Portsmouth v Sunderland

Sunderland drew first blood when the sides met up at the Stadium of Light last week, but it's just a one goal margin they lead by, which makes them vulnerable. We should also remember that there are no away goals in the play-offs, so the fact that they didn't score makes little difference.

The Back Cats lost just once at home in the league this season, carding a +21 goal difference at their own place, but away from home they were less dominant, producing 10 wins, nine draws and four defeats during the regular season, and a +12 goal difference.

The tie is very much in the balance therefore, and Portsmouth look set to go off around 11/10 if the market moves so far continue.

We've got our old friend Peter Bankes in charge today, a man who absolutely loves to show a card or two. He's waved 161 yellows, and four reds in 39 games in charge this season. Put him together with the tenacious Lee Cattermole (14 yellows in 34 appearances) and we have a recipe for trouble. With a man of Bankes temperament in the middle, and a game of this importance, I'd perhaps pitch Cattermole around 5/4-6/4 to be booked. Bet Victor offer Cattermole at 9/5 to be careded, and I'd be surprised to see that price last until kick-off.

2pts Lee Cattermole to be carded at 9/5 (Bet Victor)

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