Domestic Competitions

FA Vase Fifth Round Preview - Part Two - 28/01/17

Newport Pagnell Town vs Sunderland RCA

This tie sees two sides, stuck in mid-table in their respective leagues meet. The hosts are currently in 10th place in the United Counties League Premier Division, on 41 points, a massive 29 points behind the league leaders, despite bolstering an impressive +27 goal difference. The visitors play in arguably the most competitive and therefore the hardest league to win in Step 5, the Northern League Division One. Therefore, it's no surprise to see that they're having difficulties in it this season, as they find themselves in 12th place, and a massive 36 points off the leaders, North Shields. Due to their lack of competitiveness in their respective leagues, this competition will no doubt be what they're focusing on, and, it seems to have worked for them so far, as both of these sides are at this stage for the first time in their history. The trend of the teams being left in this competition being prolific in front of goal sees no change with this tie, as Newport Pagnell Town have managed a mighty 60 goals in their 26 league outings, in comparison with Sunderland RCA who have found the net 54 times in their 28 league matches. However, the main difference between these sides is their defensive record. The hosts bolster the better, conceding 33 in 26, whereas, their visitors have conceded 55 in just two extra games. Both of these sides faced a tough match in the last game and showed the resilience needed to make it far in this competition, as the hosts held on to beat Peterborough Sports 3-2, whereas, the visitors managed to hold on against AFC Mansfield to see out a 1-0 win. In my opinion, it'll be Newport Pagnell Town, who end up progressing to the quarter finals, they're a better side than their league position suggests and I can see them proving that in this fixture, by exposing Sunderland RCA's defensive frailties, making the away fans' seven and a half hours all-round trip even longer.

Score Prediction - Newport Pagnell Town 4:2 Sunderland RAC

Ely City vs Sporting Khalsa

This tie sees a side fighting to survive, taking on a side looking to make a late chase for the title. The hosts are relegation candidates this year in the Eastern Counties League Premier Division, as they currently occupy 17th place, just 5 points clear of the relegation zone. Whereas, their visitors, despite sitting in 5th place and 23 points behind the leaders in the Midland Football League Premier Division, find themselves having seven games in hand, a similar position to what they found themselves in last year. Winning all these would see them right back in the challenge for the title. Both these sides, by making it to this stage, are on the best run in their history, having only progressed as far as the Fourth Round in 2012/13 and the Second Qualifying Round in 2007/08 respectively. The fact that Sporting Khalsa having progressed past the First Round before makes this cup run even more incredible, as they are now, only three rounds away from Wembley. The hosts are also the first team in this preview not to bolster an incredible goal scoring record this season as they've only managed 33 goals in 24 league games, in comparison to Khalsa's 47 goals in 23 league games. Defensively, Ely City also look vulnerable, as they've conceded 43 in 24, compared to the visitors' record of 28 conceded in 23, a staggering difference. However, in the FA Vase so far, they've looked like a decent side, which they showed in the last round, as they easily dispatched of Shepshed Dynamo, winning 3-0. Sporting Khalsa will be aiming to get revenge for their beaten league compatriots, but will need to put up a better showing than their narrow 1-0 win over Tring Athletic in the last round. One thing I learned about Khalsa last year is that they're very inconsistent, they seem to go through patches where they look like one of best teams in the MFL and then they'll just drop the levels and look like an average side, which they did when they came to Edgar Street. The attendance in the last round at Ely City was 386, and I can see that being beaten fairly comfortably, as I expect their to be a crowd of around 600, with around 200 making the 2 hour trip from Khalsa. The visitors will surely go into this tie with the belief that they are the better side, and, as long that confidence doesn't turn into complacency, the should be able to see this tie out rather comfortably.

Score Prediction - Ely City 0:2 Sporting Khalsa

Team Solent vs South Shields

This tie sees the favourites to win the FA Vase make the longest trip of the round, to play a side whose focus will all be on this competition. The hosts are currently in 5th Place in the Wessex League Premier Division, and, sit 18 points behind the league leaders, a gap which could be halved if they win their games in hand. The visitors also represent the hardest division in Step 5, the Northern Premier League Division One, but unlike Sunderland, they are very competitive within it. They currently occupy 2nd place, 8 points behind rivals North Shields, and, also have two games in hand, so a late title push could be possible. Team Solent are at this stage for the first time in their history, whereas, South Shields will be aiming to equal their best run, by reaching the next round. This fixture sees us go back to the norm, with two prolific attacking sides facing each other. Team Solent, scoring an impressive 62 goals in 25 league games, however South Shields have scored an absurd 93 goals in just 28 league games. Their defensive records are much closer however, with 35 conceding in 25 and 29 conceded in 28 respectively. The hosts progressed to this comfortable fashion, beating Croydon 3-0. whereas, their visitors, eventually knocked out the current holders, Morpeth Town, in controversial fashion. The visitors are the best supported club at Step 5, with an insane 1209 average attendance. If their supporters travel in these kind of numbers down south today then you have to take your hats off to them, as this tie means South Shields and their will have to complete an 11 hour all-round trip. I think these supporters will be rewarded for their loyalty, as South Shields will prove to be too strong for their opposition, and, should come through comfortably. Their attacking will be relentless, and, will prove to be just too much for the underdogs defence to handle.

Score Prediction - Team Solent 1:4 South Shields

Southall vs Exmouth Town

Sunday's only game in this competition sees a meeting between two sides who are flying the flag for Step 6 football. The hosts currently sit in 5th Place in the Spartan South Midlands League Division One, and, can solely focus on trying to make the final for the second time in their history, their only time in the final was in the 1985/86 season where they suffered defeat at that stage. The visitors currently find themselves in 7th position in the South West Peninsula League Premier Division, and, similar to the hosts, can solely focus on this competition, as they find themselves nowhere near the title race, or relegation. They'll be aiming to reach at least the semi-final for the second time in their history this season, with their only appearance at that stage, coming in the 1984/85 season. Again, this tie pairs together two prolific sides, with Southall scoring 60 goals in 23 games, compared to Exmouth Town, who have managed 57 goals in 22 games. Defensively though, there is a stark difference between them with 36 goals conceded in 23 games for the hosts, whereas, the visitors have conceded a massive 15 less goals in just one less game. Exmouth Town cruised through their previous round, dispatching Step 5 side Corinthian with a 4-0 win. Southall didn't have it as easy going, as they needed to show massive composure to beat their Step 5 opposition in the previous round, as they eventually saw off Bradford Town 4-2 AET. Despite this being a meeting between two step 6 sides, it's a meeting between the two sides who have made it furthest in this competition. This is going to be a very even game, with a solitary goal making all the difference, and, I think it'll be the travelling fans who will be the happier, and their 6 hour round trip will all be worth it.

Score Prediction - Southall 0-1 Exmouth Town

FA Vase Fifth Round Preview - Part One - 27/01/17

With Morpeth Town crashing out in the previous round, in controversial fashion to say the least, it was confirmed that the FA Vase will not only have a new winner, but a final contested by two different teams to last year, with Hereford FC now competing in the FA Trophy. With a place in the quarter-final up for grabs this weekend, I give my thoughts on the eight ties being contested.

Cleethorpes Town vs Atherton Collieries

This Fifth Round tie sees two very dominant teams in their respective division meet. The hosts sit 10 points clear at the top of the Northern Counties East League Premier Division, and find themselves at this stage for the second successive year. Their visitors currently sit joint top in the North West Counties League Premier Division with a game in hand, and are on their best run in this competition, their previous best being a Third Round appearance last year. Both sides are on course to record remarkable seasons this year, and, will be aiming to make it that little bit sweeter by getting to Wembley. Both sides are an attacking force, with incredible the season, Cleethorpes Town scoring a ridiculous 92 goals in their 27 league games this year, whereas, Atherton have scored an impressive 73 goals in their 26 league games. Both are not only a prolific attacking outfit, but are also solid defensively as both sides average only 1.07 goals conceded per game. It's not the longest travel time for Atherton, with a 2 hours 12 minute trip ahead of them tomorrow. It's going to be a battle between these two sides for sure, players on each team will no doubt give everything to make history for their respective clubs. Both sides will be well supported on the day, with a projected crowd of 500-600 expected, including an exceptional 200 expected to travel from Atherton, a fantastic number for a club at their level. No doubt these fans will witness a close game between two very good teams where a single goal is likely to make all the difference. I think the hosts' relentless attacking will end up being too much for the visitors to handle and the decisive factor in them reaching the quarter-finals for the first time.


Score Prediction - Cleethorpes Town 3:1 Atherton Collieries

Bromsgrove Sporting vs Bristol Manor Farm

This Fifth Round Tie sees two teams at the top of their respective division meet. The hosts are the only unbeaten side from Step 1-6 and currently are top of the Midland Football League Division One by just a point, but do have three games in hand on the team behind them. Their season has got even better, as they find themselves in the Fifth Round for the first time in their 8 year history. Their visitors sit top of the Western League Premier Division by 11 points and find themselves in familiar territory, as they made the quarter-finals of this competition last year, where they were beaten by eventual winners Morpeth Town. Just like the fixture above, this a meeting between two sides, who are set to record incredible seasons this year, and, a first trip to Wembley will be on the minds of all their fans. Both sides are solid in both departments, Bromsgrove Sporting have scored 65 in 21 league games, whereas Bristol Manor Farm have scored 77 in 25 league games, with both sides averaging less than a goal conceded per game. The hosts are one of four teams still flying the flag for Step 6 of non-league and will be hoping to dispatch of their higher opposition as easily as they did in the last round, where they won 4-0. Their visitors will be hoping to avoid another replay, as they were eventually won in the last round 5-3, despite being pushed all the way by Melksham Town. It's not a long trip for the visitors, who only have an hour and a half to travel, and will no doubt bring a fair few supporters with them. This will no doubt be a record attendance for the hosts who average the highest crowd in Step 6, with an an incredible average attendance of 554. I think this tie will see an attendance of over 1000, which will be incredible for the FA Vase and for these clubs. It's going to be a close game but, with the confidence that the hosts have and are playing with at this point, I can't see them not winning this.

Score Prediction - Bromsgrove Sporting 3:2 Bristol Manor Farm

Crowborough Athletic vs Coleshill Town

This Fifth Round tie continues the trend of two teams challenging for the title in their respective divisions, meeting each other in this competition. The hosts sit top of the Southern Counties East League Premier Division by just two points, and, are have matched their best run in this competition by making it this far, their last appearance at this stage was back in the 2007/08 season. Coleshill are currently in third place in the Midland Football League Premier Division, 12 points off leaders Alvechurch, however if they win their trio of games in hand, they would be right back in the title race. This is the first time the visitors have appeared in the Fifth Round, their previous best run, was their appearance in the Third Round, back in 2007/08. Again, both these sides are prolific attacking outfits, Crowborough scoring 65 in 22 league games, whereas, Coleshill have managed to find the net 70 times in 27 league games. However, the advantage for Crowborough, is their defensive record is much better than their visitors this season, having only conceded 21 in 22 league games, in comparison to Coleshill Town, who have conceded 39 in 27 league games. The visitors are one of the two sides left in the competition that are representing the Midland Football League Premier, and, it would be great exposure for this league if they had a side in the final in consecutive years, following Hereford FC's run last year which saw them finish as eventual runner-ups (A defeat that still hurts to this day). What Coleshill proved when they visited Edgar Street last year is that they can step up in big games, as they beat us 5-4. They're a very physical side, who are extremely dangerous from dead-ball situations, and have a player who can take a throw-in as good as a corner. The hosts can't afford to give away any silly fouls in dangerous areas, because they will be punished. Their best chance of beating their physical opponents is to use pace on the counterattack, and work the ball through the middle at a high tempo as their big centre-backs will fail to cope with the quick play. Crowborough recorded the biggest win in the Fourth Round, as they easily dispatched Eastbourne Town, winning 6-0. It's a long trip for the visitors, who face a 6 hour all-round trip, a long way to travel to lose. I can see this being a high scoring games, with how efficient these sides are in front of goal, however the visitors defensive vulnerabilities will end up proving to be their downfall, as them and their fans will make the 3 hour trip back to the Midlands empty handed.

Score Prediction - Crowborough Athletic 5:3 Coleshill Town

Hinckley AFC vs Buckland Athletic

The final tie of Part One does actually see two teams with a small chance of winning their respective title meet, ironically the sides leading their leagues are actually playing each other in this round (Bromsgrove Sporting vs Bristol Manor Farm). This is only the hosts third season as a club, following the dissolving of Hinckley United, and, they're currently enjoying a decent season, as they sit in 6th place in the Midland Football League Division One, although winning their four games in hand would see them climb to the top of the table (if Bromsgrove Sporting were to lose all of theirs). Their visitors are currently sat in 3rd place in the Western League Premier Division, 12 points behind the league leaders, but, they don't have the luxury of as many games in hand as Hinckley do, so their best chance of silverware, is arguably in this competition. Both these sides have massively surpassed their best performance in this competition, as, before this year, the furthest they have both managed to get is the First Round, in the 2015/16 season and 2011/12 season respectively, making the fact that one of them will be in the Quarter-Final even more impressive. Again, it's a meeting between sides who seem to score for fun, Hinckley managing an absurd 71 goals in 20 league games, compared to their guests who have managed an impressive 66 goals in 23 league outings. It's the visitors who bolster the better defensive record though, only conceding 1.08 goals per game in comparison to their hosts, who have conceded 1.4 goals per game. This game, alongside the Bromsgrove Sporting vs Bristol Manor Farm game is not only a battle of Step 6 vs Step 5, but also, a battle between the Midland Football League Division One and the Western League Premier Division, as more league exposure can mean just as much as more exposure for a team, when it comes to attracting sponsors, for example. Hinckley easily dispatched of Step 5 opposition last time out, recording a 5-0 victory against Berkhamsted, so the underdogs, will feel confident in their ability to cause the upset yet again. Buckland Athletic faced a harder task, but showed they could grind out a result away from home, as they beat Chichester City 3-1. These ties are so hard to call, because at this stage of the competition, everyone starts to sense how close they are to Wembley and it gives them that extra boost, to take their performance to the next level. I think it'll take a replay and maybe even penalties in that, to decide the winner of this one, as they're both so evenly matched. The only downside to this going to a replay will mean that both sides will have to complete the lengthy 7 hour round-trip.

Score Prediction - Hinckley AFC 2:2 Buckland Athletic
Replay Prediction - Hinckley AFC 2:2 Buckland Athletic (Either team to win 5-4 on Penalties)

Part Two of my FA Vase Fifth Round Preview will be out tomorrow at Midday and it features:

• The favourite to win the FA Vase
• The side who have to complete the longest journey of  the Fifth Round (5+ Hours)
• And a meeting between two sides who are representing Step 6

FA Cup Third Round Review - Part 2/2 - 13/01/17

Welcome to the second part of the FA Cup 3rd Round Review which includes the Premier League leaders, a handful of upsets and the lowest ranked side in the competition.

Queens Park Rangers vs Blackburn Rovers
Ian Holloway named fringe players in their Third Round tie against Blackburn and was left wanting more from the whole team, with the exception of Jamie Mackie. They hosts started on the back foot and were punished in the 8th minute, when, keeper Matt Ingram could only parry Gallagher's header at defender Joel Lynch who could only watch the ball roll in his own net. It was a game of few great chances but, when the visitors got their chance to double their advantage, they did so with Feeney tapping the ball into the open goal after Ingram had denied Gallagher again. Just 3 minutes later, the hosts were given a lifeline as Yeni Ngbakoto was fouled inside the area and Bidwell converted from the spot. It counted for nothing though as Blackburn held on and will host either Barnsley or Blackpool in their third successive appearance in the 4th Round. The loss for QPR meant that they equalled the unwanted record of most defeats at this stage of the FA Cup - 48 times. (Level with Plymouth Argyle)

Rotherham United vs Oxford United

League One side Oxford United would have gone into this tie against the Championships bottom side with every hope of making the 4th Round for the second year running. The hosts got out of jail early on as their keeper produced a great save to deny Maguire from the penalty spot. They didn't learn from their poor defending though and 4 minutes before the break, found themselves behind, courtesy of a low driven strike from their ex-player Ryan Taylor. Rotherham started the second half much better and in the 51st minute, got their equaliser through a brilliant strike from Ward. However, 10 minutes from time, the visitors were back ahead as Edwards headed home and then 8 minutes later Johnson put it on a plate for Hemmings who put the ball in the back of the net to make it 1-3. The hosts did get one back through a great header from Tom Adeyemi but it proved to just be a consolation as Rotherham's miserable season just gets worse. Oxford United host the winner of Birmingham vs Newcastle and will no doubt give either of them a run for their money.

Stoke City vs Wolverhampton Wanderers

Mark Hughes named a strong side as Stoke City hosted a solid Wolves side looking to upset their Premier League opposition. It was the visitors who struck first, skillful winger Helder Costa beat his man before hitting an unstoppable shot past the keeper at his near post just before the half hour mark. The second half seemed like it was all going to be about one man, Wolves keeper Carl Ikeme. He produced four incredible saves to deny Arnautovic, Affelay, Crouch and Allen from getting the equalising goal. However, it was his teammate Matt Doherty who produced a moment of magic to take the headlines, as his sublime free-kick from 25 yards nestled into the top left corner to secure Wolves' place in the 4th Round. It was just one of those days for Stoke City who lose at this stage for the first time in 9 years, whereas Wolves face a trip to Liverpool or Plymouth.

Sunderland vs Burnley

The Stadium of Light hosted this affair between the two Premier League clubs and it was one that both fans will hope to remember quickly. The game was contested by two fully strengthed side but the quality of the game suggested the opposite, which both managers seemed to agree with in their post-match interviews. Jack Rodwell had the first sight of goal of the afternoon but dragged his powerful strike well wide. Burnley's Sam Vokes was just as wasteful as he went through one on one with the keeper, but his tame effort was well saved. The hosts opted to shoot from range rather than work the ball into the box and were almost rewarded for it but Nick Hope did well to tip Rodwell's strike over the bar. It was the visitors who came closest when James Tarkowski's bullet header crashed off the post but the rebound was put over. Defoe thought he should have had a penalty when he went down under the presence of Darikwa but was instead deemed to have dived. One of these sides will surely show more quality in the replay and knowing that the winner will host either Bristol City or Fleetwood, the winner of this will fancy their chances to make it to the 5th Round.

Sutton United vs AFC Wimbledon

This tie had a great piece of history behind it, the return to where it all began in 2002 for AFC Wimbledon when these two sides played in a friendly. 15 years on, they met in the FA Cup 3rd Round which sums up the magic and the beauty of this competition. AFC Wimbledon were aiming to reach the 4th Round for the first time in their history whereas their hosts were aiming for their 3rd appearance in the next round, the last coming almost 30 years ago. It was the Conference side who started the brigher though with clinical striker Matt Tubbs not living up to his reputation as he failed to work the keeper from 18 yards. Then from a Wimbledon corner, Sutton managed to counterattack and Maxime Biamou was sent through one on one, but he curled his effort wide of the near post. Another counterattack by the hosts saw the ball break to Biamou again who brought it down well on his chest, struck it well towards the far corner but was denied yet again by keeper James Shea. The Dons failed to really create any great chances, their only one of not was defender Robertson firing his volley over but other than that, they were outplayed at times by Sutton who did well to earn a replay. It will be another close game between these two in the replay and, with Leeds United travelling to the winner, there's definitely an extra incentive for these two sides.

Watford vs Burton Albion

Nigel Clough would have instilled plenty of confidence into his side as they travelled to Premier League side Watford, who were without a win in their last 5 games. In the 21st minute though, the hosts showed their quality as a quick passing move tore the visitors defence wide open, which allowed teenager Brandon Mason to pick out the unmarked Christian Kabasele in the box who tapped home. Watford continued to dominate possession and force their Championship opponents into long range efforts. With 13 minutes to go a moment of pure class was produced by Jerome Sinclair, who picked the ball up on the half way line, dribbled past a trio of players like they were amateurs and fired into the far left corner to secure the hosts place in the 4th Round. It was a bad day for Burton who failed to register a shot on target and they miss out on the trip to Millwall, who I'm sure Walter Mazzari won't make the same mistake Eddie Howe did.

West Bromwich Albion vs Derby County

West Brom are enjoying their best season in years in the Premier League, and their fans would have been hoping for the best when they hosted playoff chasing Championship side, Derby County. It was Pulis' side that struck first. 10 minutes before half-time, as Matt Phillips found space 25 yards out and curled the ball into the back of the net, past Carson, who really should have done better. It was a double salvo from the Championship side which proved decisive however, with Darren Bent beating Myhill at his near post from 25 yards in the 51st minute, before Tom Ince scored a brilliant curled free-kick which left Myhill standing. West Brom dominated the game, having an absurd 28 shots, but only managed to hit the target with 25% of these which proved costly. Pulis said he was proud of his side, but it's Derby County who get to host Leicester City in the 4th Round.

Wigan Athletic vs Nottingham Forest

Both of these Championship sides came into the game in awful form, with Wigan without a win in their previous 7 outings and Nottingham Forest without a win in 6. Despite form suggesting it would be a tight affair, it was nowhere near as the 2013 winners were on fire. It took until first half stoppage time for Wigan to finally get their deserved goal, left-back Stephen Warnock was in acres on the left hand side and played a great ball into the path of Will Grigg who did what he does best. It only took 12 minutes after the break for them to get their second, again Warnock finding space on the left hand side and pulling it back, this time for Wildschut, who managed to get goalside of Demetriou before his low strike beat the keeper. With 9 minutes left, Eric Lichaj had the opportunity to put Forest back in it from the penalty spot, but, his attempt was well saved by Haugaard. A poor performance by Forest sees them become the side without a win in 7, whereas Wigan have a trip to Old Trafford.

Wycombe Wanderers vs Stourbridge

The lowest ranked side left in the FA Cup faced a difficult task as they travelled to League Two playoff chasing Wycombe. But 7th tier Stourbridge went into their first ever 3rd Round game with confidence, having knocked out League One Northampton in the previous round. It was the Northern Premier League side who had the first real sight of goal as striker Benbow beat his man on the edge of the box, but his subsequent strike was straight at Jamal Blackman. Dan Scarr almost put the visitors ahead 20 minutes later but was denied, courtesy of a great reaction save from Blackman. Wycombe came out strong after the break and in the second minute of the second half, Sam Wood volleyed home from close range after some heroic defending from the 7th tier side. The Beast that is Adebayo Akinfenwa then came close after strengthening his marker, but saw his curled effort saved and this proved costly, as in the 70th minute a moment of magic happened. A free-kick for the visitors, from deep inside the Wycombe half found it's way into Dan Scarr, who expertly turned his man and fired into the bottom right corner to send the fans into bedlam. The visitors came close again soon after, as Tonks' whipped cross crashed off the top of the crossbar, however it was the League Two side that regained the lead courtesy of a brilliant header by Akinfenwa. It was a great run by Stourbridge, who clearly made an impression on Wycombe boss Gareth Ainsworth as he had nothing but praise for them. Their fans will surely look back on this run with pride but will feel gutted when they see that a win here would have given them a trip to White Hart Lane, which Wycombe will surely look forward to.

Preston North End vs Arsenal
The weekend after Giroud scored what may arguably end up being goal of the year, he remained the lone striker for the trip to Championship side Preston. Arsene Wenger had never lost at this stage of the competition before but a poor start, just like the Bournemouth game put that run in jeopardy. Hugill caught Monreal sleeping before the ball eventually broke through to Robinson who fired home after just 7 minutes. Preston would have had two more if not for a block at the near post by Mustafi and a misplaced pass by Robinson, who I'm sure heard about that one from Hugill after. Iwobi produced a moment of magic as he flicked it over the defender's head before laying it off to Giroud, who was evidently caught in two minds as he produced what can only be described as neither a cross nor a shot. Preston almost capitalised again on sloppy defending from the Arsenal centre-halfs as Gallagher lobbed Ospina but Monreal was on the line to clear. The Gunners finally woke up in the second half, Iwobi layed off Ramsey outside the box who took a touch before striking into the far right corner. Mustafi tried to redeem himself for his errors as he made a great run to the near post, but saw his half volley saved. It was a much better second half performance from Wenger's side and with 1 minute to go, the assist of the round was produced as Giroud flicked on to Perez, who then instinctively backheeled it back into the Frenchman, who did what he does best right now, scoring late goals. A lucky escape for Arsenal who travel to Southampton or Norwich (Personally I'm praying for Norwich), whereas Simon Grayson should definitely sign a clinical striker, as that is all Preston need to be a great side.

Cardiff City vs Fulham

Onto Sunday's games now, the first of which saw Fulham travel to Wales, hoping to get the bragging rights over their Championship counterparts. However it was Cardiff who took the lead, a deflected free-kick from Anthony Pilkington came off Lucas Piazon left the keeper standing after just 8 minutes. Just 6 minutes later though, the visitors were level. A great run by Bennett, who then lay the ball into Stefan Johansen whose strike was emphatic. Just after the half hour mark, the eventual winner was scored by the 16 year old sensation, Ryan Sessegnon. He found himself in the right place at the right time to turn the ball in to the open goal, following Tom Cairney's effort which hit the crossbar. The visitors dominated the second half but, last ditch challenges denied Sessegnon his second and Piazon a place on the scoresheet. The hosts were given a footballing lesson and if Fulham  play like this against Hull in the next round, they have a great chance of going through.

Liverpool vs Plymouth Argyle

Jurgen Klopp named the youngest Liverpool side in the history of the club when they hosted one of League Two's top clubs, Plymouth Argyle. At an average age of 21 years and 296 days, this young Liverpool side showed great work effort but were lacking that touch of quality that you need to break down a defensive side. Origi will feel hard done by that his goal was disallowed for a foul and the hosts ended up finishing the first half with a staggering 80.3% possession, but failed to make much use of it. Plymouth's best chance came when Jake Jervis bursted into life down the right hand side, beat two defenders, but dragged his shot wide. The last 10 minutes saw Liverpool up the intensity, but still lacked the quality and creativity in the final third, the closest they came was when a free-kick deflected off Smith, but McCormick held it well. A great result for Plymouth, and with Jurgen Klopp saying he'll play the kids again in the replay, Argyle have a great chance of progressing to the next round, in which the winner of this will host Wolves.

Chelsea vs Peterborough United

Antonio Conte made nine changes to the side that suffered defeat to Tottenham, with the hope of getting back to winning ways against League One side Peterborough United. It was a mixed first 15 minutes for Gary Cahill, he almost scored a Zola'esque flick at the near post, before losing Lee Angol in the box, whose header was saved by Begovic. Chelsea started to go through the gears then though as Terry came close, before Pedro checked the ball onto his right foot and fired an unstoppable shot into the top right hand corner, which McGee standing, who had just made an incredible save to deny Loftus-Cheek. Ruben Loftus-Cheek was involved again in setting up Pedro, but he somehow hit the bar from six yards. Two minutes before the break, however, and the youngster did get an assist, laying off Batshuayi who drilled the ball home. The Premier League leaders started the second half, just as they ended the first, with Willian drilling the ball into the bottom right hand corner. It wasn't all plain sailing for Chelsea as John Terry, who was making his first start since October, was sent off for a foul on Lee Angol with 23 minutes to go. Just 3 minutes later, Angol was involved again, laying off Nichols who smashed it past Begovic, giving the League One side some hope. However, it proved to be just a consolation goal as, with 15 minutes to go, Pedro did get his second, curling his effort from 20 yards past McGee to see the hosts into the 4th Round, where they will have a hard time hosting Brentford.

Middlesbrough vs Sheffield Wednesday

On paper, this looked like it would be a close game, Middlesbrough have been inconsistent this year, whereas, Sheffield Wednesday are chasing promotion to the top flight yet again. Middlesbrough had the better of the chances in a first half where both teams struggled to break the deadlock, first Ayala rushing his volley, subsequently hitting it over, then Traore being denied by a great block. The second half belonged to the hosts however, for both the right and wrong reasons. In the 58th minute, they took the lead through Grant Leadbitter's curled free-kick, but couldn't celebrate for long, with Ayala fouling Forestieri just a minute later and being sent off. Despite being down to 10 men, Boro got a second in comical style as Negredo closed down the Sheffield Wednesday keeper, who kicked the ball against the Spaniard and watched it go in. Stuani then flicked Negredo's strike in, only for it to be ruled out for offside and then in stoppage time, a brilliant run by Stuani ended up with his shot being saved, but, the ball fell for De Roon on the edge of the box, who fired it into the top corner. I can see Middlesbrough going far in this competition and will feel confident as they host Accrington Stanley in the next round.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa

After beating Chelsea, you'd think Pochettino would have kept the same side out to keep confidence high, but, it was only  Alderwieleld and Dier who kept their place, as Spurs hosted Villa. It was a dire performance from the hosts in the first half and they only looked like the team that beat Chelsea when Dele Alli came on. Villa's best chance of the game came in the second half when Agbonlahor was denied by two great blocks, both of which were made by Alderwiereld. The hosts finally broke through the resilient Villa defence with 19 minutes left to play, as Nkoudou's cross was flicked in expertly by Ben Davies, a great way to score his first for the club. Spurs secured their place in the 4th Round with 10 minutes to go, when Son peeled off his marker and smashed the ball home to double the advantage. Spurs will need to be much better when they host Wycombe in the next round, whereas, Aston Villa now have to focus on turning their season around.

Cambridge United vs Leeds United

The final game of the 3rd Round saw two sides chasing promotion in their respective leagues meet, League Two Cambridge United and Championship Leeds United. The hosts came out with the right attitude, forcing their Championship opposition into long balls due to their high pressing, it almost paid off when Ikpeazu found himself free in the box, before having his shot saved. However, in the 25th minute, he wasn't to be denied as a deflected free-kick fell to him, before using his strength to turn his man and fire his shot in off the near post. Leeds showed a bit of quality towards the end of the first half with Mowatt, who was their best player on the day, having his shot tipped over by Norris and then Cooper forced Norris to make the save of the game. Garry Monk clearly had put these players in their place as it was roles reversed in the second half. In the 56th minute, the Championship side got a deserved equaliser as Mowatt's cross was headed in by Stuart Dallas. Mowatt, deservedly got the winner 7 minutes later as Antonsson's header hit the top of his head and found the top corner, giving Leeds fans a trip to either Sutton or Wimbledon. Cambridge United, if they play like they did in the first half, when they get back to action in the league, there's no reason they can't get promoted.

That rounds up the review of the FA Cup 3rd Round, this year didn't fail to give us some upsets, great goals, and unforgettable memories for some fans. Two non-league sides remain for now, but both will have to win a replay in order to keep their amazing cup runs alive.

FA Cup Third Round Review - Part 1/2 - 12/01/17

The FA Cup never fails to produce an upset at this stage and this year was no different, Although we had to watch some dull encounters on TV, there was still some cracking games around the country, which will all be highlighted in this full review of the FA Cup Third Round.

West Ham United vs Manchester City
The Third Round kicked off with Pep Guardiola's first taste of the FA Cup as Manchester City travelled to the capital to face West Ham. City dominated throughout this game and got their deserved breakthrough after a controversial penalty was given and was well converted by Yaya Toure. Things got worse for the hosts in the final 5 minutes of the first half as Nordtveit turned a teasing cross from Sagna and 2 minutes later, Silva got in on the act to put City 3-0 up at the break. West Ham needed a strong start to the second half, but couldn't get going and on the 50th minute, found themselves 4-0 down as Aguero flicked Toure's well struck effort past Adrian. City got their 5th with 6 minutes left on the clock as John Stones scored his first goal for the visitors and rounded off a superb night for Pep's side. West Ham's horrid season continues whereas City fans have a trip to the winner of Bolton or Crystal Palace to look forward to.

Manchester United vs Reading

Saturday's early kick off saw the return of former centre-back Jaap Stam to Manchester United as manager of Championship side Reading. There would be no fairytale for Jaap Stam here though as the day would belong to Wayne Rooney. The Englishman gave United the lead with a historic goal, as it saw him equal Sir Bobby Charlton's 44 year record of 249 goals for the club. United's day got even better after a great move was capped off by a great finish by Martial. Reading struggled to get into the game and were punished for squandering the few chances that they had with 15 minutes to go, as Rashford trebled the advantage. Just 4 minutes later, a comical error by Al-Habsi allowed Rashford to double his tally and send United into the 4th Round. Jaap Stam's main aim now will be trying to guide his side back into the Premier League whereas Jose Mourinho will demand another quality performance by his side in the next round, as the holders host Championship strugglers Wigan who love a cup run as we all will remember them lifting the trophy in 2013.

Accrington Stanley vs Luton Town

The only tie in the Third Round which pitted League Two sides against each other was played on a misty afternoon in Accrington. This may not have been an illustrious tie but it produced arguably the goal of the round as Sean McConville curled in a wonderful strike from 25 yards out in first half stoppage time, which put the hosts ahead at the break. Playoff chasing Luton started the second half in the right manner and 9 minutes after the break, Jake Gray capitalised on the Accrington keeper being out of position to bring the visitors back into the tie. The hosts are finding this season much more of a struggle after their fine showing last year but got the winner on the 57th minute, as centre-back Omar Beckles' header found it's way into the far corner. Luton now have a playoff fight to focus on whilst their League Two compatriots have a trip to Middlesbrough in the next round.

Barrow vs Rochdale

Both Barrow and Rochdale are high-flying in their respective leagues and this game had all the makings of being an FA Cup classic. The National League side can take pride from their performance but unfortunately for them, their League One opponents had too much class for them to deal with. Barrow were aiming to reach the 4th Round for the first time in their history, but poor defending from a corner in the 17th minute allowed Ian Henderson to head home the opener. The hosts almost drew level through Richie Bennett who saw his effort well saved by Logan and big Frenchman Moussa Diarra header was narrowly wide. They were punished by a quality finish by that man Henderson just after the hour mark which was enough to see his side through. Barrow will have to get back to winning ways in the league to keep their playoff push alive, whilst Rochdale play the underdog role as they host Huddersfield Town next.

Birmingham City vs Newcastle United

St Andrew hosted one of the four all Championship ties of the weekend as Birmingham hosted a weakened Newcastle side. Chaos in the box in the 6th minute ended up with the ball being poked in by Daryl Murphy, whose strike was his first for the club and gave the visitors a well needed lead. Mitrovic was then stretchered off with an injury before Jutkiewicz levelled the tie just after the half hour mark. The Birmingham striker then missed two great opportunities in the second half but other than that, it was an even game and a draw was a fair result at the end. At St James' Park, I expect Newcastle to put out a fully strengthed side as the winner of the replay will be confident that they have enough quality to beat Oxford in the next round.

Blackpool vs Barnsley

League Two Blackpool had a tough task as they hosted in-form Championship side Barnsley. However, it was the hosts who were the better side for the majority of the game with striker Kyle Vassell being denied three times by the Barnsley keeper, who put in a man of the match performance making save after save. The visitors grew into the game however and would have won the game, if not for a great reaction save by Blackpool keeper Sam Slocombe. It was a proper cup tie in which both teams gave everything for the win and I expect the replay to be no different with a trip to Blackburn on the line.

Bolton Wanderers vs Crystal Palace

Sam Allardyce is still looking for his first win in charge of last year's runners-up, and found himself receive no sympathy from his former club. League One Bolton had the better start with James Henry being denied at the near post by Speroni. Remy was a constant threat for the hosts in the first half, and was denied by the post after a great strike from 30 yards. Palace kept pushing for the winner but were lucky to avoid defeat, as Josh Vela saw his header crash against the far post. The replay will be another tight affair and I wouldn't be surprised if the League One side come out on top in order to welcome Man City in the next round.

Brentford vs Eastleigh

Griffin Park played host to what could have been a great upset as Conference side Eastleigh made the trip to Brentford. Dean Smith put out a fully strength side with the intention for the Championship side to progress in the competition and he was delighted with how his side performed. A penalty from Yoann Barbet, diving header from Tom Field and a brilliant outside of the foot strike by Lasse Vibe put the hosts 3-0 up within 23 minutes. Credit to Eastleigh, they pulled a goal back through Obileye and then hit the post before Field got his second of the game with a clinical finish in the 38th minute. Romaine Sawyers then hit my pick for goal of the round with a stunning strike from 30 yards, which sent Brentford into the break 5-1 up. The hosts dominated the second half and saw out the second half with a very disciplined performance. It was a great run for Eastleigh, but Dean Smith summed it up best when he said 'I expected us to be quicker, fitter and stronger. We knew we had to apply ourselves and that's exactly what we did.' Brentford are a dark horse in this competition and when they travel to Stamford Bridge in the next round, this young side are going to give Conte's men a real run for their money. Quick mention to a class act by the Brentford fans, who gave their non-league opponents a standing ovation at the end of the game as well as their own team, that's a moment those players will never forget.

Brighton & Hove Albion vs Milton Keynes Dons

Brighton went into this game unbeaten in their last 18 games, and with promotion to the Premier League a priority, they were one of two sides to name a completely changed side for this fixture. The second string 11 showed all the quality Hughton would have expected of them as his side dominated throughout. Beram Kayal drilled the ball in off the far post to give the hosts the lead in the 9th minute, which was followed by chance after chance for the Championship side. Sidwell flicked a header just wide, but in the 72nd minute Hemed sealed the victory and a place in the 4th Round. MK Dons never really turned up and will need to put this performance behind them, whereas, Brighton face a trip to either Ipswich or Lincoln.

Bristol City vs Fleetwood

Fleetwood travelled to their Championship opposition with high hopes, as Bristol City were on a run of six consecutive defeats. The hosts gave debut to a trio of new signings, including the big Bosnian, Milan Djuric. However, it was their lower league opponents who started the game better as Frank Fielding produced a brilliant reaction save to deny David Ball from scoring the opener. City grew into the game though and if not for two great saves from Alex Cairns, the tie could have been all but over by half time. The hosts dominated the second half, without really threatening the keeper and it was new man Djuric who had the best opportunity to seal the win. He found himself free in the box, yet couldn't direct his header on target and both sides will want to have a better showing in the replay. Especially as the winner faces a guaranteed trip to a Premier League side in the form of Sunderland or Burnley.

Everton vs Leicester

It had been 29 years since Everton had beaten a top-flight team in the Third Round, and their fans would have felt confident in their side as they hosted the reigning Premier League champions, who have failed to recapture the form they showed last season. There was no chances of note in the first half, making this tie seem like it would be another boring 0-0, however, on 63 minutes, Deuloufeu squared the ball to Lukaku who tapped home to give Everton the lead. Sometimes a game just needs the first goal to open the tie up and this was no exception. Just 3 minutes after taking the lead, poor defending from the hosts allowed Gray to find the substitute Musa in the box, who was denied by the post at first, before scrambling home the rebound. It only took another 5 minutes for Leicester to get the winner, as Musa played in Drinkwater on the edge of the box, who played it straight into the path of the substitutes run leaving him with an easy finish. Musa's brace means Leicester get a trip to Derby whereas Koeman's men will have to improve as they face Manchester City this weekend.

Huddersfield Town vs Port Vale

David Wagner had never won a competitive cup match since joining the club in November 2015, so Port Vale would have wanted to keep this run going for their Championship opposition. However, it was Wagner's men who struck first just before the half hour mark, as the ball was played into Jack Payne, whose powerful strike found the bottom left corner. It took until the 73rd minute for the hosts to grab their deserved second as Palmer's deflected strike nestled in the far right corner of the net. That wasn't the end of it as Bunn found space on the right hand side before curling his strike home, before a lovely passing move allowed Payne to grab his second. Four goals for the side in 4th place in the Championship and finally Wagner gets his first win in a cup match. Vale couldn't match their opposition and will need new players if they're to have success this year. Incredibly this was the first time Huddersfield had scored more the 2 goals in a game this season and they're rewarded by a trip to in-form Rochdale.

Hull City vs Swansea City

This tie saw two sides struggling for survival in the Premier League meet, both with new managers, and sadly both with fans who are unhappy, not only with performances on the pitch, but with how their club is being run. It was Swansea who had the best chance of the first half, as Ki had his volley well saved. It took until 12 minutes from time for someone to finally produce a moment of quality, and that came from Hull's main man Robert Snodgrass. His delighful chip over the Swansea defence found Maloney who set up Abel Hernandez for a tap-in on his return from injury. Snodgrass was involved in the winner aswell, as he switched the ball to 17 year old local lad Josh Tymon, who kept his composure and struck the ball low and hard off the far post and in. A great moment for Tymon whose goal sees his side travel to Fulham in the next round. For both these clubs however, survival in the Premier League will be the upmost priority but you can never write Hull off in the FA Cup.

Ipswich Town vs Lincoln City
This tie had upset written all over it as Conference leaders Lincoln City travelled, with their thousands of fans, to Championship side Ipswich Town. It didn't take long for those 5000 Lincoln fans to have something to celebrate as journeyman Theo Robinson, who I can't believe is only 27 as it feels like an ago that I was watching him at Edgar Street, turned in Arnold's cross in the 7th minute. Their lead only lasted 5 minutes though, as Tom Lawrence was allowed to go on a run without anyone making an attempt to tackle before putting the ball through the keeper's legs. It was the non-league side who had the better of the chances with Nathan Arnold being denied twice before, in the 65th minute, that man Theo Robinson intercepted a poor back pass from Berra to volley home from 12 yards. The upset was on until the 86th minute when Lawrence picked the ball up from 25 yards out and drove his low shot past the keeper who really should have done better. Lincoln soaked up the pressure and held on for a draw and will fancy their chances in the replay which thankfully is being shown live on BBC this time. The winner of this faces a visit of Championship leaders Brighton and if Lincoln win this, their return to the 4th Round for the first time since 1976 may well be a successful one.

Millwall vs Bournemouth

Bournemouth were the other side that named a completely changed line-up when they travelled to The Den to face a Millwall side. Despite the troubles off the pitch which may see Millwall move from The Den, on the pitch, they were 'united' and put in arguably the performance of the Third Round. Steve Morison missed an open goal in the early minutes of the game but on the 26th minute, he didn't fail to make his free header count, as he put the hosts ahead. Lee Gregory came close to doubling the advantage on two occasions before Bournemouth's Mousset somehow missed the target with his header. On the 50th minute, however, Millwall did get their second through full-back Cummings, who tapped home the rebound from Morison's saved strike. Callum Wilson had a goal disallowed for offside before, in stoppage time, the League One side, got their third. Morison made a great tackle in his own half before switching it to Ferguson whose shot found the bottom right corner. Bournemouth were outfought and outplayed by their opposition who will fancy themselves to cause another upset in the next round when they host Watford.

Norwich City vs Southampton

For Norwich City, life back in the Championship hasn't been plain sailing as they'd have hoped and they faced a real test as they hosted Southampton at Carrow Road. The Premier League side were on top for the majority of the first and should have been up by at least two goals as Tadic's free-kick was well-saved by McGovern and Shane Long's header was just over the bar. However, in the 38th minute, they got their breakthrough as Tadic's whipped cross was brilliantly volleyed home by arguably the best centre-back in the country, Virgil Van Dijk. Southampton were dominant and didn't look like conceding until, their teenage goalkeeper Harry Lewis took a heavy touch and brought down Cameron Jerome for a penalty, which was subsequently well converted by Steven Whittaker. The visitors then got back on top of possession again and we're showing their quality as Tadic forced another great save out of McGovern, but, on the the 67th minute, he could do nothing to deny the Saints other centre-half Maya Yoshida from getting on the scoresheet. That should have been enough to see the visitors through to the next round but in 92nd minute, the goalscoring centre-halfs switched off and left Steven Naismith in acres of space in the box (big mistake), and he headed home to give Norwich a chance of hosting Arsenal in the next round.

That's all for Part One, Part Two will be uploaded at the same time tomorrow and it includes;

• Wimbledon's return to where it all began.
• Could Conte's men get back to winning ways?
• Could any more Premier League sides come unstuck against Championship opposition?
• And Finally how did the lowest ranked side left in the FA Cup get on.

RANT - The magic of the FA Cup is fading away! - 10/01/17

The FA Cup 3rd Round is supposed to epitomise the true magic of this competition more than any other round, yet year after year it's become more and more dull. We've gone from watching a non-league club take on teams in the top leagues in the country to now just watching another Premier League fixture. The integrity and magic of this competition is fading more and more each year and if changes aren't made, then we can no longer call the FA Cup 'The greatest club competition in the world' and we should all be truly sad that it's got to this point.

Problem 1 - TV Scheduling

Every year when you see an advert for the FA Cup, whether it be on BBC or BT Sport, it always highlights one thing in particular, 'the magic of the FA Cup'. So what I would love to know is why these channels that hype up 'the magic of the FA Cup', are showing games like: West Ham vs Man City, Man United vs Reading, Tottenham vs Aston Villa and Preston vs Arsenal, what's magical about watching teams in the richest leagues in the country play each other? The magic of the FA Cup is a little team that most 'modern-day fans' haven't heard of or know little about, causing an upset against one of the country's top clubs (Premier League - League Two). Unless the top Premier League teams are playing each other or a non-league club, they shouldn't have the right to be live just because they are a big team. You can argue that TV companies need views but is a non-league club playing against a Championship side going to get millions of fewer views than just another Premier League fixture, I think not. Everyone has their team, but if you love football and your side isn't playing, you're going to watch a live game, especially if there's an upset on the cards.
The final thing I want to bring up about this problem is a man I've lost so much respect for over the past few days regarding these tweets, Gary Lineker. These two tweets from him aggrivated me as I expected better from a man, who in recent times, has hyped up non-league teams in the FA Cup, you can tell that's all for show now. Tweet 1, 'Did you see the draw? Didn't produce many romantic ties.' If this doesn't show you that most of these top pundits only care about Premier League teams then I don't know what will. So Mr Lineker says the draw didn't produce 'many' romantic ties, yet the games that were live on BBC were West Ham vs Manchester City and Tottenham vs Aston Villa. So are these two games, the few that he thinks are 'romantic'.... You'd hope not otherwise he's clearly an idiot and doesn't understand what the FA Cup is about. What annoys me most about these tweets is that he's clearly trapping is a Premier League bubble as there were plenty of ties that would have shown the 'magic of the FA Cup' that is always hyped up by these platforms.
 Yet they chose to show the household games when in reality the ties that would have shown people worldwide what this competition is really about would have been: Ipswich Town vs Lincoln City (The well supported Conference side are high-flying this year as they find themselves top of the league travelled to the mid-table Championship side, this game had upset written all over it). Barrow vs Rochdale (Playoff hunting Barrow have performed well above expectations all year in the conference and host one of League One's most in form sides, had the makings of a great game). Wycombe Wanderers vs Stourbridge (Wycombe are yet again chasing promotion to League One and host the lowest ranked side left in the competition, no further explanation needed). Sutton United vs AFC Wimbledon (Many won't know the history behind this game, but this fixture saw AFC Wimbledon return to the ground where their journey back to the football league began with these sides meeting in the Dons first friendly back in 2002). These four games would have shown off the FA Cup in all it's finest and there's no way that plenty of people would have tuned in to see some proper FA Cup football with quality fans.
Tweet 2 'Desire is always to show lower league club at home to PL club. The draw was awful.' So this tweet gives us all more of a hint at how this man is trapped in his Premier League bubble and I'd like to hear from him why wasn't Millwall vs Bournemouth live as that fits this bill better than both of the games that were shown on BBC. So because Lincoln City are away to Ipswich and not at home, they shouldn't be shown live, I'm sorry but that makes no sense. Being a fan of a non-league club, I understand we create hostile atmospheres for the big boys at home but I also know that when we're away, we're louder than ever. Those 5000 Lincoln fans that went to Ipswich were no doubt loud for 90 minutes, aswell as all other lower league clubs fans would have done, home and away. From experience, there's nothing better than going away to a side and knocking them out the FA Cup (Thank you John Mills for that one). I'm sure people would agree they'd rather watch two lower league sides show fight and commitment for 90 minutes to ensure they get through to the next round rather watching Man City, Man United and Tottenham cruise through in dull games and listen to fans be passionate in singing their hearts out for their club rather than watching half of West Ham's support leave with half an hour left to play. To summarise, at this stage of the competition, the lower league sides left in the competition are playing teams at a level they aspire to reach so are going to give 110% to give their fans a day to remember forever and for their players, it's a chance to put your name in a clubs history books forever. For me that's the magic of the FA Cup, it's not all about the Prem sides, it's about two teams giving their all for a chance to make history.

Problem 2 - The FA Cup Is No Longer A Priority

Before I start this point, I'll give a quick disclaimer. Not every team on this list is guilty of disrespecting the FA Cup, obviously some changes are forced and some teams on here would have rested key players the game before or got them back from injury and therefore their changes will be higher than usual.
Another thing that's worrying is that club's are now disregarding the integrity of the FA Cup by putting out weakened sides in the early ties as the focus of most now is primarily on the Premier League and Europe. For a team like Bournemouth to field a completely different side against Millwall is shocking and shows that even for teams like them, the FA Cup is not a priority. I find that shocking as they're 9th in the Premier League, 10pts clear of the relegation and you'd say their strong enough to stay up but not good enough to fight for Europe. So, with that said, surely their main chance of silverware is the EFL Cup and the FA Cup so why they changed their side completely amazes me. In his post-match interview he was fuming and said that 'I changed my side because I tried to protect players'. I'm sorry but that's ridiculous, professional players need to be protected from playing in a hard-fought competitive match, the chance of injury is no different to any other game yet so many managers make that excuse.
Most teams apart from Man United, Hull, Southampton and Liverpool that played this weekend have a week off, so it's not as though you have to play 2-3 days later. Even if they did, these are professional athletes, they should be able to play a 90 minute game every day let alone one a week. Now although, United, Arsenal, Chelsea, City and Spurs all made a fair few changes, you can barely pick them out as they put out sides good enough to win in the Premier League and if you say but Arsenal came close to losing, yeah you'd be right, but that's more of a mentality problem at Arsenal and there will more than likely will be a rant on that topic from me in the near future. One team I will pick out is Liverpool, they put out their youngest team in history with an average age at 21, against a top 3 team in League Two and yet I see their fans moan at Plymouth for playing defensive. Yes they play in the EFL Cup against Southampton in mid-week but these player are professional athletes with the best training facilities and you're telling me they can't put in a top performance if they have to play 2-3 games a week. I tweeted this the other day when people were saying fixture congestion is why Arsenal drew 3-3, in the Midland Football League Premier last year (9th tier of English football) my local team Hereford FC had to play 5 games in 10 days from late March to Early April, made 2/3 changes across these games and we won all 5, with the pressure of a title fight on. These players that play for us have jobs, train once/twice a week and can play whenever you ask, so don't tell me Liverpool couldn't put out their first team.
Linking this with problem 1, it's bad enough that you have a team like this putting out a team of youngsters in this competition but what's worst of all, is we have to watch it. Why should working class people who pay their hard earned money to be able to watch games on both these platforms have to sit through games watching a team that you can ask the questions: Do they care if they lose? Do they even want to win this match? Jurgen Klopp has already said he'll be playing the kids again in the replay, now don't get me wrong, I love to see young players come through the academy and make it to the top of their game but it didn't work with the crowd on their side, how can you think it'll be any different when the crowd is against them. Now you could make the argument 'If he doesn't play the youngsters in the cup, where else is he going to play them?' To that I say, what does the youngsters going out there and beating Plymouth prove? That they're too good for a loan move to League Two? If there's a youngster that is thought to be good enough for the first team, here's a crazy idea, play him in the league, you know, the level you play at all year. If the youngster is performing well in the league, then clearly he's good enough to play in the first team. Manager's need to stop using that excuse as a reason for heavily changing their side in this competition when it works against them, you're disrespecting the integrity of this great competition.
My final point on this is that the growing amount of foreign managers and players is taking away from the integrity of the competition as they don't understand what it means to the fans, seeing your club either win it or cause a massive upset and that's why you see so many upset. In this country, it's not like any other. In foreign countries, the top teams can play a lower league team with a much weaker side and walk it, but over here, as proved numerous times before, the underdog doesn't lie down and roll over for the big guns, they fight and have more passion than their bigger opposition and that's why they manage to cause the upset. Players in lower league teams are playing for the badge on the front of the shirt and not the name on the back, because, each time they step out on the pitch, they are playing for their futures, they don't have the security of a job and a massive wage like most Premier League players seem too. This is something that a lot of foreign managers and players don't seem to understand at all. To solve this, obviously we need to trust in our own talent, give English managers a chance at the top level and focus on bringing through more English talent in the academies rather than finding the 'Ukranian Messi'.

Solutions?

Solution 1 is something Martin Glenn has spoke about recently, increasing the prize fund. Most importantly, this will help out non-league clubs and over the past year and a half I've spent going to clubs in the 9th tier and 8th tier, I can tell that honestly it's not great for most, you have to see it to understand how much just a little bit extra money will do for these teams. But also, if it means that the big teams will take this competition more seriously and not put out weakened teams against lower opposition then fine.
Solution 2 is to offer a Champions League place to the winner because offering a Europa League place clearly isn't enough incentive for bigger clubs. If the winner has already qualified then the spot should be given to the runner-up rather than the highest placed Premier League team but that's a very hard call to make as their are good arguments for either side of that debate. People could argue this and say, what if a team from below the Premier League wins the FA Cup, should they still qualify as it's likely they won't be competitive. My answer to that is don't write them off, they'd have a good of a chance as any other team, if the big teams want to get into the Champions League and they're struggling in the league, then they best start showing respect to this competition and play their best available team in every round.

I definitely hope that both these happen, you could heavily argue the Champions League one but something needs to be changed in the FA Cup (especially the scheduling!), if it's to start feeling like the greatest club competition in the world again.

Capital One Cup Third Round Preview - 22/09/15

The third round draw has provided us with some cracking ties including two great derbies and has given us the possibilities to see some big upsets.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Arsenal

As an Arsenal fan there was only one team that I wanted to be drawn against and the football gods must have been looking out for Arsenal and Tottenham fans everywhere as these two were drawn together in the Third Round. In the last two meetings between the club in this competition Tottenham beat Arsenal 6-2 over 2 legs in the 2008 semi-final and they met in 2010 where Spurs were defeated 4-1 at home so will be out for revenge when the two sides meet on Wednesday. Having been unbeaten in the league against Arsenal last year, Tottenham will be hoping to beat to extend their unbeaten streak to 3 games against the Gunners. Harry Kane and Alexis Sanchez will both be looking for their first goals of the season and there is no better game than this to get your goals. Mertesacker is likely to return in the heart of the Arsenal defence whereas Spurs will likely play both Kane and Son in order to bolster their attacking options. These games are always stressful for both set of fans to watch as both teams are capable of winning the game and with only 1 goalless draw since the start of the new century, goals are clearly going to be in this game. Hopefully it'll be a great game and with Arsenal only winning one of their last five trips to White Hart Lane, Tottenham fans will be hoping to see their side pick up a great victory and Arsenal will be hoping to prove that they are the best team in London. I think Tottenham's lack of attacking options will hurt them in this game and I believe Arsenal will edge the midfield fight and the pace of Walcott and Sanchez will prove vital in Arsenal winning this game.

Woody Predicts : Tottenham Hotspur 1-2 Arsenal

Aston Villa vs Birmingham City

We have to thank the football gods for yet another cracking tie to behold as we get to witness the first Midlands derby between Villa and Birmingham in 6 years. Both clubs have had success in this competition with Birmingham winning the League Cup on two occasions whereas Villa have been victorious 5 times. Birmingham will go into this game having started the league very well this season in contrast to Villa who haven't won since the opening day. Birmingham fans will be optimistic of the win having been unbeaten in the last 3 games against Villa (1 Win 2 Draws) however that was many years ago so may not be a factor in this game. Villa manager Tim Sherwood has revealed that he will only pick players who he believes have the correct mentality going into this game as he knows it will be vital for them not to pick up a red card. Similar to the North London Derby, I don't think home advantage matters as it will be the desire of the players that decides the outcome of the match, which ever team wants it more in these two derbies will come away with a victory. The home side will benefit from having the only two players to have played in this match before in Ciaran Clark and Gabriel Agbonlahor and this could be vital in winning the match. The pace of Demarai Gray and the pace and clinical finishing from striker Clayton Donaldson will certainly be what Villa will have to look out for in this match and for Villa, they will need Rudy Gestede to lead the line and Ciaran Clark and Micah Richards to be strong at the back in order to help keep the Birmingham threats at bay.

Woody Predicts : Aston Villa 2-1 Birmingham City

Liverpool vs Carlisle United

This is only the 4th meeting between these two clubs in their history and the first since Saturday 7th January 1989 in the FA Cup where Liverpool won 3-0 away from home on that day. Carlisle have never scored against their opposition and have conceded 6 but will be hoping for a better result when they visit Anfield. Liverpool are struggling in the league right now and haven't won in 3 games. They had good chances against Norwich but failed to take them and conceded a sloppy goal from a set piece as they drew 1-1. Carlisle have only lost once in the league this season so far and got to this stage by beating League One Chesterfield 3-1 at home in the First Round before beating Championship QPR 2-1 away from home. The question is, can the pattern continue when they play Liverpool? I believe it can and and with Liverpool in bad league form and Carlisle unbeaten in 5 league games, they seem like a team on the rise. I expect to see them show no fear against their Premier League opposition and Ibehre in great form having scored 10 already this season, you would feel as though he is the man to look out for and if he can help Carlisle beat Liverpool, I'm sure he will start to attract attention from bigger clubs. Ibehre has a great chance to add to his goal tally as Liverpool's defence looks sloppy and he will be hoping that he can expose their defensive problems. For Liverpool, Coutinho, Benteke and Sturridge will be key when going forward and fans will hope that they can be the difference makers in this game. Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is under increasing pressure due to Liverpool's struggles in the league and if they fail to beat Carlisle, I'd expect it to be the final nail in the coffin in his spell in charge of Liverpool.

Woody Predicts : Liverpool 3-2 Carlisle United

Walsall vs Chelsea

This will be the 12th meeting between these two teams and Walsall will be looking for their second win. The last meeting between these sides was in October 1992 at Stamford Bridge where Chelsea were victorious in a 1-0 win. The only win that Walsall have had in this fixture came in the old Second Division in 1963. Chelsea have endured a tough start to the year with only 2 wins in 6 and have conceded the second most goals in the league averaging 2 per game. They did however beat Arsenal 2-0 in a controversial game on Saturday where Chelsea should have had Costa sent off however, at this point I'm not sure if he'll be banned by the FA or not. Walsall have started League One very well and find themselves in 2nd place and have conceded the least amount of goals in the league. Tom Bradshaw has already scored 3 goals in the first 2 rounds and will be hoping to add to his tally in this game and Walsall will need him to be at his best if they're to upset the odds. They will be against the odds completely but that's the beauty of the cup competition, you get the chance to welcome a great club like Chelsea to your stadium and go toe to toe with some of the best players in the game. They've beaten two Championship teams in this cup so far in Nottingham Forest and Brighton with a 4-3 and a 2-1 win so I wouldn't put it past them to give Chelsea a great game. My advice on how they win the game is to take the game to Chelsea, don't sit back and make them play. Then gaps will be created and then the attacking players for Walsall will be able to find space and create chances. Another way they can win is by getting Costa sent off if he plays, the centre-backs need to go in strong on him and make their mark and he'll get frustrated and kick out and the players need to make sure the referee sees it and then he should be dismissed and against 10 men, the home side have every chance of winning.

Woody Predicts : Walsall 2-1 Chelsea

Manchester United vs Ipswich Town

Ipswich have a tough task to get a win against the four time League Cup winners Manchester United in the final game that I go in depth with. Ipswich have faced lower league opposition so far in the cup so they will need to step up their game to the next level when they play an improving Man United side. Ipswich have been close to returning to the Premier League in recent years but have just fallen short and having started the season in good form again, they will be hoping to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the country. These sides haven't met at Old Trafford since 2001 in the Premier League and they have only met in this competition once before, a game which Ipswich won 2-0 at Portman Road in 1997. Man United find themselves in 2nd position in the Premier League and go into this game with confidence having beaten Southampton 3-2 away from home. Antony Martial looks outstanding having scored 3 goals in 3 games since joining Manchester United and the link up between Depay, Mata, Martial and Rooney will be a constant threat to Ipswich's defence. The way for Ipswich to win this game is to exploit the weakness of Daley Blind playing at centre-back and they should do this by sticking McGoldrick on him and playing long balls towards to striker and hope he can turn Blind and play in Freddie Sears or the wingers or Fraser. Mick McCarthy is a smart manager and I'm sure he will watch highlights of the Southampton game and will be showing his forwards that footage and telling them to replicate it. They need to do what Southampton didn't which is stick to their game plan even if United take the lead or equalise, if they do that then they can get a result.

Woody Predicts : Manchester United 2-1 Ipswich Town

My Predictions for other games

Middlesbrough 2-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Norwich City 2-2 West Bromwich Albion (Norwich to win on penalties)
Hull City 2-1 Swansea City
Leicester City 2-2 West Ham United (Leicester to win on penalties)
Crystal Palace 3-1 Charlton Athletic
Fulham 0-1 Stoke City
Sunderland 1-3 Manchester City
Newcastle United 2-1 Sheffield Wednesday
Reading 0-2 Everton
Preston North End 1-2 Bournemouth
Milton Keynes Dons 2-1 Southampton