Birmingham - Plymouth



Birmingham continue to test the nerves of their fans. Blades are just point behind, after another disapointing performance by Alex McLeish lads. Incredible fact is the last team in Championship was closer to victory. Charlton dominated and had better goal opportunities. The Blues had just two attempts by Keith Fahey and saved a draw thankfully to goalie Maik Taylor. Now, the whole season is in last four games. No space for another relaxing attitude, St.Andrews will be full, hosts will fight and beat from the first whistle. Alex McLeish is sweating on the fitness of Garry O'Connor for the clash, as the striker is suffering with a virus. Lee Carsley serves the second game of a three-match ban for his dismissal against Wolves, right back Stuart Parnaby is injured and veteran Djimi Traore is not fully fit.

Pilgrims started to notice the good results just on time. Two wins in a row (Blackpool, 1-0 away and Coventry, 4-0 at home), six points above the line. Good performances at Home Park finally bring the points. Excellent first half and four balls in Coventry's net and second was clear formality. They travel in Birmingham with no pressure. The only injured player is young Man Utd defender Craig Cathcart (deputised by Chris Barker), but the question is will Paul Sturrock put the same eleven on the pitch, or maybe save some players from another effort in three days and keep them for the last decisive rounds.

This is definitely a pick of the day. Hosts know this game can take their dreams (and one year effort) away (into play-off, at least), visitors know they don't have too much chances at St.Andrews. 888 offers 1.62 for home win, Pinnacle 1.61. Absolutely no doubt for me. And visitors will probably keep the strength for the next clashes, rather than fight for a point. My other bet is home handicap win.