Outright Betting

We all know that Celtic and Rangers dominate the SPL. You have to go back to 1985 to find the last time one of the pair didn't win the league. The gap between the Old Firm and the rest has gradually increased since the mid-1990s and dramatically so during the period when financial problems blighted the rest of Scotland's elite sides at the start of the 21st century. Celtic and Rangers have each tended to run up sequences of domination and the monopoly of the title usually continues until major team changes happen.

So apart from choosing which of the sworn enemies wins the title, the only option is to back a team to win the league without the Old Firm. Look for a team that finished in the top six in the previous season and has kept most of its playing staff during the close-season.

Bookies don't go up with outright odds for the lower leagues until shortly before the season starts. This is largely due to the fact that a few thousand pounds and a couple of quality players can make a big difference at this level. Most clubs only sign players on season-long contracts so every summer there is a high turnover. When looking for the right bet, start with last term's league table and then pay close attention to each club's arrivals and departures. Most Division Three sides have one or two stars who hold them together. It is crucial to see if the club you fancy has held on to them before parting with your money.