Swindon Town v Brentford
If Swindon draw this match, they might possibly still get automatic promotion but they really need to win. Another point will guarantee that Brentford finish in the top half of the table.
Billy Bodin scored for Swindon Reserves against Forest Green but despite being 3-0 up, Swindon could only draw. He also recently played for the Wales under-19s (I was going to post the squad list but I haven’t yet). Billy is coached at Swindon by his father Paul Bodin.
Brentford’s Lewis Price probably won’t be in the squads as they have too many goalkeepers. Maybe he could have gone to Manchester City.
Tranmere Rovers v Millwall
Not even a win will be certain of lifting Tranmere out of the relegation zone but a win could put Millwall into the second automatic promotion place.
Ash Taylor has an ankle injury and is a slight doubt for Tranmere but his manager Les Parry expects him to be fine.
Yeovil Town v Oldham Athletic
Not long ago Yeovil were looking at a top-half finish while Oldham were in the bottom four. Now it’s Oldham who could (just, and only if fixtures permit) finish in the top half while Yeovil need to win to be sure of safety although this defeat alone won’t put them into the relegation zone.
Gavin Williams is a doubt with an ankle injury and is said to have a knee problem too. Gavin turned his ankle in training before the match against Brentford but was risked anyway, only to injure his ankle and need to substituted after 42 minutes. Yeovil manager Terry Skiverton says he doesn’t want to take any more risks with Gavin, he’ll wait until he’s properly better before he plays him again.
Shaun MacDonald was missing from Yeovil’s squad against Brentford due to a groin injury and has now returned to parent club Swansea City for a scan. He’s not expected to play again this season. With Gavin and Shaun both injured, Arron Davies should have a chance of starting. Nathan Jones is more likely to be on the bench.
Oldham say they won’t rush Joe Jacobson back into action following his groin injury but you never know, maybe he’ll make a miraculous recovery.
This my blog about the Wales football (soccer) team and the Welsh (or even slightly Welsh) footballers.
Don't take it too seriously. I don't really hate the English and I know the Welsh players can be a bit naughty now and then.
I'm loyal and biased but I am a football fan.
Friday, 30 April 2010
League One Fixtures 1st May Part 2
Hartlepool United v Exeter City
It’s still not decided whether Hartlepool will be deducted three points or not – if not, a draw would see them safe, even a defeat will be enough if Tranmere Rovers fail to win against Millwall. If the points are deducted and Hartlepool don’t win against Exeter, they could only be out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
Exeter are in even deeper trouble, just two points from trouble.
Richard Duffy and Rob Edwards could both start again for Exeter with Andy Marriott on the bench. Stuart Fleetwood was dropped from the squad last week as Exeter were playing his parent club, Charlton, but he’s hoping his Tuesday night hat-trick for the reserves will help ensure he’s not left out against Hartlepool.
Huddersfield Town v Colchester United
Automatic promotion is very unlikely for Huddersfield but it’s still mathematically possible. Colchester have lost the chance even of being in the play-offs.
Colchester’s Lee Beevers is back in full training and played for the reserves on Monday but he’s not likely to be fit enough to play against Huddersfield. Thomas Bender could be in the squad though, he sometimes is.
Milton Keynes Dona v Brighton & Hove Albion
After finishing third last year, this season must be such a disappointment for MK Dons fans. Brighton meanwhile are not only safe, they could even finish in the top half.
Jermaine Easter couldn’t find the net for MK Dons last week but he wasn’t completely recovered from a thigh injury which is still troubling him. He’s one of many doubts this week – BBC Sport reports that MK Dons have just two fit first-team players. But Jermaine’s week hasn’t been all bad. He’s been named Football Writers’ Player of the Year as well as the top goalscorer award (he must be so glad Jason Puncheon went to Southampton).
Andrew Crofts will play for Brighton. He’s a big reason why Brighton are safe. He really is, I’m not just saying that because he’s Welsh.
Southend United v Stockport County
If only this fixture had happened last month, it might have been a bit relegation battle. But as it is, both teams are already destined to meet in League Two next season. Southend could finish 21st though if they’re lucky.
Owain fon Williams will play in goal for Stockport. I shouldn’t think many people would like to swap places with him. Owain and Craig Roberts probably won’t play but he’s one of just five Stockport players who aren’t out of contract at the end of the season.
It’s still not decided whether Hartlepool will be deducted three points or not – if not, a draw would see them safe, even a defeat will be enough if Tranmere Rovers fail to win against Millwall. If the points are deducted and Hartlepool don’t win against Exeter, they could only be out of the relegation zone on goal difference.
Exeter are in even deeper trouble, just two points from trouble.
Richard Duffy and Rob Edwards could both start again for Exeter with Andy Marriott on the bench. Stuart Fleetwood was dropped from the squad last week as Exeter were playing his parent club, Charlton, but he’s hoping his Tuesday night hat-trick for the reserves will help ensure he’s not left out against Hartlepool.
Huddersfield Town v Colchester United
Automatic promotion is very unlikely for Huddersfield but it’s still mathematically possible. Colchester have lost the chance even of being in the play-offs.
Colchester’s Lee Beevers is back in full training and played for the reserves on Monday but he’s not likely to be fit enough to play against Huddersfield. Thomas Bender could be in the squad though, he sometimes is.
Milton Keynes Dona v Brighton & Hove Albion
After finishing third last year, this season must be such a disappointment for MK Dons fans. Brighton meanwhile are not only safe, they could even finish in the top half.
Jermaine Easter couldn’t find the net for MK Dons last week but he wasn’t completely recovered from a thigh injury which is still troubling him. He’s one of many doubts this week – BBC Sport reports that MK Dons have just two fit first-team players. But Jermaine’s week hasn’t been all bad. He’s been named Football Writers’ Player of the Year as well as the top goalscorer award (he must be so glad Jason Puncheon went to Southampton).
Andrew Crofts will play for Brighton. He’s a big reason why Brighton are safe. He really is, I’m not just saying that because he’s Welsh.
Southend United v Stockport County
If only this fixture had happened last month, it might have been a bit relegation battle. But as it is, both teams are already destined to meet in League Two next season. Southend could finish 21st though if they’re lucky.
Owain fon Williams will play in goal for Stockport. I shouldn’t think many people would like to swap places with him. Owain and Craig Roberts probably won’t play but he’s one of just five Stockport players who aren’t out of contract at the end of the season.
League One Fixtures 1st May Part 1
Bristol Rovers v Norwich City
If Bristol Rovers fail to win this, they’ll have gone five games without a win. Norwich are already Champions.
Byron Anthony is back in training for Bristol Rovers after recovering from a hip injury but he might not be ready to play. Ben Swallow is also likely to be in the squad. Ben is in contention to win Rovers’ Young Player of the Season award.
David Pipe is very unlikely to be in Rovers’ squad as he is rumoured to be about to have his contract terminated by mutual consent but perhaps he’ll sign for Cheltenham Town next season. David spent part of this season on loan there and he went to watch Cheltenham’s match against Aldershot Town last weekend.
Carlisle United v Walsall
Carlisle need to win to have any chance of finishing in the top half but Walsall could stay in the top half even if they lose.
Jason Price came off the bench last weekend after recovering from a hamstring injury and could be back in the starting line-up for this match.
Walsall’s Rhys Weston, who is out of contract at the end of the season, had a trial with Motherwell this week but he has returned in time to play in this match. Leeds United are also said to be interested. I would go for Leeds, especially if they’re in the Championship but Rhys’ wife lives in Glasgow and it must be difficult living in different countries – and Motherwell do have the chance of a Europa League place next season. Mark Bradley injured his knee when Walsall Reserves played Shrewsbury Reserves but he should be fit to play. Whether he’ll get to play is another matter.
Charlton Athletic v Leeds United
Millwall fans aren’t that keen on Charlton as a rule but they’ll be hoping for a home win. Leeds are currently in 2nd place but if Charlton win and Millwall get a draw, Leeds will drop back into the play-off zone.
Grant Basey won’t play for Charlton as he’s recovering from an ankle injury.
Sanchez Watt will be hoping for a second consecutive start after getting an assist – or two assists according to the Yorkshire Post - for Leeds last week.
Gillingham v Southampton
Gillingham could be back in the bottom three if they lose this match – and considering their last match is away, that’s going to leave them with a bit of a problem as Gillingham haven’t won away all season. Southampton will finish 7th or 8th despite a ten-point deduction at the beginning of the season. A win today could make sure it’s 7th.
Lloyd James will probably not play for Southampton due to an ankle injury.
If Bristol Rovers fail to win this, they’ll have gone five games without a win. Norwich are already Champions.
Byron Anthony is back in training for Bristol Rovers after recovering from a hip injury but he might not be ready to play. Ben Swallow is also likely to be in the squad. Ben is in contention to win Rovers’ Young Player of the Season award.
David Pipe is very unlikely to be in Rovers’ squad as he is rumoured to be about to have his contract terminated by mutual consent but perhaps he’ll sign for Cheltenham Town next season. David spent part of this season on loan there and he went to watch Cheltenham’s match against Aldershot Town last weekend.
Carlisle United v Walsall
Carlisle need to win to have any chance of finishing in the top half but Walsall could stay in the top half even if they lose.
Jason Price came off the bench last weekend after recovering from a hamstring injury and could be back in the starting line-up for this match.
Walsall’s Rhys Weston, who is out of contract at the end of the season, had a trial with Motherwell this week but he has returned in time to play in this match. Leeds United are also said to be interested. I would go for Leeds, especially if they’re in the Championship but Rhys’ wife lives in Glasgow and it must be difficult living in different countries – and Motherwell do have the chance of a Europa League place next season. Mark Bradley injured his knee when Walsall Reserves played Shrewsbury Reserves but he should be fit to play. Whether he’ll get to play is another matter.
Charlton Athletic v Leeds United
Millwall fans aren’t that keen on Charlton as a rule but they’ll be hoping for a home win. Leeds are currently in 2nd place but if Charlton win and Millwall get a draw, Leeds will drop back into the play-off zone.
Grant Basey won’t play for Charlton as he’s recovering from an ankle injury.
Sanchez Watt will be hoping for a second consecutive start after getting an assist – or two assists according to the Yorkshire Post - for Leeds last week.
Gillingham v Southampton
Gillingham could be back in the bottom three if they lose this match – and considering their last match is away, that’s going to leave them with a bit of a problem as Gillingham haven’t won away all season. Southampton will finish 7th or 8th despite a ten-point deduction at the beginning of the season. A win today could make sure it’s 7th.
Lloyd James will probably not play for Southampton due to an ankle injury.
Premier League Fixures 1st May
Manchester City v Aston Villa
Some said Aston Villa were out of the race for the fourth Champions’ League place but considering they’re a point ahead of City (albeit having played one more game) and only behind Tottenham (who have played the same number of games as Man City) only on goal difference, I think you’d have to say they’re in with a chance. If they draw with Man City and Tottenham lose to Bolton, Villa will be fourth. That’s how close it is.
Craig Bellamy will probably play for Manchester City at this match but quite possibly not for many more matches if the rumours are true. James Collins will be in defence for Villa.
But what is all this emergency loan business about, Man City? You didn’t see Arsenal applying for loans when Manuel Almunia and Lukasz Fabianski were both out, did you? And they arguably have more reason than you. Who did you bribe to get Marton Fulop then? And now I read that you might not even play him.
Portsmouth v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Portsmouth are down, Wolves are safe. A boring game? Perhaps not. Portsmouth are playing like they haven’t realised they’ve been relegated and Wolves’ team might be full of Welsh players.
David Jones and Dave Edwards will probably start for Wolves again but it’s very unlikely that manager Mick McCarthy will take advantage of their safety and give Wayne Hennessey and Sam Vokes a run in the team. If McCarthy did do this, I might have to start liking him.
Stoke City v Everton
A win could put Stoke into the top half of the table. They might have had a top-half finish in the top division before but if so it’s not for a very long time. Everton have a very small chance of stealing Liverpool’s place in the Europa League.
Ryan Shawcross made an early return from his ankle injury last week after an injury led to his introduction in the 9th minute. If he starts, Danny Collins could be on the bench but I hope Tony Pulis drops someone else instead.
Tottenham Hotspur v Bolton Wanderers
Tottenham remain in fourth place on goal difference despite losing to Manchester United last weekend. Bolton are now safe but could finish anywhere between 14th and 17th.
Assuming Harry Redknapp is not mad, he will select Gareth Bale to play at either left back or left wing. Or maybe both like last week.
Sam Ricketts could be on the bench again for Bolton.
Some said Aston Villa were out of the race for the fourth Champions’ League place but considering they’re a point ahead of City (albeit having played one more game) and only behind Tottenham (who have played the same number of games as Man City) only on goal difference, I think you’d have to say they’re in with a chance. If they draw with Man City and Tottenham lose to Bolton, Villa will be fourth. That’s how close it is.
Craig Bellamy will probably play for Manchester City at this match but quite possibly not for many more matches if the rumours are true. James Collins will be in defence for Villa.
But what is all this emergency loan business about, Man City? You didn’t see Arsenal applying for loans when Manuel Almunia and Lukasz Fabianski were both out, did you? And they arguably have more reason than you. Who did you bribe to get Marton Fulop then? And now I read that you might not even play him.
Portsmouth v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Portsmouth are down, Wolves are safe. A boring game? Perhaps not. Portsmouth are playing like they haven’t realised they’ve been relegated and Wolves’ team might be full of Welsh players.
David Jones and Dave Edwards will probably start for Wolves again but it’s very unlikely that manager Mick McCarthy will take advantage of their safety and give Wayne Hennessey and Sam Vokes a run in the team. If McCarthy did do this, I might have to start liking him.
Stoke City v Everton
A win could put Stoke into the top half of the table. They might have had a top-half finish in the top division before but if so it’s not for a very long time. Everton have a very small chance of stealing Liverpool’s place in the Europa League.
Ryan Shawcross made an early return from his ankle injury last week after an injury led to his introduction in the 9th minute. If he starts, Danny Collins could be on the bench but I hope Tony Pulis drops someone else instead.
Tottenham Hotspur v Bolton Wanderers
Tottenham remain in fourth place on goal difference despite losing to Manchester United last weekend. Bolton are now safe but could finish anywhere between 14th and 17th.
Assuming Harry Redknapp is not mad, he will select Gareth Bale to play at either left back or left wing. Or maybe both like last week.
Sam Ricketts could be on the bench again for Bolton.
Monday, 26 April 2010
PFA Teams of the Year
Three Welsh players have been named in the Professional Football Association's Teams of the Year.
Chris Gunter (Nottingham Forest) and Ashley Williams (Swansea City) were in the Championship Team of the Year.
Ben Davies got into the League Two Team of the Year.
Gareth Bale was not in the Premier League Team of the Year but his excellent form in the second half of the season has led to several people suggesting that perhaps he should have been chosen.
Llongyfarchiadau!
Chris Gunter (Nottingham Forest) and Ashley Williams (Swansea City) were in the Championship Team of the Year.
Ben Davies got into the League Two Team of the Year.
Gareth Bale was not in the Premier League Team of the Year but his excellent form in the second half of the season has led to several people suggesting that perhaps he should have been chosen.
Llongyfarchiadau!
League Two Results 24th April Part 2
Lincoln City 1-0 Bury
Lincoln’s win ensured their survival while a defeat wasn’t quite enough to put Bury out of the play-off places.
I’m getting a bit confused about Lincoln loanee David Stephens. First he’s on the bench, then he’s out of the squad, then he’s on the bench, then he’s out of the squad. So the only think I was sure of was that he wouldn’t be in the starting line-up? Right? Wrong. David started the match, finished the match, and was arguably the Man of the Match.
Morecambe 1-0 Dagenham & Redbridge
The battle for the League Two play-off places is very, very close. Morecambe are now 8th, out of the play-offs on goal difference. Dag & Red are now down to 11th – but they’re only a point behind Morecambe.
Darren Moss started for Morecambe and played the whole match. But that wasn’t all he did. He also scored a brilliant goal in the 86th minute. He would love to be promoted with Morecambe after losing the play-off final with Shrewsbury Town last year.
Tony Roberts was in goal for Dag & Red.
Northampton Town 2-0 Shrewsbury Town
This win for Northampton keeps them just a point behind the play-offs but for Shrewsbury the dream is pretty much over. But they could probably still do it, depending on the fixtures still to play.
Peter Gilbert played in defence for the winning team.
Will Richards wasn’t in Shrewsbury’s squad.
Port Vale 2-1 Notts County
Port Vale always said they could get into the play-offs and the dream has never been so alive as it is now. There are still a lot of teams in it but Port Vale are still 7th. And they’ve just beaten the almost unbeatable Notts County.
Craig Davies – who recovered from a knee injury in time to play - and Lewis Haldane both started for Port Vale but neither could find the net although match reports suggest Lewis got the assist for the second goal. Gareth Owen failed a fitness test on his back and hip and wasn’t in the squad.
Ben Davies looked lively for Notts County and took one great free kick that deserved to be an assist – but the resulting shot was inches wide. Maybe if Ben hadn’t gone off injured after twenty-three minutes, the result could have been slightly different. Not that Port Vale didn’t fully deserve their win.
Torquay United 1-0 Macclesfield Town
Torquay stretched their unbeaten run to six games and moved up to 18th place. But most importantly, they are now safe from relegation. They’re actually above Macclesfield on goal difference now.
Matthew Tipton was a late substitute for Macclesfield.
Lincoln’s win ensured their survival while a defeat wasn’t quite enough to put Bury out of the play-off places.
I’m getting a bit confused about Lincoln loanee David Stephens. First he’s on the bench, then he’s out of the squad, then he’s on the bench, then he’s out of the squad. So the only think I was sure of was that he wouldn’t be in the starting line-up? Right? Wrong. David started the match, finished the match, and was arguably the Man of the Match.
Morecambe 1-0 Dagenham & Redbridge
The battle for the League Two play-off places is very, very close. Morecambe are now 8th, out of the play-offs on goal difference. Dag & Red are now down to 11th – but they’re only a point behind Morecambe.
Darren Moss started for Morecambe and played the whole match. But that wasn’t all he did. He also scored a brilliant goal in the 86th minute. He would love to be promoted with Morecambe after losing the play-off final with Shrewsbury Town last year.
Tony Roberts was in goal for Dag & Red.
Northampton Town 2-0 Shrewsbury Town
This win for Northampton keeps them just a point behind the play-offs but for Shrewsbury the dream is pretty much over. But they could probably still do it, depending on the fixtures still to play.
Peter Gilbert played in defence for the winning team.
Will Richards wasn’t in Shrewsbury’s squad.
Port Vale 2-1 Notts County
Port Vale always said they could get into the play-offs and the dream has never been so alive as it is now. There are still a lot of teams in it but Port Vale are still 7th. And they’ve just beaten the almost unbeatable Notts County.
Craig Davies – who recovered from a knee injury in time to play - and Lewis Haldane both started for Port Vale but neither could find the net although match reports suggest Lewis got the assist for the second goal. Gareth Owen failed a fitness test on his back and hip and wasn’t in the squad.
Ben Davies looked lively for Notts County and took one great free kick that deserved to be an assist – but the resulting shot was inches wide. Maybe if Ben hadn’t gone off injured after twenty-three minutes, the result could have been slightly different. Not that Port Vale didn’t fully deserve their win.
Torquay United 1-0 Macclesfield Town
Torquay stretched their unbeaten run to six games and moved up to 18th place. But most importantly, they are now safe from relegation. They’re actually above Macclesfield on goal difference now.
Matthew Tipton was a late substitute for Macclesfield.
League Two Results 24th April Part 1
Burton Albion 0-2 Bournemouth
Bournemouth sealed promotion with a win over Burton Albion, who are set to finish their debut League season in mid-table.
Tony James was absent from Burton’s team, apparently rested.
Rhoys Wiggins played in defence for Burton but Joe Partington wasn’t in the squad.
Well done to Bournemouth – it’s an amazing achievement. They could so easily have been aiming for promotion from the Blue Square Premier this season. Instead they’re promoted from League Two and next season’s fixtures might even include Leeds United.
Cheltenham Town 1-2 Aldershot Town
This match looked like it was going to be a draw but a late winner kept Aldershot in the play-off places. Cheltenham could still, in theory, be relegated on goal difference.
Cheltenham’s Josh Low was a doubt due to a leg injury but he was able to play.
Chesterfield 1-1 Bradford City
Chesterfield are out of the play-off places after only managing a draw with Bradford. Bradford will finish mid-table, which can’t be what they were hoping for but it could be worse – and would have been, if they hadn’t managed to turn around their run of bad form.
Robert Page and Mark Crossley were both on the bench for Chesterfield.
Michael Flynn was in midfield for Bradford and got the assist for their goal with a throw-in.
Hereford United 2-1 Rochdale
Rochdale’s poor run of form continues, with Hereford being the latest to take points off the possible Champions.
Ryan Valentine had the chance to put Hereford 2-0 ahead after winning a penalty and choosing to take the kick himself. It was saved but he stayed focused and managed to put one of the rebounds away. Ryan Green and Darren Jones also played for Hereford.
Bournemouth sealed promotion with a win over Burton Albion, who are set to finish their debut League season in mid-table.
Tony James was absent from Burton’s team, apparently rested.
Rhoys Wiggins played in defence for Burton but Joe Partington wasn’t in the squad.
Well done to Bournemouth – it’s an amazing achievement. They could so easily have been aiming for promotion from the Blue Square Premier this season. Instead they’re promoted from League Two and next season’s fixtures might even include Leeds United.
Cheltenham Town 1-2 Aldershot Town
This match looked like it was going to be a draw but a late winner kept Aldershot in the play-off places. Cheltenham could still, in theory, be relegated on goal difference.
Cheltenham’s Josh Low was a doubt due to a leg injury but he was able to play.
Chesterfield 1-1 Bradford City
Chesterfield are out of the play-off places after only managing a draw with Bradford. Bradford will finish mid-table, which can’t be what they were hoping for but it could be worse – and would have been, if they hadn’t managed to turn around their run of bad form.
Robert Page and Mark Crossley were both on the bench for Chesterfield.
Michael Flynn was in midfield for Bradford and got the assist for their goal with a throw-in.
Hereford United 2-1 Rochdale
Rochdale’s poor run of form continues, with Hereford being the latest to take points off the possible Champions.
Ryan Valentine had the chance to put Hereford 2-0 ahead after winning a penalty and choosing to take the kick himself. It was saved but he stayed focused and managed to put one of the rebounds away. Ryan Green and Darren Jones also played for Hereford.
League Two Fixture 27th April
Darlington v Notts County
It’s bottom meets top as relegated Darlington take on Notts County – who will be Champions if they win this match. Darlington might not have won many games this season but recent scalps include second-placed Rochdale.
Ben Davies was substituted scarily early on in Notts County’s last game and he’s said to be a doubt. Manager Steve Cotterill won’t say what it’s wrong so maybe it’s his groin. Thisisnottingham says Ben limped off but that means nothing. I’ve read about playing limping off with bad shoulders.
It’s bottom meets top as relegated Darlington take on Notts County – who will be Champions if they win this match. Darlington might not have won many games this season but recent scalps include second-placed Rochdale.
Ben Davies was substituted scarily early on in Notts County’s last game and he’s said to be a doubt. Manager Steve Cotterill won’t say what it’s wrong so maybe it’s his groin. Thisisnottingham says Ben limped off but that means nothing. I’ve read about playing limping off with bad shoulders.
League One Results 24th April Part 2
Leeds United 4-1 Milton Keynes Dons
Leeds remained in the automatic promotion race after thrasing MK Dons 4-1. But let’s not forget MK Dons had three players sent off although only one was sent off in the first half and the third didn’t go until the 90th minute.
Sanchez Watt got his first start for Leeds and celebrated by setting up the opening goal. He was also pretty unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself.
Jermaine Easter passed a fitness test on his thigh played the full match for Milton Keynes Dons.
Norwich City 2-0 Gillingham
Congratulations to Norwich, who are now the League One Champions, They were bottom after the first game but look at them now.
And they did almost all of it without their Welsh players. Rhoys Wiggins was sent out on loan to Bournemouth (where he’s helped them to promotion), Owain Tudur Jones was sent on loan to Yeovil Town, then ignored when he came back, and Josh Dawkin (who is pretty young) never got further than the bench.
Oldham Athletic 2-2 Southend United
A couple of months ago, Southend weren’t particularly looking like relegation candidates but they’ve somehow ended up relegated – not to mention two points behind ‘dead and buried’ Wycombe Wanderers.
Oldham will not be joining them in League Two. A point was enough to save them.
Joe Jacobson didn’t play for Oldham as he’s still recovering from a groin operation.
Southampton 3-2 Carlisle United
Southampton did their best to keep their play-off hopes alive but the teams currently in the play-offs weren’t having it and Huddersfield Town’s win means that Southampton can’t catch them. Without their points deduction, they’d be in the race for automatic promotion.
Carlisle can still finish in the top half if they want to.
Lloyd James was omitted from Southampton’s squad – which was probably sensible considering he only lasted seventeen minutes last week. I hope Southampton look after him and get him properly better for next season.
Jason Price had a fitness test on his hamstring injury. He was only fit enough for Carlisle’s bench but he came on after 62 minutes and Carlisle did get a goal about half an hour later.
Stockport County 0-6 Huddersfield Town
Huddersfield’s win – if ‘win’ doesn’t seem like too much of an understatement – ensures that they’ll be in the play-offs. Stockport don’t have a lot to play for but it’s a shame they let in six whole goals.
Owain fon Williams was in goal for Stockport. But at least a result like this means I get to see a lot of him on The Football League Show. And I’m sure he kept the score down more than you’d think.
Walsall 3-1 Hartlepool United
This win puts Walsall up into the top half of the table. Hartlepool’s goal difference means they’re realistically safe – but they won’t be if they have three points deducted for fielding an ineligible player.
Rhys Weston returned to Walsall’s starting line-up but Mark Bradley stayed on the bench. Mark has had a knee problem but he might not have played anyway.
Leeds remained in the automatic promotion race after thrasing MK Dons 4-1. But let’s not forget MK Dons had three players sent off although only one was sent off in the first half and the third didn’t go until the 90th minute.
Sanchez Watt got his first start for Leeds and celebrated by setting up the opening goal. He was also pretty unlucky not to get on the scoresheet himself.
Jermaine Easter passed a fitness test on his thigh played the full match for Milton Keynes Dons.
Norwich City 2-0 Gillingham
Congratulations to Norwich, who are now the League One Champions, They were bottom after the first game but look at them now.
And they did almost all of it without their Welsh players. Rhoys Wiggins was sent out on loan to Bournemouth (where he’s helped them to promotion), Owain Tudur Jones was sent on loan to Yeovil Town, then ignored when he came back, and Josh Dawkin (who is pretty young) never got further than the bench.
Oldham Athletic 2-2 Southend United
A couple of months ago, Southend weren’t particularly looking like relegation candidates but they’ve somehow ended up relegated – not to mention two points behind ‘dead and buried’ Wycombe Wanderers.
Oldham will not be joining them in League Two. A point was enough to save them.
Joe Jacobson didn’t play for Oldham as he’s still recovering from a groin operation.
Southampton 3-2 Carlisle United
Southampton did their best to keep their play-off hopes alive but the teams currently in the play-offs weren’t having it and Huddersfield Town’s win means that Southampton can’t catch them. Without their points deduction, they’d be in the race for automatic promotion.
Carlisle can still finish in the top half if they want to.
Lloyd James was omitted from Southampton’s squad – which was probably sensible considering he only lasted seventeen minutes last week. I hope Southampton look after him and get him properly better for next season.
Jason Price had a fitness test on his hamstring injury. He was only fit enough for Carlisle’s bench but he came on after 62 minutes and Carlisle did get a goal about half an hour later.
Stockport County 0-6 Huddersfield Town
Huddersfield’s win – if ‘win’ doesn’t seem like too much of an understatement – ensures that they’ll be in the play-offs. Stockport don’t have a lot to play for but it’s a shame they let in six whole goals.
Owain fon Williams was in goal for Stockport. But at least a result like this means I get to see a lot of him on The Football League Show. And I’m sure he kept the score down more than you’d think.
Walsall 3-1 Hartlepool United
This win puts Walsall up into the top half of the table. Hartlepool’s goal difference means they’re realistically safe – but they won’t be if they have three points deducted for fielding an ineligible player.
Rhys Weston returned to Walsall’s starting line-up but Mark Bradley stayed on the bench. Mark has had a knee problem but he might not have played anyway.
League One Results 24th April Part 1
Brentford 1-1 Yeovil Town
Brentford have now won eleven games in a row – not bad considering their Welsh goalkeeper hasn’t played for months. Yeovil are still two points away from being completely safe.
Lewis Price wasn’t even on the bench for Brentford. And they only had six substitutes. Why not let Lewis on the bench too? I’m sure there’s not a rule about how many goalkeepers you put on the bench and even if there is, there’s no rule against sending on ‘outfield player’ Lewis Price and telling him to go in goal.
Yeovil might be having a bit of a Welsh midfield crisis. Shaun MacDonald wasn’t in the squad at all while Gavin Williams was substituted after 42 minutes. But at least Arron Davies got to come off the bench after 62 minutes. Nathan Jones was on the bench too.
Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1 Bristol Rovers
In the fifth minute of extra time, Brighton were looking on course for a draw, which wouldn’t quite be enough to ensure they would definitely stay up this season. Then Brighton got a penalty. Admittedly, it would have been more dramatic if it was the last day of the season but still, it must have been seriously nervy stuff. But luckily the penalty went in and Brighton are now safe.
Bristol Rovers will almost certainly still finish in the top half of the table.
Andrew Crofts played the full match for Brighton. He’s been great for them this season and when I say he’s probably half the reason why they stayed up, I might not even be exaggerating by all that much.
Ben Swallow got another start for Bristol Rovers but Byron Anthony was missing due to a knee injury.
Colchester United 1-1 Tranmere Rovers
Colchester are officially out of the play-off race which is a shame for any team but it must be especially tough when you were right up there for most of the season. Tranmere are two points from safety.
Ash Taylor played another ninety minutes for Tranmere and was, according to his manager, a tower of strength. Even if they do go down, I hope he won’t be too disappointed with his own performances because he shouldn’t be, he’s been great.
Exeter City 1-1 Charlton Athletic
Not a great result for either team, as Exeter are still just two points from the relegation zone and Charlton have very little chance now of automatic promotion.
Rob Edwards was back in Exeter’s starting line-up alongside Richard Duffy and I think Rob might have got the assist for the goal, it does sound that way although BBC Sport says not. Andy Marriott was on the bench but Stuart Fleetwood was omitted from the squad as he’s on loan from Charlton.
Brentford have now won eleven games in a row – not bad considering their Welsh goalkeeper hasn’t played for months. Yeovil are still two points away from being completely safe.
Lewis Price wasn’t even on the bench for Brentford. And they only had six substitutes. Why not let Lewis on the bench too? I’m sure there’s not a rule about how many goalkeepers you put on the bench and even if there is, there’s no rule against sending on ‘outfield player’ Lewis Price and telling him to go in goal.
Yeovil might be having a bit of a Welsh midfield crisis. Shaun MacDonald wasn’t in the squad at all while Gavin Williams was substituted after 42 minutes. But at least Arron Davies got to come off the bench after 62 minutes. Nathan Jones was on the bench too.
Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1 Bristol Rovers
In the fifth minute of extra time, Brighton were looking on course for a draw, which wouldn’t quite be enough to ensure they would definitely stay up this season. Then Brighton got a penalty. Admittedly, it would have been more dramatic if it was the last day of the season but still, it must have been seriously nervy stuff. But luckily the penalty went in and Brighton are now safe.
Bristol Rovers will almost certainly still finish in the top half of the table.
Andrew Crofts played the full match for Brighton. He’s been great for them this season and when I say he’s probably half the reason why they stayed up, I might not even be exaggerating by all that much.
Ben Swallow got another start for Bristol Rovers but Byron Anthony was missing due to a knee injury.
Colchester United 1-1 Tranmere Rovers
Colchester are officially out of the play-off race which is a shame for any team but it must be especially tough when you were right up there for most of the season. Tranmere are two points from safety.
Ash Taylor played another ninety minutes for Tranmere and was, according to his manager, a tower of strength. Even if they do go down, I hope he won’t be too disappointed with his own performances because he shouldn’t be, he’s been great.
Exeter City 1-1 Charlton Athletic
Not a great result for either team, as Exeter are still just two points from the relegation zone and Charlton have very little chance now of automatic promotion.
Rob Edwards was back in Exeter’s starting line-up alongside Richard Duffy and I think Rob might have got the assist for the goal, it does sound that way although BBC Sport says not. Andy Marriott was on the bench but Stuart Fleetwood was omitted from the squad as he’s on loan from Charlton.
Championship Results 24th April Part 3
Sheffield United 2-0 Swansea City
Sheffield United’s win dumped Swansea out of the play-off places, with Blackpool taking their place. Sheffield United are up to ninth, behind Middlesbrough on goal difference.
Ched Evans was on the bench again for Sheffield United and made a substitute appearance after 64 minutes. It was his first appearance since recovering from a collarbone injury.
Ashley Williams was Swansea’s only Welsh starter. Some people think the goal was his fault and maybe I do a bit too but that doesn’t mean we’re right. Former Sheffield United player David Cotterill came off the bench two minutes after the Blades’ first goal went in. A penalty from David helped keep Swansea out of the play-offs last year.
David Cornell and Joe Allen were also on the bench for Swansea but they stayed there.
Watford 3-0 Reading
Watford needed to take advantage of their not completely awful home form in order to stay up – and they did it with a game to spare. It was a great win for them and a deserved one.
Simon Church came off the bench after 61 minutes for Reading.
Sheffield United’s win dumped Swansea out of the play-off places, with Blackpool taking their place. Sheffield United are up to ninth, behind Middlesbrough on goal difference.
Ched Evans was on the bench again for Sheffield United and made a substitute appearance after 64 minutes. It was his first appearance since recovering from a collarbone injury.
Ashley Williams was Swansea’s only Welsh starter. Some people think the goal was his fault and maybe I do a bit too but that doesn’t mean we’re right. Former Sheffield United player David Cotterill came off the bench two minutes after the Blades’ first goal went in. A penalty from David helped keep Swansea out of the play-offs last year.
David Cornell and Joe Allen were also on the bench for Swansea but they stayed there.
Watford 3-0 Reading
Watford needed to take advantage of their not completely awful home form in order to stay up – and they did it with a game to spare. It was a great win for them and a deserved one.
Simon Church came off the bench after 61 minutes for Reading.
Championship Results 24th April Part 2
Newcastle 2-2 Ipswich Town
I was all excited about this game. Roy Keane said he’d give the younger players a chance but Troy Brown wasn’t even in the squad. It was a great game though. Newcastle will now complete their season without losing a match at home (their only remaining match is away).
Nottingham Forest 3-0 Plymouth Argyle
Nottingham Forest beat Plymouth emphatically and sent them back down to League Two – but we all kind of knew they were going anyway. Forest are now guaranteed to finish in one of the top two play-off places which could be an advantage given that their home form is much better than their away form.
Chris Gunter and Robert Earnshaw were back in the starting line-up. Chris got Forest a clean sheet and Rob scored their opening goal, his fifteenth of the season.
There was a rumour that Carl Fletcher was out with a knee injury but I think whoever said it maybe didn’t realise he was better now. Anyway, he played.
Peterborough United 0-1 Blackpool
Blackpool move into the final play-off place after this victory over relegated Peterborough and Swansea City’s defeat to Sheffield United.
Craig Morgan didn’t play for Peterborough due to illness.
David Vaughan played the full match for Blackpool. He would have got an assist but the Peterborough keeper was having a ‘world class’ moment. David also did his bit defensively, clearing a shot off the line to stop Peterborough from equalising. Neal Eardley returned from a hamstring injury to sit with Rob Edwards on the bench.
Preston North End 0-1 Leicester City
Leicester ensured their place in the play-off places with this victory over Preston.
And guess who scored the goal? Andy King. He’s been great this season – lucky lucky Wales. Andy is desperate to play in Wembley because even his brother’s played there and I don’t think he’s a professional because I think I’d know about him.
His team-mate Nicky Adams was only a substitute again despite a rumoured midfield crisis.
Preston are still without Paul Parry, who has a knee injury.
I was all excited about this game. Roy Keane said he’d give the younger players a chance but Troy Brown wasn’t even in the squad. It was a great game though. Newcastle will now complete their season without losing a match at home (their only remaining match is away).
Nottingham Forest 3-0 Plymouth Argyle
Nottingham Forest beat Plymouth emphatically and sent them back down to League Two – but we all kind of knew they were going anyway. Forest are now guaranteed to finish in one of the top two play-off places which could be an advantage given that their home form is much better than their away form.
Chris Gunter and Robert Earnshaw were back in the starting line-up. Chris got Forest a clean sheet and Rob scored their opening goal, his fifteenth of the season.
There was a rumour that Carl Fletcher was out with a knee injury but I think whoever said it maybe didn’t realise he was better now. Anyway, he played.
Peterborough United 0-1 Blackpool
Blackpool move into the final play-off place after this victory over relegated Peterborough and Swansea City’s defeat to Sheffield United.
Craig Morgan didn’t play for Peterborough due to illness.
David Vaughan played the full match for Blackpool. He would have got an assist but the Peterborough keeper was having a ‘world class’ moment. David also did his bit defensively, clearing a shot off the line to stop Peterborough from equalising. Neal Eardley returned from a hamstring injury to sit with Rob Edwards on the bench.
Preston North End 0-1 Leicester City
Leicester ensured their place in the play-off places with this victory over Preston.
And guess who scored the goal? Andy King. He’s been great this season – lucky lucky Wales. Andy is desperate to play in Wembley because even his brother’s played there and I don’t think he’s a professional because I think I’d know about him.
His team-mate Nicky Adams was only a substitute again despite a rumoured midfield crisis.
Preston are still without Paul Parry, who has a knee injury.
Championship Results 24th April Part 1
Bristol City 2-1 Derby County
Bristol City got back to winning ways with a victory over Derby, who are safe but probably disappointed with their season.
Lewin Nyatanga kept his place in Bristol City’s starting line-up and he nearly scored an own goal from a backpass but he didn’t so that’s okay. Christian Ribeiro was back on the bench.
Robbie Savage played for Derby and nearly got an assist.
Cardiff City 3-2 Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday are still just a point from safety and Crystal Palace have two games in hand – it’s not looking good. Cardiff are almost guaranteed to finish in one of the top two play-off places but manager Dave Jones doesn’t think that will give them a particular advantage.
Joe Ledley played another ninety minutes for Cardiff and came close to getting another goal. Darcy Blake also started but was replaced at half-time after getting a knock. Aaron Wildig came off the bench on later on and reports suggest he might have got the assist for the winning goal but either way, he was very much involved. Adam Matthews was also among the substitutes.
Doncaster Rovers 4-3 Scunthorpe United
Neither team had a great deal to play for, with Scunthorpe definitely safe and Doncaster wobbling since losing their chance of being in the play-offs. But both managed to lift themselves for a very exciting derby.
The plan was for Brian Stock to make his comeback as a substitute but an injury to fellow Welshmen John Oster meant he was promoted to the starting line-up. Brian managed 64 minutes and could perhaps have gone on longer. John will have a scan on his injured knee today. Gareth Roberts was also in Doncaster’s starting line-up and got the assist for the second goal.
Middlesbrough 1-1 Coventry City
It wasn’t a great showing for either side but I like the look of Middlesbrough’s Luke Williams. I wonder if he’s Welsh, he looks promising.
Rhys Williams played the full match for Middlesbrough with Danny Coyne on the bench.
Freddy Eastwood played the full match for Coventry and his badly-saved shot on goal led to the equaliser.
Bristol City got back to winning ways with a victory over Derby, who are safe but probably disappointed with their season.
Lewin Nyatanga kept his place in Bristol City’s starting line-up and he nearly scored an own goal from a backpass but he didn’t so that’s okay. Christian Ribeiro was back on the bench.
Robbie Savage played for Derby and nearly got an assist.
Cardiff City 3-2 Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday are still just a point from safety and Crystal Palace have two games in hand – it’s not looking good. Cardiff are almost guaranteed to finish in one of the top two play-off places but manager Dave Jones doesn’t think that will give them a particular advantage.
Joe Ledley played another ninety minutes for Cardiff and came close to getting another goal. Darcy Blake also started but was replaced at half-time after getting a knock. Aaron Wildig came off the bench on later on and reports suggest he might have got the assist for the winning goal but either way, he was very much involved. Adam Matthews was also among the substitutes.
Doncaster Rovers 4-3 Scunthorpe United
Neither team had a great deal to play for, with Scunthorpe definitely safe and Doncaster wobbling since losing their chance of being in the play-offs. But both managed to lift themselves for a very exciting derby.
The plan was for Brian Stock to make his comeback as a substitute but an injury to fellow Welshmen John Oster meant he was promoted to the starting line-up. Brian managed 64 minutes and could perhaps have gone on longer. John will have a scan on his injured knee today. Gareth Roberts was also in Doncaster’s starting line-up and got the assist for the second goal.
Middlesbrough 1-1 Coventry City
It wasn’t a great showing for either side but I like the look of Middlesbrough’s Luke Williams. I wonder if he’s Welsh, he looks promising.
Rhys Williams played the full match for Middlesbrough with Danny Coyne on the bench.
Freddy Eastwood played the full match for Coventry and his badly-saved shot on goal led to the equaliser.
Premier League Results 24th April
Arsenal 0-0 Manchester City
Arsenal are officially out of the title race but at least they stopped Manchester City from moving into fourth. I can’t believe I actually want Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions’ League but I do. It’s for the good of my country.
Aaron Ramsey and just about everyone else were missing from Arsenal’s team. Craig Bellamy played for Man City despite rumours that he and Roberto Mancini weren’t speaking again.
Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Portsmouth
Bolton weren’t quite safe from relegation when this match was played but luckily Liverpool saved them yesterday so they’re okay now. Portsmouth are just enjoying the little Premier League time they have left, good for them.
Look, just because Sam Ricketts, who is a DEFENDER, isn’t absolutely outstanding in a midfield role, that’s no reason to drop him altogether. He’s been great right across the back four, expecting him to be brilliant in midfield too is just greedy. Not that I thought he was that bad.
Hull City 0-1 Sunderland
Jimmy Bullard missed a penalty, denying Hull an equaliser and ensuring that they’ll be in the Championship next season unless they can start winning games 10-0. But it’s not his fault. Sunderland are back up in the top half.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench again for Hull.
Manchester United 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United moved to the top of the table after beating the on-form Tottenham
Ryan Giggs scored two penalties, one of them particularly dubious, to help Manchester United to a win over Tottenham. Amazingly, these were his first ever penalties in the Premier League. Owen Hargreaves made a surprise but very welcome appearance on the bench.
Gareth Bale couldn’t continue his run of winning goals for Tottenham but who’d have thought a year ago that he’d even be on a run like that?
West Ham United 3-2 Wigan Athletic
West Ham do what Arsenal couldn’t do last week and ensure their safety in the process. Wigan are also now safe.
Danny Gabbidon was on the bench for West Ham. Wigan’s Jason Koumas was exactly where I expected him to be. I’ll be sad when the football season ends but at least Jason can get on with finding a new club where he’s appreciated.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 Blackburn Rovers
Wolves draw their third match in succession – and their fifth in the last seven matches. It’s relegation form but that doesn’t matter when you’re already safe. Blackburn are only out of the top half on goal difference.
Dave Edwards and David Jones both started for Wolves but Dave was replaced after 23 minutes. I think it was actually a tactical change. Weird, he was having a good game. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench for the home side and Jason Brown for the away side.
Arsenal are officially out of the title race but at least they stopped Manchester City from moving into fourth. I can’t believe I actually want Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions’ League but I do. It’s for the good of my country.
Aaron Ramsey and just about everyone else were missing from Arsenal’s team. Craig Bellamy played for Man City despite rumours that he and Roberto Mancini weren’t speaking again.
Bolton Wanderers 2-2 Portsmouth
Bolton weren’t quite safe from relegation when this match was played but luckily Liverpool saved them yesterday so they’re okay now. Portsmouth are just enjoying the little Premier League time they have left, good for them.
Look, just because Sam Ricketts, who is a DEFENDER, isn’t absolutely outstanding in a midfield role, that’s no reason to drop him altogether. He’s been great right across the back four, expecting him to be brilliant in midfield too is just greedy. Not that I thought he was that bad.
Hull City 0-1 Sunderland
Jimmy Bullard missed a penalty, denying Hull an equaliser and ensuring that they’ll be in the Championship next season unless they can start winning games 10-0. But it’s not his fault. Sunderland are back up in the top half.
Boaz Myhill was on the bench again for Hull.
Manchester United 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester United moved to the top of the table after beating the on-form Tottenham
Ryan Giggs scored two penalties, one of them particularly dubious, to help Manchester United to a win over Tottenham. Amazingly, these were his first ever penalties in the Premier League. Owen Hargreaves made a surprise but very welcome appearance on the bench.
Gareth Bale couldn’t continue his run of winning goals for Tottenham but who’d have thought a year ago that he’d even be on a run like that?
West Ham United 3-2 Wigan Athletic
West Ham do what Arsenal couldn’t do last week and ensure their safety in the process. Wigan are also now safe.
Danny Gabbidon was on the bench for West Ham. Wigan’s Jason Koumas was exactly where I expected him to be. I’ll be sad when the football season ends but at least Jason can get on with finding a new club where he’s appreciated.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 Blackburn Rovers
Wolves draw their third match in succession – and their fifth in the last seven matches. It’s relegation form but that doesn’t matter when you’re already safe. Blackburn are only out of the top half on goal difference.
Dave Edwards and David Jones both started for Wolves but Dave was replaced after 23 minutes. I think it was actually a tactical change. Weird, he was having a good game. Wayne Hennessey was on the bench for the home side and Jason Brown for the away side.
Saturday, 24 April 2010
Championship Fixtures 24th April Part 3
Preston North End v Leicester City
If Leicester win, they’ll be certain of a play-off place. And even if Preston win 7-0 again, they won’t be sneaking into the top six this year.
Paul Parry won’t play for Preston as he still has a knee injury.
Leicester have a big injury crisis in midfield so Andy King could be joined in midfield by Nicky Adams.
Sheffield United v Swansea City
Sheffield United might not be able to get into the play-offs themselves but at least they can ruin things for Swansea if they want to. It happened to a Welsh team last year too.
Ched Evans was a surprise inclusion in the squad for Sheffield United’s match – his collarbone was expected to keep him out from the season. So maybe he’ll be on the bench again.
Ashley Williams should start for Swansea. David Cotterill should too but that doesn’t mean he will. Joe Allen will also be in the squad.
Watford v Reading
A win for Watford could be enough to save them – but a defeat could plunge them into the bottom three. Reading are out of the play-offs so where wins are concerned they probably aren’t as desperate as Watford.
Simon Church started Reading’s last match and it would be really nice if he did that again.
If Leicester win, they’ll be certain of a play-off place. And even if Preston win 7-0 again, they won’t be sneaking into the top six this year.
Paul Parry won’t play for Preston as he still has a knee injury.
Leicester have a big injury crisis in midfield so Andy King could be joined in midfield by Nicky Adams.
Sheffield United v Swansea City
Sheffield United might not be able to get into the play-offs themselves but at least they can ruin things for Swansea if they want to. It happened to a Welsh team last year too.
Ched Evans was a surprise inclusion in the squad for Sheffield United’s match – his collarbone was expected to keep him out from the season. So maybe he’ll be on the bench again.
Ashley Williams should start for Swansea. David Cotterill should too but that doesn’t mean he will. Joe Allen will also be in the squad.
Watford v Reading
A win for Watford could be enough to save them – but a defeat could plunge them into the bottom three. Reading are out of the play-offs so where wins are concerned they probably aren’t as desperate as Watford.
Simon Church started Reading’s last match and it would be really nice if he did that again.
Championship Fixtures 24th April Part 2
Newcastle United v Ipswich Town
Newcastle have won the League but Ipswich fans might feel like they’ve achieved something similar. Ipswich sportingly gave the other teams a bit of a head start at the beginning of the season. And unlike many teams, they could still finish in the top half although they probably would have to beat Newcastle, which could prove a stumbling block. If Newcastle win this match, they’ll have won every League match at home this season.
Ipswich manager Roy Keane says the younger players will get a chance over the rest of the season. Troy Brown was on the bench in the last game and he could be there again. He was part of the Ipswich reserve side who have just on the Suffolk Premier Cup.
Nottingham Forest v Plymouth Argyle
If Nottingham Forest win, the second leg of their play-off semi-final will be at home. Plymouth need to win this game at least 10-0 to stand a reasonable chance of staying up.
Chris Gunter could return to the starting line-up after being left out last week. He says he would love to go up to the Championship and play against Gareth Bale. He’s probably the only right back in the League who wants to do that. Robert Earnshaw could also be recalled to the starting line-up.
Plymouth captain Carl Fletcher could be out again after picking up another knee injury.
Peterborough United v Blackpool
A win for Blackpool could put them into the play-off places – and look who they’re playing.
Craig Morgan is ill and hasn’t trained for the last two days so he’s not expected to play for Peterborough.
David Vaughan should start again for Blackpool but Rob Edwards will probably be on the bench. Neal Eardley could return to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury but Daniel Nardiello’s hamstring seems less co-operative.
Newcastle have won the League but Ipswich fans might feel like they’ve achieved something similar. Ipswich sportingly gave the other teams a bit of a head start at the beginning of the season. And unlike many teams, they could still finish in the top half although they probably would have to beat Newcastle, which could prove a stumbling block. If Newcastle win this match, they’ll have won every League match at home this season.
Ipswich manager Roy Keane says the younger players will get a chance over the rest of the season. Troy Brown was on the bench in the last game and he could be there again. He was part of the Ipswich reserve side who have just on the Suffolk Premier Cup.
Nottingham Forest v Plymouth Argyle
If Nottingham Forest win, the second leg of their play-off semi-final will be at home. Plymouth need to win this game at least 10-0 to stand a reasonable chance of staying up.
Chris Gunter could return to the starting line-up after being left out last week. He says he would love to go up to the Championship and play against Gareth Bale. He’s probably the only right back in the League who wants to do that. Robert Earnshaw could also be recalled to the starting line-up.
Plymouth captain Carl Fletcher could be out again after picking up another knee injury.
Peterborough United v Blackpool
A win for Blackpool could put them into the play-off places – and look who they’re playing.
Craig Morgan is ill and hasn’t trained for the last two days so he’s not expected to play for Peterborough.
David Vaughan should start again for Blackpool but Rob Edwards will probably be on the bench. Neal Eardley could return to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury but Daniel Nardiello’s hamstring seems less co-operative.
Championship Fixtures 24th April Part 1
Bristol City v Derby County
Bristol City are safe. Derby are safe. The two teams home grounds are about a hundred miles apart (that’s a guess but it’s definitely a long way). So this will be a boring game then? Of course not. It’s got a football in it, hasn’t it? And Bristol City haven’t beaten Derby for 25 years.
Lewin Nyatanga and Christian Ribeiro both started Bristol City’s last match but as Christian was withdrawn at half-time, he’s probably less likely than Lewin to keep his place.
Robbie Savage should play for Derby. And there’s another reason why this game is unlikely to be boring.
Cardiff City v Sheffield Wednesday
If Cardiff want to do another last-minute collapse they’re free to do so (as long as they pick up again for the play-offs). Sheffield Wednesday will definitely be hoping this is what happens. They’re currently in the relegation zone.
Joe Ledley is likely to be in the starting line-up again for Cardiff but Darcy Blake could lose his place as Cardiff’s captain is fit again. Adam Matthews and Aaron Wildig should also be in the squad.
Doncaster Rovers v Scunthorpe United
Yes, this is a Championship match. And it will be next season as well. Doncaster have dropped away a bit since losing their battle for a play-off place but I’m sure they won’t want to end the season with a whimper. Scunthorpe could technically (if fixtures allow it) finish in the top half of the table. But I bet they won’t.
Brian Stock is hoping he might actually get to play for Doncaster this week but it depends on his back. He played in a training game this week and he was fine. He really wants to play regularly for the rest of the season so increase his chance of being selected for the Wales friendly against Croatia Gareth Roberts and John Oster are more likely to start.
Middlesbrough v Coventry City
Both teams had a go at flirting with the play-offs but clearly both need to work on their flirting skills. Middlesbrough are almost certain to finish in the top half but Coventry have only just ensured their survival. They haven’t won since 6th March and that was against Peterborough United.
Rhys Williams was substituted early in Middlesbrough’s last game, perhaps due to his pelvis injury. Rhys says it feels like it’s about to snap and he hasn’t been training but manager Gordon Strachan wants him to play. Maybe Rhys would be better off on the bench with Danny Coyne. Danny won a Community Player of the Year award this week with Rhys receiving a special mention. Rhys is also Boro’s Young Player of the Year.
Freddy Eastwood still has a sore back but he trained this week and scored midweek so he could play.
Bristol City are safe. Derby are safe. The two teams home grounds are about a hundred miles apart (that’s a guess but it’s definitely a long way). So this will be a boring game then? Of course not. It’s got a football in it, hasn’t it? And Bristol City haven’t beaten Derby for 25 years.
Lewin Nyatanga and Christian Ribeiro both started Bristol City’s last match but as Christian was withdrawn at half-time, he’s probably less likely than Lewin to keep his place.
Robbie Savage should play for Derby. And there’s another reason why this game is unlikely to be boring.
Cardiff City v Sheffield Wednesday
If Cardiff want to do another last-minute collapse they’re free to do so (as long as they pick up again for the play-offs). Sheffield Wednesday will definitely be hoping this is what happens. They’re currently in the relegation zone.
Joe Ledley is likely to be in the starting line-up again for Cardiff but Darcy Blake could lose his place as Cardiff’s captain is fit again. Adam Matthews and Aaron Wildig should also be in the squad.
Doncaster Rovers v Scunthorpe United
Yes, this is a Championship match. And it will be next season as well. Doncaster have dropped away a bit since losing their battle for a play-off place but I’m sure they won’t want to end the season with a whimper. Scunthorpe could technically (if fixtures allow it) finish in the top half of the table. But I bet they won’t.
Brian Stock is hoping he might actually get to play for Doncaster this week but it depends on his back. He played in a training game this week and he was fine. He really wants to play regularly for the rest of the season so increase his chance of being selected for the Wales friendly against Croatia Gareth Roberts and John Oster are more likely to start.
Middlesbrough v Coventry City
Both teams had a go at flirting with the play-offs but clearly both need to work on their flirting skills. Middlesbrough are almost certain to finish in the top half but Coventry have only just ensured their survival. They haven’t won since 6th March and that was against Peterborough United.
Rhys Williams was substituted early in Middlesbrough’s last game, perhaps due to his pelvis injury. Rhys says it feels like it’s about to snap and he hasn’t been training but manager Gordon Strachan wants him to play. Maybe Rhys would be better off on the bench with Danny Coyne. Danny won a Community Player of the Year award this week with Rhys receiving a special mention. Rhys is also Boro’s Young Player of the Year.
Freddy Eastwood still has a sore back but he trained this week and scored midweek so he could play.
Premier League Fictures 24th April Part 2
West Ham United v Wigan Athletic
If West Ham win and Hull City and Burnley both lose, they’ll be guaranteed to stay up unless Hull win their last couple of games 5-0, with West Ham losing by the same scoreline. But Wigan have already beaten the best sides in London - and lost to the other one 9-1. So it all depends on which Wigan Athletic shows up.
Danny Gabbidon is likely to be on the bench for West Ham but Jack Collison is probably out ofr the season with a knee injury.
Wigan’s Jason Koumas isn’t injured as far as I know but he probably has less chance of playing than Jack.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Blackburn Rovers
Wolves will be pretty much safe if Hull City and Burnley both lose. And you have to say that’s not impossible. A win today could make them completely safe. Blackburn are safe and hoping for a top-half finish.
Both teams are likely to have Welsh goalkeepers on the bench – Wayne Hennessey has failed to regain his place in Wolves’ starting line-up while Blackburn’s Jason Brown lost his place the minute Paul Robinson was fit again. Wayne has been linked with Liverpool so he might have some nice shiney silverware next season. Assuming the Europa League trophy is silver.
Wolves will have a nice Welshy feel to their midfield, with Dave Edwards and David Jones both in with a chance of starting. Wolves’ fitness coach thinks they both look fit. Wolves might also have Sam Vokes on the bench. He did score for the reserves this week.
If West Ham win and Hull City and Burnley both lose, they’ll be guaranteed to stay up unless Hull win their last couple of games 5-0, with West Ham losing by the same scoreline. But Wigan have already beaten the best sides in London - and lost to the other one 9-1. So it all depends on which Wigan Athletic shows up.
Danny Gabbidon is likely to be on the bench for West Ham but Jack Collison is probably out ofr the season with a knee injury.
Wigan’s Jason Koumas isn’t injured as far as I know but he probably has less chance of playing than Jack.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Blackburn Rovers
Wolves will be pretty much safe if Hull City and Burnley both lose. And you have to say that’s not impossible. A win today could make them completely safe. Blackburn are safe and hoping for a top-half finish.
Both teams are likely to have Welsh goalkeepers on the bench – Wayne Hennessey has failed to regain his place in Wolves’ starting line-up while Blackburn’s Jason Brown lost his place the minute Paul Robinson was fit again. Wayne has been linked with Liverpool so he might have some nice shiney silverware next season. Assuming the Europa League trophy is silver.
Wolves will have a nice Welshy feel to their midfield, with Dave Edwards and David Jones both in with a chance of starting. Wolves’ fitness coach thinks they both look fit. Wolves might also have Sam Vokes on the bench. He did score for the reserves this week.
Premier League Fixtures 24th April Part 1
Arsenal v Manchester City
Manchester City are still in with a good chance of Champions’ League football – and if Arsenal carry on playing as they did against Wigan Athletic, Manchester City could even finish third with Arsenal fifth. Horrible thought. Manchester City must really fancy their chances. Small consolation: Kolo Toure has warned Emmanuel Adebayor to behave himself this time.
Aaron Ramsey will be missing for Arsenal. Craig Bellamy will almost certainly be on the left wing for Manchester City – and yes he can score from there.
Bolton Wanderers v Portsmouth
Whatever happens, Portsmouth are going down and even if Bolton lose (a win will gurantee them Premier League football next season), I think Bolton will stay up.But the home side are still vulnerable and one good thing about being already down is that there’s nothing to worry about, you might as well just go for the win.
Sam Ricketts has been playing in an unfamiliar midfield role and was substituted at half-time in his last match so it’s possible an actual midfielder might be preferred this time. He is excellent across the back four though and he says he’s willing to play anywhere on the pitch..
Hull City v Sunderland
If Hull beat Sunderland and West Ham United lose to Wigan Athletic (which I hope they will, it would be a bit embarrassing for me if they didn’t), Hull will be level on points with West Ham, if a long way behind on goal difference. But if Hull lose and West Ham win, they’ll be six points apart and needing 5-0 wins. So try and win today, Hull, okay?
Sunderland have a good chance of finishing in the top half of the table.
Boaz Myhill may be brought back into Hull’s team after his replacement let in two at Aston Villa. But I think he’ll probably be on the bench again. Aston Villa are pretty good, they’ve scored against quite a few teams this season.
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
My Chelsea fan friends (yes, I do have some!) think Manchester United will win the League. My Manchester United fan friends (look I’ve got to take then where I find them) think Chelsea will win. But Chelsea not only have a one-point advantage, they’re facing Stoke City, who struggle away, while Manchester United face in-form Tottenham who have just beaten Chelsea and Arsenal.
Ryan Giggs is likely to be in Manchester United’s squad but Owen Hargreaves won’t be there. He was right in the middle of his comeback when his calf went and strained itself.
Tottenham will almost certainly select Welsh Wizard Gareth Bale. Following his run of not winning games, he is now on a run of scoring winning goals. Manchester United should be very afraid.
If Tottenham don’t win, they’ll be looking to Arsenal to beat Manchester City – but I doubt Arsenal will be in a charitable mood where Tottenham are concerned.
Manchester City are still in with a good chance of Champions’ League football – and if Arsenal carry on playing as they did against Wigan Athletic, Manchester City could even finish third with Arsenal fifth. Horrible thought. Manchester City must really fancy their chances. Small consolation: Kolo Toure has warned Emmanuel Adebayor to behave himself this time.
Aaron Ramsey will be missing for Arsenal. Craig Bellamy will almost certainly be on the left wing for Manchester City – and yes he can score from there.
Bolton Wanderers v Portsmouth
Whatever happens, Portsmouth are going down and even if Bolton lose (a win will gurantee them Premier League football next season), I think Bolton will stay up.But the home side are still vulnerable and one good thing about being already down is that there’s nothing to worry about, you might as well just go for the win.
Sam Ricketts has been playing in an unfamiliar midfield role and was substituted at half-time in his last match so it’s possible an actual midfielder might be preferred this time. He is excellent across the back four though and he says he’s willing to play anywhere on the pitch..
Hull City v Sunderland
If Hull beat Sunderland and West Ham United lose to Wigan Athletic (which I hope they will, it would be a bit embarrassing for me if they didn’t), Hull will be level on points with West Ham, if a long way behind on goal difference. But if Hull lose and West Ham win, they’ll be six points apart and needing 5-0 wins. So try and win today, Hull, okay?
Sunderland have a good chance of finishing in the top half of the table.
Boaz Myhill may be brought back into Hull’s team after his replacement let in two at Aston Villa. But I think he’ll probably be on the bench again. Aston Villa are pretty good, they’ve scored against quite a few teams this season.
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur
My Chelsea fan friends (yes, I do have some!) think Manchester United will win the League. My Manchester United fan friends (look I’ve got to take then where I find them) think Chelsea will win. But Chelsea not only have a one-point advantage, they’re facing Stoke City, who struggle away, while Manchester United face in-form Tottenham who have just beaten Chelsea and Arsenal.
Ryan Giggs is likely to be in Manchester United’s squad but Owen Hargreaves won’t be there. He was right in the middle of his comeback when his calf went and strained itself.
Tottenham will almost certainly select Welsh Wizard Gareth Bale. Following his run of not winning games, he is now on a run of scoring winning goals. Manchester United should be very afraid.
If Tottenham don’t win, they’ll be looking to Arsenal to beat Manchester City – but I doubt Arsenal will be in a charitable mood where Tottenham are concerned.
Thursday, 22 April 2010
Europe League Fixture 22nd April
Hamburg v Fulham
Fulhan’s Europa League has been something of an adventure – and the adventure hasn’t ended yet. Fulham were already on a coach journey to Hamburg when it was decided it would be safe to fly after all. Fulham stayed on their coach, only to be delayed for three hours in a traffic jam. What did Fulham do? Get out and have a training session on the hard shoulder. Fulham – I love you and I really want you to win the Europa League. (But for now, I’ll try not to think further ahead than tonight’s match.)
As far as I know, Fulham’s Simon Davies is fit. He certainly looks fit in the pictures I’ve seen.
Fulhan’s Europa League has been something of an adventure – and the adventure hasn’t ended yet. Fulham were already on a coach journey to Hamburg when it was decided it would be safe to fly after all. Fulham stayed on their coach, only to be delayed for three hours in a traffic jam. What did Fulham do? Get out and have a training session on the hard shoulder. Fulham – I love you and I really want you to win the Europa League. (But for now, I’ll try not to think further ahead than tonight’s match.)
As far as I know, Fulham’s Simon Davies is fit. He certainly looks fit in the pictures I’ve seen.
Premier League Result 21st April
Hull City 0-2 Aston Villa
Hull were unable to take advantage of their game in hand over their relegation rivals, losing 2-0 to Aston Villa.
Boaz Myhill was again on the bench. He has had some moments really that have been below his usual brilliance but his performances have earned Hull draws against teams including Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur and wins over Manchester City and Fulham.
Aston Villa’s James Collins was Sky Sports’ Man of the Match. Without him, Hull actually might have scored.
Hull were unable to take advantage of their game in hand over their relegation rivals, losing 2-0 to Aston Villa.
Boaz Myhill was again on the bench. He has had some moments really that have been below his usual brilliance but his performances have earned Hull draws against teams including Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur and wins over Manchester City and Fulham.
Aston Villa’s James Collins was Sky Sports’ Man of the Match. Without him, Hull actually might have scored.
League Two Results 20th April
Cheltenham Town 3-3 Darlington
Darlington continue to go down fighting as they get another point at Cheltenham. Cheltenham are now realistically safe – one more point would make them mathematically safe too.
Josh Low played 73 minutes for Cheltenham and probably got the assist for their second goal.
Notts County 1-0 Rochdale
This isn’t really a title decider as such. If Rochdale had won it, Notts County would still have had the game in hand and the chance to go back above them. But a Notts County win means it’s very much in their hands. Or at their feet maybe.
Ben Davies played the full match for Notts but for once he didn’t seem to get a goal or an assist – although he wasn’t far off.
Darlington continue to go down fighting as they get another point at Cheltenham. Cheltenham are now realistically safe – one more point would make them mathematically safe too.
Josh Low played 73 minutes for Cheltenham and probably got the assist for their second goal.
Notts County 1-0 Rochdale
This isn’t really a title decider as such. If Rochdale had won it, Notts County would still have had the game in hand and the chance to go back above them. But a Notts County win means it’s very much in their hands. Or at their feet maybe.
Ben Davies played the full match for Notts but for once he didn’t seem to get a goal or an assist – although he wasn’t far off.
League One Result 20th April
Brentford 2-1 Tranmere Rovers
A win would have taken Tranmere out of the relegation zone at the expense of Exeter City but a draw wouldn’t have been enough and Tranmere were denied even one point when Brentford scored a late goal. Brentford move upto 10th, ahead of former play-off contenders Milton Keynes Dons.
With two other goalkeepers fully fit, there was no place for Lewis Price in Brentford’s squad.
Ash Taylor played the full match for Tranmere.
Southampton 0-0 Oldham Athletic
Southampton could still get into the play-offs mathematically but it’s going to be difficult. They need Huddersfield Town and Colchester United to draw against each other, then Huddersfield will need to get no more than one point from their other two games (against relegated Stockport County and Exeter City) while Colchester would need to get at most a win and a draw from their other two games.
Oldham need three points to be mathematically sure of survival but two points will almost certainly be enough due to their goal difference and there’s a good chance they’ll be okay if they don’t get any more points.
Lloyd James was on the bench and made a surprise substitute appearance at half-time. However Lloyd, who is rumoured to need surgery in the summer, was himself substituted 27 minutes later.
Joe Jacobson has already had his surgery and wasn’t available for Oldham.
A win would have taken Tranmere out of the relegation zone at the expense of Exeter City but a draw wouldn’t have been enough and Tranmere were denied even one point when Brentford scored a late goal. Brentford move upto 10th, ahead of former play-off contenders Milton Keynes Dons.
With two other goalkeepers fully fit, there was no place for Lewis Price in Brentford’s squad.
Ash Taylor played the full match for Tranmere.
Southampton 0-0 Oldham Athletic
Southampton could still get into the play-offs mathematically but it’s going to be difficult. They need Huddersfield Town and Colchester United to draw against each other, then Huddersfield will need to get no more than one point from their other two games (against relegated Stockport County and Exeter City) while Colchester would need to get at most a win and a draw from their other two games.
Oldham need three points to be mathematically sure of survival but two points will almost certainly be enough due to their goal difference and there’s a good chance they’ll be okay if they don’t get any more points.
Lloyd James was on the bench and made a surprise substitute appearance at half-time. However Lloyd, who is rumoured to need surgery in the summer, was himself substituted 27 minutes later.
Joe Jacobson has already had his surgery and wasn’t available for Oldham.
Championship Result 20th April
Scunthorpe United 2-2 Reading
This result ensures that both teams will be playing Championship football. Mathematically, Scunthorpe can still go down but Sheffield Wednesday would need to win all their games and Crystal Palace would need to get a win and a draw. As the two teams are playing each other, this is impossible. Reading had little chance of the play-offs before this match but the draw means they can’t go up whatever happens in the final two games.
Reading were 2-0 up in the 81st minute and looked set to take all three points but Scunthorpe had other ideas. Eight minutes later the scores were level and it was too late for Reading to do anything.
Simon Church got a rare start for Reading and reports suggest he got the assist for the first goal although BBC Sport suggests otherwise.
This result ensures that both teams will be playing Championship football. Mathematically, Scunthorpe can still go down but Sheffield Wednesday would need to win all their games and Crystal Palace would need to get a win and a draw. As the two teams are playing each other, this is impossible. Reading had little chance of the play-offs before this match but the draw means they can’t go up whatever happens in the final two games.
Reading were 2-0 up in the 81st minute and looked set to take all three points but Scunthorpe had other ideas. Eight minutes later the scores were level and it was too late for Reading to do anything.
Simon Church got a rare start for Reading and reports suggest he got the assist for the first goal although BBC Sport suggests otherwise.
Wednesday, 21 April 2010
Premier League Fixture 21st April
Hull City v Aston Villla
Hull are desperate to sneak another last-minute survival and now face Europa League hopefuls Aston Villa. Villa are on a bit of a slump and only just managed to beat the relegated Portsmouth on Sunday but it still won’t be easy for Hull. And even if Hull can beat Villa, it won’t be enough to ensure their safety.
Boaz Myhill was replaced by Matt Duke for Hull’s match against Birmingham. He kept a clean sheet so I imagine he’ll also keep his place. Tottenham are reportedly interested in signing Bo to be their second-choice keeper but it won’t help Wales if he’s someone’s number two.
James Collins should be in central defence for Villa.
Hull are desperate to sneak another last-minute survival and now face Europa League hopefuls Aston Villa. Villa are on a bit of a slump and only just managed to beat the relegated Portsmouth on Sunday but it still won’t be easy for Hull. And even if Hull can beat Villa, it won’t be enough to ensure their safety.
Boaz Myhill was replaced by Matt Duke for Hull’s match against Birmingham. He kept a clean sheet so I imagine he’ll also keep his place. Tottenham are reportedly interested in signing Bo to be their second-choice keeper but it won’t help Wales if he’s someone’s number two.
James Collins should be in central defence for Villa.
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
Championship Result 19th April
Plymouth Argyle 0-2 Newcastle United
Newcastle were deservedly crowned Champions of the Championship less than a year after being relegated into it.And I don't necessarily think they'll come straight back down again. I think they'll finish 16th or 17th and be very much in the relegation battle but I think they'll stay up. West Brom? I'm not so sure about them.
lymouth’s relegation is all but mathematically certain (if Plymouth win their last two games 5-0 and Crystal Palace lose their last two games 5-0, Plymouth will stay up).
Carl Fletcher finally returned from the knee/calf injury that has kept him out for a month but he’s too late to save his team.
Newcastle were deservedly crowned Champions of the Championship less than a year after being relegated into it.And I don't necessarily think they'll come straight back down again. I think they'll finish 16th or 17th and be very much in the relegation battle but I think they'll stay up. West Brom? I'm not so sure about them.
lymouth’s relegation is all but mathematically certain (if Plymouth win their last two games 5-0 and Crystal Palace lose their last two games 5-0, Plymouth will stay up).
Carl Fletcher finally returned from the knee/calf injury that has kept him out for a month but he’s too late to save his team.
Premier League Result 19th April
Liverpool 3-0 West Ham United
Liverpool’s win was enough to put them back into the Europa League places at the expense of Aston Villa. West Ham didn’t get any points at all, which means they might just possibly get relegated if something really really weird happens like aliens who are really good at football take over the bodies of all the Hull City players.
Danny Gabbidon was on the bench for West Ham. Jack Collison has a knee injury.
Liverpool’s win was enough to put them back into the Europa League places at the expense of Aston Villa. West Ham didn’t get any points at all, which means they might just possibly get relegated if something really really weird happens like aliens who are really good at football take over the bodies of all the Hull City players.
Danny Gabbidon was on the bench for West Ham. Jack Collison has a knee injury.
Championship Result 18th April
Sheffield Wednesday 1-1 Sheffield United
This draw won’t matter much to Sheffield United, apart from the embarrassment of only drawing their rivals when they’re doing so badly. But it denied Sheffield Wednesday of the opportunity to climb above Crystal Palace. The Owls remain in the relegation places and could be playing first-team football against Leeds United and Southampton next season. It’ll be almost like being in the Premier League again. Of course, they’ll also be playing first-team football against Rochdale…
Ched Evans made a surprise appearance on Sheffield United’s bench. I bet they did that on purpose. They told everyone he wasn’t fit yet, then they put him on the bench to make all the journalists and bloggers look silly. They needn’t have bothered. I’m quite capable of looking silly all on my own.
This draw won’t matter much to Sheffield United, apart from the embarrassment of only drawing their rivals when they’re doing so badly. But it denied Sheffield Wednesday of the opportunity to climb above Crystal Palace. The Owls remain in the relegation places and could be playing first-team football against Leeds United and Southampton next season. It’ll be almost like being in the Premier League again. Of course, they’ll also be playing first-team football against Rochdale…
Ched Evans made a surprise appearance on Sheffield United’s bench. I bet they did that on purpose. They told everyone he wasn’t fit yet, then they put him on the bench to make all the journalists and bloggers look silly. They needn’t have bothered. I’m quite capable of looking silly all on my own.
Premier League Results 18th April
Portsmouth 1-2 Aston Villa
Aston Villa don’t have much chance of a top four place but it’s still not impossible. Portsmouth would be practically down even without the points deduction but they’re still enjoying their season and getting what they can out of it so fair play to them.
James Collins could have added to his goal tally – already more than impressive for a centre back – but his shot went over. But Villa won anyway so there’s no need for him to worry.
Wigan Athletic 3-2 Arsenal
I don’t want to talk about it. I really don’t. All I’ll say is that Wigan look very likely to survive relegation this season. And next season, Arsenal might just make them wish they’d gone down after all. It is a bit embarrassing though, losing so horribly to the team who were beaten 9-1 by Tottenham Hotspur. But at least it’s only 3-2. Wigan beat Chelsea 3-1 and that’s worse really.
Wigan didn’t even have Jason Koumas playing. He was left out of the squad as usual.
But it’s not all bad. I’m quite proud really that Arsenal’s reserve team are the third-best team in the country. That’s really not at all bad.
Aston Villa don’t have much chance of a top four place but it’s still not impossible. Portsmouth would be practically down even without the points deduction but they’re still enjoying their season and getting what they can out of it so fair play to them.
James Collins could have added to his goal tally – already more than impressive for a centre back – but his shot went over. But Villa won anyway so there’s no need for him to worry.
Wigan Athletic 3-2 Arsenal
I don’t want to talk about it. I really don’t. All I’ll say is that Wigan look very likely to survive relegation this season. And next season, Arsenal might just make them wish they’d gone down after all. It is a bit embarrassing though, losing so horribly to the team who were beaten 9-1 by Tottenham Hotspur. But at least it’s only 3-2. Wigan beat Chelsea 3-1 and that’s worse really.
Wigan didn’t even have Jason Koumas playing. He was left out of the squad as usual.
But it’s not all bad. I’m quite proud really that Arsenal’s reserve team are the third-best team in the country. That’s really not at all bad.
League Two Results 17th April Part 2
Notts County 4-1 Morecambe
Notts County confirmed their promotion in style, putting four past Morecambe and staying a point ahead of Rochdale. Morecambe in 11th place look a long way from the play-offs now but there’s actually only two points in it.
It seems Notts County can’t score any goals without Ben Davies wanting to get in on the action. This time he got the assist for the third goal and scored the fourth. If he keeps going it won’t just be the Welsh non-professional team who are interested. I can’t wait to see how he does in League One nest season. I know playing against Morecambe is a bit different from playing against England but let me dream okay? Besides, he could be playing against Leeds United next season.
Darren Moss played in defence for Morecambe. So he probably didn’t enjoy the match nearly as much as Ben did.
Rochdale 1-0 Northampton Town
Rochdale confirmed their promotion in less emphatic style than Notts County – but it was three points just the same. The last time Rochdale weren’t in League One (or Division 3 or Division 2 or whatever it was calling itself), my mum was at school so that was quite a long time ago really.
Northampton are only three points outside the play-offs so these two teams could be meeting again in the League next season.
Peter Gilbert played for Northampton.
Rotherham United 0-0 Cheltenham Town
At one time, Rotherham looked like overtaking Bournemouth and getting the third automatic promotion place. They could still do it but I bet they won’t. Now they won’t even definitely be in the play-off places after the next game unless any of Bury, Aldershot Town, Dagenham & Redbridge and Chesterfield are playing each other.
Only managing a point against Cheltenham, a team who would be called ‘struggling Cheltenham’ if Darlington and Grimsby Town weren’t so bad, might not bode well for their future.
Josh Low played for Cheltenham but he couldn’t manage all those goals and assists he got against Bury, who aren’t that much worse than Rotherham really. Maybe Josh’s manager should have a word with him again. I don’t really want my Welsh players getting into trouble but it worked so well last time.
Shrewsbury Town 1-0 Lincoln City
Shrewsbury’s play-off hopes are just about alive after this win over Lincoln. They’re only four points away but that’s quite a lot at this stage of the season. Lincoln are eight points away from the relegation zone and it’s hard to believe they’re really in any danger.
Shrewsbury had so many players out, they could only put six substitutes on the bench, including Tom Bradshaw, who moved to Wales at the age of two months and is probably eligible for Wales under the education rule if nothing else. I’ll adopt him for the time being anyway. Whatever his nationality, he looks a good player – he scored twice on his debut against Crewe Alexandra and he’s only seventeen.
Will Richards was also out with a bug but he recovered in time to join Wayne Farmer, Iain Edmunds and quite possibly some more Welsh players I don’t know about as Shrewsbury under-18s lost to title rivals Preston North End.
David Stephens was on the bench again for Lincoln.
Notts County confirmed their promotion in style, putting four past Morecambe and staying a point ahead of Rochdale. Morecambe in 11th place look a long way from the play-offs now but there’s actually only two points in it.
It seems Notts County can’t score any goals without Ben Davies wanting to get in on the action. This time he got the assist for the third goal and scored the fourth. If he keeps going it won’t just be the Welsh non-professional team who are interested. I can’t wait to see how he does in League One nest season. I know playing against Morecambe is a bit different from playing against England but let me dream okay? Besides, he could be playing against Leeds United next season.
Darren Moss played in defence for Morecambe. So he probably didn’t enjoy the match nearly as much as Ben did.
Rochdale 1-0 Northampton Town
Rochdale confirmed their promotion in less emphatic style than Notts County – but it was three points just the same. The last time Rochdale weren’t in League One (or Division 3 or Division 2 or whatever it was calling itself), my mum was at school so that was quite a long time ago really.
Northampton are only three points outside the play-offs so these two teams could be meeting again in the League next season.
Peter Gilbert played for Northampton.
Rotherham United 0-0 Cheltenham Town
At one time, Rotherham looked like overtaking Bournemouth and getting the third automatic promotion place. They could still do it but I bet they won’t. Now they won’t even definitely be in the play-off places after the next game unless any of Bury, Aldershot Town, Dagenham & Redbridge and Chesterfield are playing each other.
Only managing a point against Cheltenham, a team who would be called ‘struggling Cheltenham’ if Darlington and Grimsby Town weren’t so bad, might not bode well for their future.
Josh Low played for Cheltenham but he couldn’t manage all those goals and assists he got against Bury, who aren’t that much worse than Rotherham really. Maybe Josh’s manager should have a word with him again. I don’t really want my Welsh players getting into trouble but it worked so well last time.
Shrewsbury Town 1-0 Lincoln City
Shrewsbury’s play-off hopes are just about alive after this win over Lincoln. They’re only four points away but that’s quite a lot at this stage of the season. Lincoln are eight points away from the relegation zone and it’s hard to believe they’re really in any danger.
Shrewsbury had so many players out, they could only put six substitutes on the bench, including Tom Bradshaw, who moved to Wales at the age of two months and is probably eligible for Wales under the education rule if nothing else. I’ll adopt him for the time being anyway. Whatever his nationality, he looks a good player – he scored twice on his debut against Crewe Alexandra and he’s only seventeen.
Will Richards was also out with a bug but he recovered in time to join Wayne Farmer, Iain Edmunds and quite possibly some more Welsh players I don’t know about as Shrewsbury under-18s lost to title rivals Preston North End.
David Stephens was on the bench again for Lincoln.
League Two Results 17th April Part 1
Accrington Stanley 1-2 Hereford United
I kind of knew for a while that Hereford will definitely be playing League Two football next season but I’m still really happy for them now it’s official. Accrington will be fine too of course but they’ve now failed to win their last eight matches.
Hereford’s Ryan Valentine conceded a penalty for the second time in two matches (although this one seems harsh, more ball to hand than handball) – but when you’re on the winning side, it doesn’t seem to matter nearly as much. Darren Jones also played the full match but Ryan Green didn’t recover from a thigh injury in time to play.
Bournemouth 2-0 Darlington
Bournemouth are now right points clear of fourth-placed Rotherhan United – they’d have to do something pretty bad to mess this up. Newly-relegated Darlington might have beaten Rochdale but Bournemouth were far less amenable.
Rhoys Wiggins was unlucky not to score for Bournemouth, if Darlington’s goalkeeper made saves like that more often, maybe they wouldn’t be relegated. There was no sign of Joe Partington although Bournemouth did have their full complement of substitutes.
Bradford City 2-1 Barnet
Bradford haven’t had the best season but at least they’re nearly twenty points clear of the relegation places – and at least they didn’t lose to a team who are known for their inability to win matches and are the most likely team to be caught by Grimsby Town (although this is unlikely).
Michael Flynn started on the bench after recovering from a rib injury. He came on as a substitute and while it would be an exaggeration to say he *soon* made his presence felt – it actually took him thirty-four minutes – he was the player who got the important stoppage-time winner.
Bury 1-1 Port Vale
A draw was enough to keep both sides in contention for the play-offs – although Bury are more in contention than Port Vale. Vale are two points outside the play-offs with Bury four points ahead of them.
Gareth Owen, Craig Davies and Lewis Haldane all played for Port Vale. Craig was a bit upset that he didn’t get to take Port Vale’s penalty but luckily it went in anyway.
Dagenham & Redbridge 2-1 Burton Albion
Degenham & Redbridge won this match in the 93rd minute. It must have been a great feeling for the- but less so for Burton. The win moved Dagenham & Redbridge back into the play-off places. They’ve been there before but as soon as they get there, they start dropping points. I really hope they can stay there this time. I don’t know why but I’ve always liked Dagenham & Redbridge. Maybe it’s because they’re named after Tube stations.
Tony Roberts played in goal for Dagenham.
Macclesfield Town 2-0 Chesterfield
Macclesfield put a dent in Chesterfield’s play-off hopes with this win. Although as Chesterfield are only outside the play-offs on goal difference, it isn’t a very big dent. But really, you can’t expect to go up to League One with a goal difference of 0... although there’s a chance Bury could do just that. Good thing Macclesfield didn’t win by more.
Matthew Tipton was given another start despite scoring in the wrong net last time but I think he must have been worried about doing that again because he didn’t score at all this time. He should still stay in the team for next time though, you shouldn’t change a winning team, should you?
Robert Page dropped back to Chesterfield’s bench, where he joined Mark Crossley.
I kind of knew for a while that Hereford will definitely be playing League Two football next season but I’m still really happy for them now it’s official. Accrington will be fine too of course but they’ve now failed to win their last eight matches.
Hereford’s Ryan Valentine conceded a penalty for the second time in two matches (although this one seems harsh, more ball to hand than handball) – but when you’re on the winning side, it doesn’t seem to matter nearly as much. Darren Jones also played the full match but Ryan Green didn’t recover from a thigh injury in time to play.
Bournemouth 2-0 Darlington
Bournemouth are now right points clear of fourth-placed Rotherhan United – they’d have to do something pretty bad to mess this up. Newly-relegated Darlington might have beaten Rochdale but Bournemouth were far less amenable.
Rhoys Wiggins was unlucky not to score for Bournemouth, if Darlington’s goalkeeper made saves like that more often, maybe they wouldn’t be relegated. There was no sign of Joe Partington although Bournemouth did have their full complement of substitutes.
Bradford City 2-1 Barnet
Bradford haven’t had the best season but at least they’re nearly twenty points clear of the relegation places – and at least they didn’t lose to a team who are known for their inability to win matches and are the most likely team to be caught by Grimsby Town (although this is unlikely).
Michael Flynn started on the bench after recovering from a rib injury. He came on as a substitute and while it would be an exaggeration to say he *soon* made his presence felt – it actually took him thirty-four minutes – he was the player who got the important stoppage-time winner.
Bury 1-1 Port Vale
A draw was enough to keep both sides in contention for the play-offs – although Bury are more in contention than Port Vale. Vale are two points outside the play-offs with Bury four points ahead of them.
Gareth Owen, Craig Davies and Lewis Haldane all played for Port Vale. Craig was a bit upset that he didn’t get to take Port Vale’s penalty but luckily it went in anyway.
Dagenham & Redbridge 2-1 Burton Albion
Degenham & Redbridge won this match in the 93rd minute. It must have been a great feeling for the- but less so for Burton. The win moved Dagenham & Redbridge back into the play-off places. They’ve been there before but as soon as they get there, they start dropping points. I really hope they can stay there this time. I don’t know why but I’ve always liked Dagenham & Redbridge. Maybe it’s because they’re named after Tube stations.
Tony Roberts played in goal for Dagenham.
Macclesfield Town 2-0 Chesterfield
Macclesfield put a dent in Chesterfield’s play-off hopes with this win. Although as Chesterfield are only outside the play-offs on goal difference, it isn’t a very big dent. But really, you can’t expect to go up to League One with a goal difference of 0... although there’s a chance Bury could do just that. Good thing Macclesfield didn’t win by more.
Matthew Tipton was given another start despite scoring in the wrong net last time but I think he must have been worried about doing that again because he didn’t score at all this time. He should still stay in the team for next time though, you shouldn’t change a winning team, should you?
Robert Page dropped back to Chesterfield’s bench, where he joined Mark Crossley.
League Two Fixtures 20th April
Cheltenham Town v Darlington
If Cheltenham win, they are definitely safe for another season. Darlington could finish 23rd if they win their five remaining games.
Josh Low will play for Cheltenham.
Notts County v Rochdale
It would be a bit silly to call this game a title decider as Notts County have a game in hand so even if they do lose, they’ll have the chance to go ahead again. Besides, Rochdale will play three games after this match, Notts County will play four, anything could happen. And Bournemouth might win the title if they’re really lucky although Notts County would need to get just two points from their remaining games as there’s no way Bournemouth can catch them on goal difference, not without winning about 20-0. So Bournemouth can’t win it really, can they?
Notts County manager Steve Cotterill is expected to name unchanged teams although even if Notts County do make changes, they’re not going to drop Ben Davies if they can help it.
If Cheltenham win, they are definitely safe for another season. Darlington could finish 23rd if they win their five remaining games.
Josh Low will play for Cheltenham.
Notts County v Rochdale
It would be a bit silly to call this game a title decider as Notts County have a game in hand so even if they do lose, they’ll have the chance to go ahead again. Besides, Rochdale will play three games after this match, Notts County will play four, anything could happen. And Bournemouth might win the title if they’re really lucky although Notts County would need to get just two points from their remaining games as there’s no way Bournemouth can catch them on goal difference, not without winning about 20-0. So Bournemouth can’t win it really, can they?
Notts County manager Steve Cotterill is expected to name unchanged teams although even if Notts County do make changes, they’re not going to drop Ben Davies if they can help it.
League One Fixtures 20th April
Brentford v Tranmere Rovers
Brentford don’t especially need to win this match but they might enjoy moving above Milton Keynes Dons, who were probably something like local rivals when they were known as Wimbledon. Tranmere will move out of the relegation zone if they win.
Lewis Price probably won’t get into Brentford’s squad but they should feel free to prove me wrong. Ash Taylor should play for Tranmere though.
Southampton v Oldham Athletic
It looks as though Southampton could get into the play-offs after all. Even if they lose this game, they can still do it. But I don’t think it’s very likely. Oldham will be pretty much safe if they win this match – Tranmere could catch them on points but Oldham would have to lose their remaining games 5-0 or 6-0 with Tranmere winning 5-0 or 6-0. Or something like that.
Lloyd James could be left out of Southampton’s squad again as if the rumours about his ankle are true, he really isn’t fit enough to play. Oldham’s own young Welshman, Joe Jacobson, also won’t bit fit enough to play after an operation on his groin.
Brentford don’t especially need to win this match but they might enjoy moving above Milton Keynes Dons, who were probably something like local rivals when they were known as Wimbledon. Tranmere will move out of the relegation zone if they win.
Lewis Price probably won’t get into Brentford’s squad but they should feel free to prove me wrong. Ash Taylor should play for Tranmere though.
Southampton v Oldham Athletic
It looks as though Southampton could get into the play-offs after all. Even if they lose this game, they can still do it. But I don’t think it’s very likely. Oldham will be pretty much safe if they win this match – Tranmere could catch them on points but Oldham would have to lose their remaining games 5-0 or 6-0 with Tranmere winning 5-0 or 6-0. Or something like that.
Lloyd James could be left out of Southampton’s squad again as if the rumours about his ankle are true, he really isn’t fit enough to play. Oldham’s own young Welshman, Joe Jacobson, also won’t bit fit enough to play after an operation on his groin.
Championship Fixture 20th April
Scunthorpe United v Reading
A win for Scunthorpe would ensure they are playing Championship football again this season. A win for Reading would keep their admittedly-faint play-off hopes alive.
Simon Church will probably be on the bench for Reading but I want him to play.
A win for Scunthorpe would ensure they are playing Championship football again this season. A win for Reading would keep their admittedly-faint play-off hopes alive.
Simon Church will probably be on the bench for Reading but I want him to play.
Championship Results 17th April Part 3
Swansea City 3-1 Barnsley
Swansea got the win to put them back in the play-off places – and they need every point they can get because they’re not going to get anything from a +5 goal difference. Barnsley remained with a chance of relegation after this game.
Ashley Williams seems to have got the hang of his goal-scoring lark, Now he knows you actually have to touch the ball to be awarded the goal, he’s being doing great. Swansea’s opening goal was Ashley’s second goal in three games – although if it was up to him it would be his third in four games. Ashley has scored five (or six) goals this season.
David Cotterill started off the moves for at least the first two goals from corners. David Cornell and Joe Allen were on the bench.
West Bromwich Albion 2-0 Middlesbrough
West Brom ended Middlesbrough’s hopes of returning to the Premier League with them and Newcastle United. Only a Swansea City points deduction can save them now although they’d probably need a Blackpool points deduction too. West Brom meanwhile kept their title-winning hopes alive but these hopes were wearing very thin.
Rhys Williams started for Middlesbrough and nearly took the lead in the first few minutes. Danny Coyne was on the bench.
Swansea got the win to put them back in the play-off places – and they need every point they can get because they’re not going to get anything from a +5 goal difference. Barnsley remained with a chance of relegation after this game.
Ashley Williams seems to have got the hang of his goal-scoring lark, Now he knows you actually have to touch the ball to be awarded the goal, he’s being doing great. Swansea’s opening goal was Ashley’s second goal in three games – although if it was up to him it would be his third in four games. Ashley has scored five (or six) goals this season.
David Cotterill started off the moves for at least the first two goals from corners. David Cornell and Joe Allen were on the bench.
West Bromwich Albion 2-0 Middlesbrough
West Brom ended Middlesbrough’s hopes of returning to the Premier League with them and Newcastle United. Only a Swansea City points deduction can save them now although they’d probably need a Blackpool points deduction too. West Brom meanwhile kept their title-winning hopes alive but these hopes were wearing very thin.
Rhys Williams started for Middlesbrough and nearly took the lead in the first few minutes. Danny Coyne was on the bench.
Championship Results 17th April Part 2
Queen’s Park Rangers 0-1 Cardiff City
Queen’s Park Rangers remain in slight danger of relegation after losing to a late Cardiff City goal. Cardiff, meanwhile, have something to celebrate. There will be no repeat of last season’s late collapse. They’re in the play-offs whether they like it or not. And if it was up to me, they’ll be getting promoted too.
Joe Ledley scored Cardiff’s goal. He’s happy Cardiff have secured their play-off spot and would love them to be in the Premier League next season – but the job isn’t finished yet. Darcy Blake also played the full match with Adam Matthews and Aaron Wildig on the bench.
Reading 6-0 Peterborough United
Reading can only get into the play-offs if they win all their matches, Swansea City lose all theirs and Blackpool fail to get more than a point. It’s not very likely but this 6-0 win means Reading and Swansea now have the same goal difference.
Simon Church stayed on the bench for Reading. Craig Morgan was apparently in defence for Peterborough but I have a feeling the whole defence went missing on at least five occasions (he was definitely there for Reading’s penalty because he conceded it)..
Scunthorpe United 3-0 Bristol City
Scunthorpe were very lucky to get into the Championship at all, sneaking into the play-offs on the last day before beating Millwall in the play-offs. This victory means they’re almost certain to be in the Premier League next season too. It was a bit of a surprise result as Bristol City have been on good form lately.
Christian Ribeiro went back into Bristol City’s starting line-up alongside Lewin Nyatanga but either he was injured or his manager wasn’t very happy with him because he didn’t come back out for the second half. He had only let one goal in though. The other two came after he was substituted.
Queen’s Park Rangers remain in slight danger of relegation after losing to a late Cardiff City goal. Cardiff, meanwhile, have something to celebrate. There will be no repeat of last season’s late collapse. They’re in the play-offs whether they like it or not. And if it was up to me, they’ll be getting promoted too.
Joe Ledley scored Cardiff’s goal. He’s happy Cardiff have secured their play-off spot and would love them to be in the Premier League next season – but the job isn’t finished yet. Darcy Blake also played the full match with Adam Matthews and Aaron Wildig on the bench.
Reading 6-0 Peterborough United
Reading can only get into the play-offs if they win all their matches, Swansea City lose all theirs and Blackpool fail to get more than a point. It’s not very likely but this 6-0 win means Reading and Swansea now have the same goal difference.
Simon Church stayed on the bench for Reading. Craig Morgan was apparently in defence for Peterborough but I have a feeling the whole defence went missing on at least five occasions (he was definitely there for Reading’s penalty because he conceded it)..
Scunthorpe United 3-0 Bristol City
Scunthorpe were very lucky to get into the Championship at all, sneaking into the play-offs on the last day before beating Millwall in the play-offs. This victory means they’re almost certain to be in the Premier League next season too. It was a bit of a surprise result as Bristol City have been on good form lately.
Christian Ribeiro went back into Bristol City’s starting line-up alongside Lewin Nyatanga but either he was injured or his manager wasn’t very happy with him because he didn’t come back out for the second half. He had only let one goal in though. The other two came after he was substituted.
Championship Results 17th April Part 1
Blackpool 3-1 Nottingham Forest
Blackpool remain just two points from the play-offs despite losing to leaders Newcastle United. After this game, Newcastle needed just one point in order to be crowned Champions. By now, you’ll probably know if they’ve got it or not.
David Vaughan was again the only Welshman to start for Blackpool, with Rob Edwards again failing to come off the bench. Neal Eardley wasn’t fit enough to be in the squad after all.
Chris Gunter lost his ever-present status for Nottingham Forest when he and Robert Earnshaw were surprisingly dropped to the bench.
Coventry City 1-1 Preston North End
Both these teams needed three points to be absolutely certain of safety but while the point might have annoyed them a bit, they’re probably not seriously worried about going down. Besides, if Sheffield Wednesday failed to beat Sheffield United the following day, they’d be safe anyway.
Freddy Eastwood started for Coventry and opened the scoring after 19 minutes, despite still having problems with his back. Freddy said he’s not threatened by the other strikers as he thinks he’s better then them (of course I agree) and he’s determined to reach ten goals this season. He’s got eight so far. If he can stay injury-free and illness-free I think he’ll get them.
Paul Parry didn’t play for Preston due to a knee injury.
Derby County 1-1 Crystal Palace
Derby were another team who needed a win to be mathematically sure of survival – but Crystal Palace needed a win even more. As it turned out, neither team got to win but I’m sure Derby don’t need to worry too much. Palace’s solitary point meant they were enthusiastic supporters of Sheffield United in their derby match with Sheffield Wednesday the following day.
Robbie Savage got the assist for Derby’s goal with a free kick.
Ipswich Town 1-1 Doncaster Rovers
Ipswich only needed a point to be sure of survival – and they made sure they got it against a Doncaster side who have had a bit of the fight knocked out of them since Blackpool foiled their play-off ambitions. Considering Ipswich didn’t get any points at all until some way into the season, 13th is a great achievement – although they could drop back to 20th if they lose all their remaining games.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich. Manager Roy Keane said he wanted to give him a run-out but all the younger players will have further chances to be involved this season. Of course, there are only two games left…
It was hoped that Doncaster’s captain Brian Stock would return from a back injury but it wasn’t to be. Gareth Roberts and John Oster both played though. Gareth made his 500th career appearance and had a great game. He nearly scored one of his long-range goals too. The Sun named Gareth as Star Man. But if you can’t take the Sun’s word for anything, maybe you could take mine?
Leicester City 4-1 Watford
Leicester still haven’t quite made sure of a play-off place but they’re not far away now. Watford are still just three points from safety with three games remaining. They might have to do something really drastic, like picking up a point or three away from home.
As usual, Andy King played the full match for Leicester with Nicky Adams coming off the bench. It was just a shame Nicky couldn’t score from a great chance – if he had, maybe he’d be starting next week.
Blackpool remain just two points from the play-offs despite losing to leaders Newcastle United. After this game, Newcastle needed just one point in order to be crowned Champions. By now, you’ll probably know if they’ve got it or not.
David Vaughan was again the only Welshman to start for Blackpool, with Rob Edwards again failing to come off the bench. Neal Eardley wasn’t fit enough to be in the squad after all.
Chris Gunter lost his ever-present status for Nottingham Forest when he and Robert Earnshaw were surprisingly dropped to the bench.
Coventry City 1-1 Preston North End
Both these teams needed three points to be absolutely certain of safety but while the point might have annoyed them a bit, they’re probably not seriously worried about going down. Besides, if Sheffield Wednesday failed to beat Sheffield United the following day, they’d be safe anyway.
Freddy Eastwood started for Coventry and opened the scoring after 19 minutes, despite still having problems with his back. Freddy said he’s not threatened by the other strikers as he thinks he’s better then them (of course I agree) and he’s determined to reach ten goals this season. He’s got eight so far. If he can stay injury-free and illness-free I think he’ll get them.
Paul Parry didn’t play for Preston due to a knee injury.
Derby County 1-1 Crystal Palace
Derby were another team who needed a win to be mathematically sure of survival – but Crystal Palace needed a win even more. As it turned out, neither team got to win but I’m sure Derby don’t need to worry too much. Palace’s solitary point meant they were enthusiastic supporters of Sheffield United in their derby match with Sheffield Wednesday the following day.
Robbie Savage got the assist for Derby’s goal with a free kick.
Ipswich Town 1-1 Doncaster Rovers
Ipswich only needed a point to be sure of survival – and they made sure they got it against a Doncaster side who have had a bit of the fight knocked out of them since Blackpool foiled their play-off ambitions. Considering Ipswich didn’t get any points at all until some way into the season, 13th is a great achievement – although they could drop back to 20th if they lose all their remaining games.
Troy Brown was on the bench for Ipswich. Manager Roy Keane said he wanted to give him a run-out but all the younger players will have further chances to be involved this season. Of course, there are only two games left…
It was hoped that Doncaster’s captain Brian Stock would return from a back injury but it wasn’t to be. Gareth Roberts and John Oster both played though. Gareth made his 500th career appearance and had a great game. He nearly scored one of his long-range goals too. The Sun named Gareth as Star Man. But if you can’t take the Sun’s word for anything, maybe you could take mine?
Leicester City 4-1 Watford
Leicester still haven’t quite made sure of a play-off place but they’re not far away now. Watford are still just three points from safety with three games remaining. They might have to do something really drastic, like picking up a point or three away from home.
As usual, Andy King played the full match for Leicester with Nicky Adams coming off the bench. It was just a shame Nicky couldn’t score from a great chance – if he had, maybe he’d be starting next week.
Monday, 19 April 2010
Premier League Results 17th April Part 2
Manchester City 0-1 Manchester United
This game looked set to end exactly as I wanted to (I hadn’t then quite given up on Arsenal winning the League) but then Paul Scholes sneaked in with a goal.
Robbie Savage said this week that Scholes, Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs were getting on a bit. I would have loved to agree (except about Ryan Giggs) but I didn’t then and I can’t now. It was Scholes who scored the goal but it could easily have been Ryan, while Gary Neville was a big part of the reason why Craig Bellamy didn’t score for City. It was an ineffective attack from Craig that indirectly led to United’s goal. Roberto Mancini isn’t very happy with him. Maybe he’ll sell him to Arsenal, that would be great
The rumour is that John Toshack has no plans to call up Ryan to play for Wales again. Everyone thinks he’s mad except Neville Southall who says Ryan has nothing to gain by returning to play for Wales. What about the honour if representing your country?
Stoke City 1-2 Bolton Wanderers
It hasn’t been a good weekend for home sides. Blackburn thought they’d got a point, Arsenal thought they’d won… and Stoke probably thought they’d got all three points too. Then Matthew Taylor scored twice in the last five minutes – including one from a rather dubious free kick - and Bolton ended up with the points instead.
Ryan Shawcross wasn’t fit enough to return from an ankle injury but Danny Collins had another great performance in Bolton’s defence and could have scored. Sam Ricketts started for Bolton but was taken off at half-time. Sam wasn’t at his best but he was playing in midfield. Not every defender can play there.
Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Chelsea
Tottenham re-opened the title race with a win over leaders Chelsea. It should have been a lot more than 2-1 to Tottenham.
I said after Gareth Bale’s midweek goal against Arsenal that he should make it up to me by scoring the winner against Chelsea too. Gareth must be reading my blogs because that’s exactly what he did. It was his first-ever goal with his right foot. It was a great solo run, followed by some clever trickery, before a firmly-struck shot ended up exactly where Gareth and I wanted it. If only Arsenal hadn’t fucked it up 24 hours later.
Cliff Jones thinks Gareth will be the first Welsh player to get 100 caps.
This game looked set to end exactly as I wanted to (I hadn’t then quite given up on Arsenal winning the League) but then Paul Scholes sneaked in with a goal.
Robbie Savage said this week that Scholes, Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs were getting on a bit. I would have loved to agree (except about Ryan Giggs) but I didn’t then and I can’t now. It was Scholes who scored the goal but it could easily have been Ryan, while Gary Neville was a big part of the reason why Craig Bellamy didn’t score for City. It was an ineffective attack from Craig that indirectly led to United’s goal. Roberto Mancini isn’t very happy with him. Maybe he’ll sell him to Arsenal, that would be great
The rumour is that John Toshack has no plans to call up Ryan to play for Wales again. Everyone thinks he’s mad except Neville Southall who says Ryan has nothing to gain by returning to play for Wales. What about the honour if representing your country?
Stoke City 1-2 Bolton Wanderers
It hasn’t been a good weekend for home sides. Blackburn thought they’d got a point, Arsenal thought they’d won… and Stoke probably thought they’d got all three points too. Then Matthew Taylor scored twice in the last five minutes – including one from a rather dubious free kick - and Bolton ended up with the points instead.
Ryan Shawcross wasn’t fit enough to return from an ankle injury but Danny Collins had another great performance in Bolton’s defence and could have scored. Sam Ricketts started for Bolton but was taken off at half-time. Sam wasn’t at his best but he was playing in midfield. Not every defender can play there.
Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 Chelsea
Tottenham re-opened the title race with a win over leaders Chelsea. It should have been a lot more than 2-1 to Tottenham.
I said after Gareth Bale’s midweek goal against Arsenal that he should make it up to me by scoring the winner against Chelsea too. Gareth must be reading my blogs because that’s exactly what he did. It was his first-ever goal with his right foot. It was a great solo run, followed by some clever trickery, before a firmly-struck shot ended up exactly where Gareth and I wanted it. If only Arsenal hadn’t fucked it up 24 hours later.
Cliff Jones thinks Gareth will be the first Welsh player to get 100 caps.
Premier League Results 17th April Part 1
Birmingham City 0-0 Hull City
A draw at Birmingham was a great result for Hull but unfortunately not one that’s going to help them survive. Birmingham are almost mathematically out of Europe now but who ever expected them to be in it? It’s been a great season for Birmingham whatever happens in the last three games.
Hull manager Iain Dowie inexplicably dropped Boaz Myhill to the bench in favour of Matt Duke. He says he wants a calm keeper. I can’t say I’ve ever seen Bo having a panic attack.
I just hope Bo gets back into the starting line-up next season. Especially with Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Jason Brown (Blackburn Rovers), Rhys Taylor (Chelsea), David Cornell (Cardiff City), Danny Coyne (Middlesbrough), Lewis Price (Brentford, on loan from Derby County) and Andy Marriott (Exeter City) all at least second choice at their clubs, Wales really need Bo to be playing first-team football. To be fair, Owain fon Williams is a better keeper than Stockport County’s season suggests and Tony Roberts could be in League One next season with Dagenham & Redbridge. But I’m not sure how they’d cope against England. Bo is used to playing against the best English players every week.
Blackburn Rovers 2-3 Everton
Blackburn are usually solid at home and they played well in this game. Every time Everton took the lead, Blackburn equalised. So they decided to score their next goal in the 90th minute, giving Blackburn little time to respond. The ploy worked and Everton grabbed all three points with a goal from Tim Cahill – his first scored with his feet for over a year. Everton are now just two points behind the Europa League places.
Jason Brown was on the bench for Blackburn.
Fulham 0-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Fulham fielded a slightly weakened side but not enough for Wolves to take advantage. And with Fulham’s mind probably more on the Europa League than in this game, Fulham didn’t score any goals either.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham (you see, their team wasn’t that weak). Dave Edwards (who made a shot on goal that was just inches over the bar) and David Jones (who could have got an assist) both started for Wolves with Wayne Hennessey on the bench.
A draw at Birmingham was a great result for Hull but unfortunately not one that’s going to help them survive. Birmingham are almost mathematically out of Europe now but who ever expected them to be in it? It’s been a great season for Birmingham whatever happens in the last three games.
Hull manager Iain Dowie inexplicably dropped Boaz Myhill to the bench in favour of Matt Duke. He says he wants a calm keeper. I can’t say I’ve ever seen Bo having a panic attack.
I just hope Bo gets back into the starting line-up next season. Especially with Wayne Hennessey (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Jason Brown (Blackburn Rovers), Rhys Taylor (Chelsea), David Cornell (Cardiff City), Danny Coyne (Middlesbrough), Lewis Price (Brentford, on loan from Derby County) and Andy Marriott (Exeter City) all at least second choice at their clubs, Wales really need Bo to be playing first-team football. To be fair, Owain fon Williams is a better keeper than Stockport County’s season suggests and Tony Roberts could be in League One next season with Dagenham & Redbridge. But I’m not sure how they’d cope against England. Bo is used to playing against the best English players every week.
Blackburn Rovers 2-3 Everton
Blackburn are usually solid at home and they played well in this game. Every time Everton took the lead, Blackburn equalised. So they decided to score their next goal in the 90th minute, giving Blackburn little time to respond. The ploy worked and Everton grabbed all three points with a goal from Tim Cahill – his first scored with his feet for over a year. Everton are now just two points behind the Europa League places.
Jason Brown was on the bench for Blackburn.
Fulham 0-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Fulham fielded a slightly weakened side but not enough for Wolves to take advantage. And with Fulham’s mind probably more on the Europa League than in this game, Fulham didn’t score any goals either.
Simon Davies played the full match for Fulham (you see, their team wasn’t that weak). Dave Edwards (who made a shot on goal that was just inches over the bar) and David Jones (who could have got an assist) both started for Wolves with Wayne Hennessey on the bench.
Championship Fixtures 19th April
Plymouth Argyle v Newcastle United
Plymouth badly need a win if they’re going to stay up so who better to play then Newcastle United, who need only a point to be confirmed as Championship Champions? Not to mention that the game is at home, where Plymouth have struggled. If Plymouth lose this match, they could in theory stay up on goal difference if they win the other two and Crystal Palace lose both their remaining games. But Palace’s goal difference is -3, Plymouth’s is -19. You do the maths (I would do it but I’m not very good with numbers so I’d probably get it wrong but Plymouth would need something like a 5-0 win and a 4-0 win and Palace would need to lose by the same results)… Plymouth, win this match or you’re down.
Plymouth captain Carl Fletcher could return from a calf injury but I would be quite surprised as I thought it was a knee injury.
Plymouth badly need a win if they’re going to stay up so who better to play then Newcastle United, who need only a point to be confirmed as Championship Champions? Not to mention that the game is at home, where Plymouth have struggled. If Plymouth lose this match, they could in theory stay up on goal difference if they win the other two and Crystal Palace lose both their remaining games. But Palace’s goal difference is -3, Plymouth’s is -19. You do the maths (I would do it but I’m not very good with numbers so I’d probably get it wrong but Plymouth would need something like a 5-0 win and a 4-0 win and Palace would need to lose by the same results)… Plymouth, win this match or you’re down.
Plymouth captain Carl Fletcher could return from a calf injury but I would be quite surprised as I thought it was a knee injury.
Premier League Fixture 19th April
Liverpool v West Ham United
If Portsmouth can succeed in their late application for European football, Liverpool could easily not get any at all. Liverpool must be feeling so glad West Ham are fourth from bottom.
Danny Gabbidon is likely to be in West Ham’s squad but probably just on the bench. Jack Collison is probably out for the season with a knee injury. Danny is just one of the West Ham players who have been helping out local charity Down Syndrome Extra 21
If Portsmouth can succeed in their late application for European football, Liverpool could easily not get any at all. Liverpool must be feeling so glad West Ham are fourth from bottom.
Danny Gabbidon is likely to be in West Ham’s squad but probably just on the bench. Jack Collison is probably out for the season with a knee injury. Danny is just one of the West Ham players who have been helping out local charity Down Syndrome Extra 21
Sunday, 18 April 2010
Championship Fixtures 18th April
Sheffield Wednesday v Sheffield United
Sheffield Wednesday need to win to get out of the bottom three. Sheffield United have little to play for in the League but this is a local derby so expect them to be well up for it.
Sheff Utd’s Ched Evans is ‘making progress’ according to The Star but he’s definitely not ready to return from his collarbone injury.
Sheffield Wednesday need to win to get out of the bottom three. Sheffield United have little to play for in the League but this is a local derby so expect them to be well up for it.
Sheff Utd’s Ched Evans is ‘making progress’ according to The Star but he’s definitely not ready to return from his collarbone injury.
Premier League Fixtures 18th April
Portsmouth v Aston Villa
It seems Portsmouth might be able to play in the Europa League after all if they can persuade the FA to accept a late application for Europe – which they can only do if the FA are satisfied that Portsmouth’s finances will be in order by the end of May. So Aston Villa need to make sure they finish in sixth place, just in case. Chelsea are already guaranteed European football so Portsmouth – if their application is successful - will be given the Europa League place whether they win the FA Cup Final or not.
So it would be a good idea for Aston Villa to win this match and in theory there’s no reason to assume they won’t. But if Portsmouth can beat Tottenham Hotspur (who are pretty good now, ask Arsenal and Chelsea), they can definitely beat Aston Villa. And Aston Villa, like last season, are on a bit of an end-of-season slump.
James Collins told the Birmingham Mail that if Aston Villa win all their five remaining games they could get into the Champions’ League. But he said that before Tottenham Hotspur beat Chelsea. Who knows what he thinks now? A Europa League place however is more than possible and we know James can do the business at both ends (by which I mean he can score and defend, I wasn’t trying to be dirty).
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Wigan are just four points outside the relegation places and although they look pretty safe now, it will certainly not be the case if they lose this match and Hull win their game in hand. I know Hull winning is a big if (I wish it wasn’t, I would love Hull to stay up although I am pissed off with Iain Dowie for dropping Boaz Myhill) but Wigan need to start picking up points.
Unfortunately for Wigan, they’re playing Arsenal and they can’t have any points. I’m not giving up on Arsenal winning the League until it’s mathematically impossible and I definitely think they could still get second place. And even if they finish third, they can still try to get as close to the top two as they can.
Even if Wigan see sense and play Jason Koumas I still don’t want them getting any points. A hat-trick for Jason and 4+ goals for Arsenal is fine.
It seems Portsmouth might be able to play in the Europa League after all if they can persuade the FA to accept a late application for Europe – which they can only do if the FA are satisfied that Portsmouth’s finances will be in order by the end of May. So Aston Villa need to make sure they finish in sixth place, just in case. Chelsea are already guaranteed European football so Portsmouth – if their application is successful - will be given the Europa League place whether they win the FA Cup Final or not.
So it would be a good idea for Aston Villa to win this match and in theory there’s no reason to assume they won’t. But if Portsmouth can beat Tottenham Hotspur (who are pretty good now, ask Arsenal and Chelsea), they can definitely beat Aston Villa. And Aston Villa, like last season, are on a bit of an end-of-season slump.
James Collins told the Birmingham Mail that if Aston Villa win all their five remaining games they could get into the Champions’ League. But he said that before Tottenham Hotspur beat Chelsea. Who knows what he thinks now? A Europa League place however is more than possible and we know James can do the business at both ends (by which I mean he can score and defend, I wasn’t trying to be dirty).
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Wigan are just four points outside the relegation places and although they look pretty safe now, it will certainly not be the case if they lose this match and Hull win their game in hand. I know Hull winning is a big if (I wish it wasn’t, I would love Hull to stay up although I am pissed off with Iain Dowie for dropping Boaz Myhill) but Wigan need to start picking up points.
Unfortunately for Wigan, they’re playing Arsenal and they can’t have any points. I’m not giving up on Arsenal winning the League until it’s mathematically impossible and I definitely think they could still get second place. And even if they finish third, they can still try to get as close to the top two as they can.
Even if Wigan see sense and play Jason Koumas I still don’t want them getting any points. A hat-trick for Jason and 4+ goals for Arsenal is fine.
Saturday, 17 April 2010
League Two Fixtures 17th April Part 2
Macclesfield Town v Chesterfield
Chesterfield need to win to keep them in the play-off places but Macclesfield only need a point to ensure sure they’re mathematically guaranteed to spend next season in League Two (although the chances are they would do even if they lose their next four games – Grimsby Town could catch them on points but Macclesfield have a much better goal difference.
Matthew Tipton would probably love another start but he scored an own goal last week and that tends not to go down well with managers.
Robert Page was back in Chesterfield’s starting line-up for the last game so I hope he’ll stay there. Mark Crossley will probably be on the bench though.
Notts County v Morecambe
Notts County moved to the top of the table after beating Lincoln City. A point today will see them promoted no matter what Rotherham United do. Morecambe are out of the play-off zone but only by a point.
Ben Davies seems to be getting a goal or an assist in every game at the moment – so watch out for Wales’ answer to Lionel Messi. Darren Moss played for Morecambe reserves as they beat Tranmere Rovers reserves 5-2 this week and Sky Sports think he could start the non-reserve match too.
Rochdale v Northampton Town
Rochdale were looking certain to win the League but they’ve recently suffered a string of poor results, including most recently a defeat to, well, Darlington. Oops! Notts County have now claimed the top spot and Bournemouth are gaining on Rochdale now. But they could seal promotion today if Rotherham United fail to win.
Northampton are one of three teams who are just two points outside the play-offs.
Peter Gilbert should play for Northampton.
Rotherham United v Cheltenham Town
Rotherham need to win to stand any chances of winning the League but I imagine they’ll be thinking more of 3rd place now. Cheltenham moved up a place this week and their small chances of relegation will disappear almost completely if they win this weekend and Grimsby Town lose.
Josh Low will be in Cheltenham’s line-up. He’s scored two goals in the last two games so I’m sure he’ll want to keep that run going.
Shrewsbury Town v Lincoln City
Shrewsbury are six points outside the play-offs but that doesn’t mean they can’t get there. I don’t think they will though. A win could see Lincoln mathematically safe from relegation.
Shrewsbury’s Will Richards has been ill this week, poor baby, and might not be available for this match. David Stephens could be on Lincoln’s bench.
Chesterfield need to win to keep them in the play-off places but Macclesfield only need a point to ensure sure they’re mathematically guaranteed to spend next season in League Two (although the chances are they would do even if they lose their next four games – Grimsby Town could catch them on points but Macclesfield have a much better goal difference.
Matthew Tipton would probably love another start but he scored an own goal last week and that tends not to go down well with managers.
Robert Page was back in Chesterfield’s starting line-up for the last game so I hope he’ll stay there. Mark Crossley will probably be on the bench though.
Notts County v Morecambe
Notts County moved to the top of the table after beating Lincoln City. A point today will see them promoted no matter what Rotherham United do. Morecambe are out of the play-off zone but only by a point.
Ben Davies seems to be getting a goal or an assist in every game at the moment – so watch out for Wales’ answer to Lionel Messi. Darren Moss played for Morecambe reserves as they beat Tranmere Rovers reserves 5-2 this week and Sky Sports think he could start the non-reserve match too.
Rochdale v Northampton Town
Rochdale were looking certain to win the League but they’ve recently suffered a string of poor results, including most recently a defeat to, well, Darlington. Oops! Notts County have now claimed the top spot and Bournemouth are gaining on Rochdale now. But they could seal promotion today if Rotherham United fail to win.
Northampton are one of three teams who are just two points outside the play-offs.
Peter Gilbert should play for Northampton.
Rotherham United v Cheltenham Town
Rotherham need to win to stand any chances of winning the League but I imagine they’ll be thinking more of 3rd place now. Cheltenham moved up a place this week and their small chances of relegation will disappear almost completely if they win this weekend and Grimsby Town lose.
Josh Low will be in Cheltenham’s line-up. He’s scored two goals in the last two games so I’m sure he’ll want to keep that run going.
Shrewsbury Town v Lincoln City
Shrewsbury are six points outside the play-offs but that doesn’t mean they can’t get there. I don’t think they will though. A win could see Lincoln mathematically safe from relegation.
Shrewsbury’s Will Richards has been ill this week, poor baby, and might not be available for this match. David Stephens could be on Lincoln’s bench.
League Two Fixtures 17th April Part 1
Accrington Stanley v Hereford United
Accrington still have a mathematical chance of getting into the play-offs but Hereford are guaranteed to be in League Two next season.
Ryan Green has either a hamstring injury or a groin injury but as hamstring injuries are so in this week I think it’s probably that. Ryan faces a late fitness test but Ryan Valentine and Darren Jones are likely to be in Hereford’s team. The Hereford Times says Darren’s central defensive partnership with Richard Rose has been key to their revival.
Bournemouth v Darlington
Bournemouth are six points clear in the automatic promotion places but I’m sure they’d prefer it if that gap didn’t get any smaller. Darlington have done well since the appointment of their new manager but despite beating league leaders Rochdale (as they were then) last week, Darlington were consigned to spend the next season in the Blue Square Premier.
Rhoys Wiggins will start for Bournemouth but Joe Partington is most likely to be on the bench.
Bradford City v Barnet
Bradford are safe from relegation but they same can’t be said of Barnet, who are currently the team Grimsby Town are most likely to catch if there’s a miracle.
Michael Flynn is training again after recovering from a rib injury and could be back in Bradford’s team.
Bury v Port Vale
Both these teams were looking as though they could miss out on the play-offs but with Bury currently in 5th place and Port Vale just two points outside the play-off zone, both are very much back in it. If indeed they were ever out of it.
Gareth Owen, Craig Davies and Lewis Haldane could all start for Port Vale.
Dagenham & Redbridge v Burton Albion
Dag & Red are another side who are hoping to get into the play-offs and they’re only two points away. Burton are three points away from the top half of the table although goal difference will probably prevent them from actually getting there if results do go their way.
The strikers of both sides will have a job to do today – both are up against Welshmen called Tony. Tony Roberts is Dag & Red’s goalkeeper while Tony James plays n central defence for Burton,
Accrington still have a mathematical chance of getting into the play-offs but Hereford are guaranteed to be in League Two next season.
Ryan Green has either a hamstring injury or a groin injury but as hamstring injuries are so in this week I think it’s probably that. Ryan faces a late fitness test but Ryan Valentine and Darren Jones are likely to be in Hereford’s team. The Hereford Times says Darren’s central defensive partnership with Richard Rose has been key to their revival.
Bournemouth v Darlington
Bournemouth are six points clear in the automatic promotion places but I’m sure they’d prefer it if that gap didn’t get any smaller. Darlington have done well since the appointment of their new manager but despite beating league leaders Rochdale (as they were then) last week, Darlington were consigned to spend the next season in the Blue Square Premier.
Rhoys Wiggins will start for Bournemouth but Joe Partington is most likely to be on the bench.
Bradford City v Barnet
Bradford are safe from relegation but they same can’t be said of Barnet, who are currently the team Grimsby Town are most likely to catch if there’s a miracle.
Michael Flynn is training again after recovering from a rib injury and could be back in Bradford’s team.
Bury v Port Vale
Both these teams were looking as though they could miss out on the play-offs but with Bury currently in 5th place and Port Vale just two points outside the play-off zone, both are very much back in it. If indeed they were ever out of it.
Gareth Owen, Craig Davies and Lewis Haldane could all start for Port Vale.
Dagenham & Redbridge v Burton Albion
Dag & Red are another side who are hoping to get into the play-offs and they’re only two points away. Burton are three points away from the top half of the table although goal difference will probably prevent them from actually getting there if results do go their way.
The strikers of both sides will have a job to do today – both are up against Welshmen called Tony. Tony Roberts is Dag & Red’s goalkeeper while Tony James plays n central defence for Burton,
League One Fixtures 17th April Part 3
Tranmere Rovers v Exeter City
Tranmere won’t get out of the relegation places if they win but they will be level on points with Gillingham if they lose to Leeds United. Which is certainly possible. Exeter are five points ahead of the relegation zone. It sounds okay in theory but Tranmere are team most likely to catch Exeter. A Tranmere win would cut Exeter’s safety margin to two points.
Ash Taylor will play for Tranmere. Richard Duffy is likely to start for Exeter, possibly with Stuart Fleetwood who has started the last couple of games. Rob Edwards could return from a hamstring injury. Andy Marriott will probably be on the bench.
Yeovil Town v Southampton
Yeovil are eight points clear of danger while Southampton still have a very faint mathematical chance of reaching the play-offs.
Gavin Williams will almost certainly keep his place in Yeovil’s team along with Shaun MacDonald. Shaun hasn’t been scoring lately but he hasn’t had much chance when Gavin keeps scoring. Arron Davies is likely to be left out due to the loanee number regulations.
Arron and assistant manager Nathan Jones recently played for Yeovil in the Somerset Premier Cup. They won 2-0 away at Bishop Sutton.
Lloyd James will probably be on the bench for Southampton.
League One Fixtures 17th April Part 2
Milton Keynes Dons v Wycombe Wanderers
Milton Keynes Dons are mathematically out of the play-offs but Wycombe could still survive. But if they lose and Gillingham, Leyton Orient and Exeter City win, Wycombe will be all but down due to their goal difference.
Jermaine Easter has a tight thigh so might not play for MK Dons.
Southend United v Brighton & Hove Albion
Southend can’t get out of the relegation zone if they win this match but three points would give them a fighting chance, especially if results go their way. Brighton are eight points clear of trouble.
Andrew Crofts will play in midfield for Brighton.
Swindon Town v Walsall
A win for Swindon could put them back in the automatic promotion places if results go their way. Walsall are looking solid in mid-table.
Walsall’s Rhys Weston could return from his hamstring injury but Mark Bradley will be on the bench.
Milton Keynes Dons are mathematically out of the play-offs but Wycombe could still survive. But if they lose and Gillingham, Leyton Orient and Exeter City win, Wycombe will be all but down due to their goal difference.
Jermaine Easter has a tight thigh so might not play for MK Dons.
Southend United v Brighton & Hove Albion
Southend can’t get out of the relegation zone if they win this match but three points would give them a fighting chance, especially if results go their way. Brighton are eight points clear of trouble.
Andrew Crofts will play in midfield for Brighton.
Swindon Town v Walsall
A win for Swindon could put them back in the automatic promotion places if results go their way. Walsall are looking solid in mid-table.
Walsall’s Rhys Weston could return from his hamstring injury but Mark Bradley will be on the bench.
League One Fixtures 17th April Part 1
Bristol Rovers v Brentford
They’re out of the play-offs, they’re out of the relegation battle but they can still try to finish as high up the table as they can.
Rovers’ Byron Anthony has a sore hip flexor and is 50/50. Ben Swallow should be fit though.
Lewis Price might have thought his days on the bench were over when Brentford’s first-choice goalkeeper returned to full fitness but as Wojciech Szczesny is injured, he should be in the squad after all as long as it’s not breaking the loanee rules. And the way things are going, the kit man might have to get him an outfield player’s jersey (that’s Brentford manager Andy Scott’s joke, not mine unfortunately).
Carlisle United v Oldham Athletic
Carlisle will be hoping for a top table finish as Oldham attempt to inch further from the relegation zone. They are currently six points clear.
Jason Price missed Carlisle’s last match with a hamstring injury but he could return. Carlisle manager Greg Abbott has hinted he wants to keep Jason.
Joe Jacobson has had surgery on his pelvis and Oldham don’t want to rush him back so he could miss the rest of the season.
Charlton Athletic v Norwich City
Charlton are still in the automatic promotion race but if it doesn’t work out, they’d need a major collapse – and a great run from Colchester United – to miss out on the play-offs.
Norwich’s only win in April was against Stockport County and they lose to everyone.
Charlton are without the injured Grant Basey (ankle).
Norwich might want to bring in some fresh pairs of legs – Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin come instantly to (my) mind. Josh scored as the Norwich under-18s beat Charlton’s under-18s 3-2.
Gillingham v Leeds United
Leeds remain second after Millwall lost to Huddersfield Town on Friday. But their form of late has been patchy and Gillingham are relying on their home form to keep them up.
Sanchez Watt could finally get his first start for Leeds since joining on loan from Arsenal. But he probably won’t.
Hartlepool United v Colchester United
Hartlepool are seven points clear of the relegation zone and might consider themselves safe. Colchester meanwhile really need to win if they want to get back into the play-offs.
Thomas Bender could be on the bench for Colchester but I’ve got no idea what’s going on with Lee Beevers’ knee. Apparently Colchester manager Aidy Boothroyd has been trying to sell Lee.
Leyton Orient v Stockport County
If Leyton Orient can beat the top team – and they did just that a few days ago – they ought to be able to beat the bottom team. At the moment they’re only four points outside the relegation zone. Stockport are not only down, they can no longer catch 23rd-placed Wycombe Wanderers.
Owain fon Williams will be in goal for Stockport.
They’re out of the play-offs, they’re out of the relegation battle but they can still try to finish as high up the table as they can.
Rovers’ Byron Anthony has a sore hip flexor and is 50/50. Ben Swallow should be fit though.
Lewis Price might have thought his days on the bench were over when Brentford’s first-choice goalkeeper returned to full fitness but as Wojciech Szczesny is injured, he should be in the squad after all as long as it’s not breaking the loanee rules. And the way things are going, the kit man might have to get him an outfield player’s jersey (that’s Brentford manager Andy Scott’s joke, not mine unfortunately).
Carlisle United v Oldham Athletic
Carlisle will be hoping for a top table finish as Oldham attempt to inch further from the relegation zone. They are currently six points clear.
Jason Price missed Carlisle’s last match with a hamstring injury but he could return. Carlisle manager Greg Abbott has hinted he wants to keep Jason.
Joe Jacobson has had surgery on his pelvis and Oldham don’t want to rush him back so he could miss the rest of the season.
Charlton Athletic v Norwich City
Charlton are still in the automatic promotion race but if it doesn’t work out, they’d need a major collapse – and a great run from Colchester United – to miss out on the play-offs.
Norwich’s only win in April was against Stockport County and they lose to everyone.
Charlton are without the injured Grant Basey (ankle).
Norwich might want to bring in some fresh pairs of legs – Owain Tudur Jones and Josh Dawkin come instantly to (my) mind. Josh scored as the Norwich under-18s beat Charlton’s under-18s 3-2.
Gillingham v Leeds United
Leeds remain second after Millwall lost to Huddersfield Town on Friday. But their form of late has been patchy and Gillingham are relying on their home form to keep them up.
Sanchez Watt could finally get his first start for Leeds since joining on loan from Arsenal. But he probably won’t.
Hartlepool United v Colchester United
Hartlepool are seven points clear of the relegation zone and might consider themselves safe. Colchester meanwhile really need to win if they want to get back into the play-offs.
Thomas Bender could be on the bench for Colchester but I’ve got no idea what’s going on with Lee Beevers’ knee. Apparently Colchester manager Aidy Boothroyd has been trying to sell Lee.
Leyton Orient v Stockport County
If Leyton Orient can beat the top team – and they did just that a few days ago – they ought to be able to beat the bottom team. At the moment they’re only four points outside the relegation zone. Stockport are not only down, they can no longer catch 23rd-placed Wycombe Wanderers.
Owain fon Williams will be in goal for Stockport.
Championship Fixtures 17th April Part 3
Reading v Peterborough United
Reading’s play-off hopes are pretty thin – they’ll realistically have to win all four remaining matches to have any chance of sneaking in there. But a home win against relegated Peterborough looks like a distinct possibility.
Simon Church could get a recall into Reading’s starting line-up but probably only if there’s a last-minute injury. If so, Simon will be up against Peterborough centre back Craig Morgan – unless Craig plays up front again of course.
Scunthorpe United v Bristol City
Scunthorpe remain in relegation trouble but Bristol City’s form has picked up considerably of late and a win at Scunthorpe would extend their unbeaten run to seven matches. They’re also not mathematically out of the play-offs yet. Realistically they are out but it’s great for them to be up there considering they were in a bit of trouble not that long ago.
Lewin Nyatanga is likely to keep his place in defence with Christian Ribeiro on the bench. Christian has played very well for Bristol City but he’s not expecting to be called up for Wales anytime soon. He might be surprised. I hope he is!
Swansea City v Barnsley
Swansea need to win to be sure if remaining in the play-off places – with their goal difference of just +3, a draw won’t be enough to stop Blackpool forging ahead. Barnsley are probably safe on 53 points. Millwall were relegated with 52 points not that long ago but that’s really unusual.
Ashley Williams is likely to play in defence for Barnsley. Joe Allen and David Cotterill could also be in the starting line-up but David Cornell will be on the bench. I'm still not sure about Jazz Richards.
West Bromwich Albion v Middlesbrough
West Brom are already promoted, along with Newcastle United – leaving Middlesbrough as the only relegated side from last season who might not be bouncing straight back up again. But it could happen – they’re only four points behind Swansea City and they’re on a very good run.
Rhys Williams hasn’t trained this week due to his pelvis problems but he will still play for Middlesbrough with Danny Coyne on the bench.
Rhys and Danny are both on a short-list to win the Official Garmin Boro Player of the Year award. There are only six players on it so it’s pretty good a third of the list is Welsh. Even though Rhys does play for Australia now.
Reading’s play-off hopes are pretty thin – they’ll realistically have to win all four remaining matches to have any chance of sneaking in there. But a home win against relegated Peterborough looks like a distinct possibility.
Simon Church could get a recall into Reading’s starting line-up but probably only if there’s a last-minute injury. If so, Simon will be up against Peterborough centre back Craig Morgan – unless Craig plays up front again of course.
Scunthorpe United v Bristol City
Scunthorpe remain in relegation trouble but Bristol City’s form has picked up considerably of late and a win at Scunthorpe would extend their unbeaten run to seven matches. They’re also not mathematically out of the play-offs yet. Realistically they are out but it’s great for them to be up there considering they were in a bit of trouble not that long ago.
Lewin Nyatanga is likely to keep his place in defence with Christian Ribeiro on the bench. Christian has played very well for Bristol City but he’s not expecting to be called up for Wales anytime soon. He might be surprised. I hope he is!
Swansea City v Barnsley
Swansea need to win to be sure if remaining in the play-off places – with their goal difference of just +3, a draw won’t be enough to stop Blackpool forging ahead. Barnsley are probably safe on 53 points. Millwall were relegated with 52 points not that long ago but that’s really unusual.
Ashley Williams is likely to play in defence for Barnsley. Joe Allen and David Cotterill could also be in the starting line-up but David Cornell will be on the bench. I'm still not sure about Jazz Richards.
West Bromwich Albion v Middlesbrough
West Brom are already promoted, along with Newcastle United – leaving Middlesbrough as the only relegated side from last season who might not be bouncing straight back up again. But it could happen – they’re only four points behind Swansea City and they’re on a very good run.
Rhys Williams hasn’t trained this week due to his pelvis problems but he will still play for Middlesbrough with Danny Coyne on the bench.
Rhys and Danny are both on a short-list to win the Official Garmin Boro Player of the Year award. There are only six players on it so it’s pretty good a third of the list is Welsh. Even though Rhys does play for Australia now.