Albion's crunch clash with Cardiff tomorrow is expected to go ahead. Boss Micky Adams went to Withdean this morning to look at the pitch.

"There is no surface water and I cannot foresee any problems unless there is rain overnight," he said.

Light rain is forecast tomorrow and match referee Paul Armstrong, from Berkshire, may make a precautionary inspection in the morning.

Providing the game does take place, Albion can expect a giant challenge from their promotion rivals.

Adams has pinpointed centre halves Andy Crosby and Matthew Wicks as the "key factors" in the Withdean sell-out.

Cardiff sweeper Andy Legg possesses one of the longest throws in English football and several of his team-mates are well over six foot.

"Legg's long throw is a weapon that will come in from all areas of the pitch," Adams warned. My players are going to have to stand up and be counted defensively for that sort of aerial bombardment."

Danny Cullip is ruled out by the third of a three match ban, but Adams is confident Crosby and Wicks can cope in his absence.

"They had decent practice last week against John Gayle at Torquay and they stood up to it. One got a bloody nose and the other a cut eye. I think they will be the key factor, although it's also important what we do when we have got the ball."

Richard Carpenter (ankle) and Paul Brooker (back) are both fit for selection, but Nathan Jones is also sidelined by suspension.

Cardiff have already spent millions in their quest for an instant return to Division Two and Adams believes that puts pressure on the team steered by his former No.2 and friend Alan Cork.

"They are the fat cats of the League," Adams said. "I am sure there is a lot of unrest in their camp because if players at any time don't perform Cardiff can go and replace them."