The Sword of Damocles

On the March 27, 2008 The Sword of Damocles decapitated BAA and BA at the much vaunted opening of Terminal five at Heathrow.

Is it possible, The FA will be subject to a similar fate at Wembley Stadium on May 17, 2008?

Within a space of five weeks and a radius of 15 miles, it is possible another fiasco may strike London.

A Cassandra reading the signs would say it is possible.

The FA Cup Final brings together two clubs of meager standing and with a compliment of players of the same stature.

Portsmouth won the cup in 1939 and because of the war, retained the trophy until 1946. Formed in 1889, their present home is Fratton Park, purchased for £4,950.00 and now classed as an ancient monument in football circles.

Goalkeeper, David James, is by far "Pompey's" star performer but has been known to drop "the odd clanger" throughout his chequered career, hence his nickname "Calamity.”

With the exception of Sol Campbell, the rest of the team is good "journeymen." Portsmouth finished eighth in The Premier League this season.

Cardiff City finished 12th in The Championship.  Never at any time being serious contenders for promotion and like their opponents have a home ground (Ninian Park), which has long passed it's sell by date.

Two of their best known performers are Jimmy Hasselbank and Robbie Fowler, both with years of experience but now rather "long in the tooth.”

No doubt Wembley Stadium will pack solid with fans of both clubs, plus the usual contingent of officials, VIPs and neutrals, some paying extortionate sums for the privilege, and many millions watching on TV throughout the world.

The question is: Will they all get value for money and will the game itself exceed all expectations?

Will "The Pompey Chimes" ring in victory or will “Valleys'" sing in triumph?

For the sake of football, let's hope Cassandra has got it wrong.