Aston Villa - Crystal Palace    (lost)

Aston Villa will host Crystal Palace in another intriguing FA Cup clash today.The first match played at Selhurst Park ended 2:2 with a late equaliser of the Premiership side.
I think Villa is again close to repeat the mistake that ruined the last 2 seasons.Now the Birmingham side is still in the fight for the 4th position and participates in both domestic cups.Actually on Sunday the team will play against Manchester United in the Carling Cup final.
I think the upcomming final is the key factor for the final result of the match today.I think the main task in front of O'Neil is to lift a trophy this season.And Carling is much closer than FA.So I think the game today may be underestimated on purpose in order the key Villa players to be rested and ready to oppose United.We have seen the Irish manager doing this several times - 'sacrificing' a game for the next one.
The team is still unbeaten in the new year.Last weekend Villa won 5:2 over Burnley at home.
For the match today Petrov is major doubt and even if he is ready to play I doubt his health will be risked.Agbonlahor and Collins are doubtful too.
Crystal Palace on the other hand is in huge troubles.The team is still under the shadow of administration.The point deduction sent Palace near relegation zone.
But surprisingly, in these hard times, the players are still doing well.Yes the team is without win in the last 4 games.But among these was the draw with Villa.In that game the performance of Palace was inspired.So I think the manager and players are additionally motivated for the FA Cup games.I should remind you what happened with another EPL side - Wolves - thrown out of the competition by Villa.
For the match today Scannel and McCarthy are out of the squad, while Danns is doubtful.John, Hills and Cadogan are cup tied.So this leaves the visitors with pretty narrow squad.
I think this FA Cup match will stay in the background of the Carling final.Yes, Warnock players are motivated, in spite of all troubles and if Villa give them a chance I think they will grab it.
I bet on Away +0.5 AH.