Big matches preview

The build up to tomorrow's FA cup replay at Middlesbrough has been fantastic and has re-captured some of the spirit that surrounded the play-off final at Wembley. Of course, the letdown if Charlton lose will also be considerable. Our original forecast was that Charlton would draw at home and win at the Smoggies and we are sticking to that. However, it is most likely to be achieved by a 0-0 or 1-1 after 120 minutes with Myhre the hero of the hour in the penalty shoot outs.

In their last ten matches, Charlton have only conceded six goals, but have also only scored eight. Over a comparable number of games, Boro have scored 15 and let in 15.
Darren Bent is obviously the most likely prospect to score for the Addicks. However, he will be closely marked and it is difficult to see anyone taking advantage of the space opened up elsewhere. That is why it is important to have both Thomas and Rommedahl on the wings. A good cross from either of them could create a scoring opportunity for Bent (D) whose runs forward on his own often fall foul of the offside rule.

The other big match is tonight in the semi-final 2nd leg of the Polymac Services League Cup when Leamington face Chasetown. I have splashed out £30 on sponsoring the match ball, hoping that the Brakes can make it to the final at Walsall's Bescot Stadium. Brakes, who beat the Gee Gees 2-1 on Saturday, carry forward a 3-1 lead from the first leg. However, Chasetown are a formidable side as they showed when they held Oldham Athletic to a 0-0 draw in the first round of the FA Cup.

As far as tomorrow's match is concerned, Erith Addick Paul May is booked on the train and will be reporting on the match.