Will Sven be sick as a Par....aguay?!

And so England kick off their World Cup campaign this evening against South American challengers Paraguay. A simple task, I think not although if you read the English media you'd think the side had already won the Cup! Paraguay were impressive in their qualifiers and drew with Argentina away to book their place in Germany. Remember too they've emerged from their groups in both the last two World Cups. An Irish paper I read this morning predicted a draw something unheard of on this side of the Irish sea. However in truth England should be too strong for Paraguay. It'll be interesting to see how and if Gerrard plays and if the English rearguard is as strong as many think it to be. Best of Luck England but don't underestimate the pride of Paraguy.

Also just to keep you updated, my 2 day old daughter Molly came home from hospital this morning and both mother and child are keeping well.

Anyway please click on read more for all today's top Getminted racing tips....



Lara Croft - 8:24 - 13/2

In a field of average quality this 2 year old fillie looks like she may add to the winnings she's already clocked up for the wigs7 stable. In 9 previous outings over a variety of goings shes picked up a win and 5 placed finishes. Crucially that win came on yielding going (same as we have this evening) on this very track in Australia. A bright entertaining horse she may have the goods to win again here though I'd probably advise an each way flutter to be on the safe side.

Prince of Dance - 9:12 - 22/1

If this horse was a footballer he'd be something like Stuart Pearse, not too skillful but fully dedicated and loyal to the core. Prince of dance has worked hard to earn the £334 he's currently made in winnings and tonight goes in search of further reward. Total stats read 42 runs, 6 wins and 20 placed finishes. Hasn't raced for almost a week when he finished in 4th on fast in the USA worryingly in a field of 4! However don't let that result put you off, this is a strong horse and at these good odds is fine value for a placed finish.

The Contender - 9:36 - 13/1

Unlike a number of other horses in this high quality field The Contender has the advantage of a good rest since her last race. The 4 Year old fillie last raced on the 1st of June finishing second in Hong Kong on yielding going. In her 8 month career to date she'd emerged victorious on 7 occasions and has been placed in 10. A solid performer she could go close this evening in this current good run of form.