Following last weekend’s FA Cup Final at Wembley, figures from Worldpay have revealed that British bookmakers experienced a 40% increase in online transactions.
The build-up saw betting peak two hours before the match kicked off, at which point Worldpay was processing 30% more bets than the average weekend. This year’s final also saw a 20% increase for in-play betting compared to earlier weeks, with Worldpay processing up to 50 transactions per second just minutes after kick-off.
This highlights the number of fans getting caught up in the excitement of the match, and topping up their online accounts ahead of the live action. Worldpay’s figures also reveal a second spike at the beginning of extra time, which no doubt led to a flurry of punters seeking to capitalise on bet in-play offers.
Interestingly, average transaction values during the match were 5% below average, suggesting that the FA Cup attracts more casual punters looking for a flutter on the big day.
Karl MacGregor, eCommerce Leader at Worldpay, said: “As we have seen with the rise of in-play betting, online gambling is enabling fans to fully immerse themselves in the game, and react instantly to all the biggest sporting moments, whether that be Puncheon’s opening goal or Lingard’s late winner.
“The ritual of predicting the outcome of the match in advance is no longer the mainstay. Sports’ betting is continuing to grow in what is offered and how it is offered, as today’s fans want access to an array of real-time betting opportunities from their device, with immediate results.
“And the convenience and speed of online gambling makes it easier than ever for football fans to try their luck from their bar stool or the stadium itself.”
Source: SBC News
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