Semi-final, play-off, re-match. First game ended 1-1 and that result set the home side as a favorite for the final. As it was expected, we watched a tough game at Deepdale. Blades put very solid performance, started with attacking attitude with a clear intention to finish the job in the first game. Jamie Ward missed a big opportunity to took his team in a lead and punishment came in 20th minute after a tragic mistake by defence line. Blades consolidated after that and in the rest of the game were the better side. Midfielder Brian Howard scored at the start of the second half and just thankfully to not-serious reactions of Craig Beattie (twice), result stayed the same. Tonight full Bramall Lane will support the lads who are in clear advantage. I think that Blades deserved a direct promotion, they're the most quality team in play-off, mentally very strong and they are the main candidate to reach Premier. But, to make a situation not so perfect, there are some injury problems for Kevin Blackwell. John-Joe O'Toole is injured, while Darius Henderson, Jamie Ward and David Cotterill are under the serious doubt.
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Lillywhites made their run into play-off zone with four wins from last four league games. In the first game, excellent left-back Sean St.Ledger scored for a lead, team played with 100 percent of potential, making even some opportunities for double it. But, it has to be said, it wouldn't be fully deserved. Their performance is not consistent, play in warm-cold shape. They lost at home, for example, against Blackpool 0-1, but in the next home game humiliated Cardiff 6-0! Their progression would be a first class surprise, but if the host underestimate them everything is possible. That's the beauty of play-offs, however. Lee Williamson is missing as he completes a three-game ban, while Richard Chaplow and Michael Hart remain on the injured list.
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This is a play-off, I don't believe in underestimating, though won't be an easy game surely. I expect a cautious game in the first half (and will place a gamble ht/ft, X-1), but don't doubt we'll watch the Blades at Wembley (and in Premier, next season). Bwin offers 1.90. Home win.
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