Great expectations

Paul, aka Kings Hill Addick summarises my hopes, fears and excitement about tonight's Orient derby very well here. Expectations about the game have built quickly and we have a long history of disappointing our fans whenever they congregate in relatively large numbers with high expectations.

Only in the promotion seasons of 80-81, 84-85, 99-00 and to a lesser extent 97-98 have we really managed these situations well. This evening will be another test after coming through against Hartlepool. I fancy our chances although we should remember that this is a derby game and that they are usually closer affairs than form might suggest. I said before the Hartlepool game that we needed a draw and a win from the next two in order to build a head of steam for Walsall. Having got the win on Saturday, I will settle for a draw this evening. One apiece may be favourite, especially after the O's unexpected home defeat against Oldham but I can't help feeling that our players are in the mood and Jonjo Shelvey owes us something after two stuttering performances. Nicky Bailey has rolled his sleeves up already and Therry Racon and Jose Semedo look to be playing together with a new found confidence. I will go for us to get an extra goal and win 2-1, especially if Phil Parkinson can named an unchanged side.