Full draw for FA Cup quarter-finals:
Sheffield United or Middlesbrough v Cardiff City
Manchester United v Portsmouth
Bristol Rovers v West Brom
Barnsley v Chelsea
____________________________________________________________________
League One side Bristol Rovers will join four Championship teams in the hat when the FA Cup quarter-final draw is made at 1325 GMT, Today.
Barnsley, who stunned Liverpool in the fifth round, Cardiff and West Brom will also discover their next opponents.
Manchester United, Portsmouth and holders Chelsea are the only top-flight clubs through, while Middlesbrough face a replay with Sheffield United.
DRAW NUMBERS
1 Bristol Rovers
2 Cardiff City
3 Sheffield United or Middlesbrough
4 Barnsley
5 Manchester United
6 Portsmouth
7 West Bromwich Albion
8 Chelsea
Matches will be played on the weekend of 8 and 9 March.
Watch the highlights of Carling Cup and FA cup here. Carling cup Live Streaming. FA Cup live streaming.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Sheff Utd v Middlesbrough 02/17/2008
Saturdays Actions
Sheff Utd 0-0 Middlesbrough
Sheffield United and Middlesbrough will meet again on Tuesday week as their FA Cup fifth-round tie ended goalless.
Highlights
Blades striker James Beattie hit the post in first-half stoppage time from a free-kick, but the home side failed to turn their dominance into goals.
Boro came back into it in the second period and Mido's overhead kick was brilliantly saved by Paddy Kenny.
Emmanuel Pogatetz could have won it late on for the visitors but his header was cleared off the line.
New Blades boss Kevin Blackwell, who replaced Bryan Robson last week, received a standing ovation from the Bramall Lane crowd before kick-off as the home side went in search of a hat-trick of Premier League scalps in this year's competition.
Middlesbrough were aiming to reach a third successive FA Cup quarter-final and started with Mido, who has been out for the last three weeks, alongside Jeremie Aliadiere in attack with record signing Afonso Alves on the bench.
It was a typical cup tie right from kick-off with both sides fully committed and the game played at a frenetic pace.
The visitors struggled to settle and Matt Kilgallon's smartly struck shot was well saved by Mark Schwarzer.
Billy Sharp failed to connect with Derek Geary's cross and Jonathan Stead sent his downward header just wide as the home side continued to press, while at the other end efforts from Stewart Downing and Aliadiere were easily saved by Kenny.
As the half drew to a close, David Wheater was lucky to escape with just a booking after dragging back Sharp when the striker raced through and in stoppage time Beattie struck the post from a well-rehearsed set-play.
Beattie and Michael Tonge pretended to run into each as they shaped to hit the free-kick, but the former Southampton and Everton striker saw his curling shot crash against the post.
The visitors came to life in the second period, but only after Stead had tested Schwarzer from outside the box.
Mido was denied by Kenny when he tipped the Egyptian's acrobatic overhead kick over the bar and from the resulting corner Wheater's powerful header was turned over by the Blades goalkeeper
Downing then flashed a brilliantly struck volley wide from Mido's pinpoint pass and Fabio Rochemback also went close with an effort from outside the box as Boro took control.
Just like their hosts in the first period, the visitors failed to take their chances and Blades substitute Chris Armstrong flashed the ball over the bar after another well-worked free-kick.
United had appeals for a penalty turned down late on as George Boateng struck the ball against his own arm, but referee Chris Foy waved away the protests.
And with two minutes remaining Pogatetz could have snatched it for Boro but his header was cleared off the line.
__________________________________________________________
Team News
Sheffield United midfielder Gary Speed (groin) is a major doubt and Chris Armstrong, Lee Hendrie or David Carney could replace him.
Ugo Ehiogu (hamstring) is in a race to be fit to face his ex-club but strikers Jon Stead and Rob Hulse may return.
Middlesbrough's Afonso Alves is set to make his FA Cup debut, while fellow striker Mido is in the squad.
Striker Tuncay Sanli is lacking match fitness, with Chris Riggott (hamstring) and Lee Cattermole (knee) again out.
About the Match
Kevin Blackwell takes charge of Sheffield United for this fifth round tie, as the Blades look to complete a hat-trick of Premier League scalps in this FA Cup campaign.
Bryan Robson's departure from Bramall Lane means he misses the chance to face the club he left just over seven years ago.
Middlesbrough have never won the FA Cup, but face a club who've lifted the trophy on four occasions.
This is one of three Championship against Premier League ties in the fifth round.
The League ladder
Middlesbrough are 24 places higher than Sheffield United in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
These clubs met in the Premier League last season, when both fixtures were won by the side playing at home, but Middlesbrough have not won at Bramall Lane for 21 years, since a 0-2 victory in the old Second Division on 7 November 1987. Drawn one and lost four of the five subsequent visits.
FA Cup
These clubs have only been drawn against each other once previously; the Blades winning a home second round replay 3-0 in 1923 on their way to the semi-finals.
Sheff Utd 0-0 Middlesbrough
Sheffield United and Middlesbrough will meet again on Tuesday week as their FA Cup fifth-round tie ended goalless.
Highlights
Blades striker James Beattie hit the post in first-half stoppage time from a free-kick, but the home side failed to turn their dominance into goals.
Boro came back into it in the second period and Mido's overhead kick was brilliantly saved by Paddy Kenny.
Emmanuel Pogatetz could have won it late on for the visitors but his header was cleared off the line.
New Blades boss Kevin Blackwell, who replaced Bryan Robson last week, received a standing ovation from the Bramall Lane crowd before kick-off as the home side went in search of a hat-trick of Premier League scalps in this year's competition.
Middlesbrough were aiming to reach a third successive FA Cup quarter-final and started with Mido, who has been out for the last three weeks, alongside Jeremie Aliadiere in attack with record signing Afonso Alves on the bench.
It was a typical cup tie right from kick-off with both sides fully committed and the game played at a frenetic pace.
The visitors struggled to settle and Matt Kilgallon's smartly struck shot was well saved by Mark Schwarzer.
Billy Sharp failed to connect with Derek Geary's cross and Jonathan Stead sent his downward header just wide as the home side continued to press, while at the other end efforts from Stewart Downing and Aliadiere were easily saved by Kenny.
As the half drew to a close, David Wheater was lucky to escape with just a booking after dragging back Sharp when the striker raced through and in stoppage time Beattie struck the post from a well-rehearsed set-play.
Beattie and Michael Tonge pretended to run into each as they shaped to hit the free-kick, but the former Southampton and Everton striker saw his curling shot crash against the post.
The visitors came to life in the second period, but only after Stead had tested Schwarzer from outside the box.
Mido was denied by Kenny when he tipped the Egyptian's acrobatic overhead kick over the bar and from the resulting corner Wheater's powerful header was turned over by the Blades goalkeeper
Downing then flashed a brilliantly struck volley wide from Mido's pinpoint pass and Fabio Rochemback also went close with an effort from outside the box as Boro took control.
Just like their hosts in the first period, the visitors failed to take their chances and Blades substitute Chris Armstrong flashed the ball over the bar after another well-worked free-kick.
United had appeals for a penalty turned down late on as George Boateng struck the ball against his own arm, but referee Chris Foy waved away the protests.
And with two minutes remaining Pogatetz could have snatched it for Boro but his header was cleared off the line.
__________________________________________________________
Team News
Sheffield United midfielder Gary Speed (groin) is a major doubt and Chris Armstrong, Lee Hendrie or David Carney could replace him.
Ugo Ehiogu (hamstring) is in a race to be fit to face his ex-club but strikers Jon Stead and Rob Hulse may return.
Middlesbrough's Afonso Alves is set to make his FA Cup debut, while fellow striker Mido is in the squad.
Striker Tuncay Sanli is lacking match fitness, with Chris Riggott (hamstring) and Lee Cattermole (knee) again out.
About the Match
Kevin Blackwell takes charge of Sheffield United for this fifth round tie, as the Blades look to complete a hat-trick of Premier League scalps in this FA Cup campaign.
Bryan Robson's departure from Bramall Lane means he misses the chance to face the club he left just over seven years ago.
Middlesbrough have never won the FA Cup, but face a club who've lifted the trophy on four occasions.
This is one of three Championship against Premier League ties in the fifth round.
The League ladder
Middlesbrough are 24 places higher than Sheffield United in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
These clubs met in the Premier League last season, when both fixtures were won by the side playing at home, but Middlesbrough have not won at Bramall Lane for 21 years, since a 0-2 victory in the old Second Division on 7 November 1987. Drawn one and lost four of the five subsequent visits.
FA Cup
These clubs have only been drawn against each other once previously; the Blades winning a home second round replay 3-0 in 1923 on their way to the semi-finals.
Preston Vs Portsmouth 02/17/2008
Preston 0-1 Portsmouth
Darren Carter's late own goal ensured Portsmouth undeservedly progressed to the FA Cup quarter-finals.
First Half Highlights
Portsmouth had David James to thank for their lucky escape as the goalkeeper saved a second-half penalty from the impressive Simon Whaley.
Second Half Highlights
Neil Mellor's curling 25-yard effort would have given the home side the lead had it not been for James.
And in the dying seconds Carter tried to clear a corner but struck into the back of his own net instead.
_______________________________________________________
Team News
Preston will miss defender Sean St Ledger through suspension and Youl Mawene will come in as replacement.
Recent signing Neal Trotman is cup-tied, while the club will check on the fitness of midfielder Lewis Neal ahead of the game.
Portsmouth centre-back Sylvain Distin (hamstring) is back along with right-back Glen Johnson.
Jermain Defoe is cup-tied and David Nugent is still out so Milan Baros and Kanu are likely to start in attack.
About the Match
Preston are aiming to complete back-to-back FA Cup victories over Premier League clubs, having easily ousted Derby three weeks ago.
Portsmouth are looking to complete a hat-trick of FA Cup victories over Championship opposition, having dismissed Ipswich and Plymouth in the last two rounds.
Pompey have not been knocked out by lower ranked opposition since they were a second level club and Leyton Orient of the fourth tier dismissed them in the third round in 2002.
This is one of three Premier League against Championship ties in the fifth round.
The League ladder
Portsmouth are 33 places higher than Preston in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Preston have only lost one of their last seven meetings with Portsmouth, and have won four of the last six, all at second league level.
FA Cup
This is the fourth time these clubs have been drawn against each other. Portsmouth won the first two meetings before World War II; North End won the most recent 1-3, away in the fourth round in 1948.
Darren Carter's late own goal ensured Portsmouth undeservedly progressed to the FA Cup quarter-finals.
First Half Highlights
Portsmouth had David James to thank for their lucky escape as the goalkeeper saved a second-half penalty from the impressive Simon Whaley.
Second Half Highlights
Neil Mellor's curling 25-yard effort would have given the home side the lead had it not been for James.
And in the dying seconds Carter tried to clear a corner but struck into the back of his own net instead.
_______________________________________________________
Team News
Preston will miss defender Sean St Ledger through suspension and Youl Mawene will come in as replacement.
Recent signing Neal Trotman is cup-tied, while the club will check on the fitness of midfielder Lewis Neal ahead of the game.
Portsmouth centre-back Sylvain Distin (hamstring) is back along with right-back Glen Johnson.
Jermain Defoe is cup-tied and David Nugent is still out so Milan Baros and Kanu are likely to start in attack.
About the Match
Preston are aiming to complete back-to-back FA Cup victories over Premier League clubs, having easily ousted Derby three weeks ago.
Portsmouth are looking to complete a hat-trick of FA Cup victories over Championship opposition, having dismissed Ipswich and Plymouth in the last two rounds.
Pompey have not been knocked out by lower ranked opposition since they were a second level club and Leyton Orient of the fourth tier dismissed them in the third round in 2002.
This is one of three Premier League against Championship ties in the fifth round.
The League ladder
Portsmouth are 33 places higher than Preston in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Preston have only lost one of their last seven meetings with Portsmouth, and have won four of the last six, all at second league level.
FA Cup
This is the fourth time these clubs have been drawn against each other. Portsmouth won the first two meetings before World War II; North End won the most recent 1-3, away in the fourth round in 1948.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Man Utd v Arsenal 02/16/2008
Manchester United 4-0 Arsenal
Wayne Rooney delivered a virtuoso solo display as Manchester United outclassed Arsenal in the FA Cup fifth round.
First Half Highlights
Rooney headed United in front from close range after 16 minutes and Darren Fletcher provided another headed finish from Nani's cross four minutes later.
Second half highlights
Michael Carrick set up Nani for a third as United turned on the style.
Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboue was sent off after 48 minutes for a foul on Patrice Evra before Nani was the creator again as Fletcher headed United's fourth.
Saturday's Other Matches Highlights
England coach Fabio Capello was in attendance at Old Trafford and showed his appreciation for Rooney's brilliance by applauding his England striker when he was substituted with 20 minutes left.
United left Cristiano Ronaldo and Ryan Giggs out of their line-up, while Arsenal kept Emmanuel Adebayor and Mathieu Flamini on the bench - and the Gunners suffered most from the changes.
Rooney returned from suspension after missing the defeat to Manchester City - and made up for lost time by destroying Arsenal with a blistering first-half display.
He was on the mark after 16 minutes when a Nani corner was only half-cleared, and when Anderson headed the ball back into the danger area Rooney was perfectly placed to divert a close-range finish past Jens Lehmann.
Fletcher deservedly doubled the lead four minutes later when Nani opened up Arsenal on the left flank and crossed for the Scot to head in at the near post.
Rooney continued to terrorise the Arsenal defence and could have added to his goals tally before United made it three seven minutes before the interval.
Carrick split the Arsenal defence wide open, leaving Nani to control and calmly shoot past Lehmann.
Rooney had already tested Lehmann again before Arsenal's misery increased after 48 minutes when Eboue was rightly sent off for a raised boot in a tackle on Evra.
The Arsenal defender seemed reluctant to leave the pitch after referee Alan Wiley brandished the read card, but he had no excuses because it was an horrendous challenge.
Rooney was in almost unstoppable form, tearing the Arsenal defence apart almost at will, shooting wide after beating Kolo Toure and then bringing a fine save from Lehmann - all in the space of seconds.
And with 16 minutes left, United got the fourth goal their dazzling football deserved when Nani floated up a perfect far post cross for Fletcher to head in at the far post.
Arsenal, who have enjoyed taunting outclassed teams in the past, were not enjoying getting a taste of their own medicine and William Gallas was lucky to escape punishment for an ill-disciplined kick at Nani.
Substitute Louis Saha almost added a fifth with two minutes left but keeper Lehmann - who had been blameless in the defeat - saved well again.
_______________________________________________________
Team News
Manchester United have Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra back after suspension.
Striker Louis Saha is available after a knee injury after but right-back Gary Neville and left-back Mikael Silvestre remain sidelined.
Arsenal defenders Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue are available after their Africa Cup of Nations stint.
But Theo Walcott (thigh), Gael Clichy (hamstring) and Bacary Sagna (personal reasons) are set to miss out, while Philippe Senderos (knee) is a doubt.
Team From
Man Utd
Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, O'Shea, Simpson, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Fletcher, Nani, Park, Scholes, Ronaldo, Anderson, Carrick, Hargreaves, Giggs, Tevez, Rooney, Saha, Welbeck.
Arsenal
Lehmann, Fabianski, Senderos, Hleb, Fabregas, Flamini, Adebayor, Eduardo, Bendtner, Traore, Song, J Hoyte, Gilberto, Gilbert, Randall, G Hoyte, Lansbury.
About the Match
The outstanding tie of the fifth round is Sir Alex Ferguson's 100th as manager of Manchester United.
The top two in the Premier League are also the most successful clubs in FA Cup history; United and Arsenal have won the world's oldest football knockout competition 21 times between them and have appeared in a combined 35 finals.
This is the 35th time Ferguson will have come up against his opposite number Arsene Wenger. Of the 34 previous encounters United have won 11, Arsenal 13. Eight of the 10 other games finished level and two were decided on penalty shoot-outs; United won the 2003 Community Shield, and Arsenal the 2005 FA Cup final.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Arsenal are unbeaten in three matches against United (won two and drawn one in the Premier League) and have not lost to the Red Devils since a 2-0 league reverse at Old Trafford on 9 April 2006.
This season's one Premier League meeting at the Emirates Stadium resulted in a 2-2 draw on 3 November 2007. William Gallas put through his own goal to give United the lead, Fabregas equalised soon after half-time, Ronaldo put United back in front with eight minutes remaining and Gallas atoned for his earlier error by securing a point in stoppage time.
FA Cup
These clubs have been paired with one another 11 times and met on 12 occasions (one replay). They fought out a goalless draw after extra time in the most recent, the 2005 final at the Millennium Stadium. The Gunners won 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shoot-out, to tip the balance in their favour in the FA Cup head to head count.
But the most memorable clash between the pair in recent years was the 1999 semi-final, which United won 2-1 in a replay at Villa Park, courtesy of Ryan Giggs' spectacular solo 109th minute goal, and his subsequent shirt-swinging celebration.
Wayne Rooney delivered a virtuoso solo display as Manchester United outclassed Arsenal in the FA Cup fifth round.
First Half Highlights
Rooney headed United in front from close range after 16 minutes and Darren Fletcher provided another headed finish from Nani's cross four minutes later.
Second half highlights
Michael Carrick set up Nani for a third as United turned on the style.
Arsenal's Emmanuel Eboue was sent off after 48 minutes for a foul on Patrice Evra before Nani was the creator again as Fletcher headed United's fourth.
Saturday's Other Matches Highlights
England coach Fabio Capello was in attendance at Old Trafford and showed his appreciation for Rooney's brilliance by applauding his England striker when he was substituted with 20 minutes left.
United left Cristiano Ronaldo and Ryan Giggs out of their line-up, while Arsenal kept Emmanuel Adebayor and Mathieu Flamini on the bench - and the Gunners suffered most from the changes.
Rooney returned from suspension after missing the defeat to Manchester City - and made up for lost time by destroying Arsenal with a blistering first-half display.
He was on the mark after 16 minutes when a Nani corner was only half-cleared, and when Anderson headed the ball back into the danger area Rooney was perfectly placed to divert a close-range finish past Jens Lehmann.
Fletcher deservedly doubled the lead four minutes later when Nani opened up Arsenal on the left flank and crossed for the Scot to head in at the near post.
Rooney continued to terrorise the Arsenal defence and could have added to his goals tally before United made it three seven minutes before the interval.
Carrick split the Arsenal defence wide open, leaving Nani to control and calmly shoot past Lehmann.
Rooney had already tested Lehmann again before Arsenal's misery increased after 48 minutes when Eboue was rightly sent off for a raised boot in a tackle on Evra.
The Arsenal defender seemed reluctant to leave the pitch after referee Alan Wiley brandished the read card, but he had no excuses because it was an horrendous challenge.
Rooney was in almost unstoppable form, tearing the Arsenal defence apart almost at will, shooting wide after beating Kolo Toure and then bringing a fine save from Lehmann - all in the space of seconds.
And with 16 minutes left, United got the fourth goal their dazzling football deserved when Nani floated up a perfect far post cross for Fletcher to head in at the far post.
Arsenal, who have enjoyed taunting outclassed teams in the past, were not enjoying getting a taste of their own medicine and William Gallas was lucky to escape punishment for an ill-disciplined kick at Nani.
Substitute Louis Saha almost added a fifth with two minutes left but keeper Lehmann - who had been blameless in the defeat - saved well again.
_______________________________________________________
Team News
Manchester United have Wayne Rooney and Patrice Evra back after suspension.
Striker Louis Saha is available after a knee injury after but right-back Gary Neville and left-back Mikael Silvestre remain sidelined.
Arsenal defenders Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue are available after their Africa Cup of Nations stint.
But Theo Walcott (thigh), Gael Clichy (hamstring) and Bacary Sagna (personal reasons) are set to miss out, while Philippe Senderos (knee) is a doubt.
Team From
Man Utd
Van der Sar, Kuszczak, Brown, O'Shea, Simpson, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Fletcher, Nani, Park, Scholes, Ronaldo, Anderson, Carrick, Hargreaves, Giggs, Tevez, Rooney, Saha, Welbeck.
Arsenal
Lehmann, Fabianski, Senderos, Hleb, Fabregas, Flamini, Adebayor, Eduardo, Bendtner, Traore, Song, J Hoyte, Gilberto, Gilbert, Randall, G Hoyte, Lansbury.
About the Match
The outstanding tie of the fifth round is Sir Alex Ferguson's 100th as manager of Manchester United.
The top two in the Premier League are also the most successful clubs in FA Cup history; United and Arsenal have won the world's oldest football knockout competition 21 times between them and have appeared in a combined 35 finals.
This is the 35th time Ferguson will have come up against his opposite number Arsene Wenger. Of the 34 previous encounters United have won 11, Arsenal 13. Eight of the 10 other games finished level and two were decided on penalty shoot-outs; United won the 2003 Community Shield, and Arsenal the 2005 FA Cup final.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Arsenal are unbeaten in three matches against United (won two and drawn one in the Premier League) and have not lost to the Red Devils since a 2-0 league reverse at Old Trafford on 9 April 2006.
This season's one Premier League meeting at the Emirates Stadium resulted in a 2-2 draw on 3 November 2007. William Gallas put through his own goal to give United the lead, Fabregas equalised soon after half-time, Ronaldo put United back in front with eight minutes remaining and Gallas atoned for his earlier error by securing a point in stoppage time.
FA Cup
These clubs have been paired with one another 11 times and met on 12 occasions (one replay). They fought out a goalless draw after extra time in the most recent, the 2005 final at the Millennium Stadium. The Gunners won 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shoot-out, to tip the balance in their favour in the FA Cup head to head count.
But the most memorable clash between the pair in recent years was the 1999 semi-final, which United won 2-1 in a replay at Villa Park, courtesy of Ryan Giggs' spectacular solo 109th minute goal, and his subsequent shirt-swinging celebration.
Chelsea Vs Huddersfield 02/16/2008
Chelsea 3-1 Huddersfield
Frank Lampard scored twice and set up a goal for Salomon Kalou as Chelsea eased into the FA Cup quarter-finals.
First half Highlights
Scott Sinclair had a shot cleared off the line before Lampard's low drive put Chelsea ahead on 18 minutes.
Second half Highlights
Huddersfield hit back and Nathan Clarke had a header cleared off the line, before Michael Collins stroked home from 12 yards to equalise.
Saturday's Highlights
But after the break Lampard tucked in a rebound from his own shot and Kalou slipped in a low effort to make it 3-1.
Chelsea had made wholesale changes, with only Lampard remaining from the team that played Liverpool last time out.
It could have made the home side a bit disjointed, but their task of finding some rhythm was helped by Huddersfield's inability to settle early on.
The League One side were understandably hesitant in the early stages, as a physically imposing Chelsea side - which included fit-again captain John Terry for the first time since 16 December - began to dictate the play.
Chelsea turned up the pressure and Sinclair had an effort cleared off the line by Robbie Williams.
And then Sinclair played a pass inside for Lampard to stroke home a precise low shot into the bottom left corner from the edge of the box for his 100th Chelsea goal.
A predictable pattern ensued as Huddersfield struggled to resist Chelsea's attacks.
But then, as if they sensed they really had nothing to lose, Huddersfield began to come out of their shell.
And it took Terry to prevent an equaliser when he hacked Clarke's header off the line.
However, there was nothing Chelsea could do to prevent the equaliser on 45 minutes when Collins superbly brought down James Berrett's pass and slipped a low shot beyond Carlo Cudicini.
After the break, Chelsea quickly raised the tempo but Huddersfield kept their shape and discipline and were able to hold their own for a while.
But eventually Chelsea's power told as Matthew Glennon failed to hold Lampard's shot and the midfielder reacted fastest to tap in the rebound.
It seemed to knock the stuffing out of Huddersfield, and the offside flag prevented them conceding more goals as two Chelsea efforts were ruled out.
Inevitably, Chelsea did score again and it was a fine Lampard pass that created the opportunity and a smart touch and confident finish from Kalou that rounded off the move.
_______________________________________________________
Team News
Chelsea captain and centre-back John Terry is back from the foot injury he suffered in the Premier League defeat to Arsenal on 16 December.
Striker Andriy Shevchenko (back) is a doubt and Michael Essien, Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou are back for Africa Cup of Nations duty.
Huddersfield captain Jon Worthington (hamstring) is rated 50/50 to play and will have a late fitness test.
Striker Luke Beckett (back) is also a doubt and Andy Booth may replace him.
Team From
Chelsea
Cudicini, Cech, Hilario, Ferreira, Belletti, Terry, Carvalho, Ben-Haim, Alex, A Cole, Bridge, Essien, Lampard, Sidwell, Mikel, Malouda, Wright-Phillips, Pizarro, Anelka, Drogba, Kalou, J Cole, Sinclair.
About the Match
Chelsea against Huddersfield is one of two "Big Four" against lower division ties in the fifth round.
The holders are still fighting for honours on all four fronts, while the Yorkshire League One club are looking to claim a second Premier League scalp in this current cup run.
Huddersfield are the lowest ranked club remaining in this season's FA Cup.
The League ladder
Chelsea are 56 places higher than Huddersfield in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Huddersfield have won only one of their last 12 league and cup matches against Chelsea; a Kenny Irons goal settled the third round Worthington Cup tie at Stamford Bridge on 13 October 1999.
FA Cup
This is the second time in three seasons the pair have been drawn together. Chelsea needed a late goal by Eidur Gudjohnsen on 7 January 2006 to secure a 2-1 home win to knock out the Terriers for the third time in a third round tie since 1967.
Frank Lampard scored twice and set up a goal for Salomon Kalou as Chelsea eased into the FA Cup quarter-finals.
First half Highlights
Scott Sinclair had a shot cleared off the line before Lampard's low drive put Chelsea ahead on 18 minutes.
Second half Highlights
Huddersfield hit back and Nathan Clarke had a header cleared off the line, before Michael Collins stroked home from 12 yards to equalise.
Saturday's Highlights
But after the break Lampard tucked in a rebound from his own shot and Kalou slipped in a low effort to make it 3-1.
Chelsea had made wholesale changes, with only Lampard remaining from the team that played Liverpool last time out.
It could have made the home side a bit disjointed, but their task of finding some rhythm was helped by Huddersfield's inability to settle early on.
The League One side were understandably hesitant in the early stages, as a physically imposing Chelsea side - which included fit-again captain John Terry for the first time since 16 December - began to dictate the play.
Chelsea turned up the pressure and Sinclair had an effort cleared off the line by Robbie Williams.
And then Sinclair played a pass inside for Lampard to stroke home a precise low shot into the bottom left corner from the edge of the box for his 100th Chelsea goal.
A predictable pattern ensued as Huddersfield struggled to resist Chelsea's attacks.
But then, as if they sensed they really had nothing to lose, Huddersfield began to come out of their shell.
And it took Terry to prevent an equaliser when he hacked Clarke's header off the line.
However, there was nothing Chelsea could do to prevent the equaliser on 45 minutes when Collins superbly brought down James Berrett's pass and slipped a low shot beyond Carlo Cudicini.
After the break, Chelsea quickly raised the tempo but Huddersfield kept their shape and discipline and were able to hold their own for a while.
But eventually Chelsea's power told as Matthew Glennon failed to hold Lampard's shot and the midfielder reacted fastest to tap in the rebound.
It seemed to knock the stuffing out of Huddersfield, and the offside flag prevented them conceding more goals as two Chelsea efforts were ruled out.
Inevitably, Chelsea did score again and it was a fine Lampard pass that created the opportunity and a smart touch and confident finish from Kalou that rounded off the move.
_______________________________________________________
Team News
Chelsea captain and centre-back John Terry is back from the foot injury he suffered in the Premier League defeat to Arsenal on 16 December.
Striker Andriy Shevchenko (back) is a doubt and Michael Essien, Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou are back for Africa Cup of Nations duty.
Huddersfield captain Jon Worthington (hamstring) is rated 50/50 to play and will have a late fitness test.
Striker Luke Beckett (back) is also a doubt and Andy Booth may replace him.
Team From
Chelsea
Cudicini, Cech, Hilario, Ferreira, Belletti, Terry, Carvalho, Ben-Haim, Alex, A Cole, Bridge, Essien, Lampard, Sidwell, Mikel, Malouda, Wright-Phillips, Pizarro, Anelka, Drogba, Kalou, J Cole, Sinclair.
About the Match
Chelsea against Huddersfield is one of two "Big Four" against lower division ties in the fifth round.
The holders are still fighting for honours on all four fronts, while the Yorkshire League One club are looking to claim a second Premier League scalp in this current cup run.
Huddersfield are the lowest ranked club remaining in this season's FA Cup.
The League ladder
Chelsea are 56 places higher than Huddersfield in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Huddersfield have won only one of their last 12 league and cup matches against Chelsea; a Kenny Irons goal settled the third round Worthington Cup tie at Stamford Bridge on 13 October 1999.
FA Cup
This is the second time in three seasons the pair have been drawn together. Chelsea needed a late goal by Eidur Gudjohnsen on 7 January 2006 to secure a 2-1 home win to knock out the Terriers for the third time in a third round tie since 1967.
Liverpool v Barnsley 02/16/2008
Liverpool 1-2 Barnsley
Barnsley sent Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup thanks to Brian Howard's dramatic injury-time winner at Anfield.
Ryan Babel set up Dirk Kuyt to put the Reds ahead and only some super saves by Luke Steele kept Barnsley in the game.
Saturday's Highlights
The Tykes levelled when Stephen Foster headed home Martin Devaney's cross and although Liverpool poured forward they could not find a way past Steele.
Harry Kewell hit the bar for the home side before Howard's low shot into the bottom corner won it for Barnsley.
Liverpool had already been held by Luton Town of League One in the Cup this season and also had to come from behind twice against non-league Havant & Waterlooville in the previous round
But the way Rafa Benitez's men started this game did not suggest they would suffer any sort of shock result against Simon Davey's side, who are in the bottom half of the Championship.
The home side had all the early possession and Peter Crouch forced an early save out of Steele after Yossi Benayoun had teed him up in the area.
Steele, only signed on an emergency loan from West Brom on Valentine's Day because Barnsley's other keepers were injured or ineligible, was fast becoming a thorn in Liverpool's side on his debut.
He made two more stops in quick succession, saving acrobatically from Xabi Alonso and collecting Babel's low shot.
The former Manchester United goalkeeper was finally beaten on 32 minutes when Babel pulled the ball back for Kuyt, who took a touch before burying his shot into the back of the net.
Steele also did brilliantly to keep out a Crouch header on the stroke of half-time and Barnsley capitalised when they equalised out of nowhere after the interval.
Devaney produced the cross of his life from out wide on the right and Foster rose highest to nod the ball past the flailing figure of Charles Itandje, who could only help it into the net.
The Barnsley defence was soon back under pressure with Bobby Hassell and Foster clearing a Benayoun shot off the line before Howard's block kept out Crouch's follow-up.
And Liverpool threw everything at the visitors, forcing Steele into another stop from Benayoun before he tipped a Lucas header on to the bar.
There was drama at the other end too when Itandje somehow escaped without penalty after colliding with Kayode Odejayi as he chased down a long ball on the edge of the Liverpool penalty area.
But Liverpool were still looking like the only winners and the visitors were defending desperately when Kewell saw his rasping shot come back off the bar late on.
There was still time for one last Barnsley attack, however, and Howard made it count as he collected the ball on the edge of the area and fired into the bottom corner to clinch a famous victory.
_____________________________________________________
Team News
Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel (calf) is out and Sami Hyypia may play, while Fabio Aurelio and Alvaro Arbeloa are available after injury.
Fernando Torres (hamstring) is fit but is set to be rested ahead of the Champions League tie at Inter Milan.
Barnsley's emergency goalkeeper signing Luke Steele will go straight into the side to replace the injured Heinz Muller and ineligible Tony Warner.
Lewin Nyatanga and Jon Macken are both out as they are cup-tied.
Team From
Liverpool
Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Aurelio, Arbeloa, Pennant, Mascherano, Gerrard, Babel, Benayoun, Kewell, Lucas, Torres, Crouch, Kuyt, San Jose, Itandje.
About the Match
The FA Cup provides Liverpool with their only realistic chance of a domestic honour this season.
Barnsley are aiming to pull off their biggest shock in the FA Cup since dismissing Manchester United at this fifth round stage in 1998, but the Tykes were a Premier League outfit at the time.
Liverpool are one of a mere six surviving Premier League clubs in the last 16, and could be one of four to fall to lower ranked opposition at this stage.
The League ladder
Liverpool are 29 places higher than Barnsley in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Not met since both were Premier League clubs in 1997-98. There was a share of the spoils with both league fixtures being won by the club playing away from home.
FA Cup
Liverpool have won all four previous ties against the south Yorkshire club, the most recent being 0-4 away in the quarter-finals in 1985.
Barnsley sent Liverpool crashing out of the FA Cup thanks to Brian Howard's dramatic injury-time winner at Anfield.
Ryan Babel set up Dirk Kuyt to put the Reds ahead and only some super saves by Luke Steele kept Barnsley in the game.
Saturday's Highlights
The Tykes levelled when Stephen Foster headed home Martin Devaney's cross and although Liverpool poured forward they could not find a way past Steele.
Harry Kewell hit the bar for the home side before Howard's low shot into the bottom corner won it for Barnsley.
Liverpool had already been held by Luton Town of League One in the Cup this season and also had to come from behind twice against non-league Havant & Waterlooville in the previous round
But the way Rafa Benitez's men started this game did not suggest they would suffer any sort of shock result against Simon Davey's side, who are in the bottom half of the Championship.
The home side had all the early possession and Peter Crouch forced an early save out of Steele after Yossi Benayoun had teed him up in the area.
Steele, only signed on an emergency loan from West Brom on Valentine's Day because Barnsley's other keepers were injured or ineligible, was fast becoming a thorn in Liverpool's side on his debut.
He made two more stops in quick succession, saving acrobatically from Xabi Alonso and collecting Babel's low shot.
The former Manchester United goalkeeper was finally beaten on 32 minutes when Babel pulled the ball back for Kuyt, who took a touch before burying his shot into the back of the net.
Steele also did brilliantly to keep out a Crouch header on the stroke of half-time and Barnsley capitalised when they equalised out of nowhere after the interval.
Devaney produced the cross of his life from out wide on the right and Foster rose highest to nod the ball past the flailing figure of Charles Itandje, who could only help it into the net.
The Barnsley defence was soon back under pressure with Bobby Hassell and Foster clearing a Benayoun shot off the line before Howard's block kept out Crouch's follow-up.
And Liverpool threw everything at the visitors, forcing Steele into another stop from Benayoun before he tipped a Lucas header on to the bar.
There was drama at the other end too when Itandje somehow escaped without penalty after colliding with Kayode Odejayi as he chased down a long ball on the edge of the Liverpool penalty area.
But Liverpool were still looking like the only winners and the visitors were defending desperately when Kewell saw his rasping shot come back off the bar late on.
There was still time for one last Barnsley attack, however, and Howard made it count as he collected the ball on the edge of the area and fired into the bottom corner to clinch a famous victory.
_____________________________________________________
Team News
Liverpool centre-back Martin Skrtel (calf) is out and Sami Hyypia may play, while Fabio Aurelio and Alvaro Arbeloa are available after injury.
Fernando Torres (hamstring) is fit but is set to be rested ahead of the Champions League tie at Inter Milan.
Barnsley's emergency goalkeeper signing Luke Steele will go straight into the side to replace the injured Heinz Muller and ineligible Tony Warner.
Lewin Nyatanga and Jon Macken are both out as they are cup-tied.
Team From
Liverpool
Reina, Finnan, Carragher, Hyypia, Riise, Aurelio, Arbeloa, Pennant, Mascherano, Gerrard, Babel, Benayoun, Kewell, Lucas, Torres, Crouch, Kuyt, San Jose, Itandje.
About the Match
The FA Cup provides Liverpool with their only realistic chance of a domestic honour this season.
Barnsley are aiming to pull off their biggest shock in the FA Cup since dismissing Manchester United at this fifth round stage in 1998, but the Tykes were a Premier League outfit at the time.
Liverpool are one of a mere six surviving Premier League clubs in the last 16, and could be one of four to fall to lower ranked opposition at this stage.
The League ladder
Liverpool are 29 places higher than Barnsley in the league standings.
Head to Head Details
All competitions
Not met since both were Premier League clubs in 1997-98. There was a share of the spoils with both league fixtures being won by the club playing away from home.
FA Cup
Liverpool have won all four previous ties against the south Yorkshire club, the most recent being 0-4 away in the quarter-finals in 1985.
Monday, January 28, 2008
FA Cup Fifth Round Draw Today, 28/01/2007
Premier League leaders Manchester United will play second placed Arsenal at Old Trafford in the stand-out tie of the fifth round of the FA Cup.
League One side Huddersfield Town will travel to Stamford Bridge to face last year's winners Chelsea.
Sheffield United manager Bryan Robson will take on former team Middlesbrough while Liverpool will play Championship opposition in Barnsley at Anfield.
League One strugglers Bristol Rovers face Championship side Southampton.
Portsmouth also have Championship opposition when they travel to Deepdale to play Preston, who beat Premier League bottom side Derby 4-1 at Pride Park on Saturday.
Fifth round fixtures:
Bristol Rovers v Southampton
Cardiff City v Wolves
Sheffield United v Middlesbrough
Liverpool v Barnsley
Manchester United v Arsenal
Preston v Portsmouth
Coventry City v West Brom
Chelsea v Huddersfield Town
The ties are scheduled to take place on 16 and 17 February.
.................................................
Teams in FA Cup fifth-round draw:
1. Arsenal
2. Coventry City
3. Huddersfield Town
4. Bristol Rovers
5. Chelsea
6. Liverpool
7. Barnsley
8. Southampton
9. Manchester United
10. Portsmouth
11. Preston
12. Wolves
13. West Bromwich Albion
14. Sheffield United
15. Middlesbrough
16. Cardiff
The draw will be made by FA Cup winners Jimmy Case and Ray Wilkins at Soho Square in London.
Only six of Premier League Teams are left in the competition.
For the first time since 1957, there are no fourth-round replays as every match was decided at the first time of asking.
League One side Huddersfield Town will travel to Stamford Bridge to face last year's winners Chelsea.
Sheffield United manager Bryan Robson will take on former team Middlesbrough while Liverpool will play Championship opposition in Barnsley at Anfield.
League One strugglers Bristol Rovers face Championship side Southampton.
Portsmouth also have Championship opposition when they travel to Deepdale to play Preston, who beat Premier League bottom side Derby 4-1 at Pride Park on Saturday.
Fifth round fixtures:
Bristol Rovers v Southampton
Cardiff City v Wolves
Sheffield United v Middlesbrough
Liverpool v Barnsley
Manchester United v Arsenal
Preston v Portsmouth
Coventry City v West Brom
Chelsea v Huddersfield Town
The ties are scheduled to take place on 16 and 17 February.
.................................................
Teams in FA Cup fifth-round draw:
1. Arsenal
2. Coventry City
3. Huddersfield Town
4. Bristol Rovers
5. Chelsea
6. Liverpool
7. Barnsley
8. Southampton
9. Manchester United
10. Portsmouth
11. Preston
12. Wolves
13. West Bromwich Albion
14. Sheffield United
15. Middlesbrough
16. Cardiff
The draw will be made by FA Cup winners Jimmy Case and Ray Wilkins at Soho Square in London.
Only six of Premier League Teams are left in the competition.
For the first time since 1957, there are no fourth-round replays as every match was decided at the first time of asking.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)