding goals.

I like both teams offensively, and I am sure Odd will be looking to bounce back with a good win. I do think there will be goals, Stabæk have scored in 7 of 8 away games, and they counter attack pretty well.

I think Odd will get a win here, but hopefully it is a really good game to end the weekend. One other thing of note is Stabæk have hit 4+ corners in 7 of their last 8 games, and are 1.90 to do so again.

Bet Builder: Over 2.5 goals, Odd to win either half (2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Bakenga (2.20), Lunding(3.75) or Maatsen (4.75)

Eliteserien Bets of the Week

Last week saw me get my NAP right for the 4th week in a row, and also nail 5 of the 7 Bet Builders, all valued at over even money. So lets hope for more of the same!

Glimt to score in BH (1.90) NAP

Over 3.0 goals on Asian Goal line Sandefjord v Strømsgodset (2.05)

Stabæk to hit 4+ corners (1.90)

Division one bets I like

Åsane -1 to beat Øygarden (2.2)

Sandnes ULF Draw or Win Double Chance v Tromsø (1.90)

Gameweek 17 Preview

Eliteserien is back this weekend after the international break, with seven fixtures taking place over the weekend. Molde and Start have a free weekend as everyone else plays the fixture they have in hand over those two.

Molde travel to Qarabag in Azerbaijan during the week for a Champions League qualifier, so this gives Glimt a chance to extend their lead at the top to 13 points.

With transfer windows open throughout Europe still, Eliteserien has been getting picked apart a little with some top young players leaving for clubs all over the continent. Will mention that in the individual game previews.

With Glimt still unbeaten after 16 games and looking like nailed on title winners, can they not only win their first ever title, but do it without losing a single game?

Saturday 12th September

Kristiansund v Viking (Home Win)

Kristiansund picked up an excellent 2-0 win on the road against Sandefjord in the last game week. Absolutely no prizes for guessing the goalscorer, as Amahl Pellegrino picked up another two goals, taking him on to 15 goals in the 15 games he has played this season, four clear of the Glimt attacking trio now.

There was also news of a professional contract for Noah Solskjær, son of Ole Gunnar, who signed a one year deal with KBK just this week.

In gameweek 16 the surprise of the week came in Stavanger as Viking beat Molde 3-2. In a really entertaining encounter Viking were clinical with their chances, goals from Berisha, Ibrahimaj and Torsteinbø giving them a much needed win as they moved up to 10th in the table.

Unfortunately this week it looks like they will be without left back Adrian Pereira, who looks set to sign for PAOK in Greece. I wrote about Viking in a piece on here and mentioned how important Pereira and Bytyqi linking up has been to Viking tactically, but the 21 year old looks set to move on for 12 million NOK.

This game though should be a really open and good game for the neutral. There is 57 goals scored between them so far in the 16 games, so we should definitely be expecting a game with plenty goals. When they met in Stavanger on the 2nd of August it was 1-2 to the away side, and Kristiansund will be hoping they can continue what has been a really impressive run of form.

The home side have won 5 out of their last 6 games, only losing once in 8 games, a 2-1 reverse against Odd, as they have jumped up to 5th in the table, hot on the heels of Rosenborg and Odd.

I personally think Kristiansund could get the win at home, they have only lost once at home this season, and Viking have only won twice on the road. I'm definitely not expecting either side to be keeping a clean sheet. Both teams have only three this season, so both teams to score very likely here, as well as plenty goals.

Pellegrino has scored 7 in the last 6 games, and scored for four games running too, so no doubt he will be looking to continue that run against a team that has conceded 30 goals this season. Viking themselves have scored 10 in their last four games, so they are in very good goalscoring form.

I won't be surprised by a win either way in this one, but if there isn't goals in it, it would be a real shock. Also in matches involving both teams, there is an average of over 11 corners, with at least 9 coming in all of the previous 10 Viking fixtures.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals, 9+ match corners (2.20)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino (2.05), Berisha (2.62), Bytyqi (4.00)

Stabæk v Haugesund (Draw)

Stabæk come into this one having not won in 7 games, and after dropping into the bottom half of the table. They did manage a respectable 2-2 draw at Rosenborg last time out, coming from behind twice to salvage a point. 

Goals from one of my favourites, Hugo Vetlesen, and a late equaliser from Oliver Edvardsen will hopefully spark this young team on to winning a game. They had switched to a 4-4-2 for this game, and the goal threat of Vetlesen and Edvardsen was helped by the two strikers, Kinoshita and Botheim, occupying defenders.

There was also news on the international front, as defender and captain Andreas Hanche-Olsen was called up to the national team for the first time, although didn't manage to get on against Northern Ireland.

Haugesund played one of their best games of the season last time out beating Vålerenga at home 2-1. Another of my favourites, Kristoffer Velde, curled in a beautiful effort to give them the lead, and Ibrahima Wadji scored in his second consecutive game, heading in a Mikkel Dessler cross.

This game is really tough to pick a winner, and it could be a low scoring affair too. Stabæk have scored a measly 7 goals at home in 8 games, and Haugesund have only managed 5 away from home. It doesn't make for a high scoring affair.

The reverse fixture finished 3-1 in Haugesund, so maybe when they play against each other it is slightly different, but I won't be betting on goals.

Haugesund have failed to score in 4 of 7 away fixtures, while Stabæk have failed in 4 of 8 home fixtures. Unfortunately for Haugesund, Velde is suspended for this one after a fourth booking last time out, and they will miss his energy, aggression and goals threat from the left hand side.

Haugesund have won two in a row to lift them just above Stabæk, but this game I can't pick a winner, so I won't. Stabæk have 7 draws, the most in the league so far, and I would almost be tempted to back to draw at a good price.

Bet Builder: Under 3.5 goals, 9+ corners (2.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Wadji (2.75), Vetlesen (5.00), Edvardsen (2.87)

Sunday 13th September

Aalesund v Sarpsborg (Home Win)

Aalesund under new manager Lars Arne Nielsen lost out narrowly 1-0 to Start in his first game in charge, and he will be desperate to get a first win to try and breathe some life into the bottom of the table club.

Sarpsborg have had a terrible two weeks, first losing 3-0 at home to Bodø/Glimt, then losing probably their two best young players this week. Jørgen Strand Larsen, off the back of a hattrick for the under 21 side, has signed for Groningen in the Netherlands.

Possibly even worse news for the team is Ismaila Coulibaly leaving to join Belgian club K Beerschot VA. Coulibaly has been a revelation this season, the teenager has broken onto the scene and looked a really classy player, controlling games from midfield. He will be hard to replace, as will the hold up play and general striking ability of Strand Larsen.

Admittedly the money for both players will help the club, but they will be missed on the pitch.

It is for this reason I fancy Aalesund to get a win this week, as striker Holmbert Fridjonsson, fresh off a goal against Belgium for Iceland in the week, is still at the club to do the business for them, although there is still plenty interest, particularly from Italy.

One win all season for Aalesund which came against Start, but Sarpsborg have lost their last two games by 3 goals, and now with holes in their team, Aalesund have to go and try and win this game.

The new manager will certainly tighten up the defense, but they need to remain a threat at the other end, they have scored in every home game this season and should be doing so again here.

Sarpsborg have lost 5 of 7 on the road, with only one win, so they are poor away from home, and it is a long trip to Aalesund for them. It is difficult to look at goals in this game with the new manager at Aalesund, and with two goal threats for Sarpsborg away, so despite the history of Aalesund this season, I will avoid that.

Bet Builder: Aalesund win/draw double chance, 11 or fewer corners in the match (2.04)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Fridjonsson (2.20), Castro (2.50) or Mos Abdellaoue (2.37)

Bodø/Glimt v Odd (Home Win) 

A 13 point lead for beating Odd is the prize for the Glimt machine as they look to remain perfect at home. Last time out they beat Sarpsborg 3-0, two goals from Philip Zinckernagel, and a penalty goal for Hauge giving them an easy win in the end.

That is 11 goals a piece for the wingers as they join Junker on that number. 33 goals between 3 players, impressive stuff.

Odd were in scintillating form themselves, carving open Mjøndalen time and time again, scoring six in a 6-1 victory. Defender Espen Ruud bagged himself a couple, as did Mushaga Bakenga, all in the first half. In the second half their goals were added to by Elbasan Rashani, and finally by Birk Risa as Mjøndalen collapsed.

Odd have won 6 of their last 7 games, defeat coming at Molde two games ago, as they look to nail down third place in the league.

It should be a very interesting game this one, both teams scoring goals and creating plenty chances, two exciting teams. Kasper Junker may well return for Glimt up top, although Boniface has done well as his replacement recently.

I can't see past Glimt in this one again, although I can definitely see Odd getting a goal and making the game interesting. The away side generally keep it tight on the road, just six conceded in seven games so far. 

The reverse fixture however saw Glimt win 0-4, Espen Ruud was sent off in the 15th minute though, so not a fair reflection of the teams.

I think we can back goals here, probably for both sides, and as I did last time, I will be backing Glimt to score in both halves, as they did again in Sarpsborg. 29 out of 32 halves of football they have scored, so it looks like a good bet to me.

Odd corners might be worth backing, they have hit 5 or more in every away game except one in a bad display at Sarpsborg.

Bet Builder: Glimt to score in Both Halves, Both teams to score (2.60)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Zinckernagel (2.00), Saltnes (3.50), Bakenga (3.25)

Mjøndalen v Sandefjord (Draw)

Mjøndalen come into this off the back of that horrendous display at Odd, and find themselves 15th in the table now behind Start. Those two 1-0 wins they had in August now look a little bit of an outlier, as they have lost 9 games in their last 11.

Sandefjord sit 13th after their defeat at home to Kristiansund, it was the first time they have failed to score in a game since the 5th of July, so they will be hoping it is a one off,

This game is unlikely to produce many goals, I think Mjøndalen could play far more defensively after the way Odd ripped them to pieces and given they are the lowest scoring side in the league with only 13 goals, there won't be many at the other end.

Mjøndalen are in big trouble this season, they are hardly scoring, and early season defensive strength is gone, no doubt the pressure of having to keep clean sheets has caught up with them.

The reverse fixture ended 1-0 to Sandefjord, and I can see this game being another one with either no goals or one goal. It is hard to pick a winner with both sides having plenty weaknesses, although Sandefjord have looked likely to score goals, which will worry Mjøndalen.

Deyver Vega has signed for Sandefjord from Vålerenga. The Costa Rican didn't get going in Oslo, but maybe a new home can help the winger find his best form.

It is hard to find betting angles in this one, although I can see Sandefjord grabbing at least 1 goals, given they had scored in 9 games in a row before last week.

Bet Builder: Sandefjord to score 1+ goals, Under 3.5 goals in the match (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Gussiås (3.40), Brochmann (3.40) or Celorrio (3.75)

Strømsgodset v Rosenborg (Draw)

Godset drew 1-1 away at Brann last time out, 20 year old midfielder Johan Hove grabbing the goal after they had fallen behind in the first half. Officially the youngest team in the league so far this season  averaging under 25 years of age, Godset have had issues defensively in particular this season, conceding 2 goals a game on average.

Rosenborg will be playing their first game under new manager Åge Hareide this week, looking to jump Odd in the league and move into 3rd place. Last time out RBK were disappointed to draw with Stabæk, Tagseth and then a Børven penalty had twice given them the lead, but they couldn't hold on.

I think this game should produce plenty goals, RBK won the reverse fixture 3-0, and this fixture in November last season produced a 3-3 classic. I think more of the same will happen, with both teams scoring and a nice open high pressing game.

Godset have conceded 32 goals this season, scoring 23, and RBK have scored 12 goals in their previous 4 games combined, so if there is a clean sheet here I'd be surprised.

RBK have tried to sort their left back issues out with the signing of Pa Konate from Jonkopings in Sweden, the 26 year old Swedish born, Guinean international(and Swedish before that) will be a natural option for them in that position.

Helland looks likely to miss out in this game, and I think that helps as Carlo Holse will play on the right wing where he has looked his most dangerous recently. 

If I had to pick a winner I would probably go for the away side, but they have only 3 wins on the road and so could well be more likely a scoring draw.

Also will be looking for at least 8 corners. That has happened in all but one Godset game, and all but two Rosenborg games.

Another thing to note is Børven is now on RBK penalties, so worth having him on to score in this one as RBK spend plenty time in the opposition box.

Bet Builder: over 2.5 goals, Both teams to score and 8+ match corners (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Børven (2.00), Mawa (3.20) or Holse (3.75)

Vålerenga v Brann (Home Win)

Vålerenga were really poor last time out against Haugesund, and they have gone into the transfer market to try and fix that. 

First in the door was Vidar Örn Kjartansson, the striker who scored 7 in 15 for Hammarby in Allsvenskan last year, joins from Rostov in Russia. He scored 25 in 29 games back in 2014 for Vålerenga, so the 30 year old will be looking for more of that form on his return.

He has been a regular scorer in Israel with Maccabi Tel Aviv, as well as at Malmö in Sweden, so he looks like a really good signing.

Also coming in is Henrik Bjørdal from Zulte Waregem in Belgium. The former Aalesund midfielder, and Norwegian U21 international is coming back to Norway, and at 23 years old has plenty experience from abroad already as he looks to show what he can do in Vålerenga.

Unfortunately it looks like Aron Dønnum could be on his way out the door, with Lecce looking the most likely destination. His replacement could well be former Odd star, Rafik Zekhnini, but that has not been settled yet.

Brann meanwhile haven't improved the squad and it will be up to new man Kåre Ingebritsen to move them up the table. 

Brann have a much better away record than home record, taking 13 of their 22 points on the road. But Vålerenga are unbeaten at home this season, including a recent draw with Bodø/Glimt. 

I like the business Vålerenga have done in the window, they needed a goalscorer and it looks like they have him. They were also short of a quality midfielder, so that should be fixed too. 

I fancy them to beat Brann, like they did in Bergen on the 1st of August, 1-2. I think it will be a close game, but Vålerenga have that bit of extra quality. 

Vålerenga have scored in every home game this season and at least 2 in all but 1 of them, and Brann have scored in 6 of 8 away games, so I fancy both teams to get a goal But a 2-1 or 3-1 for the home side looks the most likely to me.

Away from home, Brann have had a tendency to defend their box, and concede plenty corners, so I will probably be looking at Vålerenga corners too.

Bet Builder: Vålerenga 2+ goals, Vålerenga to win either half (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Finne (2.40), Kjartansson (2.10) or Taylor (3.75)

Bets for Eliteserien this Weekend

Glimt to score in both Halves 1.90 NAP

Aalesund to win (draw no Bet) 2.10

Vålerenga to win/draw double chance and BTTS v Brann 1.95

Amahl Pellegrino to score against Viking (2.00)

A tactical look at Viking FK

As a Scot living in Norway, I was very excited to see Viking been drawn against Aberdeen in the Europa League Qualifiers this week. 

I have watched a lot of football in Norway this year, including plenty of Viking games, and I think it will be a really tough game for Aberdeen in Stavanger.

It's a tough draw for Viking too though, and it will likely be an even game. But I thought since there are no games this week in Eliteserien, I would take a look at tactically how Viking line up, what they try and do offensively and how they work as a defensive unit.

In short, what should Aberdeen be prepared for, and where can they get at them.

Viking Lineup

This is the way Viking have lined up in the last two games. Joe Bell played holding midfield for most of the games this season, but he has lost his place the last two weeks, maybe just to freshen things up in midfield.

Torsteinbø who played the majority of games at right back has moved in to midfield, and now Løkberg who played right of the centre 3, is in the middle.

The main reason for all of these shifts is due to the return of Yann Erik de Lanlay on the right of the front three. That has meant that Ibrahimaj has dropped into the midfield 3, and probably leaves the right hand side of the pitch a little more exposed defensively. 

Putting Vevatne at right back means he is not really going forward, basically leaving a back 3 when attacking.

This inevitably creates a slight imbalance in the attacking shape of the side, and means Viking attack down the left hand side far more than the right.

There are two or three possible changes to this team for when Aberdeen visit. 

1. Central defender Runar Hove is usually a regular but has missed the last two and a half months with an injury. He could come back over the international break, and would likely replace Axel Andresson. 

2. Joe Bell could go back in to the holding midfield role. It makes a big difference when he plays to the style. All the recycled play goes through him, as he looks to start attacks by getting the ball in to wide areas. He is always wanting to get on the ball, something Løkberg doesn't do so much of.

3. It is possible they might rotate a little, with guys like Even Østensen and Tommy Høiland both needing games in attack, but they would weaken the side a little. 

Style of Play - Offense

Left Hand Side Attacks

No doubt Viking do most of their good work on the front foot, they have scored 24 goals and conceded 30 in the 16 league games so far this season. A lot of that is to do with Zymer Bytyqi, Veton Berisha and Ylldren Ibrahimaj. 

De Lanlay coming back from injury means Ibrahimaj is a little deeper, and in recent weeks most of the attacking has been done down the left hands side. 

Often how it works is Zymer Bytyqi drops in to a wide area, right on the touchline where is is found by one of the midfielder.

At this point left back Adrian Pereira is free to attack, and does very little of the conventional overlapping, instead often underlaps Bytyqi due to his position on the touchline. Pereira has just turned 21, has so much energy to get up in attack and does it the full game, often finding himself in crossing areas from quite far in, even in the box in shooting positions. 

The pair combine very well, Bytyqi cuts in on his right, and Pereira with his runs beyond often drags defenders away. It gives Byyqi the crossing option, or if the defenders don't follow the run, the passing option to Pereira.

Another thing that happens quite a lot in this situation is Berisha or Ibrahimaj gets involved in a triangle, and Bytyqi will look for the pass and Pereira becomes a third man running in behind.

Bytyqi has the pace to get down the outside, so leave him one on one, and he can go both ways, can cross with both feet, and is very hard to defend against. For me he is the best player at Viking and one that needs to be handled very carefully. He can also cut in and shoot, something he looks to do around the area, he has scored goals from this this season.

Bytyqi has 5 assists, Pereira 3, so a third of the goals are assisted directly from their play. Pereira also has two goals, Bytyqi 5, showing how important these two are to the team.

As buildup is happening they flood the box, Torsteinbø, De Lanlay and Ibrahimaj join Berisha in the box, and Løkberg as well is never far away. They certainly commit numbers in attack which can leave them a little vulnerable to the counter.

Right Hand Side Attacks

The right hand side is very different, with Vevatne at right back not getting forward nearly as much as Pereira. He does back up De Lanlay on that side, but the main attacking combination comes from De Lanlay and Ibrahimaj together, with Vevatne sometimes crossing from deeper.

Often the right hand side isn't creating much, instead they recycle the ball quickly as they can over to the left hand side to create space for that side, it is a very lopsided attack, not much goes down that right. 

However, brahimaj has a great left foot, and if you give him space in advanced areas he will pick out through balls or cross to Berisha or Torsteinbø creeping round the back. He likes to bounce passes off of Berisha too, who is a strong link player.

Also De Lanlay is just coming back from injury and will be getting fitter every week. He can go both ways as well, and when Ibrahimaj goes round him on an overlap it can leave space for either of them. 

Other things of note

Viking do look to play out from the back, particularly through the full backs, but if they are pressed high they won't try anything silly. Torsteinbø becomes a target for long balls high on the left hand side, he wins his fair share of flick ons for Berisha and Bytyqi to work off of.

Berisha has really found his form in August, scoring 6 goals and looking far better than at any stage in 2019 with Brann. He is short but really strong and stocky player, but also is willing to break in behind when the option is there.

He is at his best when backing in to defenders and laying passes off one or two touch, then getting in to the box. He is a decent finisher, and knows how to find space for himself in the box. 

Viking transition pretty quickly to attack when they win it back, often it is fired in to Berisha who can lay it off and the back up players look for Bytyqi in behind. If the line is high, Berisha will go in behind as well and look to stretch play.

Defense

This is how they set up defensively when they are not pressing high:

Defense has been the big issue for Viking this year, and they do lose a lot of goals, particularly in transition. They also press really high and aggressively, which can leave them vulnerable to direct balls.

The defense don't quite get up high enough, so dropping balls in to strikers is fairly easy, and you can set up attacks from there.

Adrian Pereira who we talked about in an attacking sense, presses very aggressively on the wide man, leaving huge spaces in behind him. It either leaves the central defender heavily exposed, or gives Løkberg or Torsteinbø a really tough task of covering for him.

Pereira doesn't particularly cover in far enough either in general play, I think it is a real weakness defensively the left hand side. He is great going forward, but needs to work on his defensive work having just turned 21.

In transition Viking try and press high and quickly. This is where they are at their most vulnerable because they lose a little bit of shape. Especially when Løkberg plays and not Joe Bell. Bell is far less likely to go pressing a harrying up the pitch, but Løkberg is naturally good at it, and can't help himself. 

Sometimes this leaves big gaps between midfield and defense that can be exploited. Nodody is particularly lazy in the side, but Ibrahimaj, Berisha, Bytyqi and de Lanlay don't quite have the intensity of Torsteinbø and Løkberg when pressing, so you can play round them, and if you have a striker to hold up play you can get the ball into him and quickly transition in to attack against them.

I also think they are a little bit vulnerable from set pieces and cross balls. They play a zone marking system on corners, but they don't have a lot of height in the side which is an issue, and goalkeeper Østbø doesn't really command his box. He is a decent shot stopper, but not commanding.

Heggheim is only 19, and Andresson is 22, they lack experience, and Heggheim definitely lacks a little bit of aggression for me.

Conclusion

Viking can be hurt with quick transitions, in particular in behind left back Pereira.

Also plenty cross balls, they lack height and aggression in defending the box, so that can be exploited.

The left hand side of the attack is where the magic happens. Bytyqi, and Pereira are a great partnership, and both are capable of telling crosses.

They cross the ball and flood the box when given an opportunity. Be prepared to defend crossed balls.

In defensive transition, be aware Berisha is often the first target in to his feet for them to quickly move upfield. Bytyqi likes to go in behind on transition quickly too.

Nearly all long balls from the keeper are aimed at Torsteinbø in the left wing area, be prepared to defend that.

Ibrahimaj has a great left foot, don't leave him room on his left hand side to pick out passes and crosses, he can do it all day.

Viking work very hard, that has to be matched, because if they have a lot of possession they will create chances.

There is no doubt in my mind Aberdeen can come to Stavanger and win, but Viking have plenty tools to hurt them, this will not be an easy game. 

Viking currently sit 10th, but they are far better than that, and if they are underestimated at all by Aberdeen, they will not beat them.

Gameweek 16 Preview

Eliteserien rolls onto the second half of the season as teams come up against others they have met already this season. Molde, Glimt and Rosenborg will come into this week off the back of a European game, and there will be a new manager in the dugout for Aalesund after Lars Bohinen was let go.

This weekend sees two games on Saturday and six on Sunday before a free weekend next week due to international fixtures.

Saturday 29th August

Haugesund v Vålerenga (Draw)

Haugesund picked up a nice win away at Aalesund last week, eventually running out 3-1 winners. They were behind in the first half, but a first goal of the season for Ibrahima Wadji after his doping suspension, was followed up by a Niklas Sandberg double. The first was from the spot, the second a quality curling finish from 20 yards.

Vålerenga got a 2-1 win at home to Sandefjord, leaving it very late with two goals in the last 10 minutes from an unlikely source. It was Bård Finne who got them both, but the surprise was that both were with his head. It was deserved in fairness, the second one a really excellent Aron Dønnum cross setting him up for a glancing header. 

The reverse fixture saw Vålerenga win 1-0 in July, and I think we can expect another tight game here with probably not many goals. Haugesund are the second lowest scoring team in the league averaging a goal a game, Vålerenga have 21 from their 15 games, but away from home it is only 8 from 8.

It is hard to predict a winner here, but the form of Sandberg last time out is a real bonus for Haugesund. One thing that has been quite consistent is they attack at home and win plenty corners. At least 6 in the previous 7 home games, so maybe something to look at.

It isn't a game you can bet on goals, or a result really, so have to find value elsewhere. Vålerenga have had two yellow cards in 13 of 15 games, so maybe something to bet on there.

It is one I'll avoid, but there is value in Vålerenga to win, draw no bet at better than evens. They have lost 3 games this season, and are a better side than Haugesund. They are used to playing on grass, and the 3 games they have lost this season, at Molde, Start and Odd, have all been on artificial surfaces. 

Also, Vålerenga have failed to score in only 1 game this season, so expect them to get at least one here.

Bet Builder: Vålerenga to score and under 3.5 goals in the match (2.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Sandberg(3.10), Finne(2.87) or Stokke(3.10)

Brann v Strømsgodset (Home Win)

Monday night saw Brann pick up a really good win away at Stabæk, although they rode their luck a little with the hosts hitting the woodwork twice. Robert Taylor opened the scoring after Bamba had hit the post, but Bamba ended his goal drought in a last minute breakaway, scoring for the first time since gameweek 3.

Godset lost at home to Viking 2-0 and in truth it was a pretty poor display as they struggle with consistency. They have won only 5 times this season and find themselves in 10th place. They did beat Brann 3-1 in the reverse fixture, but this will be tougher for them in Bergen.

Kåre Ingebritsen will take his place on the Brann bench for the first time on Saturday, looking to improve on the home form that has seen them win only 2 of their 7 home games so far this season.

Brann haven't won at home since the 12th of July, so they really need to be putting that right with a win this weekend. Bamba scoring is a huge boost, he has missed a lot of good chances this year, so a goal should help his confidence and I expect he could go on a nice run now. 

One thing with Godset is you can almost guarantee goals. 14 of their games have had at least 2 goals, and 8 of the last 10 games there have been at least 3. They had been on a good scoring run before last week, so expecting them to get at least one here.

In terms of corners, the last 6 games for both these teams have gone for 9 or more corners, so will likely add that to the bet builder. This is two teams that prefer to be on the attack, and they both have pace in wide areas and get plenty crosses in.

If i had to choose I'd fancy Brann to win, but their price is far too short, and no result would surprise me here.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and 9+ corners in the match (2.21)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Bamba (2.10), Mawa (3.40) or Taylor (2.75)

Sunday 30th August 

Odd v Mjøndalen (Home Win)

Odd will be disappointed to have lost out to Molde last week, they played pretty well and felt aggrieved with some decisions that went against them, eventually losing out 2-0. They still sit nicely in third place and will be looking to bounce back this weekend.

Mjøndalen continue to find themselves in a bit of trouble, well beaten by Rosenborg last weekend 2-0, they currently sit in the relegation playoff spot. The real problem is 12 goals scored in 15 games, they can't seem to break teams down at all.

Odd won the reverse fixture 2-0 at Mjøndalen, and I fancy them pretty strongly to get the job done again this weekend. The away side have only kept 1 clean sheet in the previous 13 games, so with that added to the fact they struggle to score, it is unlikely Mjøndalen can get something out of this game.

Odd have won 4 in a row at home, including against Brann, Rosenborg and Kristiansund, all top half teams. It isn't a game i think there will be many goals with the way Mjøndalen generally set up, and despite Odd being on a great run, they have only scored more than 2 goals in one of the last 12 games.

One plus for Mjøndalen this year has been keeper Sosha Makani, 3 penalty saves this season as well as some really crucial saves. Two mistakes at the weekend though against RBK, he did have a penalty save, but will need to be more solid this week if they are to have any chance.

Bet Builder: Odd to Win, Under 4.5 Goals (2.00)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Lunding (3.50), Hoff (6.00) or Bakenga (2.25)

Rosenborg v Stabæk (Home Win)

Rosenborg come into this one on the back of a comfortable win in Europe against Icelandic club Breidablik. They also are coming in off a solid 2-0 win away a Mjøndalen which could have easily been more comfortable than it was. 

Home form is strong for Rosenborg, they have won 5 in a row at Lerkendal, only Glimt have beaten them there this season as well. It has been 16 goals in those 5 games scored, and only 4 against, as they have slowly sneaked up the table and sit just one point behind Odd.

Stabæk are on opposite form having not won for 6 games now. They lost 2-0 at home to Brann on Monday night, and although it was maybe a little unlucky as they hit the woodwork twice, once at 0-0 and once at 0-1. So the result could have been different, but 6 without a win is worrying, as although they sit 8th, they are only 6 points ahead of 15th placed Start.

I fancy Rosenborg strongly in this one and expect them to score at least two goals doing it, something they have done in those 5 previous home games. Stabæk on the road have won twice at Aalesund and Kristiansund, but this will be their toughest away game to date.

The reverse fixture was a windy evening at Stabæk in which Rosenborg won 3-0 with three second half goals. That was the start of the pick up in form for the Trondheim side who have climbed the table under Henriksen, and soon will have Åge Hareide in the dugout as he takes over next week.

I'm quite tempted to look at Stabæk to hit at least 4 corners for better than even money. They have hit at least 4 in 7 of the last 9 games, RBK conceded at least 4 in 6 of the the previous 9. 

Also there have been at least 8 corners in 12 of 15 RBK games, and 13 of 15 Stabæk games, so two decent attacking teams should provide plenty.

Bet Builder: RBK to win, RBK to score 2+ goals, 8+ corners in the match (2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Børven (1.95), Zacahriassen (3.10) or Edvardsen (3.40)

Sandefjord v Kristiansund (Draw)

Sandefjord have picked up some good results recently, and although they sit in 13th place in the league, they are only two points off the top half of the table and will fancy their chances of staying up this season.

Last weekend they were beaten 2-1 at Vålerenga, the two late goals a real tough one to take after they had held on to the lead for so long, a lead given to them by Sivert Gussiås who now has 6 goals to his name.

Sadly for Sandefjord, left back Anton Kralj, a real creative outlet and quality player, looks likely to miss the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Kristiansund beat Sarpsborg 4-1 in a really good display, and they have found form themselves, four wins in the last five has taken them up to 6th in the table just behind Vålerenga. There was two more goals for top man Amahl Pellegrino, but the highlight of the day was a first ever senior goal for 16 year old Oskar Sivertsen on his debut. 

This is a real tough one to call, Sandefjord at home have beaten Molde, Mjøndalen and Aalesund recently, and they gave Glimt a real scare, who only survived for a 2-1 win. One thing to look for here is goals. 

Sandefjord have scored in 9 games in a row now, they are far more attacking than they had been early in the season. Add to that the fact Kristiansund have scored and conceded in 13 of the 15 games this season, it suggests we should see both teams scoring here.

Both teams previous 5 games have had at least 3 goals, including 5 games ago when these two met in Kristiansund, and the home side ended up 3-1 winners despite going in at half time 1-0 down.

It's a really hard one to call, maybe just give KBK the edge, but Sandejord at home, I won't be backing the away side at just better than even money.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals (1.80)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino (2.20), Gussiås (3.10) or Cellorio (3.40)

Sarpsborg v Bodø/Glimt (Away Win)

Sarpsborg were well beaten by Kristiansund last weekend, Jørgen Strand Larsen did get a goal though which will be good for his confidence, despite the poor result. It doesn't get any easier for them this week with the league leaders making the long trip to Sarpsborg.

Glimt will be full of confidence for this one as they remain unbeaten this season, in Europe as well, as they hammered Lithuanian team Kauno Zalgiris 6-1 on Thursday evening. 

Last week Glimt also scored 6 goals, at home to Start, so it is 12 goals in the last two games and Sarpsborg will be trying to stop the goal scoring machine that is the Glimt front 5.

Hard not to look at goals here, especially for the away side who have scored at least two in every game this season, including what was quite a tight game against Sarpsborg back in June, a 2-1 victory.

They have also scored in 27 halves of football this season, out of 30, which is an incredible record. Sarpsborg in the last six games have conceded 3 at Viking, 5 at Rosenborg and 4 at Kristiansund, but they are more stingey at home, giving away only 6 in the 8 home games so far.

I still will back Glimt here to win, and score goals, but maybe not as many as 4 or 5. Sarpsborg could keep it tight but it is worth backing the league leaders until it is broken.

Unbeaten after playing every team, and with a nice international break to rest up after this fixture, Glimt should be flying.

Bet Builder: Glimt to score in both halves and Glimt to win (2.75)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Hauge (2.10), Saltnes (3.75) or Boniface (2.10)

Start v Aalesund (Home Win)

Start were absolutely hammered last weekend by a rampant Glimt side, and will be happy to be back home in Kristiansand to play this weekend. They have won their previous two games here, so will be looking for another one here as 15th plays 16th.

Aalesund have a new manager in the dugout, Lars Bohinen got the sack after last weekends home defeat to Haugesund. Holmbert Fridjonsson gave his side the lead with goal number 11 of the season, but they ended up 3-1 losers.

Lars Arne Nielsen, former Brann manager, was quickly appointed this week, and he will be looking to turn around the fortunes of Aalesund, and stop them conceding goals somehow, 46 in 15 games. They will revert to a back 4 this weekend it seems likely, so we will see if that works out for them.

Fridjonsson could well be on his way out, worryingly for Aalesund, as it seems that Serie A could become a likely destination for the Icelandic star.

I fancy Start in this one to get the job done and climb away from Aalesund. They won against Mjøndalen and Vålerenga recently, so they should have the confidence at home. It could well be a tight game, expect Aalesund to be much less open than they have been so far this season.

Both teams are capable of scoring, Aalesund have scored in 13 of 15 games so far, conceding in every one. Start have scored 10 in their  home games so far, but have been better recently at home. This fixture produced a 3-2 last time out, but I can see it being much lower scoring this.

One interesting thing is Start have conceded at least 5 corners in 8 games in a row now, so might be worth putting on Aalesund to get some corners, especially if they are chasing the game when they likely concede.

Worth noting that 36 year old Costa Rica legend, and former Start player between 2008 and 2010, Christian Bolanos, has returned to the club and it will be very exciting to see how he gets on back in Norway. 

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, under 4.5 goals in the game (2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Schulze(2.87), Fridjonsson (2.20) or Skålevik (2.05)

Viking v Molde (Away Win)

The final game of the weekend sees Molde visit Viking on Sunday night. Viking having won 2-0 at Strømsgodset last week will fancy their chances against Molde, who have been delayed a day on their return from Slovenia, after some Champions League action.

Joe Bell got a goal last week, adding to an own goal that had given them the lead in the second half. The home side are down in 12th having only won 4 times this season, twice at home, so this will be a tough test for them.

Molde beat Slovenian champions Celje on Wednesday evening, 2-1, to follow up their 2-0 win over Odd last Saturday. That was a really crucial win to pull away from Odd in the table, goals from Leke James and Marcus Holmgren Pedersen giving them the 3 points.

This should be a good game between two teams that prefer to play on the front foot. Viking have plenty quality in front areas, it is defensively they have struggled this season mainly. 21 goals for and 28 against backs that up, Molde will fancy they can add to the 5 goals they scored last time these two met, when Molde ran out 5-0 winners.

I think Molde have enough about them to win here, but I do think Viking can score and certainly cause a little bit of trouble to the makeshift Molde back line.

One potential issue might be the suspension of Wolff Eikrem. He is the creative man that links midfield and attack, but Hestad and Brynhildsen could both do a good job in replacing him. I fancy Hestad will start in a number 10 role.

I'm expecting goals, and also plenty corners in this one. 13 of 16 Molde games have had at least 9 corners, and Viking games have had at least 9 in all of the previous 9 games.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score, Molde 2+ goals, 9+ corners (2.62)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Hestad (2.25), James (1.85) or Berisha (2.50)

My Eliteserien Bets of the Weekend

Glimt to score in both halves (2.20) NAP

Molde to win (2.00)

Start to win (2.00)

RBK to win and score 2+ goals (1.80) NB

One Bet in Division 1

Ranheim - 1 to beat KFUM (2.20)

Gameweek 15 Preview

Eliteserien reaches the halfway stage this weekend with gameweek 15, as Bodø/Glimt remain unbeaten and could complete the cycle of going unbeaten against all other teams with a home game against Start.

Molde play Odd in what is without doubt the game of the weekend as 3rd visit 2nd, Odd having the chance to go level on points with the champions, who dropped yet more points last weekend.

With the Champions League final on this Sunday, seven games will be played on Saturday, and the remaining fixture taking place on Monday night.

Saturday 22nd August

Molde v Odd (Home Win)

Last week we witnessed Molde losing for the 4th time in the last 6 games as they lost out to Sarpsborg 2-1. It was another frustrating game for the defending champions, missing several good chances, giving away another penalty, and failing to come back from being behind.

It was Ulland Andersen that got their goal in defeat, but they have since bounced back with an easy 5-0 win over KuPS in the Champions League qualifiers this Wednesday. 

Odd are the form team in the league in the last 8 games, winning 7 of them. Only Sarpsborg have taken points from them, six games ago now. Last week it was Kristiansund that they dispatched, winning 2-1 at home, goals coming from Bakenga and the impressive young winger Kasper Lunding.

Coming three days after a European game, this has the look of a tough game for Molde again, but one where they definitely still go in as favourites. This has been a tough game for Molde in recent times, they have failed to beat Odd in the last 4 games, 3 score draws and a 1-0 defeat in Molde.

It is a game I am expecting goals in, as Molde have only had one game this season with fewer than three goals in it, and Odd obviously come in full of confidence with the run they are on.

It is a real test for this Odd side though. It is a fairly young team, with bits of experience in important areas, the teenager Kitolano in midfield looks like a top quality player, and it will be good to see him go up against Aursnes. 

Hussain is suspended for this one, it will be the first game he misses this season in midfield, and they still have problems in defense with injuries as has been the case all season, so more reason to expect goals against Molde.

No such worries for Odd, and good news is that Bakenga has scored in his last two games as well, which is important for the club as they need him to score goals in the absence of Lauritsen and with Børven departed.

I fancy Molde might just be good enough to win this one at home, but I certainly see goals for both teams and a very interesting game at Aker Stadium. Despite losing four games, they have scored in every game so far Molde, so expect that to continue.

Bet Builder: Both teams to Score and Molde to win either half(2.05)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Leke James(2.3), Kasper Lunding(5.5) or Eirik Hestad(4.5)

Aalesund v Haugesund (Draw)

Aalesund went to Lerkendal on Sunday night and showed glimpses of quality as they tried to upset Rosenborg. But in the end it was another 3 goals conceded in a 3-2 defeat. A positive note was the two goals from Holmbert Fridjonsson, taking his tally for the season to 10 now.

Haugesund continued their up and down season with a 3-2 of their own. A home defeat against Strømsgodset was particularly painful after getting a late equaliser, only to give away an even later winner.

Amitzbøll and then an own goal had pulled them back from 2 goals down, so it will hurt to lose out after showing good fight.

This game is a battle between the worst defense in the league against the worst attack statistically. Haugesund have only 12 goals in the league so far, Aalesund in comparison have 20 despite being bottom of the table. At the other end though, 43 conceded in 14 games makes shocking reading, and no sign it will stop this weekend. 

Haugesund have conceded less than half the goals Aalesund have, but this is a game both teams will fancy their chances of victory, and as a result, I'm hoping for an attacking game. 

Aalesund have scored and conceded in every home game so far this season, so hopefully that continues, and I do like some of the attacking talent that Haugesund have despite their struggles. Sandberg, Velde and Wadji should all have goals in them, although it has certainly taken Wadji some time to get up to speed after his year long suspension.

It is a game I could see going either way, but I think goals, and with it being an important game for both at the bottom, maybe worth looking at the home side to hit plenty corners.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals(1.95)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Fridjonnson(2.3), Velde(3.75) or Castro(3.6)

Bodø/Glimt v Start (Home Win)

Glimt come into this game still unbeaten and 7 points clear at the top of the table thanks to a battling 2-1 win at Sandefjord last weekend. It was probably their least convincing display of the season, but goals from Victor Boniface and Ulrik Saltnes gave them their 12th win in 14 games.

Start picked up their second win of the season with a last minute winner against Vålerenga on Monday night. It was Eirik Schulze who got both goals in the game, his form has been a real plus in recent weeks for the club from Kristiansand.

This week it looks likely that Victor Boniface will continue up top, with Kasper Junker still struggling with a knee injury. Apart from that there are no new concerns, and keeper Smit might return in nets this week too.

Glimt have won every home game this year, six out of six, with 21 goals scored and 6 against. No doubt more goals are expected this weekend, at least two in every game they have played so far.

Start have had some solid displays, but worryingly the games they played against the other top clubs, Molde and Odd, have resulted in 5-0 defeats. I can see them getting a goal this weekend because Glimt concede in most game, only two clean sheets, but it will be tough for Start if they go behind early.

Only Molde have kept Start out in the previous 5 games, so looking for them to score, but also might be value in corners for the away side. Glimt have conceded 4 in the last 4 games, Start are better than evens to hit 4, something they have done in 10 of their 14 games this season.

I can't see passed a home win here though, and Glimt scoring at least 3 goals with their attacking options and pace causing proving too good for Start. Boniface starting up top in this attacking time is a really good price to score as well.

Bet Builder: Glimt to score in both halves and both teams to score(2.15)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Boniface(2.2), Hauge(1.95) or Schulze(5.5)

Kristiansund v Sarpsborg (Home Win)

Kristiansund lost 2-1 at Odd last week in their first defeat after a run of 5 unbeaten. There was another goal for Amahl Pellegrino, from the spot this time, taking him to 11 for the season and joint top of the scoring charts with Junker.

Sarpsborg picked up that huge win over Molde, a really good performance from Jørgen Strand Larsen caught my eye. He won a penalty with a great run, scored by Mos, and then Halvorsen scored a nice goal coming in on to his left foot from the right hand side.

Sarpsborg's away form is a concern for them, 4 defeats in 6, just the 1 win that came over Sandefjord. Kristiansund are better at home, losing only once, that against Stabæk. They have scored 3 times in their previous two home games, and goals have been present in most Kristiansund games.

Two 0-0 draws aside, there have been goals for both teams in all of the other Kristiansund games, and at home they have scored 16 and conceded 9 in the 6 home games they have had so far.

We can definitely expect goals for both teams here, Sarpsborg have been improving steadily throughout the season and have a set team now and play some nice football through midfield.

I fancy Kristiansund based on their home form in particular to bounce back after last weeks loss. They won this fixture 4-0 last season, but I expect it will be close this time around, likely a 2-1.

Another thing maybe worth looking at is 4 Sarpsborg corners. Kristiansund have conceded at least 4 in 10 of their 14 games, Sarpsborg have hit 4 in 11 of their games, so will probably be nicely priced and worth putting on a bet builder. Also in 10 of 14 games, both have had at least 9 corners in their matches.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and 9+ match corners (2.14)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Pellegrino(2.1), Mos Abdellaoue(2.88) or Bendik Bye(3.0)

Strømsgodset v Viking (Home Win)

Godset picked up that big win at Haugesund last week, a last minute Salvesen goal giving them the win, set up neatly by Maigaard, who had scored previously. Johan Hove got the other one as they continued a decent scoring run that has seem them score 11 goals in the last 4 games.

Viking continue to disappoint with results, as they now haven't won in 4 games and sit 14th in the table. They came back from 2-0 down at home to Stabæk last weekend, but lost a late equaliser to draw 3-3. Another two goals from in form Veton Berisha, taking him to 5 in the last 3 games, 7 in total.

The other goal was from Bytyqi, and goals have not been a problem for Viking either, so this game should have goals in it.

Godset and Viking have the 2nd and 3rd worst defensive records in the league, but both are in the top half for goals scored, and that should mean a nice open game in this one.

Both teams have had 10 of their games go for over 2.5 goals, and Godset have had 4 of their home games go for over 3.5 goals, including their previous 3.

I'm expecting an attacking end to end encounter, and with that come corners as well, so could be looking at that here. The previous 8 games for Viking and 7 games for Godset have had at least 9 corners, so I will be adding that to my bet builder.

I fancy Godset to win since they are at home, but any result wouldn't surprise me, as long as there are plenty goals.

Bet Builder: over 2.5 goals, both teams to score and 9+ corners (2.37)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Salvesen(3.0), Mawa(2.88) or Berisha(2.6)

Vålerenga v Sandefjord (Home Win)

Vålerenga lost out to Start on Monday night with that late goal, a really disappointing result for the Oslo side. They had gotten level in the game through Benjamin Stokke, who just turned 30 this week.

Sandefjord have been really impressive in recent weeks, winning games over Molde and Strømsgodset, and last week they lost narrowly to Glimt. Their goal in the game came from Sivert Gussiås who continues to improve and looks a real goal threat. The 21 year old has 5 goals now in his first season as an Eliteserien regular.

Vålerenga are unbeaten at home this season, 3 wins and 3 draws. Their latest was a draw with Glimt and this game I fancy them to get back to winning ways. They have only failed to find the net in one game this season, a 0-0 draw at Kristiansund, and so we can expect them to score. 

Sandefjord also are on a good run of scoring form, eight games in a row now they have found the net, and given Vålerenga have conceded in their previous four games, I think both teams to score here is pretty likely.

Centre back Marc Vales is suspended for this one for Sandefjord, he could well be missed, and I do think that Aron Dønnum and Osame Sahraoui will be creating plenty chances for Stokke.

The home side are quite a short price to win, probably too short, considering the form of Sandefjord, but I do fancy them to get a win over a side that has lost 5 of their 7 away games. Best to look at goals in this one for both teams. 

Two teams that average over 2.5 yellow cards a game, with Rohit Saggi as referee, this one is a recipe for yellow cards, and no surprises if a red one pops up.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and Vålerenga to win either half(2.25)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Stokke(2.75), Gussiås(3.75) or Vilhjalmsson(2.5)

Mjøndalen v Rosenborg (Draw)

Mjøndalen picked up their second win on the bounce with a classic smash and grab 1-0 win away at Brann. They defended well and scored an 85th minute winner through Andreas Hellum. 

Rosenborg kept up their good home form with a 3-2 win against Aalesund. Star man for the day was Dino Islamovic, grabbing two goals and looking far more lively than he has previously. Carlo Holse continues to impress on the right wing, he set up Zachariassen for the other goal.

Away form has been the issue for RBK, and this week has seen the confirmation of a new manager to try and resolve that. Åge Hareide has agreed terms to come in on the 1st of September, the former Denmark manager back in Trondheim for his second spell. He lasted only 1 season in 2003 before taking up the Norway job.

They have won twice, but lost three times on the road in their six games so far, and this represents a test of their attacking quality against a stubborn Mjøndalen.

I won't be expecting many goals, only Glimt have managed to score more than 2 goals at Mjøndalen, that includes the home side themselves, who haven't scored more than 2 in any game this season, except against Aalesund away in a 3-1 win.

Rosenborg will be keen to impress the incoming manager, but this will be a tough one for them and they are tough to back at odds against. It will be a tight game, and likely that Mjøndalen will sit in with their back 5 and make it difficult to break down. 

A set piece goal could well be where the game is opened up, so Islamovic, Hovland or maybe Reginiussen could be likely scorers. Expecting Rosenborg to get plenty corners as they try and open up Mjøndalen.

Bet Builder: Under 4 goals in the match and Rosenborg to hit 5+ corners (2.10)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Islamovic(2.63), Zacahriassen(3.75) or Reginiussen(12.0)

Monday 24th August 

Stabæk v Brann (Draw)

Stabæk led 2-0 at Viking last weekend, but they had to come from behind in the end to snatch a draw thanks to Kinoshita. It was Magnus Lundal and Emil Bohinen that had them 2-0 up in the first half before giving up their lead.

Brann were disappointed to lose against Mjøndalen, and in truth their home form has been the biggest problem.

Actually Stabæk have won only two games at home, they have identical home and away records. Brann have won three on the road, better than their home form. So it wouldn't be too much of a surprise if the away side managed to pick something up here.

I think it should be a relatively open game, both sides will be looking to win, and both score and concede goals at the same rate almost. Everything points to an even game between two mid table sides that are inconsistent.

Both of these teams have only won 1 of their last 7 games, so they need to win or they risk being dragged in to the bottom half of the table. 

I'm a big fan of Vetlesen and Bohinen in the Stabæk midfield, they are both top young players, and they also have Lundal, Hansen, Botheim and Edvardsen that are all 21 or under. This young team are energetic, but not surprisingly a little hard to predict.

I personally think both teams will score in this one, but I'm not sure which way it will go, and I don't think it will be a high scoring affair. Only two Stabæk home games have had more than two goals, a 2-2 draw with Glimt, and a 3-0 defeat by Rosenborg.

Maybe corners could be something to look at, all of the previous 5 games for Brann have had 10 or more, and 4 of the previous 5 Stabæk games have too. So worth putting that in the bet builders.

Bet Builder: Both teams to score and 9+ corners in the match (2.42)

Goalscorers to add to Bet Builder: Hansen(4.2), Kinoshita(3.4) or Bamba(3.0)

My Bets of the week in Eliteserien

Aalesund to score in the FH against Haugesund (2.1)

Odd to score in the FH against Molde (2.1)

BTTS Double Molde/Odd and Strømsgodset/Viking (1.98) NB

BTTS and over 2.5 goals in Aalesund v Haugesund (1.95) NAP

Rosenborg to hit 6+ corners (2.00)