Fighting In Europe And Fighting For Europe

Pompey vs Reds Preview

One's fighting for a place in Europe next season. While another team is fighting for survival in Europe's elite football competition currently.

It's certainly an intriguing fixture as both teams are looking to consolidate their places in the league. Although Liverpool has theoretically booked a place in the competition next year, coming third always sounds better than fourth.

But with the impending second leg of the Champions League semi finals, expect changes.

I won't be surprise to see the likes of Sissoko, Hyypia and even Paletta starting as Rafa Benitez will tinker once again and rest players for a more important second leg next week. With that under par performance, perhaps it could also serve as a warning to the players to stop being complacent and maybe give them some time to reflect on their woeful performance.

Both teams are in great league form with the Reds unbeaten in 6 while opponents are finding it hard to break down Portsmouth due to David James' recent heroics. The former Liverpool goalkeeper, who's often touted as 'Calamity James' and 'vampire' (because he's scared of crosses), broke the league record of clean sheets last week against Aston Villa.

With Newcastle and ManYoo defeated at Fratton Park, it's certainly not the best place to get all three points for the Reds. With an eye on the second leg, will Liverpool be distracted? Or will their class prevail and dent Portsmouth hope of Europe?

Drogballs' Prediction: Portsmouth 1-2 Liverpool. More like an optimistic guess than a realistic one. Portsmouth will be a tough opposition and David James could prove to be the difference. (Actually, I predict a 1-1 draw :p )