Ok thanks, and sorry about the double posting.
i am installing a XFX 6970, so that just takes up two slots. So i should be able to fit in something else if i have two in cross fire down the line.
Just trying to weigh up the pros and cons between the two mobo's i mentioned, and if its the choice between 2 eSata ports or an extra PCIe slot, i think for me, the PCIe slot might be more handy.