Lower league club. Stamford Bridge. Knock-out competition.
Anyone else nervous?
Treading water in England's third tier, Southend United travel to London to face Chelsea today in the third round of the FA Cup. The Shrimpers (how appropriate) are sitting 13th in the third division, and haven't won away in eight matches -- they've failed to score in three of four.
So that's a win for Southend, right?
Chelsea, coming off a disappointing 1-1 draw at Fulham on Boxing Day, will be eager to bounce back with a superlative display against a side the likes of which they should demolish. But, since we have yet to come through in a situation like this yet this season, we shall see.
How Your Favorite Drogba reacts after his public comments this week -- and the following 100K fine -- most certainly is must-see TV. Will he even play? Michael Mancienne has been recalled from Wolverhampton after Alex picked up a knock, so it'll be interesting to see if he sees any action with Ricky Carvalho still not fully fit. Also, what's up with my favorite Blue: Salomon Kalouuuu? Is he alive? I hope not.
Here's the squad for the match: Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Ivanovic, Mancienne, A Cole, J Cole, Obi, Lampard, Kalou, Sawyer, Bruma, Anelka, Drogba, Stoch, Carvalho, Di Santo, Deco, Mineiro, Belletti.
Anyway, since I have no way of viewing the match, I need you guys to keep me posted on what goes down. And, of course, let me know your thoughts before, during and after the disappointment triumph. Word.