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Bet Types

Point Spread

Also known as: Spread

A bet where the bookmaker assigns a points advantage or disadvantage to level the playing field between two teams. The favorite must win by more than the spread (e.g., -6.5 points) for a bet on them to win. The underdog can lose by less than the spread or win outright. Common in American football and basketball.

Related Bet Types Terms

Over/Under (Totals)
A bet on whether the total combined score, goals, or points in a match will be above (over) or below (under) a line set by the bookmaker. For example, if the total is set at 2.5 goals in a football match, 'Over' wins if there are 3 or more goals, and 'Under' wins if there are 2 or fewer.
Each Way (E/W)
A bet consisting of two equal parts: one on the selection to win and one on the selection to place (finish in the top positions). Common in horse racing and golf. If your selection wins, both parts pay out. If it places but does not win, only the place part pays at a fraction of the win odds (typically 1/4 or 1/5).
Draw No Bet (DNB)
A bet where your stake is refunded if the match ends in a draw, effectively removing the draw as an outcome. You only win if your selected team wins, and only lose if the opposing team wins. DNB offers lower odds than a standard 1X2 bet but provides insurance against the draw result.
Back Bet
A bet in favor of an outcome occurring, which is the standard type of bet most people are familiar with. On a betting exchange, backing is the opposite of laying. When you back a selection, you believe it will win. If it does, you receive the payout at the agreed odds.
Lay Bet
A bet against an outcome occurring, effectively taking the role of the bookmaker. Only available on betting exchanges like Betfair. When you lay a bet, you are offering odds to other bettors. If the outcome occurs, you pay the backer's profit. If it does not occur, you keep the backer's stake.
European Handicap (EH)
A handicap bet using whole numbers (e.g., -1, -2, +1) where three outcomes are possible: home win, draw, or away win with the handicap applied. Unlike Asian Handicap, draws are possible, meaning you can lose even with a one-goal margin. For example, Team A with a -1 handicap must win by 2+ goals.
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