Football: Barnsley's North-eastern promise

BARNSLEY have the lure of a trip to St James' Park if they can beat Manchester United back at Oakwell on Wednesday week, the 1-1 draw they managed at Old Trafford yesterday earning them a possible quarter- final tie against Newcastle. Despite having to replay, the champions remain favourites to win the Cup, though William Hill have lengthened their odds from 2-1 to 11-4.

After Arsenal's goalless draw with Crystal Palace yesterday, their manager, Arsene Wenger, did not feel the home draw against West Ham or Blackburn would be much of an advantage. "We didn't beat Port Vale here and we didn't beat Crystal Palace here so in the FA Cup we don't do well at home," the Frenchman said.