Walcott's missed penalty might have cost Arsenal - but thanks to Paddy it didn't hurt this punter's wallet
The perfect start to the season?
Glen Manning, 44, a coach builder from North Yorkshire, staked £2 on Theo Walcott to open the scoring in the match, and for it to finish 4-4.
It was an inspired punt, as Walcott scored first, before the thrilling game saw Liverpool lead 4-3 going into the final 15 minutes of the game.
He must have had his heart in his mouth during the closing stages of the game, as Arsenal battled in vain to grab an equaliser – and earn him a big pay-out.
Glen said: ‘I couldn’t believe I was so close, I really thought I’d done it. ‘After Theo (Walcott) missed his penalty, I thought that was that, but to come so close is incredible. ‘When Paddy called me, I was shocked – I had to ask if it was a prank call!
‘But this sort of thing is exactly why I bet with Paddy Power – they’re absolutely spot on.’
Spokesman Paddy Power said: ‘It’s exactly this sort of inspired craziness that we respect – a couple of hours ago, most would have scoffed at Glen’s bet. Now, we all can’t believe how close he was.
‘As the punters’ champion, we thought it was only right that we paid out on this one – Glen clearly knew what he was talking about.’