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With only one FA Cup Quarter Final replay to come, the line up for the Semi Finals is pretty much set. The big tie is between Aston Villa and Chelsea, after their wins against Reading and Stoke respectively. Chelsea have been strong favourites to retain the FA Cup from the outset, and have comfortably made their way back to Wembley. The semi finals are held at Wembley on April 10th and 11th and look to be setting up some thrilling matches. Villa inflicted a defeat upon Chelsea in the league earlier in the season, and so Carlo Ancelotti will having something interesting to throw into his team talk in preparations. Martin O’Neill’s Aston Villa have been one of the successes of the season, reaching the Carling Cup final as well. For Aston Villa, the FA Cup represents a great chance to make amends for a loss there to Man Utd.

Villa’s win over Reading in the Quarter Finals, was the first time O’Neill had won a match in March since taking over at Villa. Their reward has been the toughest draw they could get in the semi final, but you generally have to beat the best at some point to win a competition. They will have nothing to fear though, having beaten them and Manchester United this season. Portsmouth, for whom the FA Cup has been the one bright spark of the season so far, as they face financial and Premier League survival. Pompey earned a proud and battling victory for their fans and boss Avram Grant over Birmingham on Saturday to book their place in the semi’s. Can they complete a fairy tale in the FA after so much doom and gloom? Imagine him lifting the cup in the final against his old club Chelsea!

Fulham and Tottenham played out a stalemate, as was expected. Spurs will probably be happier with that, with a whole host of injury problems at the moment. Taking the fixture back to White Hart Lane, where they have the opportunity to put out a stronger side, will make them favourites. But Fulham are no pushovers this season, as they are going well in Europe and safe and secure in the middle of the league. They have played some good football, and there should be a lot of life left in this tie yet. The replay is on March 24th.

FA Cup Outright
Chelsea – 11/10 at Totesport
Tottenham – 7/2 at Totesport
Aston Villa – 9/2 at Stan James
Fulham – 14/1 at Stan James
Portsmouth – 14/1 at Coral

The transformation which Championship side Reading have undergone of late, has been nothing short of a miracle. Down and out near the foot of the Championship, their looked to be nothing on the horizon but relegation to League One. Up steps Brian McDermott after the much publicised departure of Steve Coppell, and out go Liverpool from the FA Cup. That victory in the Third Round replay at Anfield, has appeared to be the catalyst for a remarkable turnaround in the Royal’s fortunes. There looks to be a lot of faith around the club now, after winning 5 of their last 6 games, topped off with a 5-0 thumping of Sheffield Wednesday in their last league outing. As displayed in the Anfield heroics, they go out to the pitch with vigour and look to concentrate on playing their own game, as opposed to worrying about what the opposition is doing.

Their feats in the FA Cup didn’t stop with beating Liverpool, for there was more Premier League opposition on the horizon for them. They beat Burnley in the fourth round 1-0 and then triumphed in a replay against high flying West Brom, who are seeking automatic promotion from the Championship. They are not safe from relegation yet, but the recent run of games has put them in with a much better chance of survival. They are only one point above Sheffield Wednesday, who are third from bottom, but the bottom half of the table is so tight, that a couple more wins will see them firmly in the safety of mid table. At least there is a lot more to be optimistic about now, as they welcome Aston Villa to the Madejski Stadium, in the hope of yet another giant killing act. Could they join Portsmouth as being one the fairy-tale stories of the FA Cup 2010, by joining them in the Semi Finals?

First they will have to get past Carling Cup finalists Aston Villa, who are proving to be a resilient lot under Martin O’Neill. They get Richard Dunne back from injury, as they look to fill the disappointment of losing one Wembley final this season, by getting back there to have another crack of the whip. Villa have had a preference for not putting out full sides for cup fixtures this season, but they will be strong on Sunday, as this is now a much more trickier tie than it may have been a couple of months ago. Villa are tight at the back, which is the foundation they have built upon in order to get them into the race for fourth spot in the Premier League, as well as their successful run in the Carling Cup. They do like to play a wide game though, as well as directly hitting the pacy big men up front, notably Gabriel Agbonlahor. England dangerman James Milner is also one to watch, along with Ashley Young.

Villa have already had a scare against Championships opposition in the FA Cup this season, needing a replay to get past a battling Crystal Palace. Reading are the only team left in the competition, not to come from the Premier League, and so will have their work cut out for them. This should be a free flowing game, as the initiative will be with the home side Reading to take the game to the higher level of opposition. The Villa defence should stand tall, as they have done for most of the season, but they are not big goalscorers. Still, they went 12 games unbeaten this year, only losing that record to Man Utd in the Carling Cup final, and are in good form. But Reading, as they have proven so far during this FA Cup run, they are capable of being the downfall of teams in much higher standing than them. Will this be another great day for the underdogs?

BETTING STATS (All competitions)

Head to Head
Reading 1, Aston Villa 2
Aston Villa 3, Reading 1
Reading 2, Aston Villa 0
Aston Villa 2, Reading 1

Last 5 Match Goals
Reading: 12 For, 7 Against
Aston Villa: 12 For, 8 Against

Last 10 Match Form
Reading: W5, D2, L3
Aston Villa: W5, D4, L1

Win Percentage:
Reading have a 26.3 win percentage at home
Aston Villa have a 41.2 win percentage away from home

MATCH PRICES
Aston Villa to win: 11/13 at Expekt
Draw: 13/5 at Boylesports
Reading to win: 7/2 at Bet365

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: Villa will be favourites to take this, even if it is away from home. They managed well enough against similar opposition in Crystal Palace in a tricky replay, and will have to curb the early giant killing enthusiasm of Reading in the early stages. They will have a battle on their hands, and this could easily turn out as draw, which is something to lean towards finding coverage in the betting. If you fancy another upset will be on the cards with the buoyant Reading side going so well this year, then taking a chance on Reading +0.25 will fetch 7/5 at Paddy Power (which will bring a half win for a drawn match). Otherwise, with Villa expecting to be in the ascendancy, but not a high scoring club:
Aston Villa -1.00 Asian Handicap 11/10 at Stan James

Chelsea look to defend their FA Cup crown with a home fixture against Stoke on Sunday. The Blues do have some selection problems ahead of the match, with the defence awaiting news on the fitness of Ricardo Carvalho. They will also be missing the influence of Michael Ballack who was sent off in last week’s defeat against Manchester City in the league. Chelsea also heard news this week that defender Jose Bosingwa won’t be back in action this season. Regardless of their starting line up, Chelsea will go into the match as favourites. The defeat at Stamford Bridge to Man City, was the first defeat which Chelsea have suffered at home all season, and ended a run of 37 consecutive games without defeat at home. Their plight wasn’t helped by the fact that goalie Petr Cech is out of action.

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti needs to get his team going again, the way they were earlier in the season. Backup goalie Hilario, is no Petr Cech, and that means the Chelsea defence, which looked vulnerable defending set pieces this season, will need to dig deep and stand firm. Having lost their last two games, one against Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan, and the 4-2 loss against Man City in the Premier League will have set nerves jangling just a little bit around Stamford Bridge. They started out as favourites for the FA Cup though, and having seen Man United, Liverpool and Arsenal all fall cheaply, it will be a surprise in many circles, not least the bookmakers, if Chelsea do not lift the trophy. They will firmly have their eyes set on a semi final place, as they take on Arsenal’s FA Cup conquerors Stoke City.

Recent England call up, defender Ryan Shawcross will be missing at the heart of the Stoke defence. It will have been hard to avoid the reason why. He was the one who ended Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey’s season with a boisterous tackle, which got Arsene Wenger all hot under the collar. Stoke, under Tony Pulis, have given a good account of themselves this season, and look fairly secure in their mid table position. They had an extended unbeaten run in the Premier League, during 2010, until they lost their last match against Arsenal last weekend. Pulis has turned Stoke into one of those sides which are extremely tough to play against, as they favour the physical and direct route to goal.

Stoke’s win column away from home, is looking a little sparse though as they have only managed two in the Premier League. This, for betting strategies, is another aspect which will have betting leaning towards a Chelsea win. Stoke do have an offensive weapon from the thrown ins, as Rory Delap launches horizontal missiles goal wards, and gets such distance on them, it is the equivalent of a corner when Stoke get at throw in anywhere in the final third of the pitch. Stoke gave Chelsea run for their money on the opening day of the season, when the Blues had to come from behind to seal a late win at the Britannia Stadium. Stoke will be the sternest test Chelsea have had in the FA Cup this season, as the Premier League favourites have played only Championship opposition up until now.

BETTING STATS (All competitions)

Head to Head
Stoke 1, Chelsea 2
Chelsea 2, Stoke 1
Stoke 0, Chelsea 2

Last 5 Match Goals:
Chelsea: 10 For, 9 Against
Stoke: 6 For, 7 Against

Last 10 Form
Chelsea: W6, D1, L3
Stoke City: W3, D6, L1

Win Percentage:
Chelsea have an 85.7 win percentage at home
Stoke have a 12.5 win percentage away from home

MATCH PRICES
Chelsea to win: 3/10 at Expekt
Draw: 5/1 at Bet365
Stoke to win: 11/1 at SkyBet

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: Chelsea will be expected to reach the semi finals. They will want to gain a bit of confidence by winning this one at the first attempt. With their dodgy away form this season, Ancelotti will not relish this going back to the Britannia for a replay. One streak which may be worth taking a punt on, is an Anytime Scorer Bet on Chelsea’s Daniel Sturridge, who has scored in each round of the competition so far. He has four in the competition, the same as Stoke’s Ricardo Fuller, who is their best source for goals. As for the Handicap, the best returns will come from backing Stoke in the positive. Yes, they may lose, but they could be tough enough to hold on to:
Stoke +1.5 Asian Handicap: Evens at Bet365

Daniel Sturridge Anytime Scorer: Evens at SportingBet
Ricardo Fuller Anytime Scorer: 4/1 at SkyBet

FA Cup betting should draw a lot of attention here, as Craven Cottage should have one of the most entertaining FA Cup Quarter Finals, with the all Premier League derby clash of Fulham v Tottenham. Tottenham have some injury worries ahead of the tie, with England striker Jermain Defoe suffering from a hamstring problem, which he felt wasn’t right after his first half England performance against Egypt. Peter Crouch though, will be relishing the chances at a run in the team, after losing his starting spot for Spurs. Crouch came off the bench to further his impressive international record, his two goals helping England overcome the Egyptians at Wembley. With England World Cup hopeful Aaron Lennon already on the sidelines for another month of so, boss Harry Redknapp is getting down to the bare bones of a first eleven.

The Spurs midfield will also be missing Jermaine Jenas, Tom Huddlestone and David Bentley, which may tip the balance in favour of the home side for this tie. These are two good footballing teams, with Spurs probably just edging it in terms of betting. Spurs will be hoping to cling onto fourth spot in the Premier League this season, which will guarantee a marked improvement for the London Club. It will also secure a big payday in the Champions League next season. Harry Redknapp has toughened them up a little bit in comparison to the Spurs of old, and with some quality all over the park, are giving a good account of themselves. They have still struggled against the genuine title contenders, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal this season, but they are clearly moving in the right direction.

Fulham manager Roy Hodgson has turned Fulham in a good competitive unit, who like to play attractive football. They are on a good run of form at the moment, going 8 games unbeaten with victories in all of their last five matches at Craven Cottage. There has been much discussion about striker Bobby Zamora, and whether or not he should be in the England team. He is having his most impressive season, and the powerful striker can hold the ball up well, and now has some consistency in finding the back of the net. Whether he is international quality remains to be seen, and he is unlikely to jump the England queue of strikers for the World Cup. Still, he can keep on trying to shoot his club to the FA Cup final to get himself noticed.

The two sides played out a 0-0 draw at Craven Cottage in December, and Fulham are struggling to find goals against Spurs. Sitting in ninth place in the Premier League, Fulham are one of those teams trapped in limbo, too good to be drawn into a relegation battle, but not good enough to push on to challenge for a place in Europe. Saying that, they are still in the Europa League, after coming through 3-2 on aggregate against favourites, and current holders, Shakhtar Donetsk. The London side have been turned around marvellously by Hodgson and he deserves all the plaudits which he can get. An appearance in the FA Cup final would be the icing on the cake, but first they will need to get the better of one of the best teams left in the competition.

BETTING STATS (League Only)

Last 5 Match Goals
Fulham: 6 For, 1 Against
Tottenham: 6 For, 3 Against

Last 10 Match Form:
Fulham: W3, D2, L5
Tottenham: W4, D4, L2

Win Percentage:
Fulham have a 64.3 win percentage at home
Tottenham have a  35.7 win percentage away from home

Match Prices
Fulham to win: 21/10 at Bet365
Draw: 23/10 at Totesport
Tottenham to win: 13/8 at Victor Chandler

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: The promises of a good close match here, between two teams who like to play football the right way. Fulham have only lost three times at home this season, and it will be a tough task for Tottenham. But the difference between the two sides in the league is about 10 points, and Tottenham have shown both their class and battling qualities this season in the FA Cup. However, Fulham at home are a tough side to overturn, and Spurs will put out a weakened side. Therefore backing them with a slight advantage, with coverage on a the draw makes good sense.
Fulham +0.25 Asian Handicap: 11/10 at Paddy Power

FA Cup betting will be torn on this quarter final. The Portsmouth saga rumbles on this season, with the crisis club uncertain of its future still, and boss Avram Grant not promising to stay. But they are still living the dream in the FA Cup, and it could be their one outlet to salvage something from the season. Their fans certainly deserve something, after the hardship of all the financial woes, and being unable to prise themselves off the bottom of the Premier League all season. They have fought well in the FA Cup this season, in contrast to the league, where everything piece of bad luck seems to go against them. They came through a potentially tricky tie in the 5th round, a derby match away at fierce rivals, neighbours Southampton.

A late burst of goals saw Pompey run out 4-1 winners, to book their quarter final fixture at home against Birmingham. They have encountered Birmingham once this season, back in August, when Birmingham won a close match, 1-0. Portsmouth have already beaten Premier League opposition in the FA Cup this year, taking out Sunderland 2-1, and now boss Avram Grant will hope to get a little closer to that silver lining of a miserable season, an FA Cup final appearance. They do have home advantage, and all in all, it is not a bad draw for them. Their opponents, although stubborn and resolute in their defence, haven’t been setting the Premier League alight in goals scored.

Birmingham, under Alex McLeish are enjoying a season of comparative success. They were enjoying a long unbeaten run, until coming unstuck a little bit of late, and that will give Pompey heart. Birmingham’s game has been built around defence, and they, like Portsmouth, do struggle for goals. This could mean that there will be a tight game at Fratton Park on Sunday, with Birmingham looking to cap a fine season with at least a place in the Semi Final. For both of these teams, the FA Cup this season represents a lot to their fans. Whatever happens with Portsmouth in terms of administration, it is pretty much a dead cert that they will be relegated this year.

For Birmingham, it represents the opportunity to show that they are an up and coming club, giving them a further platform to build off for next season. Neither team are in great form at the moment, with just three wins between them in their last five matches. Still, it should make for an entertaining encounter, even if it is a tight, scrappy cup tie on the south coast. Birmingham have only scored 26 goals in the Premier League all season, but even that paltry amount tops Pompey, who have netted just 23 times. Therefore it is unlikely to be a goal fest down at Fratton Park, and every likelihood that this could head back to St Andrews for a replay.

BETTING STATS

Last 5 Head to Head
Birmingham 1, Portsmouth 0
Portsmouth 4, Birmingham 2
Birmingham 0, Portsmouth 2
Birmingham 5, Portsmouth 0
Portsmouth 1, Birmingham 1

Last 5 Match Goals
Portsmouth: 4 For, 10 Against
Birmingham: 5 For, 6 Against

Last 10 Form
Portsmouth: W2, D2, L6
Birmingham: W3, D4, L3

Win Percentage:
Portsmouth have a 23.1 win percentage at home
Birmingham have a 30.8 win percentage away from home

Portsmouth to win: 13/8 at SkyBet
Draw: 23/10 at Totesport
Birmingham to win: 2/1 at Victor Chandler

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: This is one of those games where trying to gain rewards from a draw would be worth investigating. If you want to be safe, then the first place to go for this, would be a Draw No Bet on whoever you think will sneak the tie, the equivalent of which, in Asian Handicap Betting is 0. Leaning towards Portsmouth though, simply because of the home fixture and nothing left to lose this season, and coverage with a half win, if they draw:
Portsmouth +0.25 Asian Handicap: 4/6 at Paddy Power

Wednesday is FA Cup replay day, with five Premier League teams looking to secure places in the Sixth Round. There are four matches occurring, which we shall cast a firm betting eye over here, to find the best online betting prices and betting strategies. Some of the results from the Fifth round were surprises which has led to these matches being played, but now it is time for the crunch, and it is where quality usually shines through.

Aston Villa v Crystal Palace
The battling Championship strugglers put in another good FA Cup performance, enjoying their football away from the basement of the Championship. Boss Neil Warnock has a fight on his hands, and he has been linked with a move away from the club to join QPR, who are only four points ahead of Palace, who are third from bottom. They have suffered two defeats in the league since the draw with Aston Villa, and things aren’t looking too rosy for them at the moment. It took a late equaliser from the Premier League side to stay in the competition. The replay, although it is better than  being knocked out, isn’t what boss Martin O’Neill would have wanted. He now has to juggle his side ahead of Sunday’s big date in the Carling Cup final against Manchester United. It should be less of a daunting task taking on Palace at Villa Park, and O’Neill will probably rest some key players ahead of the final, most notably Gabriel Agbonlahor. Villa were rampant in their 5-2 win over Burnley on the weekend, which kept them in the race for fourth spot in the Premier League, and should not have too much trouble at home at the lowly Championship side.
Aston Villa to win: 4/11 at Bet365
Draw: 4/1 at Ladbrokes
Crystal Palace to win: 17/2 at SkyBet

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: The underdogs had their day in the first match, which was a cracker, by the way. Unlikely to get as close to Villa this time around, so Villa with a good minus should do the trick on the betting strategy.
Crystal Palace +1.25 Asian Handicap: 43/40 at Bet365

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Stoke v Manchester City
This replay comes with the reward of taking on the best team left in the competition, Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. City were expected to beat Stoke, but a dour 1-1 draw against them, highlighted the fact that City are probably still off the pace when it comes to being a strong, consistent team. Still, they are heading in the right direction, just not there yet. Another miserable draw against Liverpool on the weekend showed that. Without Tevez they lack a bit of a spark. Stoke on the other hand are simply making a nuisance of themselves this season, playing not too pretty football, but getting the results that will keep them in mid table safety, and away from relegation. They sneaked a late winner against Portsmouth on the weekend, and while the FA Cup isn’t a priority for manager Tony Pulis, it will do wonders for their season. Premier League survival and an FA Cup Quarter Final appearance should be considered a success. They are unbeaten in 2010, which is quite an achievement, and knocked Arsenal out of the competition along the way. They are a difficult team to play against, more than being a classy team. City have fallen back into ways of drawing games, with their last three matches ending in ties. Boss Roberto Mancini won’t be fancying this one much with the pressure mounting. He has selection problems beyond missing Tevez, and that could just tip the balance in Stoke’s favour at home.
Stoke to win: 2/1 at SkyBet
Draw: 12/5 at Totesport
Manchester City to win: 6/4 at BetFred

Asian Handicap Betting Advice. Another drawn match is favourite here, so there could well be extra time on the cards. There will be big questions over whether Man City have the fight to deal with a match like this, especially missing players, so leaning towards Stoke for that reason, makes for a good betting strategy. Even if it is a draw no bet for the 90 minutes.
Stoke +0.5 Asian Handicap: 5/6 at Paddy Power

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Tottenham v Bolton
The second of Wednesday night’s all Premier League showdowns in the FA Cup. This was a bit of a non-starter at the Reebok at the first attempt, but Harry Redknapp will be happy enough that his Spurs side are back at home. Lower teams often raise their games for the excitement of the first game in the FA Cup rounds, and like Palace, Bolton probably had their big chance to progress when they were leading in the first leg. Tottenham looked pretty slick in their 3-0 away win at Wigan on the weekend, a bit of a return to form after something of a mini slump. They are still clinging onto fourth spot in the league, and they do of course have a rich history in the FA Cup. Bolton are still wedged down in the relegation zone, and that could favour Tottenham as well, as Owen Coyle may decide to rest important players, putting preference on Premier League survival instead. They already have some selection problems through injury, so it could be a weakened side which turns out at White Hart Lane. The winner gets an away tie at Fulham, and more likely than not, that should be Spurs. The London club were delivered some bad news about England winger Aaron Lennon though, who went for a scan after recuperating from injury, only to be told he has another groin injury that needs attention.
Tottenham to win: 2/5 at 888Sport
Draw: 4/1 at Bet365
Bolton to win: 17/2 at SkyBet

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: On paper, everything leans towards Tottenham, and the weight of Premier League survival could actually hamper Bolton’s chances in this. The weekend display saw Spurs return to a bit of form, and therefore confidence, and will be a stronger side.
Bolton +1.25 Asian Handicap: 11/10 at Stan James

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West Brom v Reading

An all Championship clash, between high flying West Brom and lowly Reading, who have been the fairytale story of the FA Cup this season. Reading’s season has been all about survival in the Championship, but the highlights have come from knocking Liverpool out of the FA Cup at Anfield, and then following that up with a win over Premier League side Burnley. They had their noses in front against West Brom in the first match, but just couldn’t hold on against their strong division rivals. They should take heart from their previous FA Cup performances, that they are more than possible of going out and causing another upset. West Brom are battling for automatic promotion back to the Premier League. After briefly dislodging Newcastle from first place, they have failed to pick up a win in their last two games, have fallen six points back of the leaders. A little wobble, but they are still a good team in a strong looking Championship this season.
West Brom to win: 3/4 at Expekt
Draw: 11/4 at SkyBet
Reading t win: 4/1 at Bet365

Asian Handicap Betting Advice. This game will send a Championship side through to the last eight, and there is a sneaky feeling that Reading could upset the apple cart again. They will be buoyed up and going for it. Albion beat Reading 3-1 in league at the Hawthorns earlier in the season, but this is the FA Cup, and Reading seem to been blessed with the golden touch in it this season. Therefore, leaning towards them in the plus for betting strategies, could be the way to go.
Reading +0.5 Asian Handicap – 5/4 at Bet365

The draw for the Sixth Round of the FA Cup has thrown together two of the remaining favourites. Manchester City, if they can overcome Stoke in their Fifth Round Replay, will have to travel to Stamford Bridge in the Quarter Finals to take on favourites Chelsea. This will no doubt have extra spice in the media, as it could bring together John Terry and former team mate Wayne Bridge, who are at the centre of all the media circus. Only one of the four Quarter Final ties are actually known, as there are four replays waiting to come.

With Portsmouth’s late goal show against rivals Southampton seeing them into the Quarter Finals, which was a nice bit of relief from all of the terrible troubles they are in financially, they have earned themselves an all Premier League tie against Birmingham. Alex McLeish’s Birmingham battled to a 2-1 win over Derby to earn their Quarter Final place. Bolton and Tottenham will have to go at it again, after an entertaining game ended in 1-1 tie at the Reebok. The high flying Spurs had to come from behind to keep their FA Cup dream alive, and England striker Jermain Defoe duly shot his team to a replay. Spurs had a big chance to win it, with Tom Huddlestone having a penalty saved by Bolton keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

Crystal Palace were devastated when Aston Villa snuck a late equaliser, after wrongly being awarded a corner. Palace boss Neil Warnock, not known for his diplomacy was absolutely fuming at the linesman who awarded the erroneous corner Villa. The Premier League side were really on the ropes and looking to be about to make an exit in a fantastically high paced cup tie, but were handed a lifeline in the dying moments. The replay won’t be too bad a thing for Palace, as they have their financial worries after going into administration. If they can get past Villa, then a tie against a fellow Championship side will await them.

The all Championship tie between West Brom and giant-killers Reading ended in a two all draw, while Premier League side Fulham routed League Two side Notts County 4-0. But the big match of the Quarter Finals will be Chelsea v Manchester City if that happens. City, who were favourites to beat Stoke, will need to raise their game though. Despite starting brightly at home, they simply drifted out of the game, which again highlights the fact that boss Roberto Mancini still has a lot of work to do in order to make the side competitive on a regular basis. The draw for Stoke was fully deserved as Ricardo Fuller popped up to head the equaliser. The glamour tie against Chelsea awaits the winner of the replay.

FA CUP QUARTER FINAL DRAW
Chelsea v Manchester City/Stoke
Fulham v Bolton or Spurs
Reading or West Brom v Crystal Palace or Aston Villa
Portsmouth v Birmingham

FA Cup Outright Odds
Chelsea – 11/8 at Victor Chandler
Aston Villa – 6/1 at Ladbrokes
Tottenham – 13/1 at SkyBet
Man City – 10/1 at Blue Square
Birmingham – 12/1 at Blue Square
Fulham – 14/1 at Ladbrokes

Southampton vs. Portsmouth is one of the most intriguing matches of the FA Cup Fifth Round. This is a crucial derby match between two neighbours, with financial problems plaguing both sides recently. Southampton were saved  from going out of business by a last minute take over, whilst Portsmouth managed to get a stay of execution from a winding-up order. Portsmouth are bottom of the Premier League and in all sorts of problems both on and off the field. They are being taken to court by previous owners, Sol Campbell, and Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. They players have been paid late on four occasions, and they are about £60 million in debt. Now the FA Cup, in all its wonder has thrown them into battle against their rivals, who will look to claim a giant scalp. Southampton are hanging around mid table in League One, and recovering from their financial problems, but they could heap more misery upon the Portsmouth fans if Alan Pardew’s men can proceed to the last eight at the expense of Premier League side Portsmouth.

William Hill are offering a free £10 bet when you place a minimum £20 on the 90 minute market for Southampton v Portsmouth. The free £10 bet will be applied to any market on the FA Cup tie of Man City v Stoke. Irrespective of whether your bet on the Southampton v Portsmouth game wins or loses, you will still be eligible for the free £10 bet on Man City v Stoke.

William Hill Prices:
Southampton win: 7/4
Draw: 23/10
Portsmouth to win: 6/4

William Hill are also offer some great Bet Bundles, with Saturday Certs looking the pick of the action. You can get odds of 53/10 on Celtic, Chelsea, Leicester, Morecambe and Real Madrid all winning in this pre-made accumulator coupon. There is also a Championship bankers coupon, a Sunday favourites, Sunday’s FA Cup Favourites and a Sunday Evening Treble to chose from. These provide great ways t make quite accumulator bets, by backing firm favourites at good accumulated prices. By opening a new account with William Hill by following the Online-Betting.me.uk exclusive link, you can earn yourself a free £25 bet. This offer is open to all new accounts being opened, only if you take advantage by heading to William Hill from here and using the special code.

The Fifth Round of the FA Cup swings into action, with Chelsea v Cardiff starting things off at noon. The Premier League gets a break as the left in the last sixteen, go searching for domestic cup glory. Current holders Chelsea are still red hot favourites to win the trophy again this season, and as other major names have fallen by the wayside, the main challengers look to be Manchester City, Tottenham and Aston Villa. Here we take a look at the Fifth Round, categorised by levels of opposition which the Premier League has to face. This helps in making your betting choices, especially when looking for bankers to build an accumulator!

PREMIER LEAGUE v PREMIER LEAGUE

Chelsea v Cardiff
See preview and betting odds HERE

Man City v Stoke
Boss Roberto Mancini will be hoping to get a little more from his men than they have shown recently. Despite only slipping to a defeat by Hull recently, Man City haven’t quite looked at their best. They appear to be a team which has a lot more potential to offer, and the FA Cup should provide the perfect opportunity for them to express themselves. They ran out comfortable  2-0 winners over Bolton on Tuesday, which moves them up into fifth place in the league, level on points with fourth placed Liverpool. This is a big season for Manchester City, and many bookies have them as firm second favourites to lift the FA Cup behind Chelsea. City were on the verge of a Wembley appearance, but lost in the semi finals of the Carling Cup to rivals Manchester United recently. While City are chasing a Champions League spot, opponents Stoke are looking to solidify their position in the Premier League. They are sitting mid-table, but a long way back of the quality and points which City have provided this season. City comfortably beat Stoke 2-0 when they met on Boxing Day, but Stoke rallied to subsequently pick up a draw against Liverpool and also knocked Arsenal’s young guns out of the competition. Stoke boss Tony Pulis is insistent that the FA Cup won’t be his priority, but it gives them a good chance for confidence building. The style in which Stoke play has upset a lot of critics, and Arsene Wenger, which doesn’t appear too hard a thing to do. Where Wenger is one of the game’s purists, Stoke’s long ball up and at them approach is vastly different. City will need to be on their toes, but should have the class to play their way past Stoke.
Man City to win: 8/15 at Coral
Draw: 16/5 at Bet365
Stoke to win: 15/2 at SkyBet

Bolton v Tottenham
Bolton aren’t having a good time of things of late. It started well for boss Owen Coyle, but they have struggled for points over the past few games which has left them second from bottom. Just to add to their troubles, promising defender Gary Cahill has been pulled from the line-up after a blood clot was discovered in his arm. If they are going to get themselves safe, then they have a great deal of work to do, work which is found in a quality that seems to be evading the Bolton squad at the moment. On paper they look better than they have produced on the pitch. Any relief from their Premier League woes will need to come in a big FA Cup run, which has started in a relatively understated manner for them, having beaten both Lincoln and Sheffield United at home. Now they have a much more difficult task in taking on high flying Tottenham, who are looking for both FA Cup glory and a place in next season’s Champions League. When they met at the Reebok earlier in the season, Bolton held out for a 2-2, conceding an second equaliser, just four minutes after going 2-1 up. Harry Redknapp’s Spurs are in a much happier place though, as they are in a fight for fourth place in the league. They had to endure a replay against Leeds in the fourth round, but their quality shone through in the end, rounded off nicely with a hat trick from England striker Jermain Defoe. Even though they have been going well, Tottenham haven’t won in their previous three league games, and their most recent 1-0 defeat against Wolves will have cast serious doubts over their ability to take fourth spot, a race in which they appear to sliding backwards. But Redknapp’s men will rightly start as favourites against Bolton, and they should have the quality to reach the Quarter Finals.
Bolton to win: 11/4 at Coral
Draw: 12/5 at Bet365
Spurs to win: 6/5 at BetFred

PREMIER LEAGUE v CHAMPIONSHIP

Derby v Birmingham
Premier League side Birmingham are having something of a great season under Alex McLeish this season, as they sit just on the outskirts of the race for fourth spot. What is more remarkable about their success is that they are making it happen with very little firepower up front. They are one of the lowest scoring teams in the Premier League, with only 12 goals at home, and that suggests that they are build on a strong defence, which Derby could have a hard time breaking down. Derby are a middle table Championship side, although they are in some good form, having suffered only one defeat in their last 7 games. They put in a mightily impressive performance in beating Championship favourites Newcastle 3-0. Birmingham have pretty much a full squad to pick from, and while away games are always tricky in the FA Cup, they should have enough to squeeze past Derby. If not, it will probably go back for a replay, as Birmingham have lost their last two matches away.
Derby to win: 9/4 at Stan James
Draw: 12/5 at SkyBet
Birmingham to win: 7/5 at Coral

Crystal Palace v Aston Villa
Palace had a great result over Premier League side Wolves in the fourth round replay, running out 3-1 winners at home, and that will give them great heart against the high flying Villa. Despite sitting just above the relegation zone in the Championship, the victory over Wolves became their big triumph of their season, and need another big heroic effort to overturn Villa. The Palace defence though is looking a bit think, as boss Neil Warnock struggles against injuries at the back. Fortunately for Palace, Villa probably won’t be at full strength up front, as Gabriel Agbonlahor and Emile Heskey are unlikely to take part. In fact, Villa boss Martin O’Neill may send out some of the reserve troops, which has done already in the competition this season. Villa are in the Carling Cup final and pushing hard in the race for fourth place in the Premier League. Even if not at full strength, should be strong enough to overcome a weakened Palace side. Not by a big margin, but just enough.
Crystal Palace to win: 4/1 at SkyBet
Draw: 13/5 at Boylesports
Aston Villa to win: 5/6 at William Hill

CHAMPIONSHIP v CHAMPIONSHIP

Reading v West Brom
One of the success stories of the FA Cup this year, has been Championship strugglers Reading. Hovering precariously above the relegation zone, they pulled of a victory over Premier League side Liverpool in a Third Round replay at Anfield, before backing it up with a 1-0 home win over Premier League side Burnley in the Fourth Round. Clearly they are enjoying their football more in the FA Cup, where the pressure is off. Playing in a game you are not expected to win, can often instil more confidence in a lesser team, because the weight of expectation is not there. Playing in a relegation battle in the league week in and week out, certainly is a different kettle of fish. Their Fifth Round opposition comes from the Championship, but equally as tough of a task for Reading, as West Brom are sitting top of the table. There have been signs of a Reading revival though, as they have won their last three matches. West Brom recently claimed top spot in the division from Newcastle. At least there will definitely be a Championship side left in the competition after this fixture, and Roberto Di Matteo’s West Brom will be favourites, as they are on a strong run of form, with four consecutive wins of their own. They also rubbed salt into Newcastle’s wounds by knocking them out of the FA Cup in the Fourth Round. Strong favourites, and West Brom ran out 3-1 winners in the league when they met at the Hawthorns in October.
Reading to win: 19/10 at Totesport
Draw: 12/5 at Paddy Power
West Brom to win: 8/5 at Ladbrokes

PREMIER LEAGUE v LEAGUE ONE

Southampton v Portsmouth
The big derby match of the FA Cup Fifth Round. Southampton are sitting mid table in League One, relatively safe from relegation, but highly unlikely to reach the play offs. There’s nothing too wrong with their form at the moment, exactly what you would come to expect from a mid table team, but they have the chance to take a major scalp in the form of their rivals Portsmouth. Not that Portsmouth are having a great season or anything, as they are in all sorts of trouble at the foot of the Premier League, both on the pitch and behind the scenes financially. They are the highest level of opposition which Southampton have faced in the FA Cup this season, and Pompey themselves have found a little relief from their stresses and woes in the competition. Thankfully Portsmouth avoided going out of business on Wednesday, as they avoided a winding-up order, but are still not out of the woods with their debts. Southampton were in a similar position last year, but were saved by a last minute takeover, and even though they lost ten points because of going into administration, they are comfortable in the league. They already have a Wembley final in their sights, as they beat the MK Dons to reach the final of the Jonstone’s Paint Trophy. Ex Chelsea boss Avram Grant was sent off during his side’s 1-1 draw against Sunderland, after getting a bit too animated about Portsmouth not being awarded a penalty. A derby match which comes at a bitter time for Portsmouth, will they want their last action to be a defeat to their oldest rivals? Portsmouth are getting hammered from everywhere financially, with every man and his dog apparently taking them to court. Hopefully for Pompey fans, a hammering won’t come on the pitch on Saturday.
Southampton win: 15/8 at Coral
Draw: 23/10 at Ladbrokes
Portsmouth to win: 13/8 at BetFred

Fulham v Notts County
Notts County are another team who have a date in court thanks to Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. The fans were promised Championship football in a five year plan when new owners came in six months ago, and ex- England boss Sven Goran Eriksson was installed as director of football. They are lowest team left in the FA Cup this season, which is to their credit and they are pushing for promotion to League One. They travelled to Wigan and beat the Premier League side 2-0 in the Fourth Round, giving signs that there truly are brighter things ahead, even though all of the new spearheads at the club have gone, including Eriksson. In a gesture of good faith, Eriksson wrote off the couple of million that was owed to him by the club, to try and help their survival. Another victory in the FA Cup over Premier League opposition, would certainly put more money in the coffers. For Fulham, this will be seen as a fantastic chance to make the last eight of the competition. Fulham appear to be one of those mid table, no nonsense teams, who are capable of beating higher opposition on their day, but don’t always live up to potential against lower opposition. Still, they are unbeaten in their last three games, and Roy Hodgson bolstered his squad at the trade deadline. Should be pressed into a competitive game, but should easily have the edge at the same time.
Fulham to win: 1/2 at Bet365
Draw: 11/4 at Bwin
Notts County to win: 7/1 at BetFred

It’s the big glamour tie for Cardiff in the FA Cup, and it is their reward for a home win against Leicester in the previous round. Cardiff need the big pay day, and while a win against the Premier League leaders would be a massive victory, so would taking the match to a replay. The Welsh side have been trying to keep her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs wolves from their door, successfully having another winding-up order delayed. They are having to borrow advance money from tickets sales, as well as sell some of the land they owned, and this is all from a club which is seriously in the play-off hunt for promotion to the Premier League. The visit to Stamford Bridge is their big day out, and it will help them stave off money worries for a little bit.

But they are not going to go to their illustrious rich counterparts just for the money. The Championship side firmly believe that they can cause an upset. They are certainly carrying the form to do jus that, as they have won five out of their last outings. The loss in that run of games came by then Championship leaders Newcastle, who tore the Cardiff side apart. Unfortunately for Cardiff, they can’t take a fully fit squad to Stamford Bridge, as they announced that midfielder Stephen McPhail won’t take part in the game. With main threat up front Jay Bothroyd touch and go whether he will be able to play, boss Dave Jones will be unlikely to be able to put out a full bench of substitutes, such is the injury crises he is having to deal with.

No such problems for Chelsea, although they have just lost Ashley Cole for three months, as under fire Captain John Terry is in Dubai taking a break away from the game to sort out his personal life. Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti still refuses to take the competition light heartened, as name a strong team, with Hilario taking over in goal from Petr Cech. Cardiff will have to deal with Didier Drogba and Daniel Sturridge up front, as Nicolas Anelka gets a well earned rest. The major changes comes in defence, where Paolo Ferreira and Alex come in as replacements for England duo Terry and Cole. The Blues are steadfast in their ambitions to hold on to the title which they won against Everton in last year’s final.

It was against Everton during midweek that Chelsea’s unbeaten 2010 came to an end in 2-1 defeat, with both Toffees goals coming from Louis Saha, who did his old club Manchester United a huge favour. Cardiff are on a pretty good run of form away from home, and will be hoping that they can repeat their success of 2008 when they reached the FA Cup final. For now, they will have to overcome the strongest opposition left in the competition this year, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United all having taken their exit.

BETTING STATS

Last 5 Match Goals
Chelsea: 9 For, 4 Against
Cardiff: 15 For, 8 Against

Last 10 Form
Chelsea: W6, D3, L1
Cardiff: W4, D4, L2

Win Percentage:
Chelsea have an 89.5 win percentage at home
Cardiff have a 41.2 win percentage away from home

Match Prices
Chelsea to win: 2/11 at Boylesports
Draw: 13/2 at Paddy Power
Cardiff to win: 16/1 at SkyBet

Asian Handicap Betting Advice: On their day, Chelsea should be a good two goals better than Cardiff, but Cardiff are going well at the moment, despite all of their financial woes. They can put up a fight, but could be missing two of their most creative and influential players. Chelsea are sending a strong line up into competition as they look to hold on to their FA Cup title. At home, it is hard to bet against Chelsea playing lower opposition.
Cardiff +2 Asian Handicap: 9/8 at Bet365