Liverpool vs Crystal Palace Analysis

Liverpool take on Crystal Palace in the third round of the Carling Cup on Tuesday evening. Most bookies have installed the Reds as odds-on favourites to make it through to the next round.The European champions have struggled badly for goals this season, have no away win in the league in the past six months, and of course lost at Selhurst Park in the Premiership last season. Palace also came very close to a point at Anfield. Rafa Benitez is expected to give the reserve team captain David Raven a first team run-out at right back where he was used in a couple of the Carling Cup games a year ago. There may also be a couple of other fringe players, but Rafa Benitez is expected to use more of his senior squad, including a possible recall for Steven Gerrard.The Reds cannot afford to be so wasteful infront of the goal at Selhurst Park, as Palace have the quality to take full advantage. Clinton Morrison has already six times since resigning for £2million at the club he supports. It was in fact in this competition that the Republic of Ireland striker scored what proved the winning Palace goal against Liverpool in the first leg of the 2000/2001 semi-final. The Merseysiders did go onto win the second leg in convincing fashion.While it won't be easy for the visitors on Tuesday night, it is difficult to recommend backing the Championship outfit knowing Benitez intends to field a fairly strong side. Of course the Reds haven't done so well on their domestic travels, but Palace aren't of the same quality as they were during their short period in the top-flight. There is also the argument that at some point the "best team" in Europe will reach a level of performance they so often find against the continential sides. With this in mind, Centrebet do look to be taking a chance by offering even money. Away from the pressures of the league, expect a committed Liverpool to finally come good in this country away from Anfield. In addition try a small saver on Clinton Morrison to score at anytime. The 5/2 with Hills is too tempting for a proven Premiership and International goalscorer who will be desperate to show he can still mix it with the best.