A last-minute Joleon Lescott own goal gave Chelsea a crucial second-leg advantage going into Wednesday's semi-final second leg tie, and bookmakers expect that to make all the difference, going 2/7 (Ladbrokes) that the Blues reach their second successive Carling Cup final. Avram Grant's men appear to be making a habit of nicking games without playing particularly well, yet surely the value bet is Everton to go through on the night at 11/4 (Boylesports) instead?

The Toffees are now fourth in the Premier League after victory at the JJB Stadium on Sunday, and are arguably playing to a higher standard than their opponents right now. The home team at least look good to win the match in ninety minutes (9/5 bet365), even if it's only by a one-goal margin to take the match into extra-time. That said, the west London club continue to demonstrate their ability to win ugly and there'll be takers of the 8/5 (Paddy Power) about the visitors, especially if they're given space on the counter attack.

It will surely be a tight and hard-fought encounter, so the correct score bet of 1-0 to Everton looks about right at 7/1 (totesport). The goal could easily come from a set piece, so a small bet on Joleon Lescott making amends from his own goal a fortnight ago is too good to resist at 25/1 (bet direct). Nicolas Anelka is 6/1 (totesport) to get off the mark for his new club by scoring first and 7/4 (Ladbrokes) to score at any time.