Pompey vs Sheffield United Preview

Last updated : 22 December 2006 By Jim Bonner
Pompey take on their last different opponents of the league season tomorrow before the return games begin on Boxing Day. Sheffield United arrive at Fratton Park in a very good run of form which means tomorrow's game will is bound to be a tough one.

Neil Warnock's side have taken 10 points from the last 12 available and have already claimed the scalps of Newcastle, Watford and Wigan away from home. The Blades have a bit of a cushion between themselves and the drop zone as they lie in 15th place in the table however I still believe that they will be down there all season and that this is a game we should win.

Whist Neil Warnock's side has no lack of firepower; we are still without striking options for the game. Kanu should start despite a slight knee problem but there are still doubts over Benjani who might only be able to start on the bench. Andy Cole could also return on the bench which would be a huge boost for us going into the hectic Christmas schedule.

Apart from that, there are no other new injury worries for Harry to worry about. All eyes will be on Matthew Taylor who has been in superb form since the turn of the month; scoring 4 goals in 3 games. At home we have scored 16 and only let in 6 whilst Sheffield United have only scored 3 goals away from home all season, but all of them have been winners. Therefore I'd say it's essential we do not let them take the lead as other teams have this season.

Our opposition don't have any real "star" players but they are a real hard working unit and players like Phil Jagielka, Keith Gillespie, Danny Webber and Rob Hulse can hurt you so by all means they should not be underestimated.

The Blades are also a bit of a bogey side for Pompey and also beat us at Fratton Park the last time we played them in our Championship winning season of 02/03. Peter Ndlovu got the opener in the first half but Gary O'Neil looked to have earned Pompey a draw after scoring a second half equaliser however Michael Brown grabbed a late winner for United.

Neil Warnock always makes his team hard to beat and no doubt the fans will enjoy the "banter" with him during the game. I do feel that we should be winning this one, though the first goal will be key. If we can grab it then it could be a long day for the visiting fans but if they nick one then we could be in for a repeat of the Bolton game earlier in the season. With our superior defence and midfield, we should win. But they're not going to make it easy for us.

A victory tomorrow will at least consolidate our place in the top 6 on Christmas Day. We can jump up to third if results go our way but with Liverpool at home to Watford, Arsenal home to Blackburn and Bolton playing at Man City it doesn't look they will. Should we lose; if Spurs are victorious at Newcastle then we will drop to 7th, our lowest league position all season.

Come on Pompey, give us a nice early Christmas present to celebrate!

Pundit Watch

Lawro: Home Win (2-0)
Sky Sports: Home Win (2-0)
Soccernet: Home Win