CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFF FINAL
With so much at stake, this has all the makings of a cracking game and one that is likely to be filled with high drama. Swansea and Reading will do battle as they look to earn a place in the Premier League in a match worth approximately £90 million to the winners.
Many neutral fans appear to be backing Reading and seem to be against having a Welsh team in the Premier League. But I do not mind either way and believe whoever plays the best football on the day deserves promotion. Swansea have never been in the Premier League so it would be a breath of fresh air if they do come up, but, Reading have had a terrific second half of the season and would be a good addition to the top flight.
Swansea will be in confident mood having already beaten Reading twice this season – both games ended 1-0 in favour of the Welsh side. The two clean sheets are proof of how strong their defence has been this season as the Swans conceded just 42 goals during the regular season.
Brendan Rodgers has done a magnificent job since taking over at the Liberty Stadium last summer, leading the club to a third-place finish in the Championship. Rodgers lasted just over six months as manager of Reading, but has proved his credentials with a magnificent first season with Swansea. The signing of Scott Sinclair, who scored in the win at Madejski Stadium, was an excellent piece of business by Rodgers. The forward has been one of the stand-out performers in the Championship, and will certainly be one to watch in the final.
But, while everything is looking good for Swansea, Reading certainly cannot be underestimated. The Royals were 12th in mid-February, so it is even more remarkable that manager Brian McDermott managed to lead them into the top six. After a goalless draw in the first leg of their play-off semi-final against Cardiff, they were seen by many as underdogs as the second leg was away from home. Reading romped to a 3-0 success in Wales to show that they are a force to be reckoned with, especially with Shane Long up front and the excellent set-piece delivery of Ian Harte. The duo have netted 38 goals between them this season (two of Harte’s came during his time at Carlisle) and they will be key to Reading’s chances in this clash.
PREDICTION
It is yet another hard game to call and there is unlikely to be more than one goal between the sides at Wembley. I correctly predicted Swansea and Reading to win their semi-finals and I am going to stick with my gut instinct of the Welsh club coming out on top in the play-off final. I am predicting Scott Sinclair to be among the goal-scorers as Swansea record a narrow 2-1 win.
Saturday, 28 May 2011
THE FOUR FINALS – PART II
The Champions League final is obviously the big tie of the weekend, but try telling that to fans of Swansea, Reading, Huddersfield, Peterborough, Torquay and Stevenage. The six English sides are all competing for promotion at different levels but, no matter how good their previous form has been in the 2010/11 campaign, it all comes down to a one-off game and who is better on the day.
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFF FINAL
Both of my semi-final predictions were wrong as neither Shrewsbury or Accrington made it through to the final. Instead Stevenage will do battle with Torquay at Old Trafford for the right to earn promotion into League One.
The two clubs have made excellent progress this season as it was not too long ago that the duo were Conference rivals. But Torquay earned promotion into the Football League via the play-offs in 2009 before Stevenage won the 2010 title.
Stevenage, who claimed a 3-0 aggregate victory over Accrington, are seeking back-to-back promotions after defying expectations in League Two this season. Whatever the outcome in the final, Stevenage can look back at a fine first season in the Football League. But it will not be easy for Graham Westley’s men, who failed to win or score in the two meetings between the two sides this season.
Torquay have continued to make great progress under Paul Buckle and claimed a 2-0 aggregate victory over Shrewsbury in the semi-finals. The future of Buckle remains uncertain as he has been heavily linked to the post at Bristol Rovers, but hopefully that will not distract the players from the game. Buckle will be going all out for the win regardless of the speculation about his future and the tie looks very evenly balanced.
PREDICTION
If Torquay win, could it ensure Buckle stays at Plainmoor for the chance to manage in League One? Regardless of what the future holds for Buckle I believe the Gulls will claim a narrow 2-1 victory, although the crunch clash at Old Trafford could require extra time.
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFF FINAL
There is very little to separate Huddersfield and Peterborough as the League One season reaches its climax at Old Trafford. A lot of the build-up has centred on Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson, who began his playing career under the guidance of his father Sir Alex at Old Trafford, but in a one-off game anything can happen.
Huddersfield go into the game in fine form and are unbeaten for a club record of 27 league games, including the two play-off draws against Bournemouth. The Terriers beat Peterborough in this season’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and claimed a draw in the home league fixture, but Posh came out on top at London Road and this is likely to be another nail biting encounter.
Huddersfield battled hard to try and achieve automatic promotion before Southampton cemented second place in the final two games of the season. The Yorkshire side’s excellent unbeaten run deserves to earn them a place in the Championship and manager Lee Clark has done an excellent job in his second full season in charge.
The Terriers would more than deserve victory in the final after finishing eight points clear of their opponents in the regular season. But their defence is going to have to be on top form against Peterborough, the top scoring league club in the country with 106 goals.
Free-scoring Peterborough are likely to get a goal or two at Old Trafford, so how their defence handles Huddersfield’s attack could prove to be the key in this tie. This game seems to be written in the stars for Posh, with the manager being in his spiritual home and a star striker looking to go out with a bang.
Craig Mackail-Smith grabbed his 34th goal of the season in the second leg of the semi-final win over MK Dons. The Scotland international has been heavily linked with a move away from London Road, with Norwich among the club’s interested in his services. If this does prove to be his last game for Posh, Mackail-Smith will want to ensure he goes out on a high and two goals would see him reach 100 for the club.
But all these statistics and stories will go out the window when the game kicks off and it will all be about one game of football.
PREDICTION
After correctly predicting the two semi-final winners, I am going to stick with my original prediction of Huddersfield winning the final. It will be a close encounter, but I think Huddersfield will win 3-2.
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFF FINAL
Both of my semi-final predictions were wrong as neither Shrewsbury or Accrington made it through to the final. Instead Stevenage will do battle with Torquay at Old Trafford for the right to earn promotion into League One.
The two clubs have made excellent progress this season as it was not too long ago that the duo were Conference rivals. But Torquay earned promotion into the Football League via the play-offs in 2009 before Stevenage won the 2010 title.
Stevenage, who claimed a 3-0 aggregate victory over Accrington, are seeking back-to-back promotions after defying expectations in League Two this season. Whatever the outcome in the final, Stevenage can look back at a fine first season in the Football League. But it will not be easy for Graham Westley’s men, who failed to win or score in the two meetings between the two sides this season.
Torquay have continued to make great progress under Paul Buckle and claimed a 2-0 aggregate victory over Shrewsbury in the semi-finals. The future of Buckle remains uncertain as he has been heavily linked to the post at Bristol Rovers, but hopefully that will not distract the players from the game. Buckle will be going all out for the win regardless of the speculation about his future and the tie looks very evenly balanced.
PREDICTION
If Torquay win, could it ensure Buckle stays at Plainmoor for the chance to manage in League One? Regardless of what the future holds for Buckle I believe the Gulls will claim a narrow 2-1 victory, although the crunch clash at Old Trafford could require extra time.
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFF FINAL
There is very little to separate Huddersfield and Peterborough as the League One season reaches its climax at Old Trafford. A lot of the build-up has centred on Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson, who began his playing career under the guidance of his father Sir Alex at Old Trafford, but in a one-off game anything can happen.
Huddersfield go into the game in fine form and are unbeaten for a club record of 27 league games, including the two play-off draws against Bournemouth. The Terriers beat Peterborough in this season’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy and claimed a draw in the home league fixture, but Posh came out on top at London Road and this is likely to be another nail biting encounter.
Huddersfield battled hard to try and achieve automatic promotion before Southampton cemented second place in the final two games of the season. The Yorkshire side’s excellent unbeaten run deserves to earn them a place in the Championship and manager Lee Clark has done an excellent job in his second full season in charge.
The Terriers would more than deserve victory in the final after finishing eight points clear of their opponents in the regular season. But their defence is going to have to be on top form against Peterborough, the top scoring league club in the country with 106 goals.
Free-scoring Peterborough are likely to get a goal or two at Old Trafford, so how their defence handles Huddersfield’s attack could prove to be the key in this tie. This game seems to be written in the stars for Posh, with the manager being in his spiritual home and a star striker looking to go out with a bang.
Craig Mackail-Smith grabbed his 34th goal of the season in the second leg of the semi-final win over MK Dons. The Scotland international has been heavily linked with a move away from London Road, with Norwich among the club’s interested in his services. If this does prove to be his last game for Posh, Mackail-Smith will want to ensure he goes out on a high and two goals would see him reach 100 for the club.
But all these statistics and stories will go out the window when the game kicks off and it will all be about one game of football.
PREDICTION
After correctly predicting the two semi-final winners, I am going to stick with my original prediction of Huddersfield winning the final. It will be a close encounter, but I think Huddersfield will win 3-2.
THE FOUR FINALS – PART I
With four big Finals looming and four massive prizes at stake, there is no margin for error in what is a big footballing weekend. All four ties are bigger than each other in their own way, but the mouth-watering tie that most people are eagerly awaiting is the Champions League final at Wembley.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL
One of the best attacking sides of all time, Barcelona, will be looking to repeat the success of 2009 by again overcoming a tough encounter with English Champions Manchester United.
United have not been at their best this season but still managed to win the Premier League by 9 points, and at the same time secure a record-breaking 19th league title. But Sir Alex Ferguson’s men will need to improve their luck in London, having won just one of their league games in the capital this season. United lost away to Arsenal and Chelsea and could only manage a draw on their trips to Tottenham and Fulham. The only league victory in London saw United forced to come from two goals down to beat West Ham 4-2, so the omens in that respect are not good.
But even against arguably the best attacking side in the world Manchester United can never be written off. Not only do they possess quality players such as Javier Hernandez, Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic, but their winning mentality and never say die attitude has helped them achieve so much success and gives them a great chance at Wembley. Dutch legend Edwin van der Sar will also be playing in his final game for United before retirement, and a victory would be a fitting end to the career of a goalkeeping great.
It doesn’t get much tougher than a game against Barcelona, a squad filled with immense talent and a side that we are all running out of superlatives to describe…yes they really are that good! The Spanish giants also possess one of the greatest footballing talents of our generation in Lionel Messi, who can change a game in the blink of an eye, so United will not be able to take their eye of the ball for a second if they are to have a chance in this one. The style of football played by Barcelona is simply a joy to watch and they will certainly be difficult to stop. But if the world class Vidic and the rest of the Manchester United defence can stay strong, the Spanish side can be beaten.
It is such a hard game to call. It could go all the way to penalties or Barcelona could run away with it by netting some quickfire goals. The first goal is likely to prove key and if United can get an early goal they would be confident of defending the lead. But they will have to be very careful because an early Barcelona goal could see the Catalan side run riot and go on a goalscoring spree. It will certainly be a dramatic contest and both sides would be worthy holders of the title ‘best team in Europe’.
PREDICTION
There are likely to be plenty goals on show and I think Gerard Pique can come back to haunt his former club by getting himself on the scoresheet in a narrow 3-2 victory for Barcelona at Wembley.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL
One of the best attacking sides of all time, Barcelona, will be looking to repeat the success of 2009 by again overcoming a tough encounter with English Champions Manchester United.
United have not been at their best this season but still managed to win the Premier League by 9 points, and at the same time secure a record-breaking 19th league title. But Sir Alex Ferguson’s men will need to improve their luck in London, having won just one of their league games in the capital this season. United lost away to Arsenal and Chelsea and could only manage a draw on their trips to Tottenham and Fulham. The only league victory in London saw United forced to come from two goals down to beat West Ham 4-2, so the omens in that respect are not good.
But even against arguably the best attacking side in the world Manchester United can never be written off. Not only do they possess quality players such as Javier Hernandez, Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic, but their winning mentality and never say die attitude has helped them achieve so much success and gives them a great chance at Wembley. Dutch legend Edwin van der Sar will also be playing in his final game for United before retirement, and a victory would be a fitting end to the career of a goalkeeping great.
It doesn’t get much tougher than a game against Barcelona, a squad filled with immense talent and a side that we are all running out of superlatives to describe…yes they really are that good! The Spanish giants also possess one of the greatest footballing talents of our generation in Lionel Messi, who can change a game in the blink of an eye, so United will not be able to take their eye of the ball for a second if they are to have a chance in this one. The style of football played by Barcelona is simply a joy to watch and they will certainly be difficult to stop. But if the world class Vidic and the rest of the Manchester United defence can stay strong, the Spanish side can be beaten.
It is such a hard game to call. It could go all the way to penalties or Barcelona could run away with it by netting some quickfire goals. The first goal is likely to prove key and if United can get an early goal they would be confident of defending the lead. But they will have to be very careful because an early Barcelona goal could see the Catalan side run riot and go on a goalscoring spree. It will certainly be a dramatic contest and both sides would be worthy holders of the title ‘best team in Europe’.
PREDICTION
There are likely to be plenty goals on show and I think Gerard Pique can come back to haunt his former club by getting himself on the scoresheet in a narrow 3-2 victory for Barcelona at Wembley.
Monday, 23 May 2011
Oh they do like to be beside the seaside…and in the Premier League, even if it is only for one season!
It may not have had the fairytale ending the fans wanted, but Blackpool’s time in the Premier League was one hell of a journey and one they can be proud of.
When teams get promoted into the top flight the usual remit is to avoid relegation and, although Blackpool ultimately failed to do that, they managed to catch the eye of several neutral fans, pundits and managers. Blackpool were a breath of fresh air in the 2010/11 Premier League and hopefully more of the future promoted sides can follow their example by showing great character and playing attractive attacking football.
Blackpool’s season has been a real roller-coaster so it is hard to know where to start. People are within their rights to say the Seasiders had a bad season in the top flight as they were relegated. But I still believe Ian Holloway has done an excellent job at the club. In the 2009/10 season Blackpool were among the favourites to be relegated from the Championship, so the fact they even spent one season in the Premier League, is a remarkable achievement. It was always going to be difficult for them to avoid relegation, but Blackpool were still in with a shout of staying up on the last day of the season.
Holloway is a vibrant jolly character, who always says it as it is. The Bristolian has his critics, like any other manager, but he is excellent at rising above things and taking the rough with the smooth. Understandably, he gets animated when decisions go against his side and then vents his frustration, but he is also quick to praise his players and the opposition.
After an emotional final day of the season, rather than simply wallowing in the sorrows of Blackpool’s relegation, he congratulated the sides – Blackburn, Wolves and Wigan – who had avoided the drop. But whether you love him or you hate him for what he says or does, Holloway has still done a remarkable job at Bloomfield Road. The fact he is often talked about or makes others laugh with his comments shows just what an impact he had this season….he will be missed.
Blackpool were not afraid to attack the opposition, even after some heavy defeats in the early stages of the competition. Holloway’s men scored 55 goals in the recently finished 2010/11 campaign, which is more than any other relegated side in Premier League history and definitely something to be admired.
Blackpool arguably had the toughest final-day assignment of the five sides battling for survival – a trip to champions Manchester United. Blackpool eventually lost 4-2, but two goals at Old Trafford highlights just what Blackpool are all about – showing no fear and giving it their all until the bitter end. They may have been relegated but I believe Blackpool proved a lot of people wrong this season – some people expected them to get one of the lowest ever points tallies but instead they fought hard until the final day of the season before eventually being relegated. I never thought I’d be saying this about a relegated side, but Blackpool really can be proud of their season.
It will not be easy for the Seasiders in the Championship, a division so tight that vying for promotion and being in the bottom half of the table are both realistic possibilities for next season. But if Blackpool do secure an instant return to the Premier League, we can look forward to more of Holloway’s wit in England’s top division.
Farewell Blackpool…gone but not forgotten. I think I speak for many neutrals when I say, I hope you return to the Premier League soon!
When teams get promoted into the top flight the usual remit is to avoid relegation and, although Blackpool ultimately failed to do that, they managed to catch the eye of several neutral fans, pundits and managers. Blackpool were a breath of fresh air in the 2010/11 Premier League and hopefully more of the future promoted sides can follow their example by showing great character and playing attractive attacking football.
Blackpool’s season has been a real roller-coaster so it is hard to know where to start. People are within their rights to say the Seasiders had a bad season in the top flight as they were relegated. But I still believe Ian Holloway has done an excellent job at the club. In the 2009/10 season Blackpool were among the favourites to be relegated from the Championship, so the fact they even spent one season in the Premier League, is a remarkable achievement. It was always going to be difficult for them to avoid relegation, but Blackpool were still in with a shout of staying up on the last day of the season.
Holloway is a vibrant jolly character, who always says it as it is. The Bristolian has his critics, like any other manager, but he is excellent at rising above things and taking the rough with the smooth. Understandably, he gets animated when decisions go against his side and then vents his frustration, but he is also quick to praise his players and the opposition.
After an emotional final day of the season, rather than simply wallowing in the sorrows of Blackpool’s relegation, he congratulated the sides – Blackburn, Wolves and Wigan – who had avoided the drop. But whether you love him or you hate him for what he says or does, Holloway has still done a remarkable job at Bloomfield Road. The fact he is often talked about or makes others laugh with his comments shows just what an impact he had this season….he will be missed.
Blackpool were not afraid to attack the opposition, even after some heavy defeats in the early stages of the competition. Holloway’s men scored 55 goals in the recently finished 2010/11 campaign, which is more than any other relegated side in Premier League history and definitely something to be admired.
Blackpool arguably had the toughest final-day assignment of the five sides battling for survival – a trip to champions Manchester United. Blackpool eventually lost 4-2, but two goals at Old Trafford highlights just what Blackpool are all about – showing no fear and giving it their all until the bitter end. They may have been relegated but I believe Blackpool proved a lot of people wrong this season – some people expected them to get one of the lowest ever points tallies but instead they fought hard until the final day of the season before eventually being relegated. I never thought I’d be saying this about a relegated side, but Blackpool really can be proud of their season.
It will not be easy for the Seasiders in the Championship, a division so tight that vying for promotion and being in the bottom half of the table are both realistic possibilities for next season. But if Blackpool do secure an instant return to the Premier League, we can look forward to more of Holloway’s wit in England’s top division.
Farewell Blackpool…gone but not forgotten. I think I speak for many neutrals when I say, I hope you return to the Premier League soon!
Friday, 13 May 2011
Play-off Predictions - Part III
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFFS
The League Two play-offs have thrown up several surprises this season. All four sides – Shrewsbury, Accrington, Stevenage and Torquay – more than deserve their place in the 2010/11 play-offs. But at the start of the season few people, other than perhaps the optimistic fans at three of these clubs, could have imagined that their seasons would end with a place in the top seven and a chance of promotion. Shrewsbury were expected to clinch promotion and, although they lost out on a third-place finish to Wycombe on the final day of the season, Graham Turner’s men must be strong favourites to come out on top.
TORQUAY VS SHREWSBURY
Shrewsbury will need a big performance if they are to avoid defeat in the first leg of their play-off semi-final. The Shrews will want to forget all about their last visit to Plainmoor, back in March, where they were thumped 5-0 by the Gulls. Torquay striker Jake Robinson, who is at the club on loan from Shrewsbury, netted twice in that game and will be looking to inflict more damage on his parent club. But Shrewsbury ended the season on a five-match unbeaten run and will be looking to continue that form into the play-offs.
Torquay ended the season with a 3-1 defeat at Rotherham, which left them level on points with nearest challengers Gillingham. But goal difference ensured Paul Buckle’s men clinched a top seven finish despite having been deducted one point for fielding Jake Robinson in February’s clash with Hereford. The Gulls still have a great chance of sealing promotion this season but a poor run of results at the end of the campaign leaves Buckle’s men needing a big upturn in fortunes if they are to clinch the big prize. Torquay failed to win any of their last five league games, although four of those ended in draws. The most positive point for Torquay is their recent defensive record; the Gulls conceded in just two of their final seven league games this season. If their defence can produce that kind of form again, they are certainly in with a shout.
The underdogs tag could work in Torquay’s favour as they can just go out and enjoy the occasion. But they cannot take their previous 5-0 win for granted as, with a much bigger prize at stake, this time around Shrewsbury are likely to be more fired up for this one. Shrewsbury will still feel aggrieved at having not sealed automatic promotion after finishing just a point behind third-placed Wycombe. Wycombe’s controversial point against the Shrews, back in March, ultimately earned them promotion at the expense of Turner’s men. The game ended 1-1 after the linesman ruled that Gareth Ainsworth’s effort had crossed the line when it clearly hadn’t. But Shrewsbury must forget about that and focus on the task at hand – beating Torquay.
PREDICTION
Torquay to claim a narrow 2-1 win at Plainmoor, but Shrewsbury will turn on the style and take advantage of having the second leg at home with a 2-0 win. That would give Shrewsbury a 3-2 aggregate win and book Turner’s men a place in the final.
STEVENAGE VS ACCRINGTON
Stevenage fans must be delighted with how their season has turned out and, even if they were to miss out on promotion, the 2010/11 campaign will still be viewed as a huge success. After winning the Conference title, some may have expected Stevenage to have been embroiled in a relegation battles as can often be the case with newly promoted sides. However, several sides coming up in recent years have proved they can more than hold their own in England’s fourth tier. Graham Westley has done a magnificent job to lead Stevenage to a sixth-place finish and, with just three league defeats at home this season, they will be a tough nut to crack.
But Accrington will certainly be no pushovers as manager John Coleman continues to improve the team year after year. The longest serving manager in the Football League has been at Accrington since August 1999 and gradually turned the club from a non-league outfit into a side that can more than hold their own in League Two. Last season Accrington finished 15th, which at the time seemed like a very respectable position for the Lancashire club. This makes this season’s achievement of finishing fifth and claiming a place in the play-offs even more remarkable. John Coleman really has done a fantastic job and deserves a lot of credit for what he has done at the Crown Ground. Considering the problems with unpaid wages that the players have had to face, they really have stood up to be counted and deserve huge praise for doing so.
Accrington claimed a 2-2 draw on their last visit to Stevenage back in February, which followed on from the 1-0 win over their rivals from earlier in the season. It is set to be yet another close encounter and there is no room for error in the first leg if either side wants their promotion bid to continue. Morecambe lost the first leg of their play-off semi-final to Dagenham 6-0 last season so, although they won the second clash, it was already too late. Accrington and Stevenage will both want to attack but will also be wary of what happened to Morecambe and want to avoid that at all costs.
PREDICTION
Accrington to claim a share of the spoils with a 1-1 draw in the first leg before saving their best for the home leg in a 3-1 win, which would give them a 4-2 aggregate victory and a place in the play-off final.
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFF FINAL
Before the League Two play-offs have even got underway I am predicting a Shrewsbury Vs Accrington final. Shrewsbury will be huge favourites to clinch promotion and will be looking to avoid the play-off heartache they suffered in the final against Gillingham back in 2009. But I believe Accrington will spring a surprise to win the final by a narrow margin and send the Stanley faithful wild.
The League Two play-offs have thrown up several surprises this season. All four sides – Shrewsbury, Accrington, Stevenage and Torquay – more than deserve their place in the 2010/11 play-offs. But at the start of the season few people, other than perhaps the optimistic fans at three of these clubs, could have imagined that their seasons would end with a place in the top seven and a chance of promotion. Shrewsbury were expected to clinch promotion and, although they lost out on a third-place finish to Wycombe on the final day of the season, Graham Turner’s men must be strong favourites to come out on top.
TORQUAY VS SHREWSBURY
Shrewsbury will need a big performance if they are to avoid defeat in the first leg of their play-off semi-final. The Shrews will want to forget all about their last visit to Plainmoor, back in March, where they were thumped 5-0 by the Gulls. Torquay striker Jake Robinson, who is at the club on loan from Shrewsbury, netted twice in that game and will be looking to inflict more damage on his parent club. But Shrewsbury ended the season on a five-match unbeaten run and will be looking to continue that form into the play-offs.
Torquay ended the season with a 3-1 defeat at Rotherham, which left them level on points with nearest challengers Gillingham. But goal difference ensured Paul Buckle’s men clinched a top seven finish despite having been deducted one point for fielding Jake Robinson in February’s clash with Hereford. The Gulls still have a great chance of sealing promotion this season but a poor run of results at the end of the campaign leaves Buckle’s men needing a big upturn in fortunes if they are to clinch the big prize. Torquay failed to win any of their last five league games, although four of those ended in draws. The most positive point for Torquay is their recent defensive record; the Gulls conceded in just two of their final seven league games this season. If their defence can produce that kind of form again, they are certainly in with a shout.
The underdogs tag could work in Torquay’s favour as they can just go out and enjoy the occasion. But they cannot take their previous 5-0 win for granted as, with a much bigger prize at stake, this time around Shrewsbury are likely to be more fired up for this one. Shrewsbury will still feel aggrieved at having not sealed automatic promotion after finishing just a point behind third-placed Wycombe. Wycombe’s controversial point against the Shrews, back in March, ultimately earned them promotion at the expense of Turner’s men. The game ended 1-1 after the linesman ruled that Gareth Ainsworth’s effort had crossed the line when it clearly hadn’t. But Shrewsbury must forget about that and focus on the task at hand – beating Torquay.
PREDICTION
Torquay to claim a narrow 2-1 win at Plainmoor, but Shrewsbury will turn on the style and take advantage of having the second leg at home with a 2-0 win. That would give Shrewsbury a 3-2 aggregate win and book Turner’s men a place in the final.
STEVENAGE VS ACCRINGTON
Stevenage fans must be delighted with how their season has turned out and, even if they were to miss out on promotion, the 2010/11 campaign will still be viewed as a huge success. After winning the Conference title, some may have expected Stevenage to have been embroiled in a relegation battles as can often be the case with newly promoted sides. However, several sides coming up in recent years have proved they can more than hold their own in England’s fourth tier. Graham Westley has done a magnificent job to lead Stevenage to a sixth-place finish and, with just three league defeats at home this season, they will be a tough nut to crack.
But Accrington will certainly be no pushovers as manager John Coleman continues to improve the team year after year. The longest serving manager in the Football League has been at Accrington since August 1999 and gradually turned the club from a non-league outfit into a side that can more than hold their own in League Two. Last season Accrington finished 15th, which at the time seemed like a very respectable position for the Lancashire club. This makes this season’s achievement of finishing fifth and claiming a place in the play-offs even more remarkable. John Coleman really has done a fantastic job and deserves a lot of credit for what he has done at the Crown Ground. Considering the problems with unpaid wages that the players have had to face, they really have stood up to be counted and deserve huge praise for doing so.
Accrington claimed a 2-2 draw on their last visit to Stevenage back in February, which followed on from the 1-0 win over their rivals from earlier in the season. It is set to be yet another close encounter and there is no room for error in the first leg if either side wants their promotion bid to continue. Morecambe lost the first leg of their play-off semi-final to Dagenham 6-0 last season so, although they won the second clash, it was already too late. Accrington and Stevenage will both want to attack but will also be wary of what happened to Morecambe and want to avoid that at all costs.
PREDICTION
Accrington to claim a share of the spoils with a 1-1 draw in the first leg before saving their best for the home leg in a 3-1 win, which would give them a 4-2 aggregate victory and a place in the play-off final.
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFF FINAL
Before the League Two play-offs have even got underway I am predicting a Shrewsbury Vs Accrington final. Shrewsbury will be huge favourites to clinch promotion and will be looking to avoid the play-off heartache they suffered in the final against Gillingham back in 2009. But I believe Accrington will spring a surprise to win the final by a narrow margin and send the Stanley faithful wild.
Play-off Predictions - Part II
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFFS
After narrowly missing out on automatic promotion Huddersfield have to be favourites to win the League One play-offs. The Terriers did not lose a single league game in 2011 and battled hard with Southampton for second place and an automatic promotion spot. Southampton eventually finished five points clear of the Yorkshire side, leaving them to battle it out in the play-offs with Bournemouth, Peterborough and MK Dons.
BOURNEMOUTH VS HUDDERSFIELD
Huddersfield will still be confident they can achieve promotion despite being forced to do it the hard way via the play-offs. Lee Clark has done a tremendous job but, despite being in excellent form, the play-offs are simply about three big games and who wants it more on the day. Huddersfield are no strangers to the play-offs after having lost out in the semi-final stage to Millwall last season, and they will be looking to use that experience and turn it into success this time around.
But Bournemouth, who earned promotion into League One last season, cannot be taken lightly as the Cherries have exceeded expectations to seal a place in the top six. At the start of the season a lot of outsiders probably felt Bournemouth would be facing a battle against relegation, but Eddie Howe continued to defy the odds and make huge strides forward with the club. Howe left for Burnley in January and it would have been easy for Bournemouth’s season to go completely off track. Although there have been blips along the way, such as falling out of the automatic promotion places, manager Lee Bradbury has ensured a place in the play-offs. Whatever the outcome of this tie, Bournemouth can take pride from what has been a magnificent season.
The key to this tie will be the first leg at Dean Court. Bournemouth have proved on many occasions this season that Dean Court is a tough place to visit for any opponent but, if Huddersfield can sneak a narrow win, they will feel very confident going into the second leg at the Galpharm Stadium. The pressure will mainly be on Huddersfield, who will be expected to come out on top, but that doesn’t mean Bournemouth will sit back and relax in what looks set to be a cracking tie.
PREDICTION
This is such a hard tie to call. Personally, I have huge respect for Bournemouth and would like to see them go all the way and, with the pressure off them, they certainly have a good chance. But I think Huddersfield can just about pip them to the post. Huddersfield to earn a 2-2 draw at Dean Court before earning a place in the final with a 3-1 win at the Galpharm Stadium.
MK DONS VS PETERBOROUGH
MK Dons will feel they have got nothing to lose as they take on Peterborough, but again, the home legs will be key in deciding the outcome. MK Dons have lost four league games at home this season, while Peterborough have suffered just three defeats at London Road. But the two sides have been far weaker on their travels, with MK Dons losing 11 away league games and Peterborough 10. This was proven further by the fact that both sides won their respective home games against each other during the regular season. MK Dons boss Karl Robinson became the youngster Football League manager last May when he stepped up from his assistant role following the departure of Paul Ince. The gamble paid off and he has enjoyed a great debut season with the club that could yet end in promotion to the Championship.
But Peterborough, now back under the guidance of Darren Ferguson, will be looking to get back into the Championship after just one season away from England’s second tier. Victory in the play-offs could mean that some of the club’s star names stay at London Road, but defeat to MK Dons may see players including Craig Mackail-Smith head for the exit door. Ferguson achieved back-to-back promotions during his first stint as Peterborough and, although he was later relieved of his duties, he returned to the helm in January. The club is on the up again and few would bet against Ferguson steering them to a third promotion.
MK Dons cannot be taken lightly as they have reached the play-offs on merit after a fantastic season but it could just take one player – Mackail-Smith – to make the difference in this one. A few months ago Mackail-Smith, who finished the regular season with 27 goals, was subject of a failed bid from Norwich. Whether he goes or Posh can somehow keep him by earning promotion, his goals are going to be key in this tie.
PREDICTION
MK Dons to claim a narrow 1-0 lead in the first leg, but I believe Darren Ferguson’s men will come good at London Road with a 4-2 victory. I am predicting Mackail-Smith to get at least two of those goals as Posh earn their place in the final.
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFF FINAL
Before the League One play-offs have even got underway I am predicting a Huddersfield Vs Peterborough final. Both sides score heaps full of goals so the final is likely to come down to which defence is more solid on the day.
Huddersfield have had by far the best season out of the four sides in the play-offs and, although anything can happen in the play-offs, I believe the Terriers will maintain their form to clinch the prize of promotion into the Championship.
After narrowly missing out on automatic promotion Huddersfield have to be favourites to win the League One play-offs. The Terriers did not lose a single league game in 2011 and battled hard with Southampton for second place and an automatic promotion spot. Southampton eventually finished five points clear of the Yorkshire side, leaving them to battle it out in the play-offs with Bournemouth, Peterborough and MK Dons.
BOURNEMOUTH VS HUDDERSFIELD
Huddersfield will still be confident they can achieve promotion despite being forced to do it the hard way via the play-offs. Lee Clark has done a tremendous job but, despite being in excellent form, the play-offs are simply about three big games and who wants it more on the day. Huddersfield are no strangers to the play-offs after having lost out in the semi-final stage to Millwall last season, and they will be looking to use that experience and turn it into success this time around.
But Bournemouth, who earned promotion into League One last season, cannot be taken lightly as the Cherries have exceeded expectations to seal a place in the top six. At the start of the season a lot of outsiders probably felt Bournemouth would be facing a battle against relegation, but Eddie Howe continued to defy the odds and make huge strides forward with the club. Howe left for Burnley in January and it would have been easy for Bournemouth’s season to go completely off track. Although there have been blips along the way, such as falling out of the automatic promotion places, manager Lee Bradbury has ensured a place in the play-offs. Whatever the outcome of this tie, Bournemouth can take pride from what has been a magnificent season.
The key to this tie will be the first leg at Dean Court. Bournemouth have proved on many occasions this season that Dean Court is a tough place to visit for any opponent but, if Huddersfield can sneak a narrow win, they will feel very confident going into the second leg at the Galpharm Stadium. The pressure will mainly be on Huddersfield, who will be expected to come out on top, but that doesn’t mean Bournemouth will sit back and relax in what looks set to be a cracking tie.
PREDICTION
This is such a hard tie to call. Personally, I have huge respect for Bournemouth and would like to see them go all the way and, with the pressure off them, they certainly have a good chance. But I think Huddersfield can just about pip them to the post. Huddersfield to earn a 2-2 draw at Dean Court before earning a place in the final with a 3-1 win at the Galpharm Stadium.
MK DONS VS PETERBOROUGH
MK Dons will feel they have got nothing to lose as they take on Peterborough, but again, the home legs will be key in deciding the outcome. MK Dons have lost four league games at home this season, while Peterborough have suffered just three defeats at London Road. But the two sides have been far weaker on their travels, with MK Dons losing 11 away league games and Peterborough 10. This was proven further by the fact that both sides won their respective home games against each other during the regular season. MK Dons boss Karl Robinson became the youngster Football League manager last May when he stepped up from his assistant role following the departure of Paul Ince. The gamble paid off and he has enjoyed a great debut season with the club that could yet end in promotion to the Championship.
But Peterborough, now back under the guidance of Darren Ferguson, will be looking to get back into the Championship after just one season away from England’s second tier. Victory in the play-offs could mean that some of the club’s star names stay at London Road, but defeat to MK Dons may see players including Craig Mackail-Smith head for the exit door. Ferguson achieved back-to-back promotions during his first stint as Peterborough and, although he was later relieved of his duties, he returned to the helm in January. The club is on the up again and few would bet against Ferguson steering them to a third promotion.
MK Dons cannot be taken lightly as they have reached the play-offs on merit after a fantastic season but it could just take one player – Mackail-Smith – to make the difference in this one. A few months ago Mackail-Smith, who finished the regular season with 27 goals, was subject of a failed bid from Norwich. Whether he goes or Posh can somehow keep him by earning promotion, his goals are going to be key in this tie.
PREDICTION
MK Dons to claim a narrow 1-0 lead in the first leg, but I believe Darren Ferguson’s men will come good at London Road with a 4-2 victory. I am predicting Mackail-Smith to get at least two of those goals as Posh earn their place in the final.
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFF FINAL
Before the League One play-offs have even got underway I am predicting a Huddersfield Vs Peterborough final. Both sides score heaps full of goals so the final is likely to come down to which defence is more solid on the day.
Huddersfield have had by far the best season out of the four sides in the play-offs and, although anything can happen in the play-offs, I believe the Terriers will maintain their form to clinch the prize of promotion into the Championship.
Thursday, 12 May 2011
Play-off Predictions
CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFFS
It is that time of year again as 12 teams battle it out for promotion across the three Football League divisions. There are some cracking ties set to be played, particularly in the Championship, as fans of Premier League clubs get to find out who will be joining QPR and Norwich in the top flight next season. For the teams involved in the play-offs it is the chance to extend the season by a few weeks and for three sides the prize of promotion awaits, so there is no margin for error.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST VS SWANSEA
Nottingham Forest are no strangers to the play-offs, having been knocked out by eventual winners Blackpool in last year's semi-finals. The Reds ended the season in magnificent form, winning five of their last six matches, and Billy Davies' men only lost two home league games all season. Last time the two sides met at the City Ground, Forest claimed a 3-1 win, and home advantage should hold them in good stead for this pulsating tie.
But Swansea also have a formidable record at home, having suffered just three league defeats at the Liberty Stadium this season. The Swans claimed a 3-2 home win over Forest back in March and will be a tough nut to crack in their own back yard.
Forest have to make sure they make home advantage count in the first leg because, any slip-ups by the Reds, would leave the Swans feeling very confident ahead of the second leg in Wales.
PREDICTION
Forest to win the first leg 2-1 before the Swans even the tie by claiming the same score, but this time in their favour, at the Liberty Stadium. I feel this tie will be decided by either extra time or penalties and am predicting the Swans to come out on top...just!
READING VS CARDIFF
At several stages in the season Cardiff had looked strong contenders for automatic promotion. But a shock 3-0 home defeat by Middlesbrough and a 1-1 draw at Burnley saw the Bluebirds end the regular season in disappointing form and having to settle for a fourth-place finish. In contrast, Reading ended the season on a high with a 2-1 win over Derby at the Madejski Stadium and are one of the division's highest scorers - only Leeds and Norwich netted more than the Royals' 77 goals.
Both games between these two sides have ended in draws this season and more close battles can be expected as they battle it out for a place in the Championship play-off final. Cardiff boast a forward trio of Jay Bothroyd, Michael Chopra and Craig Bellamy and are likely to pose a lot of threat in attack. Dave Jones' side suffered heartache in last season's play-off final and will be looking to use that experience to help them avoid a repeat this time around. But Cardiff's defence will have to be on their toes because Reading's Shane Long netted 21 league goals to end the regular season as the Championship's joint-second top scorer.
PREDICTION
It is going to be another close battle but I believe Reading can make home advantage count more than their opponents. I am predicting the Royals to claim a 3-1 home victory in the first leg. Cardiff can bounce back with a 2-1 victory in the second leg but, unfortunately for Jones' men, that would see them defeated 4-3 on aggregate by Brian McDermott's side.
CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFF FINAL
So before the play-offs have even got underway I am predicting a Swansea Vs Reading final. The ties are too tough to call so anything can happen and I won't be surprised whether the predictions end up being spot on or way off as anything could happen.
I believe Swansea are going to go all the way and clinch the prize of Premier League promotion, but let's wait and see how it all unfolds.
LEAGUE ONE AND TWO PLAY-OFF PREDICTIONS TO FOLLOW BEFORE THE WEEKEND!
It is that time of year again as 12 teams battle it out for promotion across the three Football League divisions. There are some cracking ties set to be played, particularly in the Championship, as fans of Premier League clubs get to find out who will be joining QPR and Norwich in the top flight next season. For the teams involved in the play-offs it is the chance to extend the season by a few weeks and for three sides the prize of promotion awaits, so there is no margin for error.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST VS SWANSEA
Nottingham Forest are no strangers to the play-offs, having been knocked out by eventual winners Blackpool in last year's semi-finals. The Reds ended the season in magnificent form, winning five of their last six matches, and Billy Davies' men only lost two home league games all season. Last time the two sides met at the City Ground, Forest claimed a 3-1 win, and home advantage should hold them in good stead for this pulsating tie.
But Swansea also have a formidable record at home, having suffered just three league defeats at the Liberty Stadium this season. The Swans claimed a 3-2 home win over Forest back in March and will be a tough nut to crack in their own back yard.
Forest have to make sure they make home advantage count in the first leg because, any slip-ups by the Reds, would leave the Swans feeling very confident ahead of the second leg in Wales.
PREDICTION
Forest to win the first leg 2-1 before the Swans even the tie by claiming the same score, but this time in their favour, at the Liberty Stadium. I feel this tie will be decided by either extra time or penalties and am predicting the Swans to come out on top...just!
READING VS CARDIFF
At several stages in the season Cardiff had looked strong contenders for automatic promotion. But a shock 3-0 home defeat by Middlesbrough and a 1-1 draw at Burnley saw the Bluebirds end the regular season in disappointing form and having to settle for a fourth-place finish. In contrast, Reading ended the season on a high with a 2-1 win over Derby at the Madejski Stadium and are one of the division's highest scorers - only Leeds and Norwich netted more than the Royals' 77 goals.
Both games between these two sides have ended in draws this season and more close battles can be expected as they battle it out for a place in the Championship play-off final. Cardiff boast a forward trio of Jay Bothroyd, Michael Chopra and Craig Bellamy and are likely to pose a lot of threat in attack. Dave Jones' side suffered heartache in last season's play-off final and will be looking to use that experience to help them avoid a repeat this time around. But Cardiff's defence will have to be on their toes because Reading's Shane Long netted 21 league goals to end the regular season as the Championship's joint-second top scorer.
PREDICTION
It is going to be another close battle but I believe Reading can make home advantage count more than their opponents. I am predicting the Royals to claim a 3-1 home victory in the first leg. Cardiff can bounce back with a 2-1 victory in the second leg but, unfortunately for Jones' men, that would see them defeated 4-3 on aggregate by Brian McDermott's side.
CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFF FINAL
So before the play-offs have even got underway I am predicting a Swansea Vs Reading final. The ties are too tough to call so anything can happen and I won't be surprised whether the predictions end up being spot on or way off as anything could happen.
I believe Swansea are going to go all the way and clinch the prize of Premier League promotion, but let's wait and see how it all unfolds.
LEAGUE ONE AND TWO PLAY-OFF PREDICTIONS TO FOLLOW BEFORE THE WEEKEND!
Sunday, 8 May 2011
From play-off contenders to Conference Football – Part II
As I sat inside Sincil Bank with half an hour to go until kick-off, I still believed Lincoln would pull off an escape from relegation…but maybe with a little help from Port Vale.
The crowd was far bigger than I had witnessed earlier in the season and the atmosphere was electric. From the first whistle, Lincoln seemed to show a bit of intent and that they knew just what was at stake. But Lincoln failed to turn their possession into chances and went in goalless at the break. With Barnet also level at Port Vale, Lincoln were safe at half-time.
One of my university friends, who supports Barnet, was at Underhill for the Bees clash with Port Vale. We had exchanged texts prior to kick-off and both felt nervous as events unfolded. We had spoken a few weeks previously when Lincoln still had several games left to get the three points that would take them to the magic 50 mark. We had been hoping Lincoln and Barnet could both somehow escape the drop, with the Bees at that time looking at a mission impossible scenario to stay up…how on earth did it end up in a final-day scrap?
Due to the nerves of the situation he decided he didn’t want any updates from the Lincoln game after half-time and what was meant to be would be. Well, Barnet scored very early in the second half from the penalty spot and once Lincoln conceded the first goal against Aldershot everyone must have feared the worst. When Lincoln fall behind they struggle to respond and that was proven as they let in a further two soft goals.
Despite having seen this familiar scenario from Lincoln previously this season, I still couldn’t believe what I was witnessing given just what was at stake. This wasn’t just any old game, Lincoln’s Football League status depended on it, so where was all the hunger, passion, desire and, most importantly, the urgency to win? Even when they fell 1-0 behind the Imps didn’t seem to show more determination to find an equaliser.
A big cheer suddenly erupted and news filtered through via some people near me that Vale had scored against Barnet….well I still have no idea where that came from as Barnet won 1-0.
I knew Lincoln were not the play-off chasing side they had been previously, but I never thought I would be witnessing them dropping out of the Football League. Even reflecting on it now, I simply can’t believe how it all unfolded, especially after the victory over Southend when things looked safe.
The Imps now have to accept they will be playing Conference football. But the Conference isn’t what it used to be. It now seems that if you don’t get instant promotion back to the Football League, you can get stuck in the abyss of the Conference for several years with no idea when you will return to League Two.
So what next for the Imps?
There are several issues to resolve next season. Opinion will be divided on whether Steve Tilson should remain as manager but chairman Bob Dorrian has already given the former Southend chief his backing. But, regardless of a manager’s reputation and how well they have been thought of in the past, relegation can make fans want them out…which is an understandable initial reaction as emotions are running high.
Personally, I don’t think Tilson is the problem. When you consider what was at stake against Aldershot, not enough of the players showed the right attitude, especially in the second half. So the players really need to take responsibility and start asking questions of themselves.
Many fans will think it is going to be a complete rebuilding process with many players likely to move on. While there will be restrictions in terms of the wage bill so some players will have to go, others cannot guarantee that they will get any offers from a Football League club. If they weren’t good enough to keep Lincoln up, they can’t take it for granted that they will get back in the Football League.
Maybe the players should think ‘actually we got them in this mess, we need to stay and make sure the club gets instant promotion’. If Lincoln had fielded 11 Paul Greens on Saturday, it might have been a different story, as from what I’ve seen, his attitude is absolutely spot on. There are some very talented players in the squad, but for some reason something just hasn’t been right this season and the consequences have been disastrous.
But we have to ignore all the ifs and buts about what has gone wrong in the past and start looking ahead to the future. During a football fans’ lifetime, whatever team he/she supports is bound to have several ups and downs and you just have to take the rough with the smooth. It is going to be harder to attract new players as not many Football League players will want to drop down and play non-league football. Playing in the Conference will not be a nice feeling for the Imps but if the players start showing a lot more belief, I truly believe they can get out of this mess.
Just look at Newcastle. That may have been much higher up the ladder but they turned relegation into a positive, showed a lot more belief and hunger, started winning a lot more games and came away with instant promotion and the Championship title. There is no reason why Lincoln cannot do that in the Conference. It certainly won’t be easy as there are several good sides in the Conference, but Lincoln just have to show no fear and make sure they never repeat the majority of their home performances from the 2010/11 campaign ever again!
However long it takes, the Imps will bounce back and we just have to be patient and stand by them. Many people believe they have let everyone in the City down by getting relegated but they need the fans’ backing more than ever to turn things around. It can be done, everyone just needs to believe….especially the players!
UP THE IMPS!
The crowd was far bigger than I had witnessed earlier in the season and the atmosphere was electric. From the first whistle, Lincoln seemed to show a bit of intent and that they knew just what was at stake. But Lincoln failed to turn their possession into chances and went in goalless at the break. With Barnet also level at Port Vale, Lincoln were safe at half-time.
One of my university friends, who supports Barnet, was at Underhill for the Bees clash with Port Vale. We had exchanged texts prior to kick-off and both felt nervous as events unfolded. We had spoken a few weeks previously when Lincoln still had several games left to get the three points that would take them to the magic 50 mark. We had been hoping Lincoln and Barnet could both somehow escape the drop, with the Bees at that time looking at a mission impossible scenario to stay up…how on earth did it end up in a final-day scrap?
Due to the nerves of the situation he decided he didn’t want any updates from the Lincoln game after half-time and what was meant to be would be. Well, Barnet scored very early in the second half from the penalty spot and once Lincoln conceded the first goal against Aldershot everyone must have feared the worst. When Lincoln fall behind they struggle to respond and that was proven as they let in a further two soft goals.
Despite having seen this familiar scenario from Lincoln previously this season, I still couldn’t believe what I was witnessing given just what was at stake. This wasn’t just any old game, Lincoln’s Football League status depended on it, so where was all the hunger, passion, desire and, most importantly, the urgency to win? Even when they fell 1-0 behind the Imps didn’t seem to show more determination to find an equaliser.
A big cheer suddenly erupted and news filtered through via some people near me that Vale had scored against Barnet….well I still have no idea where that came from as Barnet won 1-0.
I knew Lincoln were not the play-off chasing side they had been previously, but I never thought I would be witnessing them dropping out of the Football League. Even reflecting on it now, I simply can’t believe how it all unfolded, especially after the victory over Southend when things looked safe.
The Imps now have to accept they will be playing Conference football. But the Conference isn’t what it used to be. It now seems that if you don’t get instant promotion back to the Football League, you can get stuck in the abyss of the Conference for several years with no idea when you will return to League Two.
So what next for the Imps?
There are several issues to resolve next season. Opinion will be divided on whether Steve Tilson should remain as manager but chairman Bob Dorrian has already given the former Southend chief his backing. But, regardless of a manager’s reputation and how well they have been thought of in the past, relegation can make fans want them out…which is an understandable initial reaction as emotions are running high.
Personally, I don’t think Tilson is the problem. When you consider what was at stake against Aldershot, not enough of the players showed the right attitude, especially in the second half. So the players really need to take responsibility and start asking questions of themselves.
Many fans will think it is going to be a complete rebuilding process with many players likely to move on. While there will be restrictions in terms of the wage bill so some players will have to go, others cannot guarantee that they will get any offers from a Football League club. If they weren’t good enough to keep Lincoln up, they can’t take it for granted that they will get back in the Football League.
Maybe the players should think ‘actually we got them in this mess, we need to stay and make sure the club gets instant promotion’. If Lincoln had fielded 11 Paul Greens on Saturday, it might have been a different story, as from what I’ve seen, his attitude is absolutely spot on. There are some very talented players in the squad, but for some reason something just hasn’t been right this season and the consequences have been disastrous.
But we have to ignore all the ifs and buts about what has gone wrong in the past and start looking ahead to the future. During a football fans’ lifetime, whatever team he/she supports is bound to have several ups and downs and you just have to take the rough with the smooth. It is going to be harder to attract new players as not many Football League players will want to drop down and play non-league football. Playing in the Conference will not be a nice feeling for the Imps but if the players start showing a lot more belief, I truly believe they can get out of this mess.
Just look at Newcastle. That may have been much higher up the ladder but they turned relegation into a positive, showed a lot more belief and hunger, started winning a lot more games and came away with instant promotion and the Championship title. There is no reason why Lincoln cannot do that in the Conference. It certainly won’t be easy as there are several good sides in the Conference, but Lincoln just have to show no fear and make sure they never repeat the majority of their home performances from the 2010/11 campaign ever again!
However long it takes, the Imps will bounce back and we just have to be patient and stand by them. Many people believe they have let everyone in the City down by getting relegated but they need the fans’ backing more than ever to turn things around. It can be done, everyone just needs to believe….especially the players!
UP THE IMPS!
From play-off contenders to Conference Football – Part I
Having spent several years of my life in Lincoln, I have always had a soft spot for Lincoln City FC. Although Arsenal will always be the club closest to my heart, the Imps are still important to me and watching their demise has been painful.
When I first arrived in Lincoln to start university in 2003 the club was on the up. I attended a handful of games during my university life in the city, including a 0-0 draw with Darlington at Sincil Bank that secured the Imps' place in the play-offs. Lincoln reached the play-offs for three successive seasons and all the games I saw during that period ended in either a victory or a draw for the Imps. The late Keith Alexander worked wonders with the team but, since his departure, it seems nothing has ever been the same.
Fast forward to the 2010-2011 season and things took a surprising turn for the worse. Although the Imps had been embroiled in relegation battles in previous seasons nobody can have expected that Lincoln would actually succumb to the drop.
When I went to the Imps' pre-season game against Norwich, there were some encouraging signs during the 0-0 draw, and some fans maybe even believed at that stage it could be a good season. The next match I attended was Lincoln's clash with Bury at Sincil Bank which, after going to games later in the season, I realised would sum up so many of their matches. It actually started quite well for the Imps but as soon as the first goal was conceded they just imploded.
But there were signs of optimism when I saw Lincoln defeat Steve Tilson's former club 2-1 at Sincil Bank (on March 12). It seemed to be a completely different Lincoln side on show and, after leaving the ground that day, I never expected that I had just witnessed their last win of the season.
Lincoln quite often start brightly but as soon as the first goal goes in, it seems to end all hope of getting something out of the game - something I witnessed yet again when they played Cheltenham. The Imps were on top for large spells of the game but when Josh Low scored just past the hour the inevitable happened and the visitors ended up winning 2-0.
But even with relegation a distinct possibility going into the final day of the season, it still didn't enter my mind that it would happen as I remained confident of an Imps win as I walked to Sincil Bank.
CONTINUED IN PART II
When I first arrived in Lincoln to start university in 2003 the club was on the up. I attended a handful of games during my university life in the city, including a 0-0 draw with Darlington at Sincil Bank that secured the Imps' place in the play-offs. Lincoln reached the play-offs for three successive seasons and all the games I saw during that period ended in either a victory or a draw for the Imps. The late Keith Alexander worked wonders with the team but, since his departure, it seems nothing has ever been the same.
Fast forward to the 2010-2011 season and things took a surprising turn for the worse. Although the Imps had been embroiled in relegation battles in previous seasons nobody can have expected that Lincoln would actually succumb to the drop.
When I went to the Imps' pre-season game against Norwich, there were some encouraging signs during the 0-0 draw, and some fans maybe even believed at that stage it could be a good season. The next match I attended was Lincoln's clash with Bury at Sincil Bank which, after going to games later in the season, I realised would sum up so many of their matches. It actually started quite well for the Imps but as soon as the first goal was conceded they just imploded.
But there were signs of optimism when I saw Lincoln defeat Steve Tilson's former club 2-1 at Sincil Bank (on March 12). It seemed to be a completely different Lincoln side on show and, after leaving the ground that day, I never expected that I had just witnessed their last win of the season.
Lincoln quite often start brightly but as soon as the first goal goes in, it seems to end all hope of getting something out of the game - something I witnessed yet again when they played Cheltenham. The Imps were on top for large spells of the game but when Josh Low scored just past the hour the inevitable happened and the visitors ended up winning 2-0.
But even with relegation a distinct possibility going into the final day of the season, it still didn't enter my mind that it would happen as I remained confident of an Imps win as I walked to Sincil Bank.
CONTINUED IN PART II
Friday, 6 May 2011
Football League Ups and Downs
With the final day of the regular season looming in the Football League, there are still various important things to be decided. For some clubs it will mean a great end to the season, for others it will be all doom and gloom and preparation for going down a division.
CHAMPIONSHIP
The key promotion and relegation issues have virtually been decided in England's second tier.
QPR AND AUTOMATIC PROMOTION
QPR are set to be presented with the Championship trophy after their home game with Leeds this weekend and, although the players, staff and fans will all want to party, they still can't officially celebrate just yet. The Football Association has delayed its verdict in the case of QPR midfielder Alejandro Faurlin due to the quantity of evidence being considered. The decision, which was set to be announced prior to the final day of the regular season in the Championship, will now be made later than planned. QPR are currently nine points clear of third-placed Cardiff, but a points deduction could see them fall out of the automatic promotion places. I think the timing is terrible as whatever the outcome ends up being, it should have been announced way in advance of the final games. Even if they are found guilty it is not fair on QPR to be kept waiting when they have won the title on merit and the fans shouldn't see the trophy presented if it then gets taken away. It is also unfair on the other promotion chasing sides who have no idea what is happening either. I personally believe what will happen is that, if a points deduction is enforced, it will be conveniently less than nine points so QPR's promotion will be unaffected.
Norwich claimed the second automatic spot as Paul Lambert's men sealed back-to-back promotions, leaving four sides to battle it out in the play-offs once the final round of fixtures have been completed. The Canaries have been full of drama, late goals and thumping wins and they fully deserve their place in the Premier League.
CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFFS
Cardiff, Swansea and Reading have all sealed their places in the Championship play-offs, with Nottingham Forest almost certain to join them. Forest are three points clear of Leeds, and with a superior goal difference, ahead of their clash at Crystal Palace. Leeds would need a massive win at champions QPR, along with a Palace victory, to stand any chance...but it doesn't look likely.
Results on the final day could affect who faces who in the play-offs. As things stand Cardiff will face Forest and Swansea take on Reading, but that could all change after this weekend. But if it remains the same there is the prospect of an all Welsh final and, although many Premier League fans do not want a non-English side in the division, I don't see the problem. Swansea play some delightful football and would be a decent addition to the Premier League. The play-offs are too tough to call but if I have to choose one side I think Swansea can pull it off - and I will look at the play-offs in more detail next week.
RELEGATION
Preston, Scunthorpe and Sheffield United have already been relegated and now have just pride to play for in their final games before dropping into League One. Although their Championship status has been lost, Preston could at least prevent themselves from finishing bottom. If Phil Brown's men beat Watford and Scunthorpe fail to beat Portsmouth, then the Iron would end the season as the Championship's basement club. Before the season started I did not expect either Preston or Sheffield United to be in a relegation battle, but football is a funny old game and the duo must quickly move on from their dismal campaigns and start rebuilding for the future.
LEAGUE ONE
Brighton have already secured the League One title and Southampton look set to join them in the Championship next season. The Saints are only three points clear of nearest challengers Huddersfield but, due to their far superior points difference, they will not be caught. Huddersfield claimed a 3-2 win at champions Brighton in their last game and are now unbeaten in 24 league matches. That kind of form should be enough to clinch automatic promotion but, unfortunately, Lee Clark's side will have to be content with a place in the play-offs.
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFFS
Leyton Orient, Exeter and Rochdale have all exceeded expectations as the trio narrowly missed out on the play-offs. But Peterborough, MK Dons, Bournemouth and the Terriers secured a top six finish with a game to spare. The four sides can still move up or down in the table, which would affect who plays who in the play-offs. As things stand Bournemouth, who are seeking back-to-back promotions, will play in-form Huddersfield and Peterborough will take on MK Dons. But if the Cherries beat Rochdale, and MK Dons fail to pick up three points at Oldham, Lee Bradbury's men will leapfrog their rivals into 5th place and instead face Peterborough in the play-offs. Although, that game would be equally as tricky, Huddersfield are on such a rich vein of form that sides would rather avoid playing them at this stage.
Huddersfield would deserve to win the play-offs as, out of the four sides, they have had by far the better season. But ever since former manager Eddie Howe was in charge of Bournemouth I have developed huge respect for the Cherries and think they could spring a few surprises. It would be good to see them go up and they can maybe do it, but Huddersfield will be many people's favourites for promotion.
RELEGATION
Down at the bottom, Swindon and Plymouth have already been relegated, with Bristol Rovers almost certain to join them. If the Pirates can win at Colchester and Walsall lose at Southampton, the two sides would be level on points. But Rovers have a far inferior goal difference so, barring a footballing miracle, they are down. The big surprise out of those three sides is bottom club Swindon, who this time last year were preparing for the play-offs. Charlie Austin missed a sitter as the Robins lost out to Millwall in the final and, since then, everything has gone downhill.
Three sides will battle it out to avoid being in the fourth and final relegation spot. Dagenham, who defied the odds to even get into England's third tier, currently occupy 21st place on 47 points. But the Daggers are only a point behind Walsall and two off Notts County as they bid for League One survival. Dagenham boosted their survival hopes with a 3-0 win over Carlisle, but it doesn't get much tougher than a trip to Peterborough. If Dagenham lose they are down, but a shock draw or a win coupled with other results going their way could yet see them survive. Relegation rivals Walsall have it just as tough with a trip to Southampton, while Notts County host champions Brighton knowing a win will guarantee their survival. The most likely scenario is that all three sides lose this weekend, meaning Dagenham would go down, but I personally hope Walsall are relegated instead.
LEAGUE TWO
THE TITLE RACE
The title looked to have taken a surprise twist when Bury beat leaders Chesterfield, who then dropped points with a draw at Torquay. Bury went into their game against Wycombe knowing a win would see them overtake Chesterfield at the top of the table, but the Chairboys came away from Gigg Lane with a 3-1 win. Chesterfield, who are now three points clear at the top of the table, host Gillingham knowing a point would see them crowned Champions. But they cannot afford any slip ups as defeat coupled with a win for Bury at Stevenage could see them lose their grip of top spot depending on goal difference...surely Chesterfield will win the title though! With both Gillingham and Stevenage still having aspirations of the play-offs, Chesterfield and Bury will need to be on top form to get a result.
AUTOMATIC PROMOTION
The third automatic promotion spot will go to either Wycombe or Shrewsbury. Wycombe currently hold a one point lead over their rivals ahead of the home clash with Southend, but they know only a victory will guarantee them promotion. If Wycombe drop points, Shrewsbury will be looking to capitalise as they prepare to host Oxford. But one of them will have to settle for a place in the play-offs alongside Accrington, who have already secured a top seven finish. The side that misses out on automatic promotion has got to be favourite to win the play-offs, but I think Accrington have a great chance of going all the way.
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFFS
Torquay and Stevenage currently occupy the other two play-off spots but, with eighth-placed Gillingham also locked on 68 points, there is no margin for error. To add more drama to the equation, all three sides face games against teams from the upper reaches of the table - Torquay and Gillingham face tricky trips to Rotherham and Chesterfield respectively, while Stevenage host promoted Bury. If all three sides lose and Port Vale beat Barnet, there would be four sides locked on 68 points. But Vale's inferior goal difference means they are likely to lose out.
RELEGATION
Stockport have already lost their Football League status and will just have pride to play for as they prepare to host Cheltenham. Lincoln and Barnet are both scrapping for their lives in a bid to avoid the drop, but the Imps have control of the situation and are two points clear of their relegation rivals. If Lincoln beat Aldershot at Sincil Bank they are safe regardless of how Barnet get on against Port Vale at Underhill. Steve Tilson's men will also survive if Barnet fail to beat Vale but, with a winless run of 10 league games and a vastly inferior goal difference, the pressure really is on for Lincoln. If Lincoln fail to win they will be relying on Barnet to slip up otherwise they will be dropping out of the Football League. Barnet's recent form is far better than Lincoln's but I hope the Imps can pull a massive performance out of the bag and ensure they are in League Two next season.
There will be a whole range of emotions round the country as the regular season draws to a close this weekend. But one thing's for sure...there will be plenty of drama!
NEXT WEEK...AN IN DEPTH LOOK AT THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS WITH PREDICTIONS
CHAMPIONSHIP
The key promotion and relegation issues have virtually been decided in England's second tier.
QPR AND AUTOMATIC PROMOTION
QPR are set to be presented with the Championship trophy after their home game with Leeds this weekend and, although the players, staff and fans will all want to party, they still can't officially celebrate just yet. The Football Association has delayed its verdict in the case of QPR midfielder Alejandro Faurlin due to the quantity of evidence being considered. The decision, which was set to be announced prior to the final day of the regular season in the Championship, will now be made later than planned. QPR are currently nine points clear of third-placed Cardiff, but a points deduction could see them fall out of the automatic promotion places. I think the timing is terrible as whatever the outcome ends up being, it should have been announced way in advance of the final games. Even if they are found guilty it is not fair on QPR to be kept waiting when they have won the title on merit and the fans shouldn't see the trophy presented if it then gets taken away. It is also unfair on the other promotion chasing sides who have no idea what is happening either. I personally believe what will happen is that, if a points deduction is enforced, it will be conveniently less than nine points so QPR's promotion will be unaffected.
Norwich claimed the second automatic spot as Paul Lambert's men sealed back-to-back promotions, leaving four sides to battle it out in the play-offs once the final round of fixtures have been completed. The Canaries have been full of drama, late goals and thumping wins and they fully deserve their place in the Premier League.
CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY-OFFS
Cardiff, Swansea and Reading have all sealed their places in the Championship play-offs, with Nottingham Forest almost certain to join them. Forest are three points clear of Leeds, and with a superior goal difference, ahead of their clash at Crystal Palace. Leeds would need a massive win at champions QPR, along with a Palace victory, to stand any chance...but it doesn't look likely.
Results on the final day could affect who faces who in the play-offs. As things stand Cardiff will face Forest and Swansea take on Reading, but that could all change after this weekend. But if it remains the same there is the prospect of an all Welsh final and, although many Premier League fans do not want a non-English side in the division, I don't see the problem. Swansea play some delightful football and would be a decent addition to the Premier League. The play-offs are too tough to call but if I have to choose one side I think Swansea can pull it off - and I will look at the play-offs in more detail next week.
RELEGATION
Preston, Scunthorpe and Sheffield United have already been relegated and now have just pride to play for in their final games before dropping into League One. Although their Championship status has been lost, Preston could at least prevent themselves from finishing bottom. If Phil Brown's men beat Watford and Scunthorpe fail to beat Portsmouth, then the Iron would end the season as the Championship's basement club. Before the season started I did not expect either Preston or Sheffield United to be in a relegation battle, but football is a funny old game and the duo must quickly move on from their dismal campaigns and start rebuilding for the future.
LEAGUE ONE
Brighton have already secured the League One title and Southampton look set to join them in the Championship next season. The Saints are only three points clear of nearest challengers Huddersfield but, due to their far superior points difference, they will not be caught. Huddersfield claimed a 3-2 win at champions Brighton in their last game and are now unbeaten in 24 league matches. That kind of form should be enough to clinch automatic promotion but, unfortunately, Lee Clark's side will have to be content with a place in the play-offs.
LEAGUE ONE PLAY-OFFS
Leyton Orient, Exeter and Rochdale have all exceeded expectations as the trio narrowly missed out on the play-offs. But Peterborough, MK Dons, Bournemouth and the Terriers secured a top six finish with a game to spare. The four sides can still move up or down in the table, which would affect who plays who in the play-offs. As things stand Bournemouth, who are seeking back-to-back promotions, will play in-form Huddersfield and Peterborough will take on MK Dons. But if the Cherries beat Rochdale, and MK Dons fail to pick up three points at Oldham, Lee Bradbury's men will leapfrog their rivals into 5th place and instead face Peterborough in the play-offs. Although, that game would be equally as tricky, Huddersfield are on such a rich vein of form that sides would rather avoid playing them at this stage.
Huddersfield would deserve to win the play-offs as, out of the four sides, they have had by far the better season. But ever since former manager Eddie Howe was in charge of Bournemouth I have developed huge respect for the Cherries and think they could spring a few surprises. It would be good to see them go up and they can maybe do it, but Huddersfield will be many people's favourites for promotion.
RELEGATION
Down at the bottom, Swindon and Plymouth have already been relegated, with Bristol Rovers almost certain to join them. If the Pirates can win at Colchester and Walsall lose at Southampton, the two sides would be level on points. But Rovers have a far inferior goal difference so, barring a footballing miracle, they are down. The big surprise out of those three sides is bottom club Swindon, who this time last year were preparing for the play-offs. Charlie Austin missed a sitter as the Robins lost out to Millwall in the final and, since then, everything has gone downhill.
Three sides will battle it out to avoid being in the fourth and final relegation spot. Dagenham, who defied the odds to even get into England's third tier, currently occupy 21st place on 47 points. But the Daggers are only a point behind Walsall and two off Notts County as they bid for League One survival. Dagenham boosted their survival hopes with a 3-0 win over Carlisle, but it doesn't get much tougher than a trip to Peterborough. If Dagenham lose they are down, but a shock draw or a win coupled with other results going their way could yet see them survive. Relegation rivals Walsall have it just as tough with a trip to Southampton, while Notts County host champions Brighton knowing a win will guarantee their survival. The most likely scenario is that all three sides lose this weekend, meaning Dagenham would go down, but I personally hope Walsall are relegated instead.
LEAGUE TWO
THE TITLE RACE
The title looked to have taken a surprise twist when Bury beat leaders Chesterfield, who then dropped points with a draw at Torquay. Bury went into their game against Wycombe knowing a win would see them overtake Chesterfield at the top of the table, but the Chairboys came away from Gigg Lane with a 3-1 win. Chesterfield, who are now three points clear at the top of the table, host Gillingham knowing a point would see them crowned Champions. But they cannot afford any slip ups as defeat coupled with a win for Bury at Stevenage could see them lose their grip of top spot depending on goal difference...surely Chesterfield will win the title though! With both Gillingham and Stevenage still having aspirations of the play-offs, Chesterfield and Bury will need to be on top form to get a result.
AUTOMATIC PROMOTION
The third automatic promotion spot will go to either Wycombe or Shrewsbury. Wycombe currently hold a one point lead over their rivals ahead of the home clash with Southend, but they know only a victory will guarantee them promotion. If Wycombe drop points, Shrewsbury will be looking to capitalise as they prepare to host Oxford. But one of them will have to settle for a place in the play-offs alongside Accrington, who have already secured a top seven finish. The side that misses out on automatic promotion has got to be favourite to win the play-offs, but I think Accrington have a great chance of going all the way.
LEAGUE TWO PLAY-OFFS
Torquay and Stevenage currently occupy the other two play-off spots but, with eighth-placed Gillingham also locked on 68 points, there is no margin for error. To add more drama to the equation, all three sides face games against teams from the upper reaches of the table - Torquay and Gillingham face tricky trips to Rotherham and Chesterfield respectively, while Stevenage host promoted Bury. If all three sides lose and Port Vale beat Barnet, there would be four sides locked on 68 points. But Vale's inferior goal difference means they are likely to lose out.
RELEGATION
Stockport have already lost their Football League status and will just have pride to play for as they prepare to host Cheltenham. Lincoln and Barnet are both scrapping for their lives in a bid to avoid the drop, but the Imps have control of the situation and are two points clear of their relegation rivals. If Lincoln beat Aldershot at Sincil Bank they are safe regardless of how Barnet get on against Port Vale at Underhill. Steve Tilson's men will also survive if Barnet fail to beat Vale but, with a winless run of 10 league games and a vastly inferior goal difference, the pressure really is on for Lincoln. If Lincoln fail to win they will be relying on Barnet to slip up otherwise they will be dropping out of the Football League. Barnet's recent form is far better than Lincoln's but I hope the Imps can pull a massive performance out of the bag and ensure they are in League Two next season.
There will be a whole range of emotions round the country as the regular season draws to a close this weekend. But one thing's for sure...there will be plenty of drama!
NEXT WEEK...AN IN DEPTH LOOK AT THE FOOTBALL LEAGUE PLAY-OFFS WITH PREDICTIONS
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