It sure feels like it.  The definition of `fateful` according to the Cambridge Dictionary is "having a very important and often negative effect on the future."  So why the negativity?  Well, today is FA Cup semi-final day for us Saints fans.  We now know that Chelsea are through to the final as a result of their 1-0 win over Manchester City yesterday and today at Wembley the Saints take on Leicester City is the second semi-final.

And anything can happen, of course.  But the default condition of us Saints fans is one of nervousness, uncertainty and an anticipation of disappointment and so we face today with all those emotions, hoping for the best, expecting the worst.  Not helped by the fact that it was Leicester City who inflicted a 9-0 defeat on Southampton at St. Mary`s last season, although to be fair the Saints won 2-0 in the reverse league fixture at the King Power, so maybe there is a glimmer of hope in that.  At around 8.00 this evening, we will know the answer.  At least I won`t be able to watch it even from behind the sofa, as the game is televised by BT - which I don`t have and which might be a blessing in disguise.

In other news, it was good to see Forest Green Rovers manage a 3-2 home win against Scunthorpe to keep their play-off hopes alive.  Following the sacking of manager Mark Cooper last week, Rovers are now under the interim coaching of Jimmy Ball, son of World Cup winner and ex-Saints player and manager Alan Ball - maybe this connection, however tenuous, might be an encouraging omen.

Gillingham went down 3-2 away at high(ish) flying Oxford United, so the Gills have the proverbial mountain to climb if they are to reach the play-offs this season.  I fear the mountain might be a shade too high.   As for Brechin City, yet another defeat (why do I always follow teams who have a preponderance for failure?) this time a 3-0 loss away at Annan Athletic.  Brechin have now amassed just five points from 17 games this season and with their goal difference of minus 31 they are now assured of a place in the play-off with whoever wins the game between the respective champions of the Highland and Lowland Leagues to determine City`s future.

So, a fateful day for Southampton. We`ve had semi-finals before and come through them so here`s hoping.  However, if you don`t hear from me for some time, you will know why.