On Sky
Sandwiched between their long trips to Barrow and Hartlepool, The Cherries host MK Dons in the Southern Quarter-Final of the Johnstone`s Paint Trophy. After failing to beat non-league opposition in the FA Cup, AFCB will be attempting to try and progress and not suffer an upset to the side in League 2, whilst in front of the Sky cameras for the first time in years!
MK Dons are currently sitting top of League 2 with a 4 point cushion over their nearest rivals. At the weekend however, they bowed out of the FA Cup to Crewe in a game that arguably could have won. Not particularly a favourite club with people having become a franchise, there is no denying they have shut up and got about with their job, having employed Paul Ince as their manager this term, following Martin Allen`s tenure last season. They will fancy their chances of a shock in front of the TV viewers tonight and a cup semi-final.
Vital Quotes:
Kevin Bond`s rather scary reaction to the Cup game, considering what we were playing for, was as follows:
‘It was a bit of a shock for one or two of them. Barrow were totally committed and we needed to reciprocate to get something from the game.”
The Cherries will have to be on their toes for the game though, MK Dons boss, Paul Ince, thought the following after their Cup game against Crewe:
“The players should be proud of themselves. They came here to play a League 1 side and dominated the game.’
AFC Bournemouth Team News:
Darren Anderton has been confirmed of being out for 2 weeks with his hamstring injury. Shaun Cooper returned on Saturday, whilst Marvin Bartley made the bench following his long-term injury lay-off and Warren Cummings is expected to be there soon also. Unfortunately, Garry, Perrett, Foley, and Christophe are still out injured. Gradel is still on compassionate leave and Neil Young on loan at Weymouth. But, Alex Pearce is most certainly going to be included following Reading`s refusal for him them to play in the FA Cup. James Henry meanwhile has picked up a hamstring injury and is out.
Player to watch: Jem Karacen
Two goals in his last two games, including that spectacular strike against Leeds, means this lad is becoming more and more of a fans favourite. His diminutive and creative skills are flourishing next to Danny Hollands, and the Turkish U’19 international has defintely been a worthwhile loan signing from Reading.
Milton Keynes Dons Team News:
Skipper Keith Andrews, plus Leon Knight, Drissa Diallo, and Willy Gueret were all rested for the weekend`s Cup game. Colin Cameron and Aaron Wilbraham may also go into the starting line-up having been on the bench against Crewe.
Player to watch: Leon Knight
Fortunate to have a good selection of strikers at his disposal, Paul Ince is the current manager trying to deal with this short in stature but high in temperament, striker. However, Chelsea, QPR, Sheffield Wednesday, Brighton, Barnsley, Huddersfield, Swansea have all appreciated his lightning pace and eye for goal.
Match Facts & Stats
AFC Bournemouth
Round 1 – Walsall (H) 2-0
Round 2 – Bristol Rovers (A) 1-0
MK Dons
Round 1 – Bye
Round 2 – Peterborough (H) 3-1
Ref Watch:
Referee: Mr P Taylor
Assistant Referees: Mr J Farries & Mr R G Vaughan
Fourth Official: Mr S P Snartt
Match Prediction:
I think this is a really tight one to call considering the contrasting form of both teams. It will go down to who wants it more. Therefore, I`m going to pluck for a 1-1 draw and AFCB to win on penalties.
Next Fixtures:
Hartlepool United v AFC Bournemouth (Coca Cola League 1, Sunday 18th November 2007, 4pm)
