James expecting tough test against Baggies in FA Cup semi
James is expecting a tough game against West Brom
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Friday, 04, Apr 2008 09:31
Portsmouth goalkeeper David James says West Brom should not be underestimated when the two sides face off in the FA Cup semi-final.
Pompey are the sole remaining Premier League side in the competition and are therefore seen by many as favourites to lift the trophy.
But James has warned that the Championship side have shown their talent already this season, with their league form suggesting they could return to the top flight next season.
The England stopper added that the cauldron of an FA Cup semi-final also provides exceptional circumstances which close the perceived gap between the two teams.
James explained: "It obviously won't be an easy game and we know that. It's a semi-final, and for anybody that can be an uplifting occasion or a nervous occasion, because there are so many different parameters involved."
Having beaten Championship teams Ipswich Town, Plymouth Argyle and Preston in previous rounds of this year's competition James hopes Portsmouth's experience of playing lower league opposition will help them reach the final.
"For the lower league teams to play Premiership sides is something that we can't take for granted and given the three games we've had against Championship sides, we know it will be difficult," James added.
"The lads are well versed in what to expect and West Brom are one of the best teams from their division, so we will have to be more than ready for the test."
Portsmouth last reached the FA Cup final in 1939 when they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-1.