We're into the knock out phases and the reward for the group stage is a tie against Fulham. The Cottagers lie 4th in the second tier but are managed by Will which means this is not going to be an easy game!
On paper this should be one we win quite easily as we are ahead of them in all areas of the team and they are missing arguably their best defender and need some fitness rotation. But the Will factor is always going to have an impact in this one! His senior Brighton side have already turned over our seniors this year
For us, we will once again be missing Doherty and McKirdy although the former is nearing a return. I want to go attacking but those two out impacts what I can do in midfield. But we should still have enough to get the formation we want.
We're out of the main cup which gives us a breather next week so we can afford some extra minutes this week. We want to go out and get a lead in this home leg - hopefully to make the second easier. We won't be taking anything for granted though
The reward for us for getting through the group is a game against the Champions! A tough fixture against David with any team. We have met already this season with a good result for us - a 1-1 draw at their ground whilst my Villa side have had two wins and a draw with them - beating them to top spot in the group stage.
Our form hasn't been great as late and this would be a good one to play us back in. A win here would give us some confidence going into the run in. But, like the senors, the aim is to make sure we stay in the tie heading into a home second leg.
David often rotates his squad for the cups so be interesting to see what they put out. They have no injury or suspension so be interesting which way they go. We also have a full squad to pick from so we'll go strong as we can. The league has little to play for and we're out of the other cup so may as well focus on this one...
Joy a day against Liverpool in both competitions just what to look forward to when the results come in. We did well in the groups to get to this KO round but this is likely where the competition ends for us, they have the better roster and im sure that will show over 2 legs but we will give it a shot and see what happens
