The race for League One
The race for League One
Who’s going to join Leyton Orient in the third tier next season?
Friday 28 April 2023
If today’s feature was a YouTube video, I’d be using a title such as: “OH MY GOD GUYS! COUNTY HAVE ONLY GOT TWO GAMES REMAINING BUT THEY COULD STILL FINISH ANYWHERE FROM SECOND TO EIGHTH!”
It’s all about the views if you’re a virgin with a camcorder, and dramatic clickbait like that would certainly attract the viewers. Factually, I’d be correct, although if I’m honest, I feel the remainder of County’s regular league campaign will resemble all the drama of a Monday afternoon episode of Doctors rather than a Christmas Day punch-up on EastEnders.
Yes, County could still go up automatically. But I don’t think we will. I did. But looking at the recent dropped points at Gillingham and Carlisle, and the numerous leads we’ve thrown away at Edgeley Park, it just feels like we’re naturally heading towards the play-offs rather than the top three. For me, Stevenage will get the job done at home to Grimsby tomorrow. I actually think Northampton will be popping the champagne too. There’s a chance Bradford might get a result at Sixfields, but I’d still put money on the Cobblers to do the business at Tranmere a week on Monday.
County could also finish outside the play-offs. But I don’t think we will. I’ve never thought that, even when we were languishing in the lower half of the table. I’ve always thought this squad were more than capable of finishing in the top seven, and they’ve shown that as the season has progressed. If Salford fail to win at Carlisle tomorrow, our play-off spot is almost in the bag. With a probably-relegated Hartlepool visiting Edgeley Park on the final day, I’m more than confident we’ll pick up enough points to finish above just one of our play-off rivals, thus guaranteeing a place in the top seven.
As soon as the fixture list was published, I thought our final day clash with the Monkey Hangers (especially with the Dave Challinor subplot) could be a winner-takes-all affair. Technically, it still could. But the fate of both clubs could be sealed tomorrow, leaving the final day to be a bit of a damp squib, such as, well, a Monday afternoon episode of Doctors.
It would be bloody lovely to beat the champions on their own turf tomorrow, which would take our automatic promotion chances to the final day, providing either Bradford or Grimsby can do us a favour. But even if the top three ends up being just out of reach, finishing in the play-offs would be a fantastic achievement considering this is our first season back in the Football League. Let’s just see what happens at Brisbane Road first, eh?
For today’s main feature, as we head into the final week of the season, I thought I’d place League Two’s top eight under the spotlight, with the help of some of my fellow fanzine editors and podcasters from across the country.
Finally, a big thank you to Andrew at TMC Design & Build for sponsoring today’s edition.
Des Junior
1st - Leyton Orient (PL 44 PTS 90)
Saturday 29 April: Stockport County (H)
Monday 8 May: Bradford City (A)
Orient are champions! Deservedly so over the course of the season?
Without a doubt. I know it’s hard for that not to sound big headed but we are currently 10 points clear, having broken various league and club records. In my opinion, after 44 games, you will be where you are on merit, be that 24th or top. Just to add into the bargain we’ve also seen various supporters from other clubs freely admitting we’re number one this season and that’ll do for me.
As things stand, which team are you most looking forward to playing in League One next season?
Charlton is a nice local derby and for me a bit personal as one side of the family are big Athletic fans.
Not many O’s fans have seen us play Derby, myself included, so if the Rams don’t make it that will be another one to look forward to.
Finally, and personally speaking, Reading (if relegated) would be good as I live 20 minutes from their ground!
How have the title celebrations been in east London? Have you been partying to the point we can pick up an easy win tomorrow?
It’s all been a bit surreal. Our last Football League title was in 1969-70 so it’s quite new for most of us and VERY new doing it with three games to go.
The win at Mansfield on Tuesday shows the players haven’t been on the sauce but most O’s fans have been drinking, partying and smiling from ear to ear for well over a week now (and no matter what the result tomorrow, we won’t stop anytime soon!).
Which two teams from the chasing pack would you choose to join Orient in the automatic places?
Head says Northampton and Stevenage, but bearing in mind none of us around these parts have much love for the fat bloke at Stevenage, the heart says you guys or Carlisle. Although the kind words from Mansfield fans in the week means we wouldn’t mind seeing them do well.
Thoughts on your run-in?
You’ll likely give us a decent test tomorrow. I didn’t go to the away game but watched the stream and agree with most that you have certainly been one of the stiffer tests this year. Bradford could be crazy if they’re needing a point or three for something.
Thanks to Mat Roper from Orient’s fanzine Pandamonium.
2nd - Northampton Town (PL 44 PTS 80)
Saturday 29 April: Bradford City (H)
Monday 8 May: Tranmere Rovers (A)
You’re currently second. Should you be higher, lower, or is that about right?
I think that’s about right. Considering all the injuries we’ve had, you can’t expect us to be above Leyton Orient. But we’ve found ways to win of late and I don’t feel anyone would begrudge us our place in the table.
Thoughts on your run-in?
Two points needed! I think if we had a fully fit squad we’d be a lot more confident but it’s essentially two cup finals now so anything can happen. I’d love to get the job done against Bradford tomorrow so we can celebrate promotion at Sixfields.
Where are the Cobblers ending up in the table?
I have to say automatic promotion. I can’t say whether that will be second or third but I’m backing the boys to get the job done in the next two games.
If you end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as your Wembley opponents?
Honestly, I don’t even want to think about it. Our squad has been decimated by injuries. We’re patched up to get through these last two games, but having to go again for the play-offs would be a stretch I think. If I was forced to choose, maybe Carlisle at Wembley as they’d have the furthest to travel?! That’s the only thing I can think of. We’d be devastated to be in the play-offs again this year.
If you win promotion tomorrow, where will you be celebrating on Saturday night?
I’ll be in The Walter Tull until they kick me out - here’s hoping!
Thanks to Brendan Walsh.
3rd - Stevenage (PL 44 PTS 79)
Saturday 29 April: Grimsby Town (H)
Monday 8 May: Barrow (A)
You’re currently third. Should you be higher, lower, or is that about right?
I did think we'd do OK under Steve Evans, so maybe not too unexpected.
Thoughts on your run-in?
Could be worse. They won't roll over but we should do it.
Where are the Boro ending up in the table?
My head and my heart both say third now.
If you end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as your Wembley opponents?
I honestly wouldn't be confident at all if we slipped into the play-offs, as we've lost to all five teams behind us.
If you win promotion tomorrow, where will you be celebrating on Saturday night?
In the bar at the ground to start with, once my shift finishes.
Thanks to Darren Jones.
4th - Stockport County (PL 44 PTS 75)
Saturday 29 April: Leyton Orient (A)
Monday 8 May: Hartlepool United (H)
We’re currently fourth. Should we be higher, lower, or is that about right?
Fourth seems about right, if a bit flattering. We've dropped some points where a form team would have expected wins. Challinor seems to have struggled to find the right combination.
Thoughts on our run-in?
I’d be happy with a draw at Orient in terms of the play-off push, but as this is their last home game and there should be a huge crowd of locals jumping on the bandwagon, a defeat would not be a shock. I can’t see us winning, although I have been wrong before.
Where are the Hatters ending up in the table?
We will finish fourth or fifth, still very credible after 11 years in the wilderness.
If we end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as our Wembley opponents?
Deep down in my soul I see a defeat to Bradford City. You read it hear first.
If we do manage to sneak into the top three on the final day, where will you be celebrating on that Monday night?
If we do win promotion, the following Tuesday morning I have an 11am tutorial at university. Might skip that.
Thanks to Mike Wilson.
5th - Carlisle United (PL 44 PTS 75)
Saturday 29 April: Salford City (H)
Monday 8 May: Sutton United (A)
You’re currently fifth. Should you be higher, lower, or is that about right?
It’s about right. We’ve been excellent for large parts of the season but we’ve lacked that ruthlessness that keeps you at the top.
Thoughts on your run-in?
On paper, they’re favourable fixtures. I’m confident we’ll do Salford at our place and I think we’ll be too much for a Sutton side that have been decent this season but run out of steam.
Where are the Cumbrians ending up in the table?
Until Stevenage’s win on Tuesday, my heart was still hoping for automatic promotion via a third place finish. I still think we’ll get six points but finish fourth.
If you end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as your Wembley opponents?
I’ll be honest, and don’t tell them, but I’m petrified of Bradford City. The idea of going to a full Valley Parade in a semi-final is daunting. I’d take them in the final, though. There aren’t many teams I dislike more than Mansfield, and I’d have them in the semi-final.
If you do manage to sneak into the top three on the final day, where will you be celebrating on that Monday night?
Gan down Botch, chore. [Des Junior - This might help our non-Cumbrian readers.]
Thanks to Lewis Ridley.
6th - Salford City (PL 44 PTS 72)
Saturday 29 April: Carlisle United (A)
Monday 8 May: Gillingham (H)
You’re currently sixth. Should you be higher, lower, or is that about right?
We should be higher than sixth. Poor results against rubbish teams throughout the season have cost us, but that happens to everyone I guess.
Thoughts on your run-in?
Carlisle away should be a good game, although knowing Salford we’ll probably mess it up at home to Gillingham on the final day.
Where are the Ammies ending up in the table?
I think it will probably all stay the same now. We’ve been so lucky with Mansfield losing to Leyton Orient on Tuesday night.
If you end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as your Wembley opponents?
I’d love to play County in the semis and then anyone in the final.
If you win the play-off final, where will you be celebrating on that Sunday night?
Let’s see what happens first…
Thanks to Lewis Marsh.
7th - Bradford City (PL 43 PTS 72)
Saturday 29 April: Northampton Town (A)
Wednesday 3 May: Crewe Alexandra (A)
Monday 8 May: Leyton Orient (H)
You’re currently seventh. Should you be higher, lower, or is that about right?
We should be much higher, at the very least in sixth place on 74 points. Everyone at Valley Parade was mystified as to where the eight minutes of added time came from last Saturday against Gillingham and typically their equaliser was scored in the 97th minute! Our own fault for not seeing the game out, but dropping two points like that was a bitter blow for the Bantams, though no doubt cheered loudly by the fans of the other League Two promotion contenders.
Thoughts on your run-in?
Our game in hand at Crewe gives us hope, but it’s the hope that kills you. Win all three games and an automatic spot is still mathematically possible but following the Gillingham draw it is highly unlikely. But we go to Sixfields tomorrow knowing that if we do win, then we spoil the home side’s promotion party and it’ll be an interesting game given so much is riding on it. Northampton completely outplayed us at Valley Parade last November but they might be nervous about wanting to clinch promotion against us rather than rely on going to Tranmere in their last game. How we play against Crewe and then Leyton Orient hinges purely on the Northampton result. It is the proverbial “taking one game at a time” situation.
Where are the Bantams ending up in the table?
As much as I’d love to think that we’ll win all three games, end up on 81 points and have other results go for us that means we sneak into third place, my heart says that isn’t going to happen. So, we will probably have to take our chances in the play-offs. One team will miss out and I suspect that team will be the loser from the Carlisle vs Salford game, if there is a winner. If it’s a draw, then the last set of matches on 8 May are going to be real nail-biters.
If you end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as your Wembley opponents?
I’d fancy ourselves against anyone at Wembley, but I’m less confident about getting through the two-legged semi-final, regardless of who we play. The reason that all of the play-off contenders are in this position is they’re all pretty equally matched. If I had a choice I’d prefer Salford or Mansfield in the semi-finals and play County or Carlisle at Wembley.
If you do manage to sneak into the top three on the final day, where will you be celebrating on that Monday night?
I’d be celebrating at The Corn Dolly, scene of a memorable post-match gathering when City beat Liverpool in May 2000 to avoid relegation from the Premier League. And probably a curry afterwards!
Thanks to Mike Harrison, editor of The City Gent fanzine.
8th - Mansfield Town (PL 44 PTS 72)
Saturday 29 April: Harrogate Town (H)
Monday 8 May: Colchester United (A)
You’re currently eighth. Should you be higher, lower, or is that about right?
We should be higher. We should be in the automatic places but a lack of consistency coupled with a stubborn manager who changed tactics far too late (not to mention our horrendous luck with injuries) has caused us to drop off. I’m surprised we’ve maintained a play-off challenge to be fair with very limited resources; so right now, I’ll take eighth because it gives us a mathematical chance.
Thoughts on your run-in?
Harrogate and Colchester are both safe from the drop now but that means NOTHING! They’ll have players wanting to put themselves in the shop window and when players are playing for their futures, it’s far more dangerous than those gunning for promotion or fighting the drop. We’ve never beaten Harrogate but we need to, in order to have a chance, although we’ll probably be without Elliott Hewitt, who’s been without doubt our best player and we have nobody fully fit to come in.
Colchester isn’t worth thinking about yet. One game at a time and what will be, will be.
Where are the Stags ending up in the table?
Sadly, eighth. It’ll be a miracle if we make it into the play-offs given our constraints. We’ve not been good enough over the season so I’m content enough with that.
If you end up in the play-offs, who would you choose to face in the semi-finals, and who would you pick as your Wembley opponents?
That’s a BIG if. Salford would be the ideal final because they don’t have the fanbase; the media and the press would back them, taking the pressure off us. I don’t fancy Carlisle away again so would have to go with either County or Bradford – but again, I don’t see us getting to the final, as we’re only good for half an hour in games fitness-wise now.
If you win the play-off final, where will you be celebrating on that Sunday night?
In my head, I’m already thinking about next season because it’s not going to happen. But… IF it did… I’d get the kettle on and celebrate with the Mansfield Matters podcast gang, because it’s moments with your mates that matter most.
Thanks to Craig Priest from the Mansfield Matters podcast.
Photo of the day
Somewhere in Burnley
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Today in SK
🕺 It’s payday! Stick on your dancing shoes and head down to Bask. As always, DJ Gareth Brooks will start your weekend in style, on the decks until 2am.
🎶 Slightly further up the A6, the Nelson Tavern also have their resident DJ playing on a Friday night, with Dicko (Ian Dickinson) on from 8pm till 1am.
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