Seagulls V Pompey

There used to be a time when this was a regular fixture, but now we need the cup to keep us in contact, although next season may see us meet on level terms.

I was used to think of Brighton as our little neighbour down the road, during the 80's they had a purple patch, having 4 years in the top flight and a cup final where 'Smith must score'.
Since then it has been bottom tier football, like Pompey they have ran hand in hand with extinction a couple of times, even losing the Goldstone to dodgy property deal in 1997.

Success has been slowly returning however, a new stadium is almost ready, and in terms of infra- structure they are about to overtake Pompey.

Brighton will have Chris Wood available after WBA gave permission for him to be cup-tied, the New Zealander is currently trying to carve out a career in the English leagues after showing early promise.
Noone misses out after already featuring for Plymouth in earlier rounds, Cladreon completes his ban, while player-coach Taricco continues at right back.
Gus poyet is at the luxury of being able to rest a few players as his priority is promotion, however the lure of claiming a higher league scalp may be too tempting.

Minty has been the main goal threat so far with a goal every other game, he will fancy his chances against a suspect Pompey defence.

Pompey lose Halford to a ban, Rocha to injury and Kitson has a foot injury, the latter should figure however, while Joel Ward will return a t right back with Sonko likely to resume at centre back with Hreidarsson, Mokoena may return to his favourite centre midfield.

Along with Nugent he has been a shining light this season as we have flucuated in form terms, he will be the main man in terms of attacking options.

Last time we met was back in 2003, we headed in differnt directions at the time, Pompey were heading upwards and Brighton for a spell that saw them reach league 2, Pompey took 4 points from 6 that season, whilst in the cup Brighton beat us 1-0 back in 1993.

Roy Hodgson

Place you cup bet here.

Away to Forest

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