The FA Cup Final: Portsmouth v Cardiff
Today sees Portsmouth and Cardiff meet at Wembley in the 127th FA Cup final. Both teams have won the cup once previously, with Pompey winning in 1939, and Cardiff becoming the only non-English side to win the trophy in 1927.
Cardiff manager Dave Jones says that the magic of the FA Cup has not been present in recent years with a select few teams dominating. Guess you can’t disagree with that, but, does the appearance of these two teams make the final a less glamorous occasion?
Will the FA Cup receive the large worldwide television audience that a Man Utd v Chelsea, or Liverpool v Arsenal final would surely attract.
I’m not attempting to upset any Pompey or Cardiff fans here. Both teams deserve their place in the final. All I’m insinuating is that maybe the FA Cup is not such a big event this year.
It can only be a good thing that none of the top four are appearing this year - in terms of showing Kevin Keegan that they do not always dominate everything at least! I, for one, would still watch this final if I didn’t have to go and work tonight……… but is that the case around the world?
To me the final does seem a less glamorous occasion - and with the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, maybe the forgotten final too.
Having said that, good luck to both teams. As said before, both deserve their appearance and it will be a fantastic day out for all fans. Portsmouth are favourites, but Cardiff are a strong opposition and should not be taken lightly. With a place in the UEFA Cup waiting for the winners, there is all to play for.
Latest Team News
Portsmouth: Sol Campbell, and David James are set to start after shaking off injuries. Kanu and David Nugent should also be able to appear after slight injury doubts. Jermain Defoe is cup-tied after appearing for Spurs in the cup earlier in the season.
Cardiff: Ex-England striker Robbie Fowler faces a late fitness test - despite not playing for 5 months after hip surgery. Hasselbaink and Barry should continue up front.
Related Links: The FA | Official Cardiff Website | Official Portsmouth Website
