For the third time in four seasons, the end of the season sees Stevenage competing in the playoffs. It’s a formidable record that has only been broken by the Conference title winning year of 2009/10.
Equally formidable is Boro’s performance in those playoffs. Including 2004/5, there is yet to be an occasion where Boro’ have been defeated at home – Hereford (D), Cambridge (W), Accrington (W).
Of course, tonight’s visit of Sheffield United may just prove a tougher test than those gone before.
Some of the current squad – Mark Roberts, Chris Day, Michael Bostwick, Jon Ashton and Darren Murphy – have only known success in their four years here (you can, of course, argue that Murph hasn’t exactly been an integral figure this year).
And then add anyone who has joined the club since – it’s a tremendous culture of success.
There is a case to make for Robin Shroot’s inclusion in the team tonight, having added an extra dimension to Boro’ in the final stages of the Bury game. But, given the fact we are at home, we would go with the same 11 who started that final league game. If we take matters to Sheffield United, we can set the tone for the entire tie. For that, we feel the need to stay with 4-4-2 at home and then see what becomes of it.
The bookies aren’t too sure which way to call this. The best price you can currently get on a home win appears to be Boylesports’ 8/5. The draw is 23/10 at Bet365 and the away win is twos at Betvictor. Meanwhile, Patrick Agyemang tops the first goalscorer list, but how does a cheeky 20/1 on Michael Bostwick at Bet365 tempt you? Robbo is further back at 25s with Skybet. Linky: HERE
One last point. Opta says the team finishing 3rd has won 35 per cent of all playoffs from the third tier. Mind you, 26 per cent (we think) have been won by the 6th placed team. Interesting. Team Tarot: