England begin their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign with a trip to Moldova, a country most famous among domestic minds for being the scene of Glen Hoddle’s first competitive match in charge of the Three Lions 16 years ago.

Unlike Hoddle, Roy Hodgson has the experience of a European Championship campaign under his belt and nothing but a win will be good enough for all interested parties come Friday.

Well aware of this fact – and not to mention the gulf in class between the two sides – England are best priced at 1/3 for the win, while Moldova are as a high as 12s.

In 1996 England won 3-0 (pictured), and they are fantastically priced to take maximum points while keeping a clean sheet again at Evens, with Ladbrokes.

Hodgson’s preparations for his first World Cup qualifier as England boss have been hampered by withdrawals from several key players, none more so than striker Wayne Rooney, who misses with a gashed thigh.

He is joined on the periphery by fellow front man Andy Carroll (hamstring) and Sunderland winger Adam Johnson (thigh).

However, despite the losses there can be no excuses for anything but a victory.

Moldova finished second bottom in their Euro 2012 qualifying group, but they did restrict the Netherlands to a pair of 1-0 wins so Hodgson’s side are unlikely to run up a cricket score style triumph on Friday – especially as the squad boasts just three recognised out and out strikers.

And with Hodgson’s style of dropping deep and soaking up possession England look set to do just enough to secure the win so get on a two goal margin of victory at 3/1.

 

Tipster’s Best Bets

England to win by two goals @ 3/1 with bet365 (1pt)
England to win to nil @ Evens with Ladbrokes (3pts)
England to win 2-0 @ 11/2 with Betfred (1pt)

Claim Your Free £30 Bonus Now Claim Your Free £50 Bonus Now Claim Your Free £200 Bonus Now