DEC 2: ENGLISH FOOTBALL

Crystal Palace v Derby, Friday, 7.45, live on Sky Sports 1

Fleetwood v Yeovil, Friday, 7.30, live on ESPN

THEY say clubs are tied to TV schedules and that's never been truer this week for Crystal Palace.

Dougie Freedman's side banked a fortune from beating Man United in the Carling Cup on Wednesday but the price they have to pay is a another TV showdown just 48 hours later.

So after 120 gruelling but ultimately successful 120 minutes the cup heroes entertain Derby in the Championship.

Just one question has to be asked: Can Palace last the pace?

If you think they can the home win at a biggest 5-4 with William Hill and Coral makes sense against a side who have lost five in a row.

But if you believe Palace's stars will be jaded or partied out after an epic win then consider Derby at a best 5-2 with Chandler.

I'm sure Freedman wil freshen up his side with some changes and told his players to celebrate once this fixture is out of the way. To be honest struggling Derby are maybe the best side they could be playing and I reckon the Old Trafford glory night will kickstart Palace's season.

They had gone five league games without scoring before netting twice in the Theatre of Dreams and that must boost their confidence.

I'm risking Palace but it could be by one goal. Under 2.5 goals at 3-4 with Chandler also has a chance.

Darren Ambrose came on as a sub and netted a wonder opener in Manchester. If he starts he's worth a look at 10-1 with Betfred and Skybet for first goal and is 7-2 at Skybet to net at any time.

In the FA Cup, Fleetwood are aiming for their second League One scalp of the season and could well get it. The Blue Square Premier title chasers were well backed on this site to beat Wycombe and I reckon they can take care of Yeovil although it won't be easy.

Bookies have unashamedly made Fleetwood favourites so don't know if this can be classed a shock even if 27 places separate the sides. The non-leaguers are a best 13-10 with the likes of William Hill and Coral.

Yeovil will take umbrage to being as big as 23-10 with Chandler having won their last two away games at Hartlepool and Hereford. If they match Fleetwood's spirit they could force to make their opponents make the marathon trip south for a replay but I'm willing to stick my neckout and back Fleetwood.

Recommendations

Crystal Palace

(5-4, William Hill, Coral)

Under 2.5 goals

(3-4, Chandler)

Fleetwood

(13-10, William Hill, Coral)

🔗 Share on Social Media