Lottery Of The Playoffs

Although not yet confirmed failure to win at Scunthorpe on Saturday looks to have cemented the fact that we will have to go up via the lottery of the playoffs.

This is a huge disappointment considering the early lead we took in the division. Even more worrying is the fact that promotion this season is bigger than we all realise.

If promotion were not achieved this year it would be fair to say that likes of Tyson and Commons would not be at the club next season. Emerging prospects such as Perch may also seek a move elsewhere.

Where would this leave us? With an average team and very much a league one club. I know this sounds very pessimistic but this is how important I view promotion.

Can it still be achieved? Yes is the simple answer, although some new blood could have been needed. We just need a run of wins, two home wins before Bristol City away is vital.

This leaves me to ask how have Scunthorpe steamed so far ahead, its simple; their big players have delivered. Billy Sharp has been scoring freely while in contrast Tyson`s form since his return from injury has been inconsistent.

The same can be said for Man United with the likes of Ronaldo and Scholes performing well in the premiership while Chelsea`s big stars have been below par and that is why the title will be returning to the north.

On paper we should be in an automatic position and we still might be come May. But if not, the lottery of the playoffs will be here again. We all have bad memories of that night in Bramall Lane and this time round we will be hoping for a different outcome.

However I wouldn`t bet on it. Notoriously the favourites for the playoffs never go on to gain promotion and where would this leave us?

Oh well, at least we have something to play for.

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