Tiger Woods would probably say that last year was a year he would rather forget. However, while he may have lost the number one crown, last year may prove to be a positive for his long term golf. With the pressure of being number one gone, and with time putting a distance between him and his personal life, he is now able to concentrate on what he does best – play golf. Bookmakers are right on to him too and his golf betting odds in tournaments have been reducing with every event he plays.

In the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines course in California, Woods is in 12th place, but only five shots of the lead at the halfway mark. Bookmakers are not taking any chances with him and have his betting odds at 11/2, third favourite behind half way leader Bill Haas (5/2) and Phil Mickelson (5/1), who is only three shots off the lead.

With 12 players within five shots and two days to play, this is proving to be a tight contest. Anthony Kim is playing well, and at 8/1 and only two shots off the lead, he could be well worth a bet. John Daly is with Mickelson at three shots off the lead and he could surprise as well at big odds. Daly is one of the most underachieving golfers playing at present – he just doesn’t seem to be able to conquer his own foibles. One day he will and you’ll see some brilliant golf from him.

Our tips – back Daly each way at long odds and Anthony Kim for a top five finish at around 2/1. If you’re game, add a decent wager on Woods – he’s poised to pounce and looking good.