Even the best predictions lose sometimes. The people who enjoy football betting for years are the ones who manage their money well. These five rules are simple, and they work.
1. Set a budget first
Decide how much you can afford to lose this week or month before you place a bet. Treat it as the cost of entertainment, never as money you need.
2. Use a fixed stake
Bet the same small amount on each tip, for example 2 to 5% of your budget. A fixed stake stops one bad day from wiping out your whole budget.
3. Never chase losses
After a losing day, it is tempting to bet more to win it back. Don't. Stick to your stake, and remember that tomorrow is a new day.
4. Keep accumulators small
Every extra game in an accumulator makes it harder to win. Our 3 odds and 5 odds slips are built from our most confident picks, but singles and doubles win far more often.
5. Take breaks
If betting stops being fun, stop. Take a day, a week or longer away. If you feel you are losing control, free help is available from GambleAware and GamCare.
Bet with your head, not with your heart, and only ever bet what you can afford to lose.