Tottenham have had a productive week as they defeated Fulham 3-1 to secure a spot in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley. Their chances for finishing in the top four improved as Manchester City were defeated 2-0 at Goodison Park by a resilient Everton side. Harry
Redknapp knows how important this match is as he can increase the gap between Tottenham's nearest top four rivals to 5 points and at least 2 games. White Hart Lane has been a tough venue this season with a 10-2-3 record. Roman
Pavlyuchenko has been given a chance at the starting role and responded positively. In the past 5 matches, the Russian striker has scored 4 times, all at home in front of the Spurs faithful. The squad is full of confidence and will try to get an early goal to daunt any ambition
Portsmouth have of getting something from this match.
Though Portsmouth are certain to be relegated, they had shown signs that they still had some fight left in them. However, home wins against Hull City and Birmingham quickly gave way to a 5-0 hammering at the hands of Chelsea FC. A defeat like this would crush the spirits of even the toughest hearts, much less a team who has just recently been put under financial administration. The first meeting of the season ended in a 2-1 Spurs victory and this will play into the psychology of the players as well. Kevin Boateng was able to get a goal against
Tottenham in October, but the effort would prove futile as the Spurs held onto their lead.
The facts are simple: Tottenham have everything to play for while Portsmouth have almost nothing.
Tottenham have won 10 home games this season while Portsmouth have lost 11 on the road. Avram Grant will attempt to put up a tough front but in the end the quality of Tottenham's squad will break through. As seen in the midweek match with
Chelsea, Portsmouth's defense will likely fall apart after the first goal.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Portsmouth FC
Saturday March 27, 2010
Kickoff: 3:00 PM (GMT)
Venue: White Hart Lane (London)
Tip: Tottenham -2 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 2.14 @ Bet365
