Tuesday night games were always a favourite in our household. Early tea, flask filled with coffee, woolies on and head to Bloomfield Road under the floodlights. It's fair to day that the magic of that, even when we used to be in the old Division Four, has waned in recent times and now there is more a nervous dread than any anticipation for those who still brave the evening games. At least these days they're a 7.45 kick off which means the pain doesn't go on until too late.

That said, two wins on the bounce at home makes up for our appalling record and having conceded 11 on the road in recent times, as well as the half dozen at home to Brighton. it's a reminder of how we're struggling at both ends of the ground home and away. Two 1-0 home wins against Birmingham and Millwall hardly set Bloomfield Road alight and if the truth be known, most fans are still looking for that performance which will give some belief in the home crowd. The gap to safety remains a challenge that looks out of reach but Clark can only chip away at that and a third win on the bounce would certainly achieve that.

Gary Madine has joined on loan until the end of the season as a replacement for Ishmael Miller - based on his performances this season you could have brought in a clothes prop for all the good Miller did. That could lead to two up front for Clark as Steven Davies has overcome a groin problem and will be included in the squad.
Joe Lewis may also return to the squad following illness. Middlesbrough defender Daniel Ayala is set to return after missing the victories over Brentford and Charlton through suspension. Full-back Ryan Fredericks has an ankle problem and will be assessed, otherwise, manager Aitor Karanka has no new injury or suspension worries.

Three in a row for the Seasiders? Achieve that and after 30 games there may be a slim hope of survival in the final third of the season.

Photo: Action Images

famousgrouse added 15:48 - Feb 10 If Nadine gets a start tonight I hope he doesn't score the first goal because we can't opt for him on the prediction league!
0

Southampton Polls