The football betting opportunities in the FA Cup are more diverse when teams far apart in terms of skill and status square off in the early rounds. Because the top teams often rest key players for these matches particularly against comparatively weak opposition it is difficult for the bookmakers to compile the odds because the exact line up of the stronger side is often shrouded in secrecy before the match begins. Liverpool without Gerrard and Carragher demands different odds than when they play. Upsets are a part of FA Cup tradition and punters do support the underdogs to get that big win when the upsets do occur.

In the old days before Sky television an FA Cup match was one of the only times an armchair fan was able to watch a football match from their home. It was therefore something the average football fan looked forward to. Because of the novelty and excitement of watching the match on TV fans were very keen to watch the FA Cup. It meant a lot to the players too as being on television, winning cups and earning medals was the reason they played the game as they were not paid the exorbitant wages current players enjoy. They played for the love of the game and for their team mates.

Unfortunately football is so widely available to armchair supporters that, like anything else that is constantly present on TV, the novelty wore off. The large amount of football on television has even been known to destroy people’s interest in football in some cases. You can now watch a match almost every day of the week if you wish and that is a lot of football.

When Leeds beat Manchester Utd at Old Trafford recently by 1-0 with a goal from Jermaine Beckford this reminds fans that the FA Cup is still relevant to modern football and upsets can still occur. Because the top players are better prepared for football with high-tech training, diet, and psychological preparation the chances of a third division team with plenty of heart toppling a Premiership side is perhaps smaller than in previous eras of football. It can still happen, as Man Utd fans know only too well.

Chelsea are my tip to win the FA Cup this season as other favourites like Liverpool and Arsenal tinker with their teams a lot during Cup games and are vulnerable to upsets. Chelsea are always strong in their starting eleven and they will be tough to beat this year under Ancelotti. You can currently place a bet at odds of 4.75 for Chelsea to win the cup and bwin.com share my view they are the team to beat with second favourites Arsenal priced way back at odds of 7.25.

My recommendation to the readers is to take a look at the live streaming that bwin offer in their live betting section. Watching the magical FA cup matches, particularly in the early rounds where upsets can and often do happen, whist betting live is a great way to participate in the various twists and turns these football matches have.

By Malcolm Clarke