Ladbrokes Premiership: Motherwell set for perfect start on the road

After a summer packed with big names arriving in the dugout and on the pitch, the Ladbrokes Premiership is finally back. And one side keen to continue the excellent form which saw them sneak a top-six spot last season are Motherwell, who head to Kilmarnock on opening day.

The Well have tasted victory on three of their last four visits to Rugby Park, including a pair of late wins last season. That means Motherwell are well worth backing for victory at 13/8, while Kilmarnock are 17/10 to enjoy a rare home victory over their opponents.

One man in fine form for the visitors is teenage midfielder Chris Cadden, who has already bagged two goals in four league cup appearances this season – so the 4/1 for him to score anytime looks like excellent value indeed.

However, the biggest focus on opening weekend will surely be on Mark Warburton’s returning Rangers, who host Hamilton Academical in Saturday’s lunchtime curtain-raiser.

With the Accies having not beaten the Gers in 23 meetings since January 1987, the 4/11 for a Rangers win appears to be easy money. However, the best value could be in backing in-form Kenny Miller to score and Rangers to win at 11/8.

However, the most exciting tie of the weekend could well be at Firhill, with Partick Thistle and Inverness Caledonian Thistle scoring a combined 24 goals in eight League Cup games.

With the Caley Jags excellent on their travels, they look the best selection in the match betting at 7/4 for victory, while Partick are 17/10.

However, the best value could well be on Inverness to Win and Both Teams to Score at 9/2.

Another game likely to produce goals is Ross County v Dundee. Both of the last two meetings have finished 5-2 to the home side, with one win apiece.

County are the men to back for victory at 5/4 having won four of their last five home games against the Dark Blues – who are 11/5 for a rare win on the road.

Meanwhile, those who believe history will repeat itself can back another 5-2 victory for Jim McIntyre’s men at a whopping 150/1.

Aberdeen are the men to back against St Johnstone on Saturday, despite Europa League disappointment last night.

Aberdeen are 11/10 for a victory, with their hosts 5/2 and 9/4 for the draw.

Hearts and Celtic close out a weekend bookended by the Old Firm. Despite their poor record against the Hoops, the 4/1 for Robbie Neilson’s men to win any game at Tynecastle is extremely inviting.

Meanwhile, Celtic are 4/6 favourites for a first competitive win on their travels since they triumphed 3-1 here back in April.

We’ve made our predictions. Now check out how the boys at Talking Baws are calling the weekend’s action here.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing