Cardiff City v. Leyton Orient - League Cup Preview

Cardiff City v. Leyton Orient
Carling League Cup First Round

The Bluebirds kick-off their Carling League Cup campaign tomorrow, as they entertain Leyton Orient at Ninian Park.

A crowd of about 9,000 is expected for the tie, in the first home game at Ninian Park since the memorable 1-0 Playoff victory over Bristol City back in May.

The tie must be decided on the night, and extra-time and penalties will take place if required.

Lennie Lawrence is expected to make several changes from the side that drew 0-0 at Rotherham on Saturday, with the possibility of youngster Stuart Fleetwood starting in attack for City.

Layton Maxwell and James Collins are also in with a good chance of starting the match, with both desperate to stake a claim for a first-team place.

Martyn Margetson may also get another chance to prove himself between the sticks, and Gareth Whalley could make his much anticipated return from injury as he looks to gain his fitness for Saturday's league clash against his former club, Bradford City.

Bluebird supporters will recognise one familiar face tonight, as former defender Matthew Brazier returns to Ninian Park. The 27-year-old, who cost City £100,000 from Fulham in July 1999, was released by the Bluebirds two seasons ago.

City's campaign in the League Cup ended at the second round stage last season, following a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Premiership outfit Tottenham Hotspur.

The Bluebirds advanced to the Spurs game courtesy of a 5-1 hammering of Boston United, with Robert Earnshaw firing home a first-half hat-trick.

Orient's 3-1 defeat at the hands of newly promoted Doncaster Rovers on Saturday has struck a massive dent in the confidence of Paul Brush's men, with fans expecting another season of mid-table mediocrity at best.

With many Premier League clubs fielding slightly weaker sides in this competition, it is very possible for a First Division side to go far in the League Cup, and the City supporters will be desperate for their side to get over this potentially tricky hurdle tonight.

The last meeting between the two sides was a Third Division fixture, back in March 2001. Robert Earnshaw's last gasp equaliser earned City a point.

Brazier left City in early 2002, along with Kevin Nugent, with both players then signing for the O's.

Brazier was a little unlucky to be released, with big money signings never giving him the chance to prove himself that season.

He is a very versatile player, who can play at either left-back or left-wing. His runs forward are likely to cause City problems, with his accurate passing another factor of his game.

Stuart Fleetwood to be amongst the goals for the home side.

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