US Masters 2011

Another disappointing return from Morocco but as with betting and especially golf betting these spells are inevitable and it only takes one good winner to transform the balance and no better tournament than the first Major of the year to achieve just that. With Phil Mickelson winning in Houston yesterday, suddenly there is a player with form going to Augusta and the bookies have him best priced at 13/2. "Lefty's" form is incredible at Augusta; 3 wins, 4- 3rd placings and another 3 top 10 finishes augurs well for the defending champion. That said, current form doesn't always come through for this Major, aka Angel Cabrera, Trevor Immelmann who happened to click the right week. Phil will be there or thereabouts again , sure , he always is, but at that price I'll take him on!So for selecting the staking plan this week, more emphasis is being put on course form with a view to players who can produce the short game required to take the green jacket come Sunday. Of course length off the tee is also vital so my 4 selections (Major means extra pick for me) this week are based on this.
First up is Paul Casey whose best finish at The Masters is 6th but has been a regular in the top 20 and will be well prepared for the course, has the accuracy & length off the tee and the know how to stay patient and win. He has a win already this year which also echos a trait of former winners who had won earlier in the season. 35/1 Paddypower
Two Masters appearances with a final day charging 65 last year suggests that the course is to the liking of Anthony Kim who finished in tied 13th last week in Houston to reassure that his game is in good shape. 40/1 Paddypower
Hunter Mahan doesn't seem to miss cuts, is very consistent and loves the big events as seen by finishing 2nd at Pebble Beach earlier this year. 6 top 10's from 9 starts this year proves he is consistent and has the game to do well this week. top 10 finisher the last 2 Masters also, a big week is expected. 28/1
Bodog Sportsbook
Final tip is going to Padraig Harrington who has been showing signs he is nearly back to his best. In fact recent tournaments has seen the Dubliner open with strong scoring on day one only to fade over the weekend, but his efforts in Hosuton were much better. Masters winners over the last 20 years have come from the final pairing on 19 ocassions whilst getting in contention early is also vital. You wont win it on day one but you can certainly lose it day one. Harrington has an immaculate short game and if he can find fairways he can put up a serious challenge. 40/1 Paddypower

Note: Paddypower are paying 1/4 odds for 6 places.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w Paul Casey @ 35/1 Paddypower: First Major is not far away and this one suits him the most. Has won already this year and has good record at Augusta.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w Anthony Kim @ 40/1 Paddypower: Two top 10 finishes at Augusta in 2 starts, shot 65 on Sunday last year. Likes the course!

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w Hunter Mahan @ 28/1
Bodog Sportsbook; Very conistent performer, excellent recent form at Augusta and game in good shape.

TIP 4: 1 pt e/w Padraig Harrington @ 40/1 Paddypower; Has the short game required to win here. If getting a good start has the patience and know how to compete back 9 Sunday.