Do we like to be beside the seaside?

Last updated : 14 March 2003 By Dave Burgess

Scenario:

Portsmouth are out on their own at the top, 15 points ahead of Sheffield United in 3rd place.


Wolves, after their excellent midweek win at Reading, have an eight point cushion on the nearest of the play-off chasing rivals.


What about the opposition?


Well we know that Pompey have been a roaring success this season and look absolute certainties for automatic promotion (not in the Wolves sense of promotion certainties)


Harry Redknapp bought wisely, and in bulk, and if my memory is correct, this will potentially leave us as the longest serving members of Division 1 when they are promoted.


However it will be interesting to see how such a dilapidated ground such as Fratton Park, copes with visits from Arsenal and Man United.

Danger men are Todorov, 18 league goals and loan star Yakubu who has nearly a goal a game since signing on loan.


As well, they have the mercurial talent of Paul Merson in midfield who has also bagged his fair share of goals.


Also of note are Tim Sherwood, Nigel Quashie and the highly rated Matthew Taylor.


They’ve been beaten twice at home in the league, not like us by inferior teams, but by Leicester and Sheffield United.


It was a hard fought 1-1 draw at the Molineux so there is no reason to travel in total trepidation, especially as we are better away from home.


Soon to follow for Wolves:


Tuesday home to Stoke, who are struggling for points and we all know how generous Wolves are with such teams.


After that, a visit to the Molineux from the best team in Kent, Gillingham


Score Prediction:

I reckon, if we play well, that we can get a point. Norwich scored twice this week at Fratton Park so their defence isn’t impenetrable.


However, I think the match will be determined by whoever gets on top in the midfield.


Jones has the decision to make as to whether to re-introduce Paul Ince. I think there is no option but to do this but who makes way? Possibly Newton as Jones plays the three central midfielders in an attempt to stifle the game.

For certain we need to be on top form to get something from this second trip to the south coast.


Fingers crossed.


Come on the Wolves!


E-mail me with any comments/feedback to: dave@wolves-mad.co.uk