Thursday, April 13, 2006
It's Boro
Middlesbrough have gone through to the semi finals of the FA Cup after defeating Charlton 4-2 this morning.
I must say I'm pleased with the outcome. I think we have a slightly better chance against Boro and it should be a decent game. We found Charlton to be a difficult opponent and were somewhat lucky to get away with the draw, whereas Boro should be a more open affair which suits us more (and provides better entertainment). Boro have done well lately, winning a trophy and playing in Europe. The Aussies at the club (big Dukes and Schwartzer) will still be buzzing after qualification to the World Cup so expect them to be in good form. Jimmy Floyd is, IMO, quite an underrated striker and I think Chelsea made a big mistake letting him go - he found himself surrounded by multi-million pound signings and pulled his socks up and played brilliantly. Frankly I'm surprised Boro were able to get him. Rochemback is also quite a decent player. Our pace and strength up front and down the wings should give their defence headaches, and if I remember rightly (which I rarely do) they aren't too flash in the air, suggesting perhaps Ashton - if his form improves - should start up front or even Collins if Anton is fit. Having said that however I think pace is our strength against Boro so at this stage I'd be looking at playing Z-man and Harewood up front. Our main worry is their front two. They are certainly capable of banging in the goals so I hope Anton is fit for the match, and I hope Scaloni isn't playing!
whubris said...The location will be Villa Park. The following letter is reproduced from westhamonline.com and explains why Villa Park was chosen:
Dear Supporter
Many thanks for contacting The FA.
The choice of where to play The FA Cup Semi Finals is always a decision that causes a mixture of opinions. Our intention is always to maximise the number of supporters that can attend such high profile fixtures and on this occasion there are several scenarios that mean that the outcome is the only alternative.
1) The venues for The FA Cup Semi Finals must be confirmed immediately after the draw takes place.
2) As the Charlton v Middlesbrough match has gone to a replay we obviously have to work on the basis that either team will be involved in the next round.
3) If Middlesbrough win they will have to play their cup tie on the Sunday as they may be involved in a UEFA Cup fixture on the Thursday before. Therefore we had to confirm that the West Ham v Charlton/Middlesbrough match would take place on the Sunday.
4) If Charlton win the replay, Middlesbrough will play their outstanding league match against Manchester United on the Sunday. This therefore rules out Old Trafford as an option for the Sunday cup tie.
Other venues that supporters have suggested include Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. This was a matter which was discussed earlier in the season with supporters groups such as The Football Supporters Federation. It was the consensus that, before next season when all semi finals will be played at Wembley, the semi finals should be played at neutral venues and not in the same venue as the final for this season.
Given the North London derby between Arsenal and Spurs on Saturday 22 and the London Marathon on Sunday 23, a London venue for either Cup tie was not an option.
Kick Off Times:
Some supporters have objected to the Chelsea vs. Liverpool kick off time.
The kick-off times are always set after full consultation with the police and other safety authorities, and with safety and security considerations given the highest importance.
It is important to remember that in order to protect attendances at grounds around the country the game could not be played at 3pm. In this case, both clubs were consulted and the 5.15 option was the preferred option of Chelsea who's fans have the furthest to travel.
London Marathon:
The FA is fully aware that the London Marathon will be staged on Sunday 23 April. It is partly for this reason that a London venue for either of the fixtures had to be ruled out. Whilst recognising the clash, it is not always possible for us to schedule fixtures in accordance with other sporting events. There are simply too many events in the calendar - The Six Nations rugby tournament is another recent example.
As outlined above there are a number of logistical factors that have been considered and the FA are confident that having considered all of the options, Villa Park and Old Trafford are the appropriate venues for this years FA Cup Semi Finals.
I hope this answers your query and thank you for contacting The FA.
Kind regards,
Alex Howells
Customer Relations Officer
The FA
020 7745 4545
Dave said...quite gutted it's boro cos Pardew will probably field a weakened team Monday for the league game against them and I'm gonna go all that way to see the reserves get beat. Oh well at least I get to chalk another ground off my list.
beggers said...Would like to have Boro's form coming into the semi. Scoring 4 against Charlton is pretty good
