Hosts are strong promotion contender from League One (holding the top). Despite Gus Poyet takes every opportunity to point how cup competitions are not important (appearances in previous rounds against Woking and FC United of Manchester can just confirm that), their 4-3-3 formation won’t be changed particularly for this game. Considering odds drop on home side, Poyet will probably name the strong squad.
Pompey are winless in last four league games (2D-2L) and conceded three times in every of last three! They simply can’t keep the clean sheet (did it just once in last 12). However, Steve Cotterill has only 14-15 players fit. This could mean he’ll name the strongest squad.
Both sides are attacking minded and although I give more chances to Portsmouth, my call is goals.
Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 2.02 bet365
Stake: 7/10
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Rochdale also secured the promotion in the previous round. But, oppositely for County their run of results looks like a torturing. Before Saturday’s win (Northampton, 1-0 at home), they had four games without a win, three defeats and a draw, goal difference 0-8! In last two away games, noticed two defeats, vs. play-off chasers Chesterfield 0-2 and shocking one vs. bottom side Torquay 0-5! They reached the promotion first time after 69 years (or first time after 1969., not sure). Knowing the mentality of players in lower divisions they probably spent more time in the pubs than on the pitch training. However, boss Keith Hill has a choice to name the best squad and face a defeat, or to put fringe players, defend all game and try to spoil the celebration of home fans. I think he’ll choose the second solution.
