21/04/2014 The Football League Show

Good evening. Welcome along to the second part of our Easter double

header. For most teams, we're down to the last three games. And with

barely a fortnight left of the regular season, only a handful of

teams can be forgiven for thinking ahead to their summer holidays.

Talking of which, good to have Leroy with me tonight. And here's how we

line up this evening. Burnley on the brink. Having missed out on the

chance to seal their return to the Premier League for a second week

running, would it be third time luck for the Clarets as Sean Dyche's side

welcomed Uwe Rosler's play-off-chasing Wigan to Turf Moor.

Orient may have missed out on automatic promotion this season but

Russell Slade's side had a chance to lay down a marker to their play-off

rivals at home to Champions-elect Wolves.

We've all the latest promotion and relegation news with no less than

six clubs in the frame today to learn their fate across all three

divisions. Bristol Rovers find themselves in familiar territory

struggling at the wrong end of the football league and chasing

Rochdale. We start the show at Turf Moor where

Burnley knew a win today against Wigan would be enough to seal

promotion to the Premier League. Commentary from John Roder.

Wigan arrived in good form hoping their side can spoil Burnley's day.

That came after the hand, didn't it? Play goes on and Burnley were hoping

to profit. Arfield couldn't get there. Wigan appealing for handball.

Burnley almost profited. Just perhaps the overall air of tension

around this ground is transferring itself onto the pitch. Burnley in

front! Ashley Barnes rakes the deadlock in the 22nd minute. Is that

the first of Burnley's steps this afternoon towards the Premier

League? It is a super, flowing move from the Clarets. The cross is

precise, Ashley Barnes right on the end of it. Marney's delivery is

perfect. Ashley Barnes gets his third goal since joining Burnley.

And Sean Dyche's team are leading. Gomez with the delivery. Fortune,

off the bar. How close can you get to an equaliser? Free kick delivered

well and Fortune getting a touch on it. There was no way that Tom Heaton

was going to get to that. Burnley would love a second goal before the

break. Arfield. Almost got away from Perch. He pulled him back. Burnley

free kick in a promising position. Not much doubt about that.

Straight in! Stunning goal. Michael Kightly with an exquisite Easter

goal for the second time this weekend. He scored an absolute Perla

at Blackpool on Friday, and now he has driven this one in which case,

power and precision. Look out Al Habsi on the line. The goalkeeper

hardly moves. He gets his fourth goal of the season.

Mee went for the girl and Al Habsi pushes it over. -- goal. That was

well struck from Mee. He will say no doubt that at half-time the job is

only half done. Fortune putting pressure on. Tom

Heaton with the save. Mee will clear it. Tom Heaton keeps it at 2-0.

Perhaps a little bit of defensive confusion, the header wasn't strong

enough. Fortune got the touch and Tom Heaton got the block. It is

getting closer for Burnley. A return to the Premier League. All the time

it stays at this score, Burnley know at full-time day will be back in the

big time. Mee is first to the header. It was missed. After the

post from Ings. Trying to beat Al Habsi up the near post. Danny Ings

was close to his 26th goal of the season. The angle was always tight.

We have seen Burnley scored direct from a free kick already this

afternoon. David Jones stands behind it. It is Jones. Al Habsi pushes it

away to safety. Al Habsi watched it all the way. It was a well struck

free kick from Jones. Can Wigan find their way back?

That was at decent ball forward. It dropped nicely. This shot punched

away by Al Habsi as Ashley Barnes /it with power. Straight at the

Wigan goalkeeper. They are almost there. Not quite. But almost.

Last few seconds. Burnley are in the Premier League! Sean Dyche in his

first full season in charge has guided the Clarets to the top

division in English football. Delirious scenes at Turf Moor. It

has been a superb season from the Clarets. It still has two matches to

go, but they will play Ipswich and Reading in their final two games,

knowing they are in the Premier League next season. What does it

mean to Burnley to be in the Premier League? It means everything. We were

fourth favourites to go down and the courage we have shown all season is

amazing. What a great set of lads, we fully deserve this. His first

full season in charge for the boss, how good a job has Sean Dyche done?

I knew him from my time at Watford. He is a top manager. You can just

see what he has done here. He deserves all the credit. Go and

enjoy yourself, thank you. Those scenes will live in your

memory for ever? It is the best day of my life, certainly in my career.

The lads have been believable. I am delighted to say we can speak to

Sean Dyche now at Turf Moor. You can do away with the one game at the

time mantra, how does it feel to be promoted? It feels fantastic. It is

an authentic mantra that we agreed at the beginning of the season. We

could not promise the world with the squad and finance available but I

did promise we would be competitive. It is authentic to get over the line

with 89 points so far, not waiting for other results is testament to

the fantastic staff and a fantastic set of players. This is only your

third season as a manager, have big and achievement is this to take

Burnley up into the Premier League? It is a massive achievement. Not

just because of the constraints, the challenges we have. I Inc we spent

450,000 in the last 18 months. We have got 22 players and a couple of

Young lads within that. We have galvanised a group of people to be

relentless. And to give everything. I must say, as well as some good

talent, the first gold today, what a goal it is. We have done it so many

times this season. It is not just about hard work and energy, there is

some real talent. I have enjoyed every part of it. It is a great

story, a great achievement. Well done again, enjoy the rest of your

celebrations tonight. Apart from what has gone on at Old

Trafford, what went on at Turf Moor will get its their share of the

spotlight? It deserves all of the spotlight. Sean Dyche never gave up.

His team did it today and they have done it all season. He talks about

Vokes, 18 clean sheets. That first goal epitomised everything good

Burnley have done this season. It was great, one touch play. Ashley

Barnes, who came into the team in January, lovely play. Lovely finish

in the middle of the six yard box. It was another highlight in a season

of highlights. You have Tom Heaton, Shackell and David Jones down the

spine of that team. And then you have Trippier at fullback. It has

been a tremendous squad effort. Crystal Palace have shown they can

stay up in the Premier League, and they have given themselves a

fighting chance on limited resources, so hope for Burnley? Lots

of hope, and they have a very good manager. Tony Pulis is meticulous

just like Sean Dyche. They can develop those Young players along

the way. Those are the top two editions sorted out. So let's find

out how the other teams in the promotion mix got on, starting at

the iPro stadium as Derby met a Barnsley side staring relegation in

the face. Both clubs were hoping, particularly

the Tykes, for whom the Bell is tolling.

Short of eight top six finish Derby is more manageable but in use are

Burnley's early goal to the edge off the celebrations for this opener.

Derby seem happy to keep their four-man focus ahead of the

play-offs. Russell's deflect did shot had them on a run of eight

games. Danny Wilson reckoned Barnsley made it too easy for Derby

in the first half. They did show some fighting spirit in the second.

But they will need more than bad if they are to avoid the drop. They

only just about survived this free kick. It was a leisurely performance

by Derby. Polite applause accompanied most of it. If the

pressure had been on the fans might have been less forgiving of missing

this on the goal-line. It seems to catapult a comeback. Chris O'Grady

took matters into his own hands. The goalkeeper had it covered. Barnsley

did get themselves back into the game with ten minutes of normal time

remaining. But that only succeeded in waking Derby up. Seconds later

they had a penalty. As it was, Luke Steele said the penalty but all

available evidence suggests these are two clubs heading in different

directions. We need to keep the performances going. And to make sure

that we finish the season well. QPR's determination to nail down

that play-off place was underlined by a changes made by Harry Redknapp,

including the return of Kevin Doyle. Tom Cowell was among the recall is,

and he tested Manuel Harmonia just before half-time, to counter what

the's promise. The visitors followed up after the break with Troy Deeney

playing the lead role, to worry Rob Green. Those worries increased when

Troy Deeney set up Mathias Ranegie to give what to believe. On came

Bobby Zamora and Junior Hoilett, but the Rangers talisman Charlie Austin

looked like the most likely to bring the home side back into contention,

if only Manuel Munoz not so inspired. The return of Joey Barton

to free kick duties did not disappoint, with 14 minutes

remaining. Loftus Road could believe again. But only after a goal-line

clearance moments later. Rob Green got out of his goal, and Nedum

Onuoha had the coolest head, and Rangers were still in the game. Just

how crucial that say was" a final minute, the Charlie Austin playing

in Ravel Morrison, and when the orator to him, his finish guaranteed

Rangers a place in the top six. -- when the ball returned to him. It

was a tough game against a good team, I was impressed with Watford.

They will be right there again in The Championship next year, the way

they have later date. They passed it well. We are stretched to the game,

and I was delighted to get a late finish, to get the winner. Ryton

were determined to tighten their grip on the final play-off place,

while strugglers Blackpool would have found the atmosphere more

welcome after those unpleasant scenes at Bloomfield Road days

before. The first half was average, with Brighton first to flex their

muscles. Blackpool have been on the slide from once. Four straight

defeats had dropped them into the bottom three, and they recalled

Stephen Dobbie to the starting line-up, who went close to scoring

against the club he left last summer. 0-0 at the break, and the

second half was barely started when Dale Stephens eased nerds by curling

in a beauty. -- nerves. Minutes later, Blackpool had a surprise in

store. Stephen Dobbie with a wonder goal, not enough to lift his side

out of trouble, but it opened the door for some Brighton's nearest

challengers. Two of those met at Portman Road with Ipswich and

Bournemouth hoping to recover from damaging weekend defeats. What

turned out to be a thrilling afternoon, Cole Skuse catching the

Cherries out, but not Paul Anderson, who arrived just in time. Ipswich

almost made it two straightaway. Aaron Cresswell with a free kick,

testing Lee Camp. Ballmer did not take long to impose themselves.

Lewis Grabban anticipated the ricochet, but it was not matched

either finished. Some great improvisation from Steve Cook

produced parity, just before half-time. Not a typical central

defender's goal. Creswell's pinpoint set pieces are a regular feature at

Portman Road, and Paul Green did not have to leave the ground to notch

his first goal, on loan from these. Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe

changed this site's formation and his tactical twist should have been

rewarded by Marc Pugh. The top six place tantalisingly close for Mick

McCarthy's men, this free kick from Matt Ritchie got the benefit of a

wrong-footed deflection. Both teams pushed the winner, with para-rowing

Mings inches away for Ipswich, before Yann Kermogant stung the

palms of Dean Gerken, but the draw only benefits the other teams

chasing the play-offs. It has been a remarkable turnaround. The players

have been brilliant. I am proud of them. We have still got the chance.

We will go to Burnley and see what happens. It is never easy, chasing

the game. Sometimes you can get caught out when you commit to many,

but we could not get the break we needed today. Nottingham Forest's

play-off hopes have been renewed over Easter, with the goal-scoring

form of Matt Derbyshire. For the second game in a row, he needed less

than two minutes to open the scoring. It was his third goal in as

many days, soon afterwards. 60 minutes was all that it took

Nottingham Forest to wrap up the 2-0 victory they needed to climb back

into seventh place, only one point behind Brighton. Ross McCormack was

denied by Dorus de Vries. He injured himself in the process. The

goalkeeper played through the pain before being substituted. Not before

surviving this narrow escape, with Danny Pugh gracing the crossbar and

then the shot from Michael Brown was blocked. Forrest, marching on

together, rejuvenated, not so much. We are disappointed, we have given

the game away in the first 20 minutes. We were chasing the game.

We had a better reaction in the second half but that was too late.

We want to give a good shift for this football club and problems to

the opposition. QPR securing a play-off place, and a good victory

for Nottingham Forest, back-to-back victories for Forrest, they had been

looking at the play-offs from a distance but they are back in the

frame, now. I was concerned about the messages coming out when they

appointed Stuart Pearce for next season, but this was a well taken

goal, and they are back in the fold. There was just a lack of confidence

around the team. The results went for them today and now Matt

Derbyshire has got four goals in three games. You knew that as soon

as he gets one goal, the rest would follow, because he is a good

finisher, nice and calm, he takes that round the goalkeeper and sticks

it into the empty net. He can win them games. They could be coming

into form at a crucial stage, but for the third round of fixtures in

succession, teams in and around sixth position are all stumbling at

the moment. We saw that at Portman Road between Ipswich and

Bournemouth. We thought that this was a goal worthy of winning any

game, to make it 1-1, before Ipswich scored to make it 2-1. But that draw

was not good for either side. More disappointing for Mick McCarthy,

that is 30 points from winning positions that they have dropped, so

he will be disappointed with that. When they get in front, you think

that his side are going to be wet -- well organised, but that this

disappointing. Bournemouth and Eddie Howe have Jimmy later the great

amount of points, and he was voted the club's best ever manager through

the week, and that is a real accolade, when you consider the

others include Harry Redknapp. Our last look at The Championship

now, and what a game in prospect at the Den. Starting the day just a

point above the drop zone, Millwall welcomed a side just above them on

goal difference, Doncaster Rovers. Three victories from five unbeaten

games had Millwall in good spirits ahead of this relegation battle.

Abdoulaye Meite was sent off giving them among advantage. His challenge

on Stefan Maierhofer earned him a red card with only 43 minutes

played. Both managers felt it was a harsh decision. Millwall could not

make the most of it. Steve Morison twice went close for the home side.

With QPR and Bournemouth still to play, Millwall might find that this

draw against ten men comes back to haunt them. Unfortunately, that is

two points dropped, isn't it? If we had won that game today maybe they

would have been looking over their shoulder, but who's to say that we

cannot get something out of the last two and beat some of the others

around us? That showed why I believe we will stay in this division,

because they are a fantastic bunch to work with. We have got a right

good chance, when you have got that. The pre-match fanfare was as good as

it got for the blues fans. Blackburn tore into their team, and the first

goal should have come after six minutes, but Rudy Gestede wasted the

cross. Another arrived minutes later, and this time, Rudy Gestede

had his eye in, 1-0, and the Gold Rush had begun, with a top six place

till up for grabs. From the Craig Conway free kick, Gestede had his

second and Blackburn Rovers were on their way. is later, there was

confirmation that Darren Randolph was in for another grisly afternoon.

He seemed to have the shot cover before I deflection make him look

silly, and produced a chorus of boos at 3-0. Then Rudy Gestede completed

his first hat-trick with a header. Callum Reilly with the cross,

finished by Nikola Zigic for his seventh of the season. There was

time for a first senior goal for Demarai Gray, the 19 row substitute,

but the real celebrations will start only if Birmingham stay up. It is

pool. We have to come out with a bit of fight and courage, but it was too

big and ask. What is impressive about the hat-trick is that he

missed the opportunity to finish off a great team. If he had got his head

down and stayed with it, he had three headers, which is a fantastic

hat-trick. Jose Riga steamed happy enough, but the Charlton boss had

his smile wiped off his face within minutes of the game starting. With a

vicious volley getting Sheffield Wednesday off to a flyer. The big

Austrian clearly in the goal-scoring groove right now. Charlton won on

this ground and debris, which spoiled the chance that Wednesday

had of facing triple United in the FA Cup. Chris Maguire's splendid

finish meant the London club were tunnelling towards the bottom three,

but somehow they found that fighting spirit, with Marvin Sordell nothing

in between two defenders to put the addicts back into contention. --

nipping in. He has not lived up to expectations since arriving on loan

from Borden, but when Callan Harriet found him, he single-handedly kept

Charlton in business. His reputation further increased when Nuhiu put him

through for his first ever career hat-trick. Quite simply, a stunning

turnaround to keep Charlton's heads above water. We have seen two faces

of Charlton. We concede two goals and then become back into the game

and we score, and most important, is to be able to score, and then became

not easy, but we mastered more the game, we got the upper hand.

Suddenly they just started winning the ball, and individual errors were

punished. Chris Kirk wind has not had a save to make and he has picked

the ball out of the net three times. -- Chris Kirkland. Very few people

outside Somerset gave Yeovil any hope of survival, and today was the

day that many predictions could be fulfilled, Tom Lawrence missing a

glorious chance to prove that doubters wrong. Adam Hamill showed

that he was not a man inhabited by previous failures, with the manner

of his assist for Nahki Wells. Yeovil needed to respond quickly.

This no-nonsense free kick from Lawrence pot new hope to huge park,

but the concession of late goals has been a feature of their season, and

more brilliance from Adam Hamill in the final seconds allowed Adam

Clayton to edge Huddersfield to safety, leaving Gary Johnson's men

needing a mathematical miracle. We have played some good stuff this

season, we have two games left. We are pleased to have secured

Championship status and it gives me a long, hard some of work to try and

improve things for next time round. We have enjoyed the champions see --

Championship season, if you like, the supporters have enjoyed it and

we can go back to the first division, we can regroup and try and

come back stronger. That leaves Yeovil Town six points

off save me. There is no doubt they have overachieved to begin with.

What else could Gary Johnson have done this season? He has done

everything he could have. They dropped 31 points from winning

positions this season. They have not taken their chances. Maybe he could

have had a bigger budgets, but I can see it from the club's point of

view. When you go up it is more costs. It is their first season in

there. It has been a difficult season but a good season in the

championship. Now they will go down to League one, they have the

foundations of having another go at it. He will be positive off the back

of their relegation. Let's have a look at some hat-trick heroes. Black

burn are ending the season with a flourish but it leaves Birmingham

with no home win in 16 games and they have their next two games at

home. It is not good enough for the loyal fans. Should we be giving the

manager a bit of leeway considering what is going on at boardroom level?

Yes, of course you do. But we know what has happened with the chairman.

It has been a difficult rattle and they need to stick together. People

talk about making the change, but who for? It is a difficult job. Lee

Clark is doing the best he can with the best he has got. He has good

players there and they are not performing at the moment that Lee

Clark will turn things around. Charlton secured a good comeback

against Sheffield Wednesday. They will never get more important goals

will they? Yes, he can score goals. It was timely for Charlton against

Sheffield Wednesday. He makes this look very easy. Clips it over the

keeper into the corner. Gives them a bit of breathing space with Yeovil

Town, I think their fate is done and dusted. Are we saying six teams

trying to avoid the remaining relegation places? Yes, Charlton is

lifted out a bit, Millwall find themselves on an unbeaten run, it is

Birmingham and Blackburn need to find some form. It is all about

sixth place, who is your money on? I think Reding will sneak into the

final spot. So to League One now and having

secured promotion on Friday, Brentford were still in with an

outside chance of clinching the title as The Bees visited MK Dons.

Promoted Brentford knew they had to win to maintain any chance of

claiming the league one title. Brentford's leading scorer exposed

the defensive shortcomings and all the signs are pointing to an away

success. The MK dons had seven first-team players missing through

injury. They won a penalty that reduced the deficit. Stephen Gleeson

convert it the spot kick. Their first goal at home in over ten hours

of football. Ryan Hall picked out McLeod who scored his ninth of the

season. The MK dons, after five straight home defeats, a welcome

return to form. It is a difficult time of the year,

they have achieved their main goal which is promotion. But we were

sloppy. Congratulations to Brentford and their manager, they are one of

the best teams we have played at this level for a long time. We wish

them all the luck in the world next season.

Carlisle was smashed 6-1 at Preston. They did invent any further damage

before the break, but in the second half they were swept away. This

cross hit an arm. The rest was done from the penalty spot. His 31st goal

in all competitions. They did muster a response with the goal of the

game. Miller scored his eighth of the season. Posh have lost 18 games

this season but are pushing for promotion. Jordan Pickford committed

a foul. Another spot kick followed by the same outcome. And their

fourth successive home win was topped off by Michael Bostwick.

Victory at Shrewsbury next week will confirm their place in the top six.

The key is getting the momentum and the aspiration is to get in the

play-offs. Away from home against a very good team. We have got to

believe we are still more than capable of staying in the league and

with the extra game in hand if we can win against Oldham, we give

ourselves a fighting chance. Peter Boro's victory over Swindon.

They only managed a narrow victory in the end. Lee Cox held in his

first goal since 2010. With a play-off place assured,

Rotherham rested two of their players. But Steve Evans had not

planned on his side being a man lights before the break. They

introduced his top marksman and his ambition was rewarded 11 minutes

from time. He celebrated his 25th goal of the season.

Chris Robertson's follow-up was blocked. If it was handball, the ten

men had ridden dialogue. Disappointed. It gives the referee

the opportunity to make that decision. He could have given a

yellow. Realistically, Shrewsbury needed to win all of their remaining

games to stand a chance of staying up. A trip to Preston was daunting.

Lee Holmes left them with a sinking feeling. Most teams would struggle

when Preston North End are in the mood. This spectacular volley made

it even more depressing. The Shrewsbury boss spent seven years as

a player with the Lillywhites, but Shrewsbury flickered into life when

Sean Miller reduced the arrears. From this long kick, Stuart Bevan

crossed for Paul Gallagher who simply could not miss. 3-1 and it

meant Shrewsbury were heading for their 21st defeat of the season.

Round's for work was too quick and the penalty was given. Not good news

for the goal difference Shrewsbury may have to rely on to save them.

But they need a miracle to avoid the drop. Their supporters had another

goal to cheer when Paul Parry got a clear down the right and centre over

the cross for Luke Summerfield. The defeat at home to Peter Boro next

week will spell the end for them while dressed and will be a force to

be reckoned with in the play-offs. Gallagher brought up his hat-trick

as the home side cruised to victory. We had some good points within the

game, but to win another game and score five goals is pleasing against

a team fighting for their lives. It is a Young squad out there today and

some of them came up short in experience and know-how against a

good Preston side full of experience. It is a learning curve

for some of them, but it is not a good learning curve for the club

because it is in the mire at the moment. So it is disappointing for

them. You will know the ones who give everything they have got to

give. Well done to Paul Gallagher, with three goals he had two assists

to his name but it leaves Shrewsbury facing the drop. Peter Boro are one

game away from securing their place in the play-offs and increasing the

worries of Carlisle. What made this all the more impressive was Ferguson

made seven changes? That comes off the back of their cup run. They have

one the St Johnstone Trophy. There is a confidence in the squad that

they can go out and perform and making those seven changes and

getting the result was very impressive. They have just held the

other teams off at arms length, Swindon are just behind them and

notched up their sixth win in seven games earlier. Four points behind

posh. If they have left it too late, Cooper has given them lots to build

on for the next campaign? Mark Cooper has done a tremendous job.

Remember at the start of the season with Kevin Macdonald resigning.

Ownership change as well. They have tried to keep on the coat-tails of

those teams in and around the play-offs. It has been an impressive

season. If they are still in that division it will give them a

foundation to try and do a bit better. They have Young and exciting

talent at the County ground. More from League One now and

Monday's early kick-off at the Matchroom, as Wolves looked to seal

the title at a club which had led the promotion race for much of the

season, Leyton Orient. Russell Slade made two changes with Gary Sawyer

and John Lundstram coming in for Lloyd James and Elliott Omozusi.

Kenny Jackett made one change with Jack Price in for Lee Evans. Jon

Champion was watching this one. Jones cannot prevent a corner. The

header finds the back of the net. It is Richard Stearman. His second of

the season. But a very popular goal-scorer. It has been his and his

colleagues's success in keeping the ball out of the net at the other

end. Richard Stearman put Wolverhampton Wanderers in front.

A decent shot by Mooney. They appeal for handball. Richard Stearman was

the defender in question. It was travelling at pays the arm was a

long way from his body. That should have been a penalty.

Sacco! It is two. Wolves fault is still hard to the floor. That was

neat interplay. Not the most accomplished of finishes.

Smart save and he did well to hang on, the goalkeeper. The header was a

good one, so was the save. Nathan Clarke denied. It was a wallet

header. -- wallet. Fine effort across the face from

Dave Mooney. Leyton Orient denied by the

linesman's slack. -- flag. Dagnall became active When the ball came

down from the bar, therefore the goal had to be chopped off.

Cox. Mooney, Dagnall lurking. This is good from Leyton Orient.

Cuthbert. The goalkeeper flapping at it, and

it falls to Cox and that there is one back for Leyton Orient, two

minutes into the second half, Dean Cox asks for more on the crowd, the

very least that the home side deserved, after that ill fortune in

the first period. Mooney and Bagnall both involved. It was on its way in,

despite the deflection. Cuthbert. Odubajo. A useful ball, and the

loose ball was hooked over the top by David Mooney. Did not extract

full advantage,. Barry Hearn, The chairman and owner of Leyton Orient,

Azi has been for some 19 years, taking a break from the world

Snooker Championship. -- as he has been. The goalkeeper making the

block, then it hits the bar, and still the Leyton Orient Equalizer

will not go in. They have done everything but score. Their efforts

foundering on the goalkeeper and the woodwork, with Batt denied by the

bar. Edwards, probably the final attack of the game. James Henry

makes it three. And he provides the perfect finale for Wolves. Their

30th winner of a remarkable season. They go to 99 points, five club

records broken along the way. James Henry polishes off Leyton Orient. It

was a great game. I thought that they can Orient were hard done by,

they played very well, but there was a particular circumstance of the

game where we needed this on to make sure that we could step over the

line, so it was a big game for us. Everyone will want to play as in the

play-offs, we do not get penalties, you have seen that today, we are up

against it, there is no doubt about that, but our main talent he is, we

will give it absolutely everything. -- our mentality is. A good

reflection on one controversial moment in that game at Brisbane

Road, should Leyton Orient have had a penalty? Yes, it was a pivotal

decision, it hits the hand of Richard Stearman. His arms are right

away from his body. The assistant referee was in a good position and

he did not give it. It had an affect on the game because late Noreen

played well and deserved at least something from it. -- Leyton Orient.

Wolves have eight home-grown players in the match day squad this season,

which is very impressive. It is, because people would have thought

they would have them out after two relegations but it has been down to

Kenny Jackett. You need to introduce an affinity with the fans, they have

got some high earners, but he has moved them on, not only has he got

an affinity with the fans but they good spirit, and they showed that in

abundance today. They stuck at it today and that is why they have

bottomed out because of what Kenny Jackett has done with that squad. It

is testament to him. He does not get the plaudits that he deserves, but

he wants to stay under the radar. He will be having a quite drink but

people will be raising a glass to him tonight because he has done a

tremendous job. And that home-grown element helps the club connect with

the fans. They were relegated and the fans read disenchanted,

relegated again, Championship, but the fans are right behind the

players, they know that they have come through the system. Maybe those

senior players on higher wages have had a disconnect, supporters. But

they have certainly reconnected now. And they have had a staggering away

following the season, as well. To the fight for survival at the other

end of the table now and we start at Broadhall Way where Stevenage needed

to beat Bristol City to keep alive their hopes of beating the drop.

Stevenage knew that only victory would do, but they knew they had not

managed to win any of their last nine games, and Elliott struck the

dominant city and the fat lady was clearing throat, the Robins were

bottom of the table when Steve, full took over in December, but their

biggest problem might be trying to keep hold of Sam Baldock. It was his

26th goal of the season. Having steered city away from relegation

trouble, Steve Cotterill is targeting a top-10 finish and his

side made sure of a third straight victory with 15 minutes ago, when

Steven and slotted home. Stevenage fans had something to smile about

when Luke Freeman curled and a cracking consolation goal, and

consolation of their League One exit might come as something of a

relief. There was an air of resignation around the club, you

could feel it. Everybody has been preparing for the job ahead.

Clearing the decks, getting together, building on what is there,

and making sure that we get this football club actor winning ways

again. -- back to winning ways. Tranmere have to start winning games

with their League One future anything but secure. This second

attempt tame by comparison, but they continue to force the pace. The

Blades keeper Mark Howard with a smart save. Sheffield United were

play-off prospects were slim at best going into this match, there was a

late chance for Baxter to decide the contest in favour of the Blades, but

Owain Fon Williams kept it out, and the point left Tranmere just a point

better off than the bottom four. Walsall's indifferent home for means

that they have fallen short of the play-offs. They could have gone in

front from this James Chambers cross. The breakthrough soon

followed. This drive was beaten away by Stuart Nelson and this time

Brandy put away his first goal since January. He almost marked his return

with the 17th of the season. To the belief of the visitors it came off

the post. The points were shared when the sides met in December, with

Cody, scoring twice, and Richard O'Donnell ensured that once again,

honours waving. -- where even. A test of character per Notts County

after their heartbreaking defeat at Bristol City on Good Friday left

them three points from safety. On another day, Jack Greenidge might

have won a penalty, and Callum McGregor wasted his chance. Crawley

were on a three match winning streak, and Jimmy Spencer climbed

highest to meet the free kick. It was a huge boost for their survival

prospects. Of all the teams down there, Notts County are showing the

kind of fighting spirit you would expect. The goalkeeper making a fine

double stop to keep Crawley at bay. There was a fine block on the line

from Hayden Hollis. They put their bodies on the line to keep their

survival hopes alive. Coventry boss Steven Pressley admitted this was

not a game for the purists, but said he was proud of his players as they

ended a three-game losing streak. Clark Harris went close twice in

quick succession for Oldham, first denied by Joe Murphy, then the foot

of the post. Steven Pressley was happy to leave with a point, but

city could have taken all three, with John Fleck forcing a save as

Oldham extended their unbeaten run, to seven. Two clubs threatened with

relegation and a rare clean sheet for a side that has conceded 79

goals, almost paying the price when caught in possession, but Freddie

Sears struck the post, and the clearance was scrambled clear.

Colchester then look for an offside flag that never came. He was on the

end of a Byron Moore cross, but could not direct his header on

target. For both teams, uncertain times lie ahead. Crew and Colchester

delivering a blank. We saw there, Stevenage relegated from League One

after their three-year stay in the division. Coming towards the end of

the season, ten games without a win. You get the feeling with Graham

Westley in charge that there will be changes and poured hallway in the

summer. Certainly, he put in a lot of hard work to take them from the

Conference two League One, and maybe they then changed around a little

bit, and now he has gone back, he has to reinstall those principles

that he proved successful with when he first went there. A lot of hard

work there but they are a good club and they will be disappointed with

being in League Two, but they are a very hard-working club, very well

run, and I think that they will get it right and will be challenging to

get back into League One. Notts County put in a tight victory

against Crawley town, who had had three consecutive wins before this,

and there home form is key to them staying up. I knew that with Shaun

Derry their, they would take some time for the team to get their

ideas, but they have taken those ideas on board and they are now a

tough side to beat, and they have got a real opportunity to get out of

that bottom four. One issue is decided on the bottom half of League

One, Stevenage have been relegated. It is not looking great for

Shrewsbury. Carlisle have got that game in hand. Look at that goal

difference as well. And look at Notts County, only -15, with

Tranmere and crew macro -- Crewe worse off on goal difference terms,

and Coventry, who have had a great first half of the season, finding

themselves in 17th place, but they have just got about enough, and

another point should see them save. At the other end, the Respect the

top six to remain the same after the next round of fixtures? I tell you

what, you have got to take off your have to Sheffield United. Thinking

that they would finish eighth or ninth. And an FA Cup semifinal as

well. From the start of their season that is absolutely amazing, and

Nigel Clough has done a fantastic job. But next season will be a big

season for them. Could the next two weeks be the most important in

Bristol Rovers' history? Hovering perilously above the trap door they

face losing their Football League status for the first time in 96

years. Desperate for the points today, Clem was at the Memorial for

the visit of promotion chasing Rochdale. It is that time of year

again when we visit England's six biggest population centre and ask

just why is it that a great city like Bristol cannot get its act

together on the football field. Bristol City might have rallied at

League One in the second half of the season but Bristol Rovers are once

again walking the plank and just as work is set to start on the

long-awaited new ground, and the man who saved them last season has moved

upstairs, and his assistant is in at the deep end. He came in with eight

games to go. It is tough at the moment. We have got to get over the

line. The squad has not been good enough, we have been down there for

majority of the season and Bristol Rovers should not be fighting to

stay in the league, but we are in a situation where that is the case.

Could this be your penultimate game, after 96 years in the Football

League? I hope not. We have had chances to stay up, and we are not

getting nothing. If we survive it which I believe we can, there will

be a big excitement and the future is extreme exciting, too. Are you

seriously worried? I worried, but optimistic. There is so much good of

the field with this club, the new stadium on the horizon, hoping to be

on site the summer, and that is the catalyst to taking this club

forward, what we have been working for foreign long-time and it would

be disappointing if this was to happen. How do you live with this

scenario around your beloved club? You're just used to it. You always

believe. If we go down I will still be here, next season. You cannot

believe that we would be going out of the foot wall league, but I think

four points will do it. -- the Football League.

The fans will be behind us today. We have got to take it as it comes and

we are fighting for every second of the game. Rovers couldn't have asked

for a better start. Suddenly the relegation loom was lifting. Rovers

in front for the first time in a month. Rochdale responded strongly,

just before the break Ian Henderson thought he had scored but a post got

in the way. If that was the warning shots, Rochdale were encouraged.

George Donnelly was next up but a better chance opened up the

substitute. Bristol Rovers stayed in front. But not for long. Then the

home crowd's worst fears began to grow. Sure enough, the script turned

sour. This cross was allowed to run through the entire backline. He

could hardly miss. Mitch Harding failing in front of the keeper. The

keeper was on hand again. Then he could only watch and wonder where

the ball was going next as Bristol Rovers lined up one by one to try

their luck. But to no avail. Stuff of nightmares? Yes, we had such a

good start but the game ran away from us. Rochdale played some good

foot all and we have to do our best to retain our league status. I want

us to do it the right way. We are not down yet and we will come back

strong. Fighting talk there. But not even a bit of Hollywood glitz could

help Bristol Rovers. What has gone wrong this season? Lots of injuries.

They went into the season with a lot of hope. The fight for the new

stadium has been a distraction. I think the players thought they were

safe and Ben became complacent. That culminated with John Ward stepping

down. I don't know the circumstances behind why he stepped down, but I

thought it would be more plausible for him to hold the reins to get

them over the line. Then Dell finds himself in a difficult situation.

His first managerial job. What do you make of it? It is his first ever

league manager's job. I don't think it was a good idea. Even if they

were hatching to do this change, they could have done it in a more

secretive way. The players haven't taken on the ideas yet. Whickham

away and Mansfield at home, 94 years of history at stake, can they do it?

Yes they can, they have great support but they need to get it

together quickly. To League Two now and Scunthorpe were on the threshold

of a return to League One at the first time of asking earlier today

if Fleetwood failed to beat Wycombe, Burton failed to win at Newport, and

the Iron overcame Oxford at Glanford Park.

The stakes were high for both clubs with Whickham hovering just above

the bottom two but their cause was helped after 13 minutes when Alan

Goodall hit out. The referee was left with little option. Fleetwood

were determined not to be fazed by their numerical disadvantage.

Matthew Black almost capitalised. The ten men prevailed when Josh

Morris scored his second goal of the Easter weekend to keep Whickham

fretting and Scunthorpe waiting. To win 1-0 when you are down to ten men

for 80 minutes is a fantastic result. The players were superb

today. We passed the ball well and defended really well. So the

champagne stays on ice at Scunthorpe, but it won't be long

before the corks popping. Against Oxford it took Sparrow just seven

minutes will stop having dropped out of the top seven on Friday,

Oxford's own promotion hopes hinged on a victory here. The goalkeeper

made this save as Scunthorpe looked to make sure of victory. In the end

one goal was enough. Oxford were clear of eighth place in February.

But now Scunthorpe look destined for League one. We're not quite over the

line. I was hoping we could win this game today and results could go our

way. But we are getting closer. Chesterfield edged another step

closer to promotion after a second successive away win. The decisive

moment came just beef or the halfway mark. Erwin Doyle smashed in his

13th of the season. Danny Care and had a go from close range but the

goalkeeper produced a brilliant save. Dagenham nearly levelled

seconds later. If you want to be promoted you have to win. I think 14

teams are vying for the three spots. They are all very good, competitive

sides. Burton went into this game for point of the automatic promotion

places but suffered a set back at Newport. Burton's leveller came from

the penalty spot. Composed finish from the resulting spot kick. County

displayed plenty of attacking intent. This header came back off

the post and they could not put away the follow-up. Christian jolly

picked out will not only for the Burton keeper to make an important

stop. Alex Mack doll and hit the post. -- Alex Macdonald. Burton had

to make do with a point and a guaranteed play-off spot. We showed

good character actor starting poorly and allowing Newport to dictate the

game for the first ten minutes to use their strength and put balls in

our box. Then we started playing a little bit of what we know we can.

Goalless at half-time, this game turned on the bounce of the ball on

the hour. That was the matchwinner. Phil Brown was glad this keeper was

ready for that volley. The victory margin could have been doubled on

this breakaway. Clifford made the running but they could not match the

finish. Nigel Worthington's work has tended to pass under the radar, but

the team who survived on the final day last season, are close to

sealing a play-off place thanks to that first goal for the club. Bury

have timed their late surge to late for the postseason, rather like this

challenge on Ben Davis, which resulted in a second yellow card.

But the ten men York are honest to the finish as this delivery was just

about out. It was a very hard-fought three points against and in form

team who had a slim champs of reaching the play-offs. -- channels.

The lads were superb. At kick-off, Wimbledon could have been relegated.

Survival, safety, call it what you want, you cannot talk about that

word ahead of their trip to the West Country. But the loan signing helped

turn things around. He showed strength and poise to tear up this

equaliser. The Wimbledon comeback was completed in the second half.

Jake Cole prevented Danny Hilton from prepared -- adding to the

Wimbledon lead. This one did not go according to the form book.

Mansfield had won four out of five while Cheltenham arrived with only

one big tree from their previous seven. Lewis Price made a top save.

But they did get their noses in front when Harrison teared up this

shot. The win was sealed by another strike 11 minutes from time. Martin

Reilly was caught daydreaming following this through ball. The

angle was just right as Cheltenham rubber-stamped their league two

status for another season. Portsmouth were defending a 100%

record since their caretaker boss took over. Pompey held on to the

slender lead and North Hampton, in desperate need of points, could not

find the equaliser. The cobblers failed to score at home. An unmarked

John Marquis could have given them some reward but the finish was

lacking and Northampton occupy one of the right -- relegation places

with only two games left. Whatever their early ambitions, this

was a no-nonsense relegation scrap for both. Morecambe struck first to

threaten a seventh successive defeat on Hartlepool. Morecambe had not won

in six weeks but their chances look to increase when the home side were

reduced to ten men. He was red carded for the second time in six

weeks. Within ten minutes, the ten men were level through Jack

Compton's first goal since December. Enter another substitute called

Jack. Barry Roach failed to hold onto this shot. Hartlepool were in

dreamland. The turnaround could have been better. Brad Walker's

opportunism almost made it three and the follow-up was beaten away. But

Hartlepool moved five points clear of the drop zone.

Torquay knew it was when all relegation today and faced the

prospect of local rivals sending them back to non-league fob ball.

They made the worst possible start when nervous defending allowed Tom

Nichols to assist Scott Bennett. The goal needed a hero. Up stepped

courtly Cameron, his first goal for the club could not have been better

timed. And before Exeter ride the plunge about, this through ball

allowed Ashley Yeoman to turn this derby on its head. And there was

more drama in the final minute of stoppage time. Richard Sterne night

to keep Torquay up for now and leave Exeter worrying. Very disappointed

with the result. The performance was secondary to the result. You want

the players to play at their best but they were very anxious, it was

about the result today and we did not get it. Very important not to

let local rivals send us down, I did not want that for the fans, and the

families of the players, we could not let that happen. An incredible

fightback from Torquay in the Devon derby. Lots of fight left in that

team. People thought they were down three games ago, but they have given

themselves a smidgen of a chance to get out of it and well done to them.

That victory by Fleetwood Mac Scunthorpe could not go up on

Saturday but it means that Scunthorpe take the unbeaten run to

28. Fleetwood are still very much on the tails of the top three. It was

an impressive goal, a great strike, low to the keeper's left. They have

shown good discipline and good spirit to get the three points. York

ending the season very strongly, unbeaten in 15. You can talk about

statistics all night long for them, couldn't you? Yes, they have only

conceded two in their last 14. That is where you expected them to stay

after last season, just missing out on relegation by the skin of their

teeth, so Nigel Worthington, an international manager, going to York

City, and he saw some potential there, that is why. Let's see how

you see the top and bottom playing itself out in League Two. It has all

been neck and neck with the top three going to the title. Firstly,

they want to secure promotion. Scunthorpe were just a point or two

away from that. Chesterfield and Rochdale, I think that they will

secure that place. What still with a good win at Bristol Rovers, coming

from behind. And Fleetwood might just miss out. York, into that final

play-off spot, Oxford will be disappointed, it has not worked out

under Gary Gates, but maybe they can go again next season. And at the

bottom, is the writing on the wall for Torquay? They take on Wycombe

Wanderers at home, and if they can win that game that gives them an

opportunity that they might be able to take. Northampton have only lost

three of the last 14, and they have got Oxford in the last game of the

season. Bristol Rovers looking to be in real trouble. Still so much to

play for with two games left for each side. That's all from us but

before we go just a reminder that Match Of The Day is back next

Saturday at 10.30pm on BBC One, followed by the best from the Skybet

Football League straight after. My thanks to Leroy. See you on

Saturday. Goodnight!