The Basics of Shootouts
Think of a shootout as a tiebreaker in sports but with way more drama. In hockey and soccer, it is a special kind of overtime that happens only when the score is still tied after regular play AND the usual overtime period. It is not just about playing longer but about finding a winner quickly.
But why have shootouts at all? You might wonder why they don’t just keep playing until someone scores naturally. Well, there are a few reasons:
- A shootout gives both teams an equal chance to win, even if they were evenly matched during regular play.
- Shootouts are thrilling! They create a ton of tension and excitement for fans and players alike.
- Games can’t go on forever. Shootouts provide a way to settle the score and determine a winner in a reasonable amount of time.
How Shootout Goals are Counted in Betting?
A shootout goal is still a goal. For most bets in hockey or football betting, a shootout goal counts like any other goal scored during the game. The team that wins the shootout gets credit for an extra goal, even though it didn’t happen in regular play.
The Shootout Shakes Things Up in Over/Under Bets
If you have placed a bet on the total number of goals (over/under), the shootout can become a game-changer. Let’s say you bet on the “over” (meaning you think there will be a lot of goals). If the game goes to a shootout and both teams score a bunch, that can push the final score over the limit you bet on, making you a winner!
Shootout Decides the Winner in Moneyline Bets
The moneyline is a bet on a team that will win the game. Shootout goals count towards this. So, if your team loses in regulation but pulls off a shootout victory, you still win your bet. Let’s say you’re a die-hard fan of the New York Rangers, and you have placed a moneyline bet on them to beat the Boston Bruins in a thrilling NHL matchup.
After three periods, the score is tied, and the game heads into overtime. Despite some close calls, neither team scores in overtime, and the game goes to a shootout. The Rangers’ goalie stands on his head, and their star forward snipes the game-winning goal in the shootout.
Even though the Rangers were technically losing after regulation and overtime, they were declared the official game winners due to their shootout victory. And guess what? Your moneyline bet on the Rangers is a winner, too. You can collect your winnings from the sports betting site thanks to that shootout goal.
Puck Line Bets (Hockey): More Goals = More Excitement
The puck line is like a point spread for hockey. A shootout goal affects not only the final score but also whether your team “covers” the puck line. For instance, if your team is the underdog with a +1.5 puck line, they must either win the game or lose by only one goal to cover. If the match goes to a shootout and your team wins, that extra shootout goal might push them over the edge and win you the bet.
The Possibilities are Endless
There are many other types of bets where the shootout can make a difference. For instance, there are prop bets on who will score the first goal in the shootout or which team will win the shootout outright. It is always important to review casinos and betting sites for the specific rules of the sportsbook where you are betting to see exactly how they handle shootout scenarios.
Tips for Betting on Sports with Shootouts
Now that you know about the shootout, let’s turn that knowledge into cold, hard cash. Here are a few tips to help you make smarter bets when a shootout is a possibility, even if you are dabbling in virtual football betting:
Know the Rules
Different sportsbooks might have slightly different rules about how shootout goals count. Before you place your bet, check the fine print to see if there are any special conditions or exceptions. Remember, this is especially important for virtual football betting, where the rules can vary even more.
Consider Shootout Potential
Some teams are known for their shootout skills, while others struggle under pressure. If you are betting on the over/under, consider whether the teams involved have a history of going to shootouts or if their playing styles might lead to a tied game. A potential shootout could mean more goals, which is great if you have bet the over.
Watch the Live Odds
If a game goes to a shootout, the odds for various bets can shift dramatically. Keep an eye on those live odds. Maybe your team was the underdog before, but they suddenly look stronger in the shootout. Remember, this is a good time to place a bet on them at better odds, potentially increasing your winnings.
Do Your Research
Check out team and player stats related to shootouts. Some players are known for their shootout proficiency. You can use this information to your advantage when making prop bets, like betting on a specific player to score in the shootout.
Final Words About Shootout Goals in Sports Betting
So, the next time you hear those shootout buzzers blare, don’t stress. Remember, those goals are not just for show; they hold real weight in the betting world. So, you can securely place your bets, knowing you have a handle on the shootout factor. Whether it is hockey, soccer, or even virtual football, understanding how shootout goals count is your ticket to making informed decisions and potentially boosting your winnings.
