Betting has taken various formats and systems over the years to cater to punters’ diverse needs and preferences.
Among the numerous betting types available, the “Handicap” betting is especially noteworthy.
SportyBet, like many contemporary online sportsbooks, offers handicap betting to its customers, but what exactly does it mean, and how does it work?
Here’s a closer look at handicap betting in the context of SportyBet.
What is Handicap Betting?
Handicap betting, also known as line betting, point betting, or spread betting, involves giving one selection a virtual deficit (a handicap) to overcome at the start of an event.
This makes the betting experience more balanced and can offer better odds, particularly when there’s a clear favorite.
Purpose of Handicap Betting
In many sporting events, there’s an evident disparity between the two competing teams or individuals.
If one team is highly favored to win, betting on that team might offer minimal returns due to the perceived low risk.
Handicap betting seeks to level the playing field, providing a more intriguing betting market and potentially more attractive odds.
Types of Handicap Betting on SportyBet
a) Level Handicap: This is when there is no perceived difference in abilities between two competitors, so no handicap bias is given, and both teams start with 0 goals.
b) Single Handicap: Here, there is a perceived difference in abilities between the teams. The weaker team (underdog) will receive a head start or a virtual advantage, while the favored team will have a virtual disadvantage.
c) Split Handicap: When the difference between the two teams is fractional, punters can split their stakes over two handicaps.
Examples
To better understand, let’s consider a football match between Team A (the favorite) and Team B (the underdog).
- Single Handicap: If SportyBet offers Team A a -1 handicap, it means Team A starts the game with a 1 goal deficit. For bets on Team A to win, they need to win by more than one goal. If they win by just one goal, the result with the handicap applied will be a draw for betting purposes.
- Split Handicap: SportyBet might offer a handicap of -1.5 & -2 for Team A. If you bet on Team A and they win by 2 goals, half your bet (the -1.5 portion) would win, and the other half (-2 portion) would be refunded.
Asian Handicap
A prevalent form of handicap betting in football is the Asian Handicap.
SportyBet also offers this. It works by eliminating the possibility of a draw outcome, giving bettors a 50-50 chance of success, irrespective of the match’s actual outcome.
Advantages of Handicap Betting on SportyBet
a) Enhanced Odds: Handicaps often provide better odds, especially when there’s a clear favorite.
b) Flexibility: Punters can tailor their bets based on their perception of the team’s capabilities.
c) Dynamic Betting: For those who find regular 1×2 betting monotonous, handicap betting offers a fresh approach.
Conclusion
Handicap betting is an excellent tool in the bettor’s arsenal, enabling a more tailored betting experience. On platforms like SportyBet, the system is designed to be user-friendly, even for those new to the concept.
As always, it’s essential to research and make informed decisions when placing bets, ensuring that you’re always betting responsibly.
ALSO SEE: What does 1×2 Mean in Sportybet?
Handicap Betting in SportyBet: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Q: What is handicap betting in SportyBet? A: Handicap betting involves giving one team a virtual deficit or advantage to balance the perceived difference in abilities between two teams.
2. Q: Why should I consider handicap betting on SportyBet? A: Handicap betting can offer better odds and a more balanced betting experience, especially in matches with a clear favorite.
3. Q: How does a level handicap work? A: In a level handicap, both teams start with 0 goals since there’s no perceived difference in their abilities.
4. Q: What does a -1 handicap mean? A: A -1 handicap means the team must win by more than one goal for the bet to be successful.
5. Q: What happens if I bet on a team with a -1 handicap, and they win by exactly one goal? A: In such a scenario, the result with the handicap applied becomes a draw for betting purposes.
6. Q: Is Asian Handicap the same as regular handicap betting? A: Asian Handicap eliminates the possibility of a draw outcome, giving bettors a 50-50 chance of success.
7. Q: What is a split handicap? A: Split handicap allows bettors to split their stakes over two handicaps, which can be fractional.
8. Q: How are odds determined for handicap bets? A: Odds are determined based on the perceived difference in abilities between teams and the selected handicap.
9. Q: Can I combine handicap bets with other bet types on SportyBet? A: Yes, you can combine different bet types, but always check SportyBet’s terms and conditions.
10. Q: Does SportyBet offer live handicap betting? A: Yes, like many online bookmakers, SportyBet offers live betting, which includes handicap markets.
11. Q: If a match ends in a draw, and I placed an Asian Handicap bet, what happens? A: In Asian Handicap, the draw is eliminated. Depending on the specific handicap, bets can either be refunded or considered lost.
12. Q: Why are there decimal handicaps like -1.5? A: Decimal handicaps eliminate the possibility of a draw result in handicap betting.
13. Q: Can I place handicap bets on other sports besides football on SportyBet? A: Yes, while most common in football, handicap betting is available for various sports on SportyBet.
14. Q: How can I see the available handicap options for a particular match on SportyBet? A: Handicap options are usually listed under the specific match details in the betting markets section.
15. Q: Are there maximum stake limits for handicap bets on SportyBet? A: Like all betting markets, there might be stake limits. Always check SportyBet’s terms and conditions.
16. Q: Can I cash out my handicap bet on SportyBet? A: Yes, if cash out is available for that specific bet, you can cash out before the match concludes.
17. Q: Is it riskier to bet on higher handicaps? A: Higher handicaps offer greater odds but come with an increased risk as the team must overcome a larger deficit.
18. Q: Why did my handicap bet get voided on SportyBet? A: Bets can be voided for various reasons like match postponement. Check the specific match rules or contact SportyBet’s support.
19. Q: Can I change my handicap selection after placing the bet? A: No, once a bet is placed on SportyBet, it cannot be altered.
20. Q: How does overtime affect handicap bets in basketball on SportyBet? A: Typically, unless specified, handicap bets consider the result at the end of regular time, excluding overtime.
21. Q: Can I place a system bet involving multiple handicap selections? A: Yes, system bets can incorporate multiple betting types, including handicap selections.
22. Q: Does SportyBet provide tips or insights for handicap betting? A: SportyBet may offer statistics and insights, but always conduct personal research before placing bets.
23. Q: Are handicap bets refundable? A: Only under specific circumstances, like match cancellation, but it’s essential to refer to SportyBet’s policies.
24. Q: What’s the difference between European Handicap and Asian Handicap? A: European Handicap uses whole numbers and offers three outcomes (home win, draw, away win), while Asian Handicap can use fractions and eliminates the draw.
25. Q: Can I use bonuses or promotions for my handicap bets on SportyBet? A: It depends on the terms of the bonus or promotion. Always read the terms and conditions.
26. Q: What happens if a player gets injured in a tennis match and I placed a handicap bet? A: If a player retires, most handicap bets are voided and stakes returned, but check SportyBet’s rules.
27. Q: Are the odds for handicap bets higher than regular 1×2 markets? A: Generally, handicap bets can offer better odds, especially when there’s a clear favorite in the match.
28. Q: Why can’t I see handicap options for a specific match? A: Not all matches may have handicap markets available. The availability is based on the bookmaker’s discretion.
29. Q: What does a +2 handicap mean? A: A +2 handicap means the team starts the match with a virtual 2-goal advantage.
30. Q: Can I place an accumulator bet with multiple handicap selections? A: Yes, accumulator bets can include multiple handicap selections from different matches.
31. Q: Is there a strategy for handicap betting on SportyBet? A: While there’s no guaranteed strategy, research, understanding team performances, and being aware of player conditions can help.
32. Q: What happens if I win a handicap bet on SportyBet? A: If you win, your winnings will be credited to your SportyBet account as per the provided odds.
33. Q: Does SportyBet offer double chance in conjunction with handicap bets? A: Typically, double chance and handicap are separate markets, but always check available betting options.
34. Q: How do I know if my handicap bet was successful? A: You can check your betting history in your SportyBet account for the bet outcome.
35. Q: How soon are handicap bet outcomes determined after a match? A: Outcomes are usually determined shortly after the match concludes, but settlement times may vary.
36. Q: Can I place a handicap bet during live play? A: Yes, SportyBet offers live betting, which may include live handicap markets.
37. Q: Are there tutorials on SportyBet to understand handicap betting better? A: While SportyBet may provide guides and tips, it’s always beneficial to look for external resources for comprehensive understanding.
38. Q: Can I set a handicap bet as a favorite for quicker access? A: SportyBet’s platform functionalities may allow for quick bet selections, including handicap favorites.
39. Q: Are there any sports where handicap betting is not advisable? A: Handicap betting is a tool and can be used across sports, but its effectiveness depends on individual match scenarios and sports.
40. Q: Does SportyBet offer special promotions or bonuses for handicap bets? A: Promotions vary over time. It’s best to check SportyBet’s promotions page for current offers related to handicap betting.