Carling Cup Fixtures 24th August 2010 Part 3

Portsmouth v Crystal Palace
Portsmouth won the FA Cup not so very long ago. Now even the Carling Cup looks beyond their grasp.
Andy Dorman should keep his place in Crystal Palace’s starting line-up. Lewis Price will be hoping a spot of goalkeeper-rotation might be in order.

Reading v Northampton
Reading had a great run in the FA Cup last season so maybe they could do the same.
Simon Church, Hal Robson-Kanu and Jake Taylor could play a part in this match after staying on the bench at the weekend.
I don’t think Northampton will be bringing in their reserve keeper. A match against Reading probably wouldn’t be the best introduction for 18 year old Paul Walker. Although who knows?

Southampton v Bolton Wanderers
Southampton haven’t won any games in the league this season while Bolton are unbeaten. This looks like a possible Cupset but maybe I’m being too romantic although that’s not something I’m usually accused of.
If Southampton choose to rest some players, Ryan Doble and Anthony Pulis could get into the squad.
Sam Ricketts will be hoping for a chance to impress for Bolton after being left on the bench for the opening two Premier League matches.

Stoke City v Shrewsbury Town
Shrewsbury are unbeaten this campaign while Stoke haven’t got any points at all. But Stoke are still three divisions ahead of Shrewsbury.
Danny Collins was back in the starting line-up alongside new captain Ryan Shawcross for Stoke’s last Premier League game. But manager Tony Pulis might not pick his strongest players.
Tom Bradshaw will be hoping for more than an appearance on the bench for Shrewsbury.