Thankfully the game was on Sky+, hence these post match comments. I’m no Bazza, so please forgive the lack of eloquence!
We went into tonight’s game knowing a point was enough for an immediate return to the second tier. Actually, if Wycombe failed to win at Huddersfield, it wouldn’t matter what we did!
Chris Davies made six changes to the side that demolished Barnsley on Saturday, I imagine with a view to Sunday’s final – but it was still a strong side with a very strong bench.
We started the game brightly, having the lion’s share of possession as usual. However Posh showed that they are a threat up front too when the got the ball out to either Poku or Odoh.
The game was very open, with both sides trying to attack. However we appeared to have more composure, and Bielik and Allsop both sent some wonderful passes out wide to Sampsted. It wasn’t a great surprise when on 20 minutes, a cross by Taylor Gardner-Hickman was headed home just under the bar by Alfie May.
However Blues were only ahead for a few minutes, when a corner wasn’t cleared properly – Poku’s sharp shot equalised for Peterborough. The first half continued to be end to end, with both teams trying to play football and with less than 10 minutes before the break, Blues regained the lead. Gardner-Hickman got the ball off Leonard, and worked his was into the box and fired the ball under Nicholas Bilokapic the Posh keeper. Peterborough huffed and puffed, but could only create half chances.
The second half lacked the quality of the first, it got a bit scrappy and there were a number of fouls by both sides. Both sides did try to score, but as the match went on, it became clear that Blues were happy with the 2-1 scoreline. Davies did bring on Anderson, Laird, Stanno and Paik over two lots of subs – but none of them could really make an impact. I believe that they will all start on Sunday.
Time ticked on, and CD strengthened the defence by bringing on Hanley, and Blues were able to fairly comfortably, see the game to it’s conclusion. This resulted in amazing scenes of celebrations by both the players and the fans. Blues were promoted with six games to play.
We need a point for the title, however we will be awarded the title without kicking a ball if Wrexham fail to beat Wigan away in the 12.30 kick off on Saturday.
It’s fantastic to be the first team in the EFL to be promoted. Of course there’s the title to go for too, but we’re still on to beat the division one points total of 103 set by Wolves, the all time EFL total of 106 set by Reading and the win total of 32 set by Witton. Oh and a cup final too!
Whatever happens the rest of this season though, we have achieved the main objective of getting back to the Championship. We have done it emphatically. The players and coaching team should be very proud.
Next stop, Wembley!
Excellent piece Kev. I have no doubt there may be one or two sore heads this morning. I hope the players get at least a morning off but it’s back to training and preparation for Sunday’s final. Let’s have no complacency, let’s bring it home! KRO
Great blog Kev.
Hard earned, no matter what the detractors may (pun intended) say or think.
kro