Carling Cup / Dan Fitch / 24 August 2009 /

The Carling Cup has thrown up an intriguing London derby, as West Ham play Millwall. Dan 'The Betting Man' Fitch thinks that Kenny Jackett's side will make it tough for their Premier League hosts.

Having lost to their bitter rivals Tottenham on Sunday, West Ham have the perfect opportunity to reclaim some local bragging rights, when they play Millwall on Tuesday night in the Carling Cup.

Though the two clubs have rarely played in the same division, West Ham v Millwall remains a bitter rivalry, based on animosity between rival shipyards located either side of the Thames, which eventually gave way to terrace violence.

In such games, the atmosphere in the stands normally translates to the action on the pitch, so expect a scrappy game, that will dilute West Ham's advantage of fielding the more accomplished set of players.

That's not to say that Millwall are without talent. They were narrowly defeated in last season's League 1 play off final and are unbeaten this season, winning twice and drawing three times, whilst conceding just one goal from their five games.

Much depends on how seriously West Ham take the game, but you'd expect them to field a strong side, especially considering that this competition represents their best chance of European qualification for next season. The Hammers are [34.0] to win the cup.

West Ham were very unlucky on Sunday to not get a draw against Tottenham and they will be looking to bounce back against Millwall, though they may be somewhat drained by the loss. Millwall are well rested having drawn 0-0 with Southend on Friday.

I think it will be a tight and low scoring game. Millwall don't have a lot of goal power, so they will look to shut up shop. West Ham can be backed at [1.44], with the draw [5.3] and Millwall [7.6].

I fancy under 2.5 goals at [1.9], 1-0 West Ham at [7.0] and a lay of West Ham to be winning by half time, which will be around [1.95].

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