Birmingham City have already accomplished their goal of Premier League survival this year while Liverpool are still aiming for a top four spot. Rafa Benitez will not be happy with his team conceding two penalty kicks in Liverpool's Europa League match against Benfica on Thursday. The Spanish manager will need to get all 3 points from this match for 2 very good reasons. If Liverpool fail to get a win here they are effectively out of the top four race, and the Reds will want to be in good spirits for the return leg against Benfica at Anfield. Past results do not look promising. Liverpool have not won an away match since December 29 when they defeated Aston Villa in Birmingham. Benitez will be without the services of Alberto Aquilani, Martin Skrtel and Fabio Aurelio as they are all suffering from injuries. Aquilani looked to make a promising turn in form before an ankle injury hampered his chances to impress. Liverpool and Benitez see this match as a must-win and will hold nothing back with an aggressive attacking formation. Fernando Torres has been in great form lately with 7 goals in the last 3 games and Birmingham will have some trouble trying to contain him.

The Blues of Birmingham have had an unexpectedly impressive season just after being promoted to the Premier League. They are currently in 9th place and have mathematically ensured safety from relegation. They will be confident at home after going 13 games unbeaten. Their most impressive match came last week when against all odds they were able to contain an Arsenal side that were hell-bent on getting 3 points. An Arsenal side that drew with Champions League title holders FC Barcelona. With very little chance of improving in the Premiership, Birmingham City will now be playing only for pride and maybe a slightly improved position. A draw or victory against Liverpool FC would definitely be a knotch on Alex Mcleish's belt, so expect the manager to deploy a strong defensive front with hopes of scoring on the counterattack.

Liverpool have recently had a turn in form and with a healthy Torres, anything is possible. Birmingham City succeeded in holding Arsenal to 1 point last week, but this was acheived with an injury time equalizer. A victory here is of the utmost importance for the Reds so expect them to be energetic and motivated when the whistle blows to start.


Birmingham City vs Liverpool FC
Sunday 4 March, 2010
Kickoff: 4:00 PM (CET)
Venue: St. Andrews Grounds (Birmingham)

Tip: Liverpool (1x2)
Best Odds: 1.92 at Betfair