FA Cup set to be graced by two great keepers

Although much of the focus in the run up to the FA Cup final will no doubt be on the men who are expected to score the goals, those between the sticks will have an even more important roll to play as they look to keep a clean sheet.

In the case of Manchester City they will, all things being well, have one of the most well-respected goalkeepers in the Premier League trying to keep the Stoke strikers out. Joe Hart has enjoyed a fantastic season, both for his club and England, for whom he had made the number one shirt his own.

That said, his season has been far from perfect and he was criticised by Roberto Mancini earlier in the year when he seemed to be going through a poor spell of form. But, to his credit, Hart responded well to the comments and has arguably been even better after them. Anyone looking to bet on FA Cup should remember this.

His opposite number hasn’t had such a good season though. Although Thomas Sorensen is one of the most respected Premier League keepers around, he hasn’t been able to cement his place in the side this season.

Instead, Amir Begovic has taken the gloves in the league and acquitted himself well. Sorensen will no doubt be disappointed by this, but manager Tony Pulis has handed him first team duties during the FA Cup, meaning the Dane has every chance of ending the season with his hands on a trophy, something he certainly won’t be complaining about.

Although it might be tempting to suggest that Hart’s match practice this season will mean he’s less likely to drop a clanger during the final, Sorensen’s experience will more than make up for that. Those looking for FA Cup best bets should bear this in mind.

As it stands, fans of great goalkeeping are in for a real treat at Wembley.