West Brom v Cardiff (Match Preview)

Cardiff City face a tricky test tonight when they face West Bromwich Albion in the Carling Cup third round.

Cardiff have scraped through to this stage of the competition after late goals saw them narrowly defeat Brighton & Hove Albion and Leyton Orient.


The Bluebirds have impressed on the road and will be going all out to win the game. Although some players may be rested, City will select a near full strength side against one of the top Championship teams.


Paul Parry is a doubt so Darcy Blake may get a rare start on the right side of midfield - although Jones may decide to use left-footers Ledley & Whittingham to cover both wings and swap regularly. This would allow Trevor Sinclair to be rested, as has been the decision for other Cup ties.


Fowler and Hasselbaink are both fit but could share the striking duties with Steve Thompson.




West Brom have seen off Peterborough and Bournemouth to reach the third round and have yet to concede a goal at the Hawthorns all season.


Manager Tony Mowbray has Paul Robinson, Neil Clement and Bostjan Cesar all missing for his side but will turn to his fringe players for the Carling Cup Tie.


Hodgkiss and Pele are likely to start while James Morrison could also be given a chance in midfield to provide for James Beattie or Kevin Phillips in attack.





Both sides want to win but home advantage is key and this will be a very tough test for the Bluebirds. In a league game, a point would be a good result but extra time would not be welcome in such a hectic schedule.

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