As the season draws to a close, LFW looks ahead to this weekends action in the Coca Cola Championship.
When Sky selected Stoke v Bristol City as this weekends live game, they were probably both in the top two. But what looks more and more like the league that no one wants to win as the weeks go by, the game at the Brittania is a 3rd v 4th clash and the prize for both sides could well be a return to the top two.
New leaders West Brom, look like they are entering the home straight in great form and a win over bitter rivals, Wolves, took the Baggies back to the top midweek. Tony Mowbray's men have a tricky looking away game at Norwich. Second place Hull, have another Yorkshire derby, this time away at Sheffield United. The Tigers will be looking for the same sort of result as they got at Barnsley in the week, winning 3-1 at Oakwell.
The remaining teams currently in the play off positions, face each other at Vicarage Road as Watford take on Palace. Similar to that of the two sides just outside the play off places, as Ipswich and Wolves clash at Portman Road.
Down at the bottom and things are really hotting up in the race to avoid joining Colchester and Scunthorpe in League One next year. Sheffield Wednesday moved out of the bottom three midweek but only got a draw at home to Plymouth. The Owls travel to Blackpool this Saturday for what is a vital clash for both sides.
Third from bottom, Leicester have a tough trip away at Barnsley, who are by no means safe themselves. Just above the drop zone are Coventry, who face a trip to Layer Road to face Colchester, who on recent form, are certainly looking like they want to go out in style. A win for Southampton at home to mid table Burnley, could well see them safe if results go for them.
LFW's preview of QPR's London Derby with Charlton, will be online shortly...
Championship fixtures in full;
Saturday, 19 April, 2008
Barnsley v Leicester City
Blackpool v Sheffield Wednesday
Colchester United v Coventry City
Norwich City v West Bromwich Albion
Plymouth Argyle v Preston North End
Queens Park Rangers v Charlton Athletic
Scunthorpe United v Cardiff City
Sheffield United v Hull City
Southampton v Burnley
Stoke City v Bristol City (5.20)
Watford v Crystal Palace
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Ipswich Town