17th Jun 2012 | Euro 2012
Portugal v Netherlands: First Goalscorer Tip
Pretty long odds for a man who has had 11 shots on goal in his first 2 matches of the tournament.
Robin Van Persie finally found the net against Germany having come into criticism for his profligacy in front of goal up to that point. Interestingly, his success rate of one goal from 11 attempts suddenly looks ok next to his team-mate Arjen Robben.
The Bayern Munich star is yet to see his name up in lights after 11 efforts of his own on goal. It’s about time he delivered, and at best odds of 11/1 (PaddyPower) he is a value option for first goalscorer against Portugal.
As always, I’m inclined to take the view that players are more likely to win the lottery if they buy more tickets. Robben is just one of a host of Dutch players who have struggled up till now, but his class is undeniable and it’s not too late for him.
The 28-year-old is proven as a man for the big occasion. He has scored at every major tournament finals from the 2006 World Cup onwards. He has 17 international goals to his name and he found the net 19 times in 36 appearances for Bayern in 2011-12. He’s as prolific as wingers come.
* Back Arjen Robben for First Goalscorer with PaddyPower. They are offering best odds, and will refund all losing First Goalscorer, Last Goalscorer, Correct Score and Scorecast singles on the match if Robin Van Persie scores anytime.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 12:13 17th Jun, 2012 but subject to change