Written by Lee Pasquariello

Nobody ever expected this from City this season. When the season started, I said we’d finish around 15-20th and anything else would be a bonus, but instead we have finished fourth, and confirmed a playoff place. 

As we head to the Toughsheet stadium tomorrow to play Bolton Wanderers, there should be no pressure on our shoulders. No checking of other scores or worrying. Just 180 minutes of football to decide if this fantastic season finishes with City at Wembley. 

While some Bolton fans may be nervous and stressing about a 6th year in League One, we can actually enjoy the occasion. All pressure will be on Bolton to win, whereas we can just play. This shift is huge in the playoffs, when you play with no fear, then things will be very exciting. 

Our away form has been poor this season, but now it doesn’t matter a single bit. Tomorrow isn’t about league tables or the form of the teams, it’s about the full 90 minutes in front of 2000+ strong away following.

We have already proven we can handle the atmosphere at the Toughsheet this season, as seen by the 0-0 draw which on another day we might have won going by the excellent second half we had there. If we can keep tomorrow tight then it will further add to the stress levels of the home fans, and hopefully turn further in our favour. 

The main aim for me tomorrow is simple, and thats to stay in the game. It really helps City that the second tie is at Valley parade, and if we can go into Thursday night with things to play for then I back us 100%. At the end of the day we shouldn’t even be here, we aren’t favourites but as always with the playoffs, anything can happen. 

Whatever happens, it’s been a fantastic season.