My heart is saying a city win (3-0, Jelavic hat-trick), but I do think this has a got a scrappy, no score draw written all over it. We shall see. BC
http://www.givemesport.com/400594-chelsea-have-they-found-their-new-spine Hmm, you dig deep to criticise, Tuckin. My comments on the spine are fairly old and, I think, predate this article, but I may be wrong - but I just did a simple Google and read it for the first time. As I said at the time, of course I recognise the term spine as being the central (literally) core of the team, GK, CB, CMF, CF. My point was (although the way it was attacked I would have phrased it better) that the term spine of the team gets lost or confused with the diversity of tactics and playing styles in the modern game. The spine is becoming more recognized as those key players who are hugely and consistently influential, despite their playing position (which can change these days more than ever before). This is not to be confused with terms like 'engine-room' of the team where the energy (power) is developed. Koren (in his hay-days) and Thud are two very different players, able to play very different roles, but neither are high-octane performers.
I think a draw. Southampton are good going forward and it would be an achievement to stop them scoring. Equally we are looking more potent in front of goal now the new Smash and Grab are better integrated. Southampton have the best away defensive record in the league, we haven't exactly been prolific, Fulham apart. 1-1.
This could be a very open game and why not.? You guys are safe and no added pressure. We cannot be as bad as we were at your place and i dont expect you will be as good either. So maybe some middle ground. My head says this will be a draw but my heart is goign for 2-1 Hull City. Good luck for the rest of the season Lamballana & Saints. On a sad note, i fear that your toughest battle will be off the field in the summer.
Cheers FT. I hope the last bit is not true and we can keep the squad and manager together. MP sounded quite positive about his future yesterday so fingers crossed. Hopefully both sides continue to progress.
Cheers. IMO, as long as you keep MP you will keep your best players. My fear is the summer. Ive heard rumours linking MP with Real Madrid ? Maybe too soon for him but never say never in football. For what it is worth I can only see Luke Shaw going to Chelsea. Chambers and Ward-Prowse are not ready for the big big clubs yet.