AFC Wimbledon vs. Walsall: League Two Play-Off Final Tips

Here we are, the finale of the play-offs, and hopefully, we see a game fitting of that tag. Bank Holiday Monday, a long weekend, Wimbledon vs. Walsall, only 90 minutes (and ET + penalties potentially). Here. We. Go.

Ben's Bets for AFC Wimbledon vs. Walsall

At the time of writing this, the lineups were not available to us, so I have tried to make some assumptions about the lineup, whilst only tipping players I think will start. It is worth stating here that I would not advise placing any bets until the lineups are out for both teams.

Play-off games are so difficult to call, so there is still a higher level of risk with each selection. However, I've ran through the trends from the season and feel rather confident with our choices here.

So, without further ado, let's dive into my reasoning.

Tommy Simkin to Make 2.5 + Saves

I was really surprised to see this price offered by Bet365, and I'm all over it. Furthermore, I'm also surprised that the market is starting at over 0.5 saves (so if you're looking for a bit of a 'muggy' bet builder, it could be a decent addition).

In both games this season, the Walsall goalkeeper has made three or more saves, and considering what is on the line here, I expect Simkin to face a lot of shots.

Wimbledon averaged around four shots on target per game this season, and this was the case in both of their play-off games too. Here, it should be no different, and the goalkeeper should be busy. At Evens, I'm happy to take this price.

Both Teams to Receive 2+ Cards

For those of you who have been around for my tips during the play-offs, it is nothing new for me to have a little dabble on the 'Both Teams to be Carded' market. So, here we are again. Normally, we see this market priced below evens, but here, we're actually getting a price above 2.00, so I am very much on board.

In the most recent meeting, there were four cards in the game (1-3), whilst there were seven in the first game of the season (2-5). Both teams have shown their ability to get cards in unfamiliar settings against each other. Wembley is about as unfamiliar as it gets, so I'm interested.

Both Teams to Score

Wimbledon's BTTS record is certainly a little off-putting, I must admit. However, I do not think they will be able to defensively hold out for the play-off final - which is not to discredit them at all. However, the stakes are different.

Walsall's goal record, especially in the second half, is fantastic. This period is also when Wimbledon are at their most vulnerable, seemingly, 22 of their 35 goals conceded have come in the second 45.

Goal in Both Halves

We're going on the same trend here, and getting on a goal in both halves next, at a nice price of 5/4.

We have already been through Walsall's goal record, especially in the second half. However, we have not touched on their own vulnerabilities, which often come in the first 45. Talk about the turntables turning. The Dons' scoring record is rather consistent across both halves, so at the price, I cannot complain.

Taylor Allen to Have 1.5+ Shots

My final, and probably favourite pick of this game, comes in at 12/5. I'm going for Taylor Allen to have two or more shots.

Picking a defender to have a shot is a bit rogue anyway. However, for him to have two is certainly out there. With that said, I feel that the market is overlooking this pick, and this is where we can take advantage of the bookies, or at least try to.

At 6'1, the defender offers a bit of an aerial threat if he is needed in the box at some point. But this is not the point of interest. Allen also takes set pieces, looking to shoot regularly from them, and with Wimbledon committing the second most amount of fouls per game in the league (13.8), I really like this pick.