THE 'PRIZE' of a trip to Watford awaits the winners of the Hartlepool and Yeovil F.A. Cup 2nd tie on Tuesday night, and the hosts should be backed to be making the trip south on third round day. Hartlepool's previous home tie in the competition didn't inspire much confidence as they drew 0-0 against Vauxhall Motors, but their form has improved considerably in recent weeks. Leaders of League One, Brighton, were beaten 3-1 at Victoria Park, while 1-0 victories have also been earned away from home at Tranmere and Bournemouth. The victory against Bournemouth at Dean Court on Saturday was especially impressive, given that the hosts held the best home record in the division. Hartlepool's only recent defeat, 3-2 away at Colchester, was also courtesy of stoppage time winner from the hosts. Reduced ticket prices and the fact that the 'pool have had their last three home matches postponed may also give home fans and players a slightly higher sense of anticipation about being back on their own patch, something indicated by manager Mick Wadsworth.
Yeovil, on the hand, will have very little anticipation as they make the epic journey to the north east on a cold Tuesday night. The Glovers did earn a decent point at Colchester on Saturday via a 0-0 draw, but their sole win in their last 8 games was a controverisal first round success away at conference side Rushden and Diamonds. In an even game, Yeovil advanced via a late goal that had more than a hint of offside about it. While late goals did cost Yeovil possible draws at MK Dons and Charlton, a home defeat to Dagenham hardly inspired confidence and their place at the bottom of League One may focus minds on survival rather than on the faint hope of cup success.
At 20/23 the price on the hosts to win outright in the 90 minutes is just large enough to be backed as Hartlepool should be more than capable of getting the job done on the night.
SELECTION -
Hartlepool WIN 20/23 (Totesport)
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