A lucky Galway punter has scooped a whopping €206,000 for a measly €1 bet.
Bookmakers Paddy Power were forced into the biggest pay-out from a football accumulator this year when the bet placed through their iPhone app came through.
The punter chose games from the Champions League, Championship and League One. Some of the victorious selections included Juventus and Barcelona in Europe, while in the UK, Brentford, Brighton and Barnsley among others were making sure this optimistic punt looked like a stroke of genius.
Incredibly 16 of the man’s 17 inspired selections were ahead by the 52 minute mark. Norwich midfielder Bradley Johnson sealed the deal after scoring an 85th minute winner against Blackburn Rovers.
Paddy Power spokesperson Feilim Mac An Iomaire said it was an amazing bet. “Many of us place €1 bets from time to time, but for a punt of this size to yield something like this is just ridiculous. The man’s bank manager will certainly be wondering what is going on today.”
Mr Mac An Iomaire said Tuesday night’s results did not go the bookmaker’s way. "Last night was a bit of a blood bath for us with 15 of the 17 favourites winning. Juventus and Barcelona were heavily backed and that had a knock-on effect. Many of us place €1 bets from time to time, but for a bet of this size to come true like this is just ridiculous.
Meanwhile it emerged earlier today [February 25] that Galway man Daniel Ferns needs just three results to go his way this evening to complete a 9,000/1 accumulator and pick up €45,000 from local Galway bookmaker John Mulholland.
Mr Ferns is pinning his hopes on Arsenal, Athletico Madrid and Bournemouth in this evening’s games.
