This game looks easy on paper doesn't it? Sunderland have the worst attack in the league, worst defence in the league, their joint top scorers have a whopping four goals each, we put four goals past them at their place in November and they play in red and white. However don't underestimate them. Their only two wins have come away from home this season, they managed to get a 0-0 draw at Old Trafford and we have a history of crap results against teams that play in red and white (Southampton, Sheffield United...)
But that should be no excuse for losing considering the way we have been playing since March. We were very unlucky to lose at Charlton and with a fully fit squad and a professional performance Sunderland, in truth should be beaten comfortably. Lua Lua faces a late fitness test once again but Pedro Mendes and Dejan should return to the first team. As for Sunderland I find it hard to keep up with them considering the changes they make to their squad and the fact that probably nobody outside Sunderland would have heard of many of their players. Even so, on our form we have no reason to be fearful of the likes of Jon Stead, Dean Whitehead and Gary Breen.
Some fans say that tommorows game is an oppurtunity to increase our goal difference so it is more favourable than Birmingham's. That would be ideal however I would take a 1-0 win if it was offered to me simply because Pompey do have a habit of ballsing up a situation like this. On top of that I'm sure there'll be a few people in the crowd who will be keeping tabs on Birmingham's visit to Everton tommorow though don't completely discount West Brom yet either. The relegation battle is still currently a three horse race.
Everyone expects a win tommorow, so let's hope that Pompey are victorious and if they are winners by a few goals then the evening will be even sweeter.
Pundit Watch
Lawro: Home Win (2-1)
Townsend: Home Win (3-0)
Sky Sports: Home Win (3-1)
Soccernet: Home Win