trousers

I agree with that train of thought FF. If the "decline" in the tournament continues there will become a time where the atmosphere and intensity of the game isn't very far removed from a sterile reserve game. I don't think we're at that point yet (a c.11k attendance last night is testament to that) but when we get to that point in 'x' number of years, yes, it could well end up as "pointless" (from a competitive point of view) as reserve games at which point it will be time to agree with where you're coming from. As things stand, I still think there is value (albeit diminishing) in fielding a fringe side in this tournament.

Adkins wasn't happy about being knocked out last night. He expected to win and was disappointed that we didn't. It looked like genuine disappointment on the post match interview on Saints Player.

Nail upon head (IMHO of course)

I partially disagree. Despite how most clubs treat the tournament, the League Cup is a step up from a reserve game. These guys need to experience the atmosphere at these type of game and not just the sterile atmosphere of a reserve game. Ok, yes, you'll never get the same high octane atmosphere at a League Cup game compared to a high profile league game but it's a step up none-the-less.

Great first post. I fear that you're on the wrong forum though with such level headed thought patterns....! ;-)

To give fringe players and/or younsters a run out?

Yes, I know there's a difference between Chamberlain's current level and that of Wrad-Prowse. But you would still have to choose someone to leave out if Chamberlain was still here. I know Ward-Prowse is probably not quite up to the skill levels of those that curently occupy the 1st team midfield berths but either he's good enough to compete for a place or he isn't.

^ and this

^ This

Agree that it's somewhat of a dilema.....but....If we're gonna give youngsters a chance in League Cup games then there ought to be a reward at the end of it otheriwse why bother? Either Ward-Prowse is good enough to compete for a first team place or he's not, regardless of who's in the queue before him. To flip the question on it's head.....who would we be leaving out of the match-day squad if Chamberlain had stayed in the summer....? It's all relative....

Would like to see Ward-Prowse get a chance on the bench. Sounds like he may have earned it after tonight?

Sounds like a worthwhile evening just for that point alone. Yes, a fair few negatives (it would seem) but we could look back on this tie as the day that Ward-Prowse seized his opportunity and pushed on into the first team squad. Every cloud....

Half time 0-0 Happy with that

Palace corner

1 min added time

Palace go close. Offside.

Ward-Prowse not looking out of place according to DM

Half hour gone. Pretty even so far.

"Ben Reeves used to be a left back and Nigel has converted him into a striker" As you do...