Think Reading will feel more nervous about this than our team. We have to make sure that their confidence takes an early dent before they settle into their stride. And then we must be prepared to withstand a late onslaught as they are obviously a good team to have come back from an indifferent start to the league. COYR
r Surely hell would be a 5 nil drubbing, nullifying our goal difference with them and shortening it from the Spammers? We were well out played by them at Reading (best performance from opposition away bar Leeds). Not feeling good about it at all. Now, I hope, as usual, I'll be proved wrong and my pessimism unjustified!
I don't know what the result will be any more than any of you, but I do know we are not underdogs. Some Saints fans seem to be fearful that we have no chance...we have an excellent chance of winning this game.
Reading were pretty lucky to beat Brighton on Tuesday. When we have been on a good run, it's taken a reality check to really understand our limitations. Ours was against Blackpool and hopefully this is theirs.
We win this (which we will) title is ours, because we'd only have to win a maximum of 2/3 remaining games to stay above Reading because of GD. I won't apologise for my confidence because I don't see how depression now will make me feel any better if things go against us.
I have been away for the last few days and had not realised Karacan was out of the game. I also just read that Leigertwood and Tabb are also doubtful which makes me a little less nervous. I remember Leigertwood being particularly good against us in the game at their place. Can't wait to get through those gates and into St Mary's tonight. COYS!
I too agree with this sentiment. Karacan is a big loss and so would Leigertwood be if he is not available, however I expect he will be. On the flip side, if these players are not available Readings midfield is likely to be back with pace: Robson-Kanu, McAnuff, Kebe etc which could also be a worry!
Schneiderlin will be a big loss for this one. His industry in the middle to win the ball as well as his distribution would have crucified reading.
We need an early goal to make sure they go for it and not just rely on breakaways. If they get one we could be in trouble....hey it wil lbe a good tough game.
I think your right - but Cork was very good v Pompey and again v Crystal Palace, and Hammond also had an excellent game at Palace. I was in the front row at Palace and had a closer view than usual at our play and i thought Hammond was immense with his tackling and distribution to our offensive players. More of the same tonight from Cork & Hammond and we may not miss Spiderman too much - hopefully ! Christ, but am i excited about tonights game !
Wasnt at the palace match but i was at the pompey match. And in that one hammond played the schneiderlin role superbly like you say
Really excited about this game, both teams missing key players (IMO) but I predict a 3-1 saints win, just like the old times! COYR
Lee is out, but hadn't really played for us much over the whole season. Schneiderlin is more of a loss, but we have good cover. Reading have lost several of their main side, but how much effect that will have is anyone's guess.
I'm more confident with Karacan and Leigertwood both misssing out. 2-1 Saints win, Sharp with a brace.
I know Karacan is out, but is Leigertwood really out? Really impressed me this season and could be a trouble if fully fit.
Missed the Brighton game and their fans seem to think so. In 1 and a half hours time we will know the teamsheets.
