Viking Supporters Co-operative

Viking Chat => Viking Chat => Topic started by: Upton Rover on March 18, 2024, 08:25:09 pm

Title: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 18, 2024, 08:25:09 pm
I’m going to be optimistic and say we will get 21/22 points from our last 9 games.
Is there anyone else who thinks this is possible, and would it get us in the playoffs??
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on March 18, 2024, 08:28:45 pm
I doubt that would get a play off spot mate but it should get us a top half finish and some of us, who didn’t cash out, would get a payout from the bookies.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dutch Uncle on March 18, 2024, 08:43:22 pm
I’m going to be optimistic and say we will get 21/22 points from our last 9 games.
Is there anyone else who thinks this is possible, and would it get us in the playoffs??

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse). 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 18, 2024, 08:56:58 pm
I still think 67 or 68 points will sneak into the play offs, but alas I don't think WE will but, we want to see McCann and the boys keep going right till the end. I think we'll fall just short

Still, as long as they treat every game now as a cup final, we're capable of beating anyone, particularly as squeaky bum time sets in and the nerves jangle.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on March 18, 2024, 09:14:26 pm
I think we will average around 1.5 points per game in the remaining games.that leaves us on less than 60 points.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on March 18, 2024, 09:21:21 pm
Realistically I think we will end up with 61-62 points
Not thinking realistically I’m hoping we can get 67-68
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dutch Uncle on March 18, 2024, 09:28:13 pm
I still think 67 or 68 points will sneak into the play offs, but alas I don't think WE will but, we want to see McCann and the boys keep going right till the end. I think we'll fall just short

Still, as long as they treat every game now as a cup final, we're capable of beating anyone, particularly as squeaky bum time sets in and the nerves jangle.

Only once in those 42 seasons has the equivalent of 68 points (I say equivalent because some seasons had less than  46 games) won a place in the playoffs - Torquay in 2010-11 who made it on goal difference, and that includes them having a point deducted. This year there seems to be a bit of a gap after 6th place, and the chances are someone from places 7 to 12 will have a good run to at least 70 points, and maybe more. Happy to eat humble pie if I am proved wrong. :blush:

68 was also good for 7th place in 1983-84, but that was before playoffs were introduced.

BTW, if we get to 60 points IMHO that will be a very good achievement

Edit: Doing a bit of research, there were 168 draws in 2011, a relatively high number which brings the overall points total down

For comparison, missing out 2019-20 which was not fully played out because of COVID, going backwards recent seasons number of draws have been 160, 152, 151, 148, 143, 143, 141, 141 (bit of a trend there  :))

So far this season 123 draws which is on track for approximately 150.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on March 18, 2024, 09:31:11 pm
Lower mid table will be alright given where we have been. I’ll take that. I agree we’ll finish on somewhere towards 60ish points, maybe just short. Again that’s okay and we have a platform from which to build for next season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 18, 2024, 09:31:59 pm
well crawley have just equalised grrrrr 85th minute

it seems like stockport are bombarding them going for the winner

not be its a draw
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 18, 2024, 10:41:53 pm
My mate Bob is a builder who is currently doing some work for me.

I asked him that very question & without any further prevarication he simply answered “Yes we can”!”.

I never argue with Bob.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: MachoMadness on March 18, 2024, 11:50:42 pm
No, we can't. But there are still reasons to be cheerful if we continue to improve and have a strong finish.

Considering how we started the season and how we finished last season, a top half finish would be pretty spectacular. Also correct me if I'm wrong, but it would be the first time we've actually improved on the previous season's finish since McCann was here last time. That's the first sign of actual progress as a club in years. That could be massive going into next season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 19, 2024, 05:58:59 am
No, we can't. But there are still reasons to be cheerful if we continue to improve and have a strong finish.

Considering how we started the season and how we finished last season, a top half finish would be pretty spectacular. Also correct me if I'm wrong, but it would be the first time we've actually improved on the previous season's finish since McCann was here last time. That's the first sign of actual progress as a club in years. That could be massive going into next season.

I agree with this. There are still a lot of fantasists out there, but we have shown since the turn of the year what a good side we can be, and if we do finish above last season, that will be the first progress for several seasons.

While a number of existing squad players have definitely upped their game in the last few months, it is obvious the difference made by TLT, Craig, Adelakun and most recently Biamou. It is fairly likely that three of that four are not going to be here next season.

That’s disappointing but it is much more valuable that McCann is still able to identify and attract quality players. That bodes well for recruitment this summer when we have a lot of the current wage bill rolling off contracts and provides a major opportunity to invest in new talent.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Avsuptem on March 19, 2024, 07:03:57 am
You are probably right that 3 of the 4 will not be here next season but 3 of the 4 could be with us next season if the money is made available. I guess the least likely one to be able to keep would be Craig and the most likely one Biamou.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 19, 2024, 11:36:08 am
I still think 67 or 68 points will sneak into the play offs, but alas I don't think WE will but, we want to see McCann and the boys keep going right till the end. I think we'll fall just short

Still, as long as they treat every game now as a cup final, we're capable of beating anyone, particularly as squeaky bum time sets in and the nerves jangle.
It always happens season after season that teams that have been in the playoff spots most of the season, some will fade in the last few games. It’s the same with you will always get a unlikely team that puts in a great performance,  kicking out 7/8 wins in the final 10 games, and come from nowhere to clinch a playoff spot, and I believe that can be us, the unlikely candidates have nothing to lose.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: andy didcott on March 19, 2024, 11:46:47 am
Only 11 points off, doesn’t sound too much does it, top half would be great for me tho, quids in.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on March 19, 2024, 11:53:11 am
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 19, 2024, 11:53:24 am
I still think 67 or 68 points will sneak into the play offs, but alas I don't think WE will but, we want to see McCann and the boys keep going right till the end. I think we'll fall just short

Still, as long as they treat every game now as a cup final, we're capable of beating anyone, particularly as squeaky bum time sets in and the nerves jangle.
It always happens season after season that teams that have been in the playoff spots most of the season, some will fade in the last few games. It’s the same with you will always get a unlikely team that puts in a great performance,  kicking out 7/8 wins in the final 10 games, and come from nowhere to clinch a playoff spot, and I believe that can be us, the unlikely candidates have nothing to lose.
I think I if we win the next 2 games then there are a lot of people both Rovers fans and fans of other clubs are going to seriously think exactly what you have posted Upton.

FGR is a game we should win but need to win, and Crawley I think could be the toughest game of all our remaining games and is just about a must win game. If we do win these 2 then the almost unbelievable is actually a realistic POSSIBLE but still not a PROBABLE.
Bring it on. This could be a really exciting finish to the season. If as probable we don’t make the play offs so be it.
The momentum going into next season will be a massive boost.

We WILL be promoted next season. You heard it here 1st.
If I am wrong then feel free to post this back to me in May 2025.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Butchers Red on March 19, 2024, 12:11:04 pm
Would be nice if Bradford and Notts draw tonight

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 19, 2024, 12:47:49 pm
I’m going to be optimistic and say we will get 21/22 points from our last 9 games.
Is there anyone else who thinks this is possible, and would it get us in the playoffs??

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse). 

The other fact to take into account Dutch is that winning our next nine games, which is what is required to get us into the play offs realistically, would mean an 11 game winning run.

We have been established as a club since 1879 and spent nearly 100 years in total as a league club. Throughout that entire league history our record league winning run is 10 games (1946/47 season).

Are we going to break an all time record this season, of all seasons?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 19, 2024, 12:55:37 pm
I’m going to be optimistic and say we will get 21/22 points from our last 9 games.
Is there anyone else who thinks this is possible, and would it get us in the playoffs??

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse). 

The other fact to take into account Dutch is that winning our next nine games, which is what is required to get us into the play offs realistically, would mean an 11 game winning run.

We have been established as a club since 1879 and spent nearly 100 years in total as a league club. Throughout that entire league history our record league winning run is 10 games (1946/47 season).

Are we going to break an all time record this season, of all seasons?
We might only need 8 wins or 7 wins and 2 draws.

Records are there to be broken CBcb
Having said that I think 11 consecutive wins is highly unlikely. 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 19, 2024, 01:01:28 pm
I doubt that would get a play off spot mate but it should get us a top half finish and some of us, who didn’t cash out, would get a payout from the bookies.

A top half finish would do for me hound, especially for the reason you state. When I placed that top-half bet I thought it was nailed on!
Grimsby finished in 11th place last season with 61 points. If we can do that, I'll be more than happy.

At this stage last season we sat in 12th spot with 51 points.
We only gained a further 4 points during the rest of the season. I think we're going to beat that!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 19, 2024, 01:03:28 pm
I’m going to be optimistic and say we will get 21/22 points from our last 9 games.
Is there anyone else who thinks this is possible, and would it get us in the playoffs??

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse). 

The other fact to take into account Dutch is that winning our next nine games, which is what is required to get us into the play offs realistically, would mean an 11 game winning run.

We have been established as a club since 1879 and spent nearly 100 years in total as a league club. Throughout that entire league history our record league winning run is 10 games (1946/47 season).

Are we going to break an all time record this season, of all seasons?
We might only need 8 wins or 7 wins and 2 draws.

Records are there to be broken CBcb
Having said that I think 11 consecutive wins is highly unlikely.

i think I predicted 11 consecutive wins in one season in the "P & O"  (need BST to verify this )  so if i can do it ..............................

nowadays I'm lucky to get one in a row
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 19, 2024, 01:08:35 pm
To finish this season on a high and with a continuing upward trajectory will be a great start to next season . We have ended recent seasons in decline . Last season being a good example which carried itself into this season .
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 19, 2024, 01:20:07 pm
From where we were before Christmas, it’s just refreshing to be even reading this thread!

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 19, 2024, 01:21:59 pm
A top half finish would be incredible. And not just for those that lumped on a bet
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BigH on March 19, 2024, 02:05:11 pm
From where we were before Christmas, it’s just refreshing to be even reading this thread!


Or as recently as the end of January!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Filo on March 19, 2024, 02:34:06 pm
What did the table look like after the boxing day fixtures compared to today?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 19, 2024, 02:50:12 pm
What did the table look like after the boxing day fixtures compared to today?

We were 20th, with 24 points from 23 games.
7 points above relegation and only 8 points above bottom-placed FGR.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dabbermoo on March 19, 2024, 03:06:11 pm
I have massively renewed faith that this team can get us to within touching distance of the play offs, the 2nd half against Swindon is the reason why, as GM  has said a few months ago we would have lost that game and I 100% agree, the changes to the team from Jan is unbelievable compared to the start of the season. TLT has been a revelation in goal, as much as Jones is a fans favourite and a local lad he is levels below TLT imo, having RW back and in command of the defence and forming a fantastic playing relationship with Tom has paid dividends, Craig in midfield took a few games to click but very much imo of the HK mould and a class above and then we get onto Haks.... what can you say? What a player we have, what a talent he is and what a contribution he has made. Then Max on his first start scores a screamer and we move up the table again, why can't we dream that this is going to have a fairytale ending. Would you change the starting 11 this week or stay the same? I would keep it as was and give JI and MC further rest, I feel the FGR game will be a lot easier than the Swindon game and is at home, home crowd to roar the lads on, constant noise in a positive manner from all the home stands, get the drummer to constantly beat that drum, get the songs and chants going loud and proud and keep the netto brigade nice and quiet and in their box. Onwards and upwards!!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 19, 2024, 03:12:21 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 19, 2024, 03:14:33 pm
Definately I would bring Craig back into midfield, at the expense of Broadbent, just for his better passing and vision. Other than that, maybe Ironside back on the bench, as Biamou hasn’t done anything wrong. Then it’s a real toss up between Biggins and Westbrook (assuming he’s over his illness).

The bench should be real strong one on Saturday.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dabbermoo on March 19, 2024, 04:49:42 pm
With Biggins form over the last 4-6 games I'd leave him as a starter, get a few good goals in front against FGR then give Westbrooke a 30 min run out to ease him back in for the run in of a game Saturday then Tuesday rotation that will pretty much see out the rest of the season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on March 19, 2024, 04:53:24 pm
With Biggins form over the last 4-6 games I'd leave him as a starter, get a few good goals in front against FGR then give Westbrooke a 30 min run out to ease him back in for the run in of a game Saturday then Tuesday rotation that will pretty much see out the rest of the season.

Yep, easy as that.
(Where is that emoji).
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on March 19, 2024, 05:28:02 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.

We have improved but not been to the level of a top 6 team. Yes we have had the points haul of a top team but the performances haven’t matched. We will start levelling out in the coming weeks.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on March 19, 2024, 06:15:54 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
That might all be true, but reality checks are for data analysts, not football fans.
I just want to enjoy the ride until it throws me off.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on March 19, 2024, 06:51:22 pm
What did the table look like after the boxing day fixtures compared to today?
14 PTS behind notts county I believe..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dabbermoo on March 19, 2024, 07:19:26 pm
With Biggins form over the last 4-6 games I'd leave him as a starter, get a few good goals in front against FGR then give Westbrooke a 30 min run out to ease him back in for the run in of a game Saturday then Tuesday rotation that will pretty much see out the rest of the season.

Yep, easy as that.
(Where is that emoji).

Why can't it be that easy? FGR are where they are for a reason, Rovers are on a great run of form and confidence should be flowing, we are at home with hopefully a good crowd to back the boys on the pitch. Or should we be glass half empty and just write this season off as done and dusted.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on March 19, 2024, 07:24:34 pm
With Biggins form over the last 4-6 games I'd leave him as a starter, get a few good goals in front against FGR then give Westbrooke a 30 min run out to ease him back in for the run in of a game Saturday then Tuesday rotation that will pretty much see out the rest of the season.

Yep, easy as that.
(Where is that emoji).

Why can't it be that easy? FGR are where they are for a reason, Rovers are on a great run of form and confidence should be flowing, we are at home with hopefully a good crowd to back the boys on the pitch. Or should we be glass half empty and just write this season off as done and dusted.

I’m not suggesting we should write off the season.
I was just commenting on the part of your post that mentioned getting a few good goals ahead  against FGR.
It is never as easy as that but if it does happen I will be delighted.
There are no easy games and it shouldn’t be overlooked that FGR are in a decent run of form themselves.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Ye-Aul-Tavern on March 19, 2024, 07:37:40 pm
No chance.

I might be a little more inclined to believe if there wasn't so many teams ahead of us. Even if we win all of the rest of our games, there are loads of teams around mid table who would only need (and will get) a few wins to stay ahead of us.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Filo on March 19, 2024, 07:49:38 pm
To answer my own Question, 15 points behind Notts County
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Cramby10 on March 19, 2024, 07:53:55 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
is that the same juggernaut of a side that you said would easily get beat by Schofields hapless mob last season? You’re funny.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on March 19, 2024, 08:40:56 pm
We write FGR off at our peril, I don't think they will come to the Eco to roll over. Sadly I'm in Devon for this one so good luck.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on March 19, 2024, 09:07:52 pm
We write FGR off at our peril, I don't think they will come to the Eco to roll over. Sadly I'm in Devon for this one so good luck.

They are the type of low possession team we struggle against. I don’t think we will win.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 19, 2024, 10:00:44 pm
What I find galling is that despite losing only one of our last nine league games we’ve only moved up two places from 20th to 18th & after tonight’s result if we win on Saturday, which I am absolutely confident we will do, we will still remain in 18th spot!

However, I believe we can & will get at least a point at Crawley then after that we can really start to ‘eat into’ those places above.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 19, 2024, 10:06:31 pm
What I find galling is that despite losing only one of our last nine league games we’ve only moved up two places from 20th to 18th & after tonight’s result if we win on Saturday, which I am absolutely confident we will do, we will still remain in 18th spot!

However, I believe we can & will get at least a point at Crawley then after that we can really start to ‘eat into’ those places above.

We'll sneak round the back while nobody's looking. Ssshhhh!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on March 20, 2024, 08:15:17 am
If nothing else, it’s given us some excitement for the end of the season. I thought we’d end up having nothing to play for.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 20, 2024, 08:25:08 am
Am I right in that Close, Taylor, Lawlor and Miller are all definitely out for rest of season? Question mark over Faulkner.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 20, 2024, 08:50:04 am
Am I right in that Close, Taylor, Lawlor and Miller are all definitely out for rest of season? Question mark over Faulkner.
Thought Taylor was almost ready for another comeback. GM said as much a couple of weeks ago.
The others are I think not going to be seen again this season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: pib on March 20, 2024, 10:33:15 am
Definitely right on Close, Lawlor, Miller. Miller is out until the middle of next season. Wouldn't be surprised if we've seen the last of Close in a Rovers shirt, and I don't think Lawlor will be first choice next season, even if fit.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 20, 2024, 01:55:13 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
is that the same juggernaut of a side that you said would easily get beat by Schofields hapless mob last season? You’re funny.

Context.

They were all conquering against the sides they played against.

They wouldn't touch the ball against a moderate Div 4 side of today. Football really does improve that much over 20 years.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Cramby10 on March 20, 2024, 02:19:06 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
is that the same juggernaut of a side that you said would easily get beat by Schofields hapless mob last season? You’re funny.

Context.

They were all conquering against the sides they played against.

They wouldn't touch the ball against a moderate Div 4 side of today. Football really does improve that much over 20 years.
ye righto.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Bentley Bullet on March 20, 2024, 03:41:19 pm
As it stands now with 9 games to go I predict we'll finish 12th with 64 points.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Barmby Rover on March 20, 2024, 04:00:21 pm
With a win against Colchester in our game in hand we are 5 points from being in the top half, aim at that and with our terrible start it is quite an achievement.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 20, 2024, 04:29:48 pm
250/1 bet 365 or 100/1 sky (if you have a free bet coming)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 20, 2024, 05:02:52 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
is that the same juggernaut of a side that you said would easily get beat by Schofields hapless mob last season? You’re funny.

Context.

They were all conquering against the sides they played against.

They wouldn't touch the ball against a moderate Div 4 side of today. Football really does improve that much over 20 years.

I think we’ve trodden this path before?

I take it that you’re saying a Brian Stock, Richie Wellens, Matt Mills, Paul Heffernan, James Coppinger, James O’Connor, Neil Sullivan from the SOD era wouldn’t be considered by Grant McCaan as part of his squad today to get promoted out of this division next season?

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 20, 2024, 05:15:38 pm
Colin C.

I'm sure it makes sense in your head why you are drawing that conclusion, but....nope, I haven't got a Scooby.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 20, 2024, 05:31:39 pm
Colin C.

I'm sure it makes sense in your head why you are drawing that conclusion, but....nope, I haven't got a Scooby.

Fair enough.

Misunderstood your comparison between Penney’s side that stormed this division & were promoted as Champions & how they ‘may or may not’ perform in this division ‘currently’.

That clearly is not what you were alluding to.

I must learn how to time my tackles better.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 20, 2024, 06:17:59 pm
What I find galling is that despite losing only one of our last nine league games we’ve only moved up two places from 20th to 18th & after tonight’s result if we win on Saturday, which I am absolutely confident we will do, we will still remain in 18th spot!

However, I believe we can & will get at least a point at Crawley then after that we can really start to ‘eat into’ those places above.
The first half season gave rovers a mountain to climb points wise
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 20, 2024, 06:47:41 pm
Colin C.

I'm sure it makes sense in your head why you are drawing that conclusion, but....nope, I haven't got a Scooby.

Fair enough.

Misunderstood your comparison between Penney’s side that stormed this division & were promoted as Champions & how they ‘may or may not’ perform in this division ‘currently’.

That clearly is not what you were alluding to.

I must learn how to time my tackles better.

I was talking about a side in Tier 4 20 years ago.

You are talking about the better players from a side that held its own in the Championship 5-6 years later.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: danumdon on March 20, 2024, 07:32:01 pm
Doesn't cost anything to dream big.

The fact that we now resemble a footballing side again is enough for me and the promise that this upturn brings to hit next season running.

GM still has it, we just need to capitalise on it.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 23, 2024, 09:09:24 pm
If we beat Crawly the dream is well and truly on
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 23, 2024, 09:10:22 pm
We write FGR off at our peril, I don't think they will come to the Eco to roll over. Sadly I'm in Devon for this one so good luck.

They are the type of low possession team we struggle against. I don’t think we will win.

We totally dominated that game today, not only in terms of possession but by every other metric.

It really should have been more than 2-0 but earlier in the season we may have failed to win that game.

We can’t make the play-offs but I’m looking at that top half finish with growing confidence.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Metalmicky on March 23, 2024, 09:23:29 pm
If we beat Crawly the dream is well and truly on

Or even Crawley
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: bpoolrover on March 23, 2024, 09:50:03 pm
Another good win and things are finally starting to look good for next season, there are far to many teams above us to make the play offs, which could be a good thing in the long run
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 23, 2024, 10:08:14 pm
Our big test next week at Crawley - the other team in very good form. Despatched Tranmere today, no problem.

I would take a draw now, but I think they may well edge it.

However, we have crept 1 point closer to the play-off’s, now 10 points off.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: PDX_Rover on March 23, 2024, 10:15:22 pm
We’ll do them. We’re playing without fear.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on March 23, 2024, 10:16:48 pm
Another good win and things are finally starting to look good for next season, there are far to many teams above us to make the play offs, which could be a good thing in the long run

The number of teams above us is surely irrelevent.
If 73 points gets you a play off spot then that’s what we need regardless of whether there are 2 teams above us or 12
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 23, 2024, 11:41:51 pm
Another good win and things are finally starting to look good for next season, there are far to many teams above us to make the play offs, which could be a good thing in the long run

The number of teams above us is surely irrelevent.
If 73 points gets you a play off spot then that’s what we need regardless of whether there are 2 teams above us or 12

That's correct (IF 73 points is the target).

The problem is, to hit 73 points would require us to have finished the last 18 games of the season with 15 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat. That's not impossible of course, but as far as I can see, we've only once in our history had a run as good as that, at the start of the 1946/47 season.

Be a grand end to the season if we did achieve that, mind.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 23, 2024, 11:49:55 pm
PS. The point about there being a lot of teams above us is that it makes it pointless to talk about how many points off the top 7 we are at the moment. Because we haven't just got to overtake the team currently in 7th place. We've also got to overtake the teams currently in 8th, 9th, 10th etc. And even if by some near miracle we DID catch Crawley, that could only happen if they have a dip in form. Which would mean, chances are a few other sides would also catch them.

That's why it makes more sense to look at a likely points target. And when you do that, it is a MUCH harder task for us.

Not to say I won't get a tiny playoff sex tingle if we beat them next week.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 24, 2024, 02:38:49 am
PS. The point about there being a lot of teams above us is that it makes it pointless to talk about how many points off the top 7 we are at the moment. Because we haven't just got to overtake the team currently in 7th place. We've also got to overtake the teams currently in 8th, 9th, 10th etc. And even if by some near miracle we DID catch Crawley, that could only happen if they have a dip in form. Which would mean, chances are a few other sides would also catch them.

That's why it makes more sense to look at a likely points target. And when you do that, it is a MUCH harder task for us.

Not to say I won't get a tiny playoff sex tingle if we beat them next week.

if we have a "Good Friday" you might just be en route to a delayed full blown 0urgasm
Crawley have a "double-handful" of hard matches and will need to rise to the occasion

Monday 1st April
LEAGUE TWO
Newport County
15:00
Crawley Town      ......  should Crawley win that's hellpfulle for "top halverz"



Saturday 6th April
LEAGUE TWO
Mansfield Town
15:00
Crawley Town


Tuesday 9th April
LEAGUE TWO
Wrexham
19:45
Crawley Town


Saturday 13th April
LEAGUE TWO
Crawley Town
15:00
Colchester United     they got ahead against Mansfield yesterday and are a tough cookie -definitely not past their sell by date



Tuesday 16th April
LEAGUE TWO
Crawley Town
19:45
Barrow


Saturday 20th April
LEAGUE TWO
Sutton United
15:00
Crawley Town

Saturday 27th April
LEAGUE TWO
Crawley Town
15:00
Grimsby Town

remember always do your research

 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on March 24, 2024, 07:34:15 am
Another good win and things are finally starting to look good for next season, there are far to many teams above us to make the play offs, which could be a good thing in the long run

The number of teams above us is surely irrelevent.
If 73 points gets you a play off spot then that’s what we need regardless of whether there are 2 teams above us or 12

That's correct (IF 73 points is the target).

The problem is, to hit 73 points would require us to have finished the last 18 games of the season with 15 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat. That's not impossible of course, but as far as I can see, we've only once in our history had a run as good as that, at the start of the 1946/47 season.

Be a grand end to the season if we did achieve that, mind.

Not suggesting it’s something we’re going to achieve. Just pointing out the number of teams inbetween us and the playoffs is irrelevent.
It’s the point target that’s the important thing
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on March 24, 2024, 08:02:16 am
First target for me is another 7 points that would mean we better last season’s total. Then let’s see where we get to.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: NickDRFC on March 24, 2024, 08:03:39 am
Another good win and things are finally starting to look good for next season, there are far to many teams above us to make the play offs, which could be a good thing in the long run

The number of teams above us is surely irrelevent.
If 73 points gets you a play off spot then that’s what we need regardless of whether there are 2 teams above us or 12

That's correct (IF 73 points is the target).

The problem is, to hit 73 points would require us to have finished the last 18 games of the season with 15 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat. That's not impossible of course, but as far as I can see, we've only once in our history had a run as good as that, at the start of the 1946/47 season.

Be a grand end to the season if we did achieve that, mind.

Not suggesting it’s something we’re going to achieve. Just pointing out the number of teams inbetween us and the playoffs is irrelevent.
It’s the point target that’s the important thing

Which would be an easier scenario?

1. We are sitting in 8th, 10 points behind 7th
2. We are sitting in 18th, 10 points behind 7th

Of course it’s relevant, as things stand we have to overhaul 10 points AND hope that our total isn’t matched or close to matched by any of the 10 teams above us. If we were just a place behind then all we would have to do was overhaul one team.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: mushRTID on March 24, 2024, 08:19:20 am
Exactly if more teams have the same opportunity/chance as us how on earth can it be irrelevant.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 24, 2024, 08:37:16 am
The only relevant thing is winning the next match. End of.

Form, points, position in the league will look after themselves.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on March 24, 2024, 09:08:15 am
Opta’s supercomputer has been predicting the final league 2 positions, or at least the percentage chance each team has of finishing in each position.

Prior to yesterday’s result it thought we had less than a 0.1% chance of finishing 7th (0.3% chance of finishing 8th). It doesn’t seem to have updated yet after yesterdays results, but suspect our chances will have creeped up, albeit still very very unlikely
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 24, 2024, 09:18:31 am
I always look to the ppg.
Rovers are currently at 1.28 ppg for the season.
A win against Crawley increases this by 0.05ppg to 1.33. For perspective , Stags are currently on 1.87 ppg. To equal this level rovers would need to go on and win ten games in the bounce increasing the ppg by 0.5.and there’s only 8 games left. Another way of looking at it is rovers can now only max out at 73 points. That’s just 1.58ppg for season end . Crawley are currently on 1.55.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on March 24, 2024, 09:23:00 am
If we keep winning, the points gap keeps closing.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 24, 2024, 09:27:03 am
Put bluntly it would require a quite extraordinary set of circumstances for rovers to make 7th now. The likes of which may never have been seen before . Starting with a win in every remaining game . And even then reliant on the likes of Crawley having a sudden and catastrophic dip in form. It’s an exciting talking point. But in footballing terms it’s about as far fetched as it gets .
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 24, 2024, 09:36:54 am
Put bluntly it would require a quite extraordinary set of circumstances for rovers to make 7th now. The likes of which may never have been seen before . Starting with a win in every remaining game . And even then reliant on the likes of Crawley having a sudden and catastrophic dip in form. It’s an exciting talking point. But in footballing terms it’s about as far fetched as it gets .

This is correct.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Barmby Rover on March 24, 2024, 09:48:49 am
I still think 67 or 68 points will sneak into the play offs, but alas I don't think WE will but, we want to see McCann and the boys keep going right till the end. I think we'll fall just short




Still, as long as they treat every game now as a cup final, we're capable of beating anyone, particularly as squeaky bum time sets in and the nerves jangle.
It always happens season after season that teams that have been in the playoff spots most of the season, some will fade in the last few games. It’s the same with you will always get a unlikely team that puts in a great performance,  kicking out 7/8 wins in the final 10 games, and come from nowhere to clinch a playoff spot, and I believe that can be us, the unlikely candidates have nothing to lose.
I think I if we win the next 2 games then there are a lot of people both Rovers fans and fans of other clubs are going to seriously think exactly what you have posted Upton.

FGR is a game we should win but need to win, and Crawley I think could be the toughest game of all our remaining games and is just about a must win game. If we do win these 2 then the almost unbelievable is actually a realistic POSSIBLE but still not a PROBABLE.
Bring it on. This could be a really exciting finish to the season. If as probable we don’t make the play offs so be it.
The momentum going into next season will be a massive boost.

We WILL be promoted next season. You heard it here 1st.
If I am wrong then feel free to post this back to me in May 2025.

Far too early to go for that one, lets see how the monopoly game goes over the summer, and whether the banker has enough to make it happen.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 24, 2024, 10:06:58 am
If Haks is happy here, and he does seem to have found his mojo and created a niche for himself, then it’s down to wages. If Rovers don’t secure his services for next season then it’s back to the loan merry go round. And that would speak volumes to me personally in terms of the clubs actual ambitions.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: JonWallsend on March 24, 2024, 10:26:18 am
If Haks is happy here, and he does seem to have found his mojo and created a niche for himself, then it’s down to wages. If Rovers don’t secure his services for next season then it’s back to the loan merry go round. And that would speak volumes to me personally in terms of the clubs actual ambitions.

Ambition  is open to definition. I assume the club will offer Haks something  but then as you allude to, it comes down to factors  such as playing time, personal happiness  and overwhelmingly wages.
I wouldn't  want to risk blowing  the budget on 'ambition' to secure his services  or that of any other player. We have to accept that we can't  compete with some teams irrelevant  of ambition
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 24, 2024, 10:27:45 am
I fear it is not just wages. As important you would have thought is whether next season is going to be our last in League Two. He’s dropping down a league and clearly there is a big gap between the two in terms of profile, visibility and status. If we finish this season like a rocket he might think we have a genuine shot of promotion next season. Doubt he’ll sign with us even on good money if he thinks this is a contract with League Two. Not so enticing.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on March 24, 2024, 10:30:23 am
Haks didn’t score yesterday or get a goal assist but he was always the one who looked most likely to.
He is great to watch and his close control and awareness of where players are around him makes him a thorn  in the side of opposition defenders.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on March 24, 2024, 10:39:31 am
If we keep winning, the points gap keeps closing.

Not necessarily, that’s the problem.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on March 24, 2024, 10:42:10 am
For league 1 and 2 players, it's about money, none of them are millionaires and will have to find employment after football, so will make hay whilst the sun shines..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on March 24, 2024, 10:43:24 am
No other team in L2 right now has won their last three matches.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 24, 2024, 12:06:36 pm
Opta’s supercomputer has been predicting the final league 2 positions, or at least the percentage chance each team has of finishing in each position.

Prior to yesterday’s result it thought we had less than a 0.1% chance of finishing 7th (0.3% chance of finishing 8th). It doesn’t seem to have updated yet after yesterdays results, but suspect our chances will have creeped up, albeit still very very unlikely

That sounds about right.

I haven't checked my model after yesterday, but it's looking like 72-73 points will get 7th place.

That means we need to win all 8 final matches.

Assuming we have a 50/50 chance of winning each (that's quite generous for any side) we'd have a 0.3% chance of winning all 8.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Bessie Red on March 24, 2024, 12:19:09 pm
Im going to predict we will get 59 points & finish in 14th place! There done it!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on March 24, 2024, 12:47:55 pm
I’d like rovers to finish strongly of course. With Haks continuing to justify the club spending on his wages for next season . I’d also be chuffed if all those who backed a top half finish came good . And to beat last seasons points tally would surely be a target for GM.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on March 24, 2024, 02:15:12 pm
If we keep winning, the points gap keeps closing.

Not necessarily, that’s the problem.
Technically, you’re right, of course. But although we might win a game and the points gap doesn’t change, we could also close the gap by three points. I don’t have the stats, but I suspect that during our recent good run, every win has pretty much resulted in the gap closing each time.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 24, 2024, 03:13:33 pm
If we win at Crawley we can all start getting exited.
A draw is no good if we are going to catch them
We don’t have any games in hand on them.

If we don’t win then it’s a top 10/12 target.
If we do win then the impossible is still possible and nothing wrong with believing it could happen until it can’t happen.
One game at a time 3 points at a time.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 24, 2024, 03:30:14 pm
If we keep winning, the points gap keeps closing.

Not necessarily, that’s the problem.
Technically, you’re right, of course. But although we might win a game and the points gap doesn’t change, we could also close the gap by three points. I don’t have the stats, but I suspect that during our recent good run, every win has pretty much resulted in the gap closing each time.

It's an easy thing to appraise on average.

The team in 7th place generally averages about 1.6 points per game. Maybe a little more or less, but not much.

So, on average, every time you win, you make up about 1.4 points on them, every time you lose you slip by 1.6 and every time you draw you slip by 0.6.

Doesn't mean that's exactly what happens every week of course, but on average over a moderate spell of matches, that has to happen.

9 matches ago, when this very good run of form started, we were 15 points behind 7th place.

Since then, we have won 6, drawn 2 and lost one of the last 9 games. So, according to the logic above, we should have made up 6x1.4=8.4 points on 7th place from the six wins, and slipped by (1x1.6)+(2x0.6)=2.8 points for the matches we haven't won.

Net catch up 5.6 points, so we'd expect to be 9.4 points behind 7th place now. We're actually 10 points behind, so that's very nearly bang on.

Interestingly, the side in 7th place 9 games ago was Notts C. We have pretty much caught them now. But Crawley, who are now in 7th, were 10 points ahead of us back then, and they still are today
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on March 24, 2024, 04:07:11 pm
If we keep winning, the points gap keeps closing.

Not necessarily, that’s the problem.
Technically, you’re right, of course. But although we might win a game and the points gap doesn’t change, we could also close the gap by three points. I don’t have the stats, but I suspect that during our recent good run, every win has pretty much resulted in the gap closing each time.

It's an easy thing to appraise on average.

The team in 7th place generally averages about 1.6 points per game. Maybe a little more or less, but not much.

So, on average, every time you win, you make up about 1.4 points on them, every time you lose you slip by 1.6 and every time you draw you slip by 0.6.

Doesn't mean that's exactly what happens every week of course, but on average over a moderate spell of matches, that has to happen.

9 matches ago, when this very good run of form started, we were 15 points behind 7th place.

Since then, we have won 6, drawn 2 and lost one of the last 9 games. So, according to the logic above, we should have made up 6x1.4=8.4 points on 7th place from the six wins, and slipped by (1x1.6)+(2x0.6)=2.8 points for the matches we haven't won.

Net catch up 5.6 points, so we'd expect to be 9.4 points behind 7th place now. We're actually 10 points behind, so that's very nearly bang on.

Interestingly, the side in 7th place 9 games ago was Notts C. We have pretty much caught them now. But Crawley, who are now in 7th, were 10 points ahead of us back then, and they still are today
That’s fascinating Billy. Genuinely.
With that logic, if we win our last 8 games we will finish 1 point above Crawley.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 24, 2024, 04:20:31 pm
Yep Belton.

I've been saying for a couple of weeks that the only chance we have of making 7th place is to win every match left.

If we did that the final 17 games of the season would have been, I think, the second best run of form in our entire history.

It is highly, highly unlikely. But...
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on March 24, 2024, 04:22:55 pm
Don’t forget that it isn’t just Crawley to consider, the teams in 5th and 6th could also slump in form?

As for ambition, if we don’t sign Haks it doesn’t mean we lack ambition, more that he or his agent doesn’t want to be here in league 2 next season..

I don’t think he had a particularly good game yesterday..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 24, 2024, 04:30:06 pm
Reminder that if we win our remaining eight games that will help form the longest winning run in our entire league history, breaking all league records since the club was formed in 1879.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 24, 2024, 04:33:25 pm
BST:

‘ But Crawley, who are now in 7th, were 10 points ahead of us back then, and they still are today’

And when you look at the 10 game form table, it’s easy to see why that’s the case! We’re top and they’re second. Big game on Friday.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on March 24, 2024, 04:33:55 pm
I will be satisfied if our points tally at the end of the season starts with a 6…
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 24, 2024, 06:02:24 pm
Reminder that if we win our remaining eight games that will help form the longest winning run in our entire league history, breaking all league records since the club was formed in 1879.

This.

Best we achieved in the juggernaut 03/04 season was 6 wins on the bounce and 11 from 12.

Best we achieved in the epoch-making 46/47 season was 10 wins on the bounce and 11 out of 12.

To do this, we'd need to have finished this season winning our last 11 games.

Records are there to be broken, but you'd be a fool to put money on it. (Hand up. I WAS that fool at the start of the season.)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 24, 2024, 06:03:20 pm
I will be satisfied if our points tally at the end of the season starts with a 6…

It will start with a 6 & end in a 7 according to my analysis. Good enough for an 8th or 9th finish.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 24, 2024, 06:48:47 pm
Don’t forget that it isn’t just Crawley to consider, the teams in 5th and 6th could also slump in form?

As for ambition, if we don’t sign Haks it doesn’t mean we lack ambition, more that he or his agent doesn’t want to be here in league 2 next season..

I don’t think he had a particularly good game yesterday..

I'd be annoyed did he ends up at another league 2 club
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 24, 2024, 06:52:40 pm
If we beat Crawly the dream is well and truly on

Or even Crawley
To excited to spill right
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 24, 2024, 06:58:06 pm
Reminder that if we win our remaining eight games that will help form the longest winning run in our entire league history, breaking all league records since the club was formed in 1879.
Records are there to be beaten
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on March 24, 2024, 07:15:54 pm
Another good win and things are finally starting to look good for next season, there are far to many teams above us to make the play offs, which could be a good thing in the long run

The number of teams above us is surely irrelevent.
If 73 points gets you a play off spot then that’s what we need regardless of whether there are 2 teams above us or 12

That's correct (IF 73 points is the target).

The problem is, to hit 73 points would require us to have finished the last 18 games of the season with 15 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat. That's not impossible of course, but as far as I can see, we've only once in our history had a run as good as that, at the start of the 1946/47 season.

Be a grand end to the season if we did achieve that, mind.

Not suggesting it’s something we’re going to achieve. Just pointing out the number of teams inbetween us and the playoffs is irrelevent.
It’s the point target that’s the important thing

Which would be an easier scenario?

1. We are sitting in 8th, 10 points behind 7th
2. We are sitting in 18th, 10 points behind 7th

Of course it’s relevant, as things stand we have to overhaul 10 points AND hope that our total isn’t matched or close to matched by any of the 10 teams above us. If we were just a place behind then all we would have to do was overhaul one team.

Of course it isn’t
If you need 73 points to reach the playoffs then it doesn’t matter how many teams are between you and the playoffs.
If at the end of the season the 7th place team has 72 points all it means is that if we’d have got 73 points we would’ve reached the playoffs
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 24, 2024, 07:21:26 pm
I will be satisfied if our points tally at the end of the season starts with a 6…

It will start with a 6 & end in a 7 according to my analysis. Good enough for an 8th or 9th finish.
I will be satisfied if our points tally at the end of the season starts with a 6…

Three targets to aim for that are respectively more difficult but could be realistically achievable:

Can we beat points total for last season?
Can we finish top half?
Can we finish top ten?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Avsuptem on March 25, 2024, 05:39:11 am
Making the play offs is a delicious and tantalising fantasy to enjoy but it will be destroyed by just one defeat. Finishing at the top of Grant's 18 game table and in the top half of league 2 is very achievable and will put us amongst the favorites for promotion next season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 25, 2024, 09:02:15 am
Making the play offs is a delicious and tantalising fantasy to enjoy but it will be destroyed by just one defeat. Finishing at the top of Grant's 18 game table and in the top half of league 2 is very achievable and will put us amongst the favorites for promotion next season.

I love the description along with the dose of reality.

We've not been tantalised for some time so this is a very nice indulgence to be top of the form tables and wondering what if.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DRNaith on March 25, 2024, 09:18:44 am
I'm maybe going to upset a few people here, but I don't want promotion this season. There's been so much whining and rubbish talked that I'd rather have a solid promotion season, next season (I know that isn't guaranteed), rather than creep up and then have the same whining and anger on here because we're not throwing millions at getting promoted into the championship.

Let's continue to build, it looks like it's been working behind the scenes, for most of this season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 25, 2024, 05:48:30 pm
Reminder that if we win our remaining eight games that will help form the longest winning run in our entire league history, breaking all league records since the club was formed in 1879.
Records are there to be beaten

As I did with a baseball bat to my ex wife’s collection of ABBA records.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 25, 2024, 05:52:23 pm
Update on my model.

12th place: 63 points.

7th place: 75 points.

Taking an average over the past fortnight, I'd say probably 72-73 for 7th and 65-66 for top half.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on March 25, 2024, 05:56:44 pm
9th place 67 points according to my Sinclair Spectrum.

That’s where I ‘lay my hat’.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 25, 2024, 06:07:26 pm
I'd guess that we end up on 62 points, in 13-14th place.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Spud on March 26, 2024, 03:11:44 pm
If we keep winning, the points gap keeps closing.

Not necessarily, that’s the problem.
Technically, you’re right, of course. But although we might win a game and the points gap doesn’t change, we could also close the gap by three points. I don’t have the stats, but I suspect that during our recent good run, every win has pretty much resulted in the gap closing each time.

It's an easy thing to appraise on average.

The team in 7th place generally averages about 1.6 points per game. Maybe a little more or less, but not much.

So, on average, every time you win, you make up about 1.4 points on them, every time you lose you slip by 1.6 and every time you draw you slip by 0.6.

Doesn't mean that's exactly what happens every week of course, but on average over a moderate spell of matches, that has to happen.

9 matches ago, when this very good run of form started, we were 15 points behind 7th place.

Since then, we have won 6, drawn 2 and lost one of the last 9 games. So, according to the logic above, we should have made up 6x1.4=8.4 points on 7th place from the six wins, and slipped by (1x1.6)+(2x0.6)=2.8 points for the matches we haven't won.

Net catch up 5.6 points, so we'd expect to be 9.4 points behind 7th place now. We're actually 10 points behind, so that's very nearly bang on.

Interestingly, the side in 7th place 9 games ago was Notts C. We have pretty much caught them now. But Crawley, who are now in 7th, were 10 points ahead of us back then, and they still are today

Of all the stats & models I read this is a logical & simple way of looking at it.
What a great way of seeing things.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 26, 2024, 06:33:16 pm
Making the play offs is a delicious and tantalising fantasy to enjoy but it will be destroyed by just one defeat. Finishing at the top of Grant's 18 game table and in the top half of league 2 is very achievable and will put us amongst the favorites for promotion next season.
I totally agree that if a defeat comes then that’s it for this season, so until then, the dream is on
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on March 28, 2024, 04:44:38 pm
Opta have updated their predictions following the last round of games and we now apparently have a 0.2% chance of finishing 7th, a top half finish (12th) is now a 5.3% chance.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 28, 2024, 06:51:49 pm
We have zero chance, however I want to believe otherwise, so, one for the statos, has any team ever gained a play off place from 18th with 8 games left…. ?
Go on someone give me hope…
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 28, 2024, 08:08:00 pm
We have zero chance, however I want to believe otherwise, so, one for the statos, has any team ever gained a play off place from 18th with 8 games left…. ?
Go on someone give me hope…
Probably not.
It’s the points difference between 18th and 7th that is the crucial factor.

Not sure where Bristol Rovers were with 8 to play was it 2 yrs ago or 3
They came from no where to pip Northampton with that 7-0 win against Scunthorpe on the last day.
They were higher than 18th with 8 to play though, that’s for sure.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 28, 2024, 08:38:00 pm
Just had a look.
Season 2021/22 two years ago Bristol Rovers got 20 points from the last 8 games. 6 wins & 2 draws.
They finished 3rd on 80 points
So they had 60 points from 38 game.
We have 49 points from 38 games. We are only aiming for 7th place not 3rd.
If we get 20 points it probably won’t be enough. I think we need 22 points and that includes winning tomorrow. We have to win this one as Crawley are the team in the best position based on games played 38 and current points 59 to get 7th spot.
Fail to win tomorrow and it’s all over. That’s 99.9% I reckon.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 28, 2024, 09:59:58 pm
However, Camps, we havn’t got Crawley’s run-in. They’ve got 2 very big games after ours!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on March 29, 2024, 05:09:43 pm
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
No 1 crossed off.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 29, 2024, 05:10:21 pm
PS. The point about there being a lot of teams above us is that it makes it pointless to talk about how many points off the top 7 we are at the moment. Because we haven't just got to overtake the team currently in 7th place. We've also got to overtake the teams currently in 8th, 9th, 10th etc. And even if by some near miracle we DID catch Crawley, that could only happen if they have a dip in form. Which would mean, chances are a few other sides would also catch them.

That's why it makes more sense to look at a likely points target. And when you do that, it is a MUCH harder task for us.

Not to say I won't get a tiny playoff sex tingle if we beat them next week.

I can officially report I've got a little sex tingle.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 29, 2024, 05:16:19 pm
PS. The point about there being a lot of teams above us is that it makes it pointless to talk about how many points off the top 7 we are at the moment. Because we haven't just got to overtake the team currently in 7th place. We've also got to overtake the teams currently in 8th, 9th, 10th etc. And even if by some near miracle we DID catch Crawley, that could only happen if they have a dip in form. Which would mean, chances are a few other sides would also catch them.

That's why it makes more sense to look at a likely points target. And when you do that, it is a MUCH harder task for us.

Not to say I won't get a tiny playoff sex tingle if we beat them next week.

I can officially report I've got a little sex tingle.

Funny old game. One game at a time and see where it takes us.

The game in hand comes at a time which could be crucial, but we don't want to look that far ahead do we.

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 29, 2024, 05:42:10 pm
Another step closer to the dream
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 29, 2024, 06:47:12 pm
Model says 7th place points now down to 71.

I'm thinking it might end up a bit lower than that, looking at fixtures.

Wouldn't surprise me if it ended up as low as 69. In which case, a draw or even, perish the thought, a defeat on Tuesday wouldn't be the very end.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on March 29, 2024, 06:52:00 pm
Still not wanting to talk of the play offs but we’re making things interesting with this run. Huge huge credit to Grant McCann, the staff and all the players, not forgetting the owner for funding the January recruitment that has made such a difference.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris the Rover on March 29, 2024, 06:53:56 pm
If only we hadn’t been robbed at Salford and thrown 2 points away at Bradford - will unfortunately turn out to be very costly, I think.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on March 29, 2024, 06:56:10 pm
Only Walsall and Crawley have played the same games as us in our mini league of playoff contenders, everyone else has played at least one more game.

We still have to play Walsall, Morcombe and Gillingham in the race for 7th above us.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 29, 2024, 06:57:39 pm
If only we hadn’t been robbed at Salford and thrown 2 points away at Bradford - will unfortunately turn out to be very costly, I think.

Or the two not given penalties at Sutton.

Anyway, they've gone so just maybe some things are meant to be.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on March 29, 2024, 07:06:50 pm
Tuesday night is the biggest game for us this season, without a shadow of a doubt. A draw would be average, a loss and our dream is over, a win and everyone’s got to start dreaming
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on March 29, 2024, 07:19:40 pm
Those first 8 games are what’s cost us. Even if we had got one point per game we’d be right up there now
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: steve@dcfd on March 29, 2024, 07:38:29 pm
7 games left 7 wins a pipe dream but could be achievable . Wrexhams leading goal scorer is in a reach vein of form so Tuesdays game will show if we can achieve the dream.
We are the only team that has won 4 out of the last 5 games
13pts from 15
The next two with 11pts from 15 is Stockport and Barrow
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on March 29, 2024, 07:53:18 pm
We have 24 points from last 11 games
That is league title form and a bit more.
Yes it’s a 46 game season but we have the biggest momentum going into the last month of the season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: scawsby steve on March 29, 2024, 08:02:37 pm
Those first 8 games are what’s cost us. Even if we had got one point per game we’d be right up there now

Sorry to be pedantic, Dickos; it was 7 games, as we actually won the 8th.

I take your point though.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on March 29, 2024, 08:29:20 pm
If we’d played the two postponed games and won them both we would currently be two points off the playoffs with 5 games to go.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 01, 2024, 11:42:09 am
Be nice if Stockport, Newport & Harrogate all win today
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on April 01, 2024, 12:06:08 pm
If we’d played the two postponed games and won them both we would currently be two points off the playoffs with 5 games to go.
better to play then later as we are in a better vain of form now :-)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 02, 2024, 10:18:36 pm
PS. The point about there being a lot of teams above us is that it makes it pointless to talk about how many points off the top 7 we are at the moment. Because we haven't just got to overtake the team currently in 7th place. We've also got to overtake the teams currently in 8th, 9th, 10th etc. And even if by some near miracle we DID catch Crawley, that could only happen if they have a dip in form. Which would mean, chances are a few other sides would also catch them.

That's why it makes more sense to look at a likely points target. And when you do that, it is a MUCH harder task for us.

Not to say I won't get a tiny playoff sex tingle if we beat them next week.

I can officially report I've got a little sex tingle.

I've just changed into loose boxers and a Hugh Heffner dressing gown to give me the...ahh...necessary space.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dknward2 on April 02, 2024, 10:27:54 pm
Said to some lads at work if we won both these games over Easter we would get playoffs and as of right now I still believe that we will
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on April 02, 2024, 10:31:34 pm
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
No 1 crossed off.
No 2 crossed off.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: McCammon egg n chips on April 02, 2024, 10:50:49 pm
Said to some lads at work if we won both these games over Easter we would get playoffs and as of right now I still believe that we will

I've been saying the same and even now I'm still struggling to fully believe it but f**k it let's just enjoy this run while it lasts!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: rich1471 on April 03, 2024, 12:04:11 am
It would be one hell of a run to finish in 7th place, let's just enjoy the ride while it lasts ,but it does give us hope again after the last 2 seasons
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 03, 2024, 09:39:58 am
Well my dare to dream is still on, and I’m really optimistic that the last playoff place will between Rovers and Crawley. We got 2 games in hand over a few teams above us, win them and we will be right on the heels of Crawley, the next 2 games are going to be really interesting. Crawley have two very hard games both away to Mansfield and Wrexham. We have Morecambe away then Walsall at Home. Keep this run going and the dream is ever so close. We have all got to get behind the team and and give them the support that this mini run deserves.
Message to the club Now is the time to offer £5 adult tickets for the next home game.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: RoversInSpain on April 03, 2024, 10:11:48 am
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
No 1 crossed off.
No 2 crossed off
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 03, 2024, 10:18:12 am
Well my dare to dream is still on, and I’m really optimistic that the last playoff place will between Rovers and Crawley. We got 2 games in hand over a few teams above us, win them and we will be right on the heels of Crawley, the next 2 games are going to be really interesting. Crawley have two very hard games both away to Mansfield and Wrexham. We have Morecambe away then Walsall at Home. Keep this run going and the dream is ever so close. We have all got to get behind the team and and give them the support that this mini run deserves.
Message to the club Now is the time to offer £5 adult tickets for the next home game.

Last night showed folk will turn up in numbers and pay the going rate, so why short change ourselves? If we want higher status football, the townsfolk should do their bit to contribute.

I totally understand the temptation, but as said before, tickets will have already been sold to both sets of fans, so it's easier said than done.

Should we win Saturday, it will be interesting to see what numbers turn up v Walsall. If some folk turned up because it was Wrexham, then it's a bit disrespectful to both Rovers and Walsall.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 03, 2024, 10:28:43 am
Well my dare to dream is still on, and I’m really optimistic that the last playoff place will between Rovers and Crawley. We got 2 games in hand over a few teams above us, win them and we will be right on the heels of Crawley, the next 2 games are going to be really interesting. Crawley have two very hard games both away to Mansfield and Wrexham. We have Morecambe away then Walsall at Home. Keep this run going and the dream is ever so close. We have all got to get behind the team and and give them the support that this mini run deserves.
Message to the club Now is the time to offer £5 adult tickets for the next home game.
£10 adult and £5 concession for the last 2 games v Accrington & Barrow if we win our next 2 games v Morecambe & Walsall.
The dream will still be on so that’s what I might be tempted to do

We don’t do the finances though and it’s a balancing act on how much revenue the club may lose.
Yes we want bums on seats to create the atmosphere that is fort sure.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 03, 2024, 06:51:20 pm
Tuesday night is the biggest game for us this season, without a shadow of a doubt. A draw would be average, a loss and our dream is over, a win and everyone’s got to start dreaming

Many are already dreaming.
The Morcambe, Walsall and Gills game are huge.
If, and it’s a big if, it goes down to gillingham away for a potential playoff slot, I can see that god forsaken open temporary stand packed.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 04, 2024, 05:51:51 am
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.

Do you still think we’re a long way off being that good?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: karldew on April 04, 2024, 06:30:11 am
Tuesday night is the biggest game for us this season, without a shadow of a doubt. A draw would be average, a loss and our dream is over, a win and everyone’s got to start dreaming

Many are already dreaming.
The Morcambe, Walsall and Gills game are huge.
If, and it’s a big if, it goes down to gillingham away for a potential playoff slot, I can see that god forsaken open temporary stand packed.

Not with how many tickets we’ve been given.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 04, 2024, 09:01:10 am
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.

Do you still think we’re a long way off being that good?

Probably, but let's hope I'm wrong, eh?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 04, 2024, 12:02:19 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.

Do you still think we’re a long way off being that good?

Probably, but let's hope I'm wrong, eh?

It's really hard to make the comparison. At the time, we didn't know how good we were as each game was still in the balance and had to be won. There was no arrogance feeling it was easy and thinking winning was a formality. Only hindsight tells us how good that run was. The pressure was on to keep at the top of the table in the promotion places.

The disadvantage this team has, is we're running out of games. Only at the end of the season can we really look back to assess how good this run is, particularly considering the first half season.

Always worth a look back.

https://youtu.be/zQGn4LZzirM?si=D5PNZ541hU-OYA20

Note our first introduction to our long time friend Mr Kitson.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: streathamdave on April 05, 2024, 01:32:37 pm
I'm maybe going to upset a few people here, but I don't want promotion this season. There's been so much whining and rubbish talked that I'd rather have a solid promotion season, next season (I know that isn't guaranteed), rather than creep up and then have the same whining and anger on here because we're not throwing millions at getting promoted into the championship.

Let's continue to build, it looks like it's been working behind the scenes, for most of this season.
Got to just take promotion when it comes. If beyond all odds it is this season then great. We all start back at 0 next season and anything can happen.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: TonySoprano on April 05, 2024, 02:17:24 pm
Model says 7th place points now down to 71.

I'm thinking it might end up a bit lower than that, looking at fixtures.

Wouldn't surprise me if it ended up as low as 69. In which case, a draw or even, perish the thought, a defeat on Tuesday wouldn't be the very end.
Any update on the model ?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 05, 2024, 03:14:42 pm
Of our remaining six games, half of them are against sides genuinely competing for seventh spot. Beyond this, the Barrow game probably won’t fall into this category given their point position, but not absolutely out of the question. We have some chance here to influence events very directly.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 05, 2024, 05:11:40 pm
Of our remaining six games, half of them are against sides genuinely competing for seventh spot. Beyond this, the Barrow game probably won’t fall into this category given their point position, but not absolutely out of the question. We have some chance here to influence events very directly.

That's the other beauty of this. In effect, each game is like a play off game, to get into the playoffs. The best way to gain on our rivals is beat them head to head. We know of course it still might not be enough. Unfortunately Creepy Crawley bounced back from their loss against.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 05, 2024, 07:45:57 pm
Vague point of interest - best that McCann did last time with us was a four game winning run in the league (twice). In one run beating Luton and in both runs beating Plymouth.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 05, 2024, 11:20:18 pm
Vague point of interest - best that McCann did last time with us was a four game winning run in the league (twice). In one run beating Luton and in both runs beating Plymouth.

Not even a vague point of interest.

He’s managed 200+ league games at a higher level since then.

And yes, we can do it.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Ian Nimmo on April 06, 2024, 08:48:39 am
A couple of weeks ago, I was not giving any thoughts of the playoffs, but just happy that I was enjoying matches again.
However looking at the table now, apart from our own game there appears to be 2 critical games at Mansfield and Tranmere and if both these teams win and we do, the last place is wide open





Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: karldew on April 06, 2024, 10:43:33 am
We need to win ourselves, but the following teams in CAPITALS would help us out if we do.

Wimbledon v SALFORD
ACCRINGTON v Crewe
BRADFORD v Gillingham
GRIMSBY v Newport
MANSFIELD v Crawley
NOTTS COUNTY v Harrogate
TRANMERE v Walsall

Only Crawley who actually play against a team above them in the league.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 06, 2024, 10:56:17 am
We need to win ourselves, but the following teams in CAPITALS would help us out if we do.

Wimbledon v SALFORD
ACCRINGTON v Crewe
BRADFORD v Gillingham
GRIMSBY v Newport
MANSFIELD v Crawley
NOTTS COUNTY v Harrogate
TRANMERE v Walsall

Only Crawley who actually play against a team above them in the league.


Not sure I want to see Accrington getting a lift at this stage of the season, just before we play them. Keep them down. Probs a draw or Crewe win would be the best outcome.

Definitely fingers crossed Mansfield get their act together v Crawley
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 06, 2024, 11:33:18 am
We need to win ourselves, but the following teams in CAPITALS would help us out if we do.

Wimbledon v SALFORD
ACCRINGTON v Crewe
BRADFORD v Gillingham
GRIMSBY v Newport
MANSFIELD v Crawley
NOTTS COUNTY v Harrogate
TRANMERE v Walsall

Only Crawley who actually play against a team above them in the league.


Not sure I want to see Accrington getting a lift at this stage of the season, just before we play them. Keep them down. Probs a draw or Crewe win would be the best outcome.

Definitely fingers crossed Mansfield get their act together v Crawley

No, no, no, no.

If Crewe lose that, they are slipping badly and might not make much more that 70 points.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 06, 2024, 11:49:29 am
We need to win ourselves, but the following teams in CAPITALS would help us out if we do.

Wimbledon v SALFORD
ACCRINGTON v Crewe
BRADFORD v Gillingham
GRIMSBY v Newport
MANSFIELD v Crawley
NOTTS COUNTY v Harrogate
TRANMERE v Walsall

Only Crawley who actually play against a team above them in the league.


Not sure I want to see Accrington getting a lift at this stage of the season, just before we play them. Keep them down. Probs a draw or Crewe win would be the best outcome.

Definitely fingers crossed Mansfield get their act together v Crawley

No, no, no, no.

If Crewe lose that, they are slipping badly and might not make much more that 70 points.

Yes, yes, yes. I understand your point, but we don't want to be coming up against a rejuvenated Accrington next week  We only need access to one play off spot. To get there we need to win games and we can't do anything about Crewe.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 06, 2024, 01:12:32 pm
We need to win ourselves, but the following teams in CAPITALS would help us out if we do.

Wimbledon v SALFORD
ACCRINGTON v Crewe
BRADFORD v Gillingham
GRIMSBY v Newport
MANSFIELD v Crawley
NOTTS COUNTY v Harrogate
TRANMERE v Walsall

Only Crawley who actually play against a team above them in the league.


Not sure I want to see Accrington getting a lift at this stage of the season, just before we play them. Keep them down. Probs a draw or Crewe win would be the best outcome.

Definitely fingers crossed Mansfield get their act together v Crawley

No, no, no, no.

If Crewe lose that, they are slipping badly and might not make much more that 70 points.

Yes, yes, yes. I understand your point, but we don't want to be coming up against a rejuvenated Accrington next week  We only need access to one play off spot. To get there we need to win games and we can't do anything about Crewe.

1) If there's the possibility of Crewe slipping, we should want that. Then we could still make the top 7 even if Crawley and Walsall don't slip up.

2) 1 win isn't a rejuvenation.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 06, 2024, 02:35:37 pm
Yeah I think we want Accrington to win, Crewe are faltering badly and could be struggling to get 71 points
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 06, 2024, 02:36:11 pm
We’ve just beating Wrexham who’s just beat Mansfield so I don’t think what’s happened in previous games matters
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 06, 2024, 03:58:20 pm
And today's half times are why we want Crewe to lose.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 06, 2024, 04:05:47 pm
Fair do's.

Looking at Mansfields game, they've been battering the Crawley goal but it's not going in.

Time yet.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: NewDonny on April 06, 2024, 04:20:53 pm
Lower mid table will be alright given where we have been. I’ll take that. I agree we’ll finish on somewhere towards 60ish points, maybe just short. Again that’s okay and we have a platform from which to build for next season.

I agree with all of that. Sadly the side has hit form just a few games too late!

Bodes well for next season if Grant can keep the side together however!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on April 06, 2024, 04:23:06 pm
Lower mid table will be alright given where we have been. I’ll take that. I agree we’ll finish on somewhere towards 60ish points, maybe just short. Again that’s okay and we have a platform from which to build for next season.

I agree with all of that. Sadly the side has hit form just a few games too late!

Bodes well for next season if Grant can keep the side together however!

I’m happy to revise my estimated points total up slightly though. Wherever we finish, this run is great and as you say bodes really well for next season. We just need to enjoy it.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on April 06, 2024, 04:30:35 pm
Crawley form shows how well we did to go and win there.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Nudga on April 06, 2024, 04:34:45 pm
The Walsall match is now set up to be an absolute cracker.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: streathamdave on April 06, 2024, 04:40:44 pm
We need to win ourselves, but the following teams in CAPITALS would help us out if we do.

Wimbledon v SALFORD Think Crewe are the team to catch. Expect Crawley to finish above them.
ACCRINGTON v Crewe
BRADFORD v Gillingham
GRIMSBY v Newport
MANSFIELD v Crawley
NOTTS COUNTY v Harrogate
TRANMERE v Walsall

Only Crawley who actually play against a team above them in the league.


Not sure I want to see Accrington getting a lift at this stage of the season, just before we play them. Keep them down. Probs a draw or Crewe win would be the best outcome.

Definitely fingers crossed Mansfield get their act together v Crawley

No, no, no, no.

If Crewe lose that, they are slipping badly and might not make much more that 70 points.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Padge_DRFC on April 06, 2024, 05:02:13 pm
Thanks Mansfield for ending the dream
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 06, 2024, 05:04:28 pm
Not like them to avoid putting in a shift.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Fal on April 06, 2024, 05:04:57 pm
Thanks Mansfield for ending the dream

Wrexham beat them on Tuesday and we beat Walsall and it’s only 4 points behind. Crewe aren’t exactly flying either
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 06, 2024, 05:06:35 pm
Superb performance today. Other results not helpful sadly.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 06, 2024, 05:07:23 pm
It’s still on if we win ALL of our last 5 games. Thats what it will take I reckon. Surely not…
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on April 06, 2024, 05:08:07 pm
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
No 1 crossed off.
No 2 crossed off.
No 3 crossed off.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 06, 2024, 05:08:37 pm
Thanks Mansfield for ending the dream

Wrexham beat them on Tuesday and we beat Walsall and it’s only 4 points behind. Crewe aren’t exactly flying either


But only four games left after that and we have an inferior goal difference, so effectively five points.
Still needs a massive shift to get there.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 06, 2024, 05:09:26 pm
Never give up. We knew the chances were slim and we've just got to keep going.

It's a huge achievement as it is. The fat lady ain't singing yet.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 06, 2024, 05:15:56 pm
I think Crawley will start to lose some games in their last few games, I'm still optimistic that we can go on and win all our remaining games, I can’t recall me ever thinking we would lose a game, but it’s going to take a good side to do it.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on April 06, 2024, 05:16:26 pm
Literally all we can do is keep winning games. Elsewhere strange results can happen, especially when the pressure starts to shift on teams.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Spilsby Red on April 06, 2024, 05:19:02 pm
Even if we don’t make the playoffs but keep winning, then we take this into next season. Players will like what we are doing so will hopefully come to us or stay with us. GM, thanks for coming back.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jersey Rover on April 06, 2024, 05:20:31 pm
I’m looking at Crewe to fold rather than Crawley
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Arsenal Of The North on April 06, 2024, 05:23:34 pm
5th spot to me looks like it’s opened up for us to try and catch, might not happen but the target is there, with barrow, Walsall and Gillingham to play in front of us, let’s see where we go
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 06, 2024, 05:28:41 pm
Only conceded one goal in the last 6 games
That’s pretty unbelievable
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: StocksArmy on April 06, 2024, 05:29:31 pm
I think if Crawley lose at Wrexham and we beat Walsall on Tuesday it could be interesting.

I am just enjoying what we are currently doing though. I now have full confidence in the club, manager and players again and its been a very long time since I have felt this way.

Playoffs would be fantastic but if we dont quite make it I will still feel that we have salvaged something from the season and look forward to the next.

Does anybody know the most wins we have put together btw? Could a record be broken here?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 06, 2024, 05:30:06 pm
Don't focus on 1 side.

My model is saying 72 points for 7th place.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Copps is Magic on April 06, 2024, 05:30:15 pm
Crawley are in decent form as well as us. Crewe (near) bottom of the form table
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Copps is Magic on April 06, 2024, 05:33:31 pm
My model is saying 72 points for 7th place.

I'm impressed she knows so much about football.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 06, 2024, 05:34:28 pm
My model is saying 72 points for 7th place.

I'm impressed she knows so much about football.

Sexist.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: roversdude on April 06, 2024, 05:34:47 pm
Crewe are struggling and struggling with injuries
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on April 06, 2024, 05:39:58 pm
Don't focus on 1 side.

My model is saying 72 points for 7th place.

This. Just get the points.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 06, 2024, 05:41:21 pm
If we can get to the Barrow or even the Gillingham game still in with even a slim chance, there is going to be some atmosphere.   
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dutch Uncle on April 06, 2024, 05:42:08 pm
I think if Crawley lose at Wrexham and we beat Walsall on Tuesday it could be interesting.

I am just enjoying what we are currently doing though. I now have full confidence in the club, manager and players again and its been a very long time since I have felt this way.

Playoffs would be fantastic but if we dont quite make it I will still feel that we have salvaged something from the season and look forward to the next.

Does anybody know the most wins we have put together btw? Could a record be broken here?

10 in 1946-47, which was also the last time we won more than 6 on the bounce, and also the club all time record
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 06, 2024, 06:12:02 pm
I’m looking at Crewe to fold rather than Crawley
Hope you are right, I can see them getting another 3 points home to Grimsby
I do believe we can keep the wins coming right until the end
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 06, 2024, 06:20:14 pm
If we can get to the Barrow or even the Gillingham game still in with even a slim chance, there is going to be some atmosphere.   

There isn’t enough room at Gillingham if it gets to that. Every man, and their dog, will want to be there.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dabbermoo on April 06, 2024, 06:24:14 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
Has your opinion changed yet?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 06, 2024, 06:45:34 pm
What we're witnessing is rare and remarkable. Every challenge put before the players, they have come through and delivered. Not conceding a single goal in the last 4 matches is also remarkable, particularly at this level. It's not like we've been relying on a heavy dose of luck, every win has been won on merit.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 06, 2024, 06:51:55 pm
Gillingham are almost out of it now with 2 consecutive defeats.
They have only 3 to play

I said they would be our biggest threat before Mondays matches
They were horrendous in the 2nd half at Harrogate.
Just shows I know nowt
That was a poor prediction
Crawley and Walsall are the threats now imo
We must win on Tues
We almost certainly need 5 more wins
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Bristol Red Rover on April 06, 2024, 07:44:15 pm
Loving this rocket like rise from the lower regions. If just some of this can continue into next season I'm happy, whatever division it is.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 06, 2024, 08:44:17 pm
Someone said it previously might we be in a spot of bother over the "concussion" sub for  Wood and then playing him today? It sems all a bit messy to me
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: scawsby steve on April 06, 2024, 08:54:52 pm
Someone said it previously might we be in a spot of bother over the "concussion" sub for  Wood and then playing him today? It sems all a bit messy to me

You're not putting much faith in our management team knowing what they're doing, RR.

Chill, it will all be in hand.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 06, 2024, 09:05:43 pm
After some of the shenanigans in the transfer window re loaning players to Irish clubs, doesn't fil you with a lot of confidence
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DRFC_TID_93 on April 06, 2024, 09:12:58 pm
Someone said it previously might we be in a spot of bother over the "concussion" sub for  Wood and then playing him today? It sems all a bit messy to me

Won't be an issue. Concussion subs are permitted if a player is showing signs of a concussion, not a guaranteed one. A medical assessment is then done after the game, and if medically cleared of a concussion, can then return to training and matches. I'm sure this will have been the procedure and deemed to just be a cut, rather than a concussion
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dknward2 on April 06, 2024, 09:45:00 pm
The club doctor will have passed wood fit to play and the club admin staff will have checked every rule in the book to make sure we are covered
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: andysly on April 06, 2024, 09:50:41 pm
For the first time I've been tempted to look at how my shifts fall in relation to the play off dates...hope I've not jinxed it
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Ryaldinhio on April 06, 2024, 10:17:51 pm
I said a few weeks ago that Crawley and Walsall were the biggest threat. We have best one of them, to keep the hopes alive we MUST beat Walsall Tuesday.

They will be more nervous about playing us than we will be of playing them. I have loved most of GMs interviews through the season but at the minute are a particular joy. It's one game at a time and the lads are enjoying themselves. Let's just ride the wave!

We had 7 cup finals to play to get near playoffs, now we have 5.

A win on Tuesday would be massive. Also other important fixtures:

Morecambe v Crewe
Wrexham v Crawley

Could do with 3 home wins on Tuesday!!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: karldew on April 06, 2024, 10:59:05 pm
I said a few weeks ago that Crawley and Walsall were the biggest threat. We have best one of them, to keep the hopes alive we MUST beat Walsall Tuesday.

They will be more nervous about playing us than we will be of playing them. I have loved most of GMs interviews through the season but at the minute are a particular joy. It's one game at a time and the lads are enjoying themselves. Let's just ride the wave!

We had 7 cup finals to play to get near playoffs, now we have 5.

A win on Tuesday would be massive. Also other important fixtures:

Morecambe v Crewe
Wrexham v Crawley

Could do with 3 home wins on Tuesday!!!

Currently just under 8/1 for the 3 home wins!

A Bradford win against Barrow wouldn’t be bad either IF we win as well!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on April 07, 2024, 02:50:48 am
If we win the next three, the momentum will carry us over the line. Nobody will stop us if we can do that.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on April 07, 2024, 07:12:23 am
Keep half an eye on both Crewe and Barrow - especially Barrow, as we play them at home quite soon.

Who’d have thought Mansfield wouldn’t be in the top 3 today?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Padge_DRFC on April 07, 2024, 07:18:29 am
If Barrow don't beat Bradford there's a possibility they don't pick up a single point with their fixtures
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Ye-Aul-Tavern on April 07, 2024, 08:03:17 am
Wimbledon play Walsall on the final day. They can't both take three points!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Cramby10 on April 07, 2024, 08:22:41 am
I believe we will win every game for the rest of the season. Playing as we are there’s no one able to touch us. However, the natural pessimist in me rears it’s ugly head and I still don’t think that will be enough. Hope I’m wrong.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Arsenal Of The North on April 07, 2024, 08:25:03 am
Tuesday night fixtures

Donny v Walsall
Wrexham v Crawley
Crewe v Morecambe


One thing we possibly overlook is the fact other teams are still playing teams around us.

Let’s hope for positive results in all 3 games Tuesday night for us
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on April 07, 2024, 09:01:43 am
In terms of beating last season’s points total, we’ve already done it. Just keep racking up the points and see where we can get. No pressure.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 07, 2024, 09:19:57 am
Tuesday night fixtures

Donny v Walsall
Wrexham v Crawley
Crewe v Morecambe


One thing we possibly overlook is the fact other teams are still playing teams around us.

Let’s hope for positive results in all 3 games Tuesday night for us

Think Morecambe are at home v Crewe
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 07, 2024, 01:21:58 pm
We've got multiple threads now on the same topic. We're all doing the maths and hoping other teams help us out. This run is all about one thing which hasn't changed, and that's winning the next game. Simples.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 07, 2024, 04:24:14 pm
If after the barrow game were within 5 points or less then we have a great chance of taking it to the last game.
We’re the only team playing that Tuesday after barrow so if we win that we would be 2 points off going into the last game.
So we’ve just got to make up 2 points over the next 3 games
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 07, 2024, 07:20:18 pm
Tuesday night we beat Walsall & :-

Morecombe vs Crewe is a draw,

Wrexham beat Crawley, the table will look like this:-

6th Crewe played 42 points 68

7th Crawley played 42 points 65

8th Wimbledon played 43 points 62

9th Walsall played 42 points 62

10th Rovers played 42 points 61

11th Morecombe played 43 points 61

12th Gillingham played 43 points 60

With 3 or 4 games left to play for those teams it’ll be game on.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 07, 2024, 07:49:45 pm
Tuesday night we beat Walsall & :-

Morecombe vs Crewe is a draw,

Wrexham beat Crawley, the table will look like this:-

6th Crewe played 42 points 68

7th Crawley played 42 points 65

8th Wimbledon played 43 points 62

9th Walsall played 42 points 62

10th Rovers played 42 points 61

11th Morecombe played 43 points 61

12th Gillingham played 43 points 60

With 3 or 4 games left to play for those teams it’ll be game on.

You are missing a small point here, which could be an Achilles heel if the results do go our way from now till season end.
Goal diff.
In the case of Crawley and Crewe rovers need a 13/14 goal swing in our favour.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 07, 2024, 08:00:19 pm
Dare to dream.  Where have I heard that before?

Extremely rare dreams come true and I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to wake up yet.

Do you think the Donny public, the occasionals out there, will turn out again on Tuesday in numbers like last week? Do they realise how huge this could be and want to play a part in something exceptional?

This team deserves every help it can get from every man, woman & child with an interest in football. 

I'd love to see the DFP with a headline. Your Football Club Needs You! Be the 12th Man.

JR seems to have gone strangely quiet. I hope he's well and enjoying this.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 07, 2024, 08:02:32 pm
Tuesday night we beat Walsall & :-

Morecombe vs Crewe is a draw,

Wrexham beat Crawley, the table will look like this:-

6th Crewe played 42 points 68

7th Crawley played 42 points 65

8th Wimbledon played 43 points 62

9th Walsall played 42 points 62

10th Rovers played 42 points 61

11th Morecombe played 43 points 61

12th Gillingham played 43 points 60

With 3 or 4 games left to play for those teams it’ll be game on.

You are missing a small point here, which could be an Achilles heel if the results do go our way from now till season end.
Goal diff.
In the case of Crawley and Crewe rovers need a 13/14 goal swing in our favour.

Didn't a team turn round a goal difference not too long ago? Was that Bristol Rovers who needed to win big and scored 6 of 7 or summat?;
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 07, 2024, 09:25:05 pm
Dare to dream.  Where have I heard that before?

Extremely rare dreams come true and I don't know about you, but I'm not ready to wake up yet.

Do you think the Donny public, the occasionals out there, will turn out again on Tuesday in numbers like last week? Do they realise how huge this could be and want to play a part in something exceptional?

This team deserves every help it can get from every man, woman & child with an interest in football. 

I'd love to see the DFP with a headline. Your Football Club Needs You! Be the 12th Man.

JR seems to have gone strangely quiet. I hope he's well and enjoying this.
JR was on Face book after the win yesterday.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on April 09, 2024, 09:49:28 pm
This is officially astonishing now. Looking at the league table we actually look like we’re in the hunt! Incredible scenes. An amazing turnaround this season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 09, 2024, 09:50:15 pm
I’m still thinking we can do it, all we can do is keep up the winning momentum, and hope Crawley slip up, their next game to Colchester who are fighting for EFL survival, and our next game to Accrington will be really crucial. I can’t wait to see how the table stands come 5pm on Saturday. I hope Stanley doesn’t spoil our hopes.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 09, 2024, 09:52:45 pm
im made up for those that lumped on a top half finish. they must be looking at some healthy cash outs tonight
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DRFC_TID_93 on April 09, 2024, 09:54:37 pm
February 9th. 22nd. 30 played, 29 points.
April 9th. 10th. 12 games later, 61 points.

Astonishing turnaround. It's well and truly on now!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on April 09, 2024, 10:00:04 pm
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
No 1 crossed off.
No 2 crossed off.
No 3 crossed off.
No 4 crossed off.
f**k me!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on April 09, 2024, 10:00:28 pm
We somehow need Col U not to be their usual shit selves on Saturday.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 09, 2024, 10:02:10 pm
+4 gd swing too. against crawley that is.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 09, 2024, 10:03:45 pm
Is it really 67 years since we last won 7 in a row? Well I’m optimistic it’s going to be 8 , 9 , 10 and then 11
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: anton123 on April 09, 2024, 10:07:24 pm
Looking at Crawley fixtures we not catching them only hope is we beat barrow 7-0 and they loose a couple more as well
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 09, 2024, 10:11:41 pm
After this run literally anything could happen but you would imagine it is probably Crawley only we are chasing now. Depending on your point of view, it is either an easy or incredibly hard run in that they have now.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 09, 2024, 10:12:58 pm
Looking at Crawley fixtures we not catching them only hope is we beat barrow 7-0 and they loose a couple more as well

colchester have everything to play for this sat. they have games in hand and safety is very possible for them. i would not write them off in their gam against crawley. its not lost on me that rovers have to go there either.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: scawsby steve on April 09, 2024, 10:14:32 pm
Is it really 67 years since we last won 7 in a row? Well I’m optimistic it’s going to be 8 , 9 , 10 and then 11

It's more than 67 years.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 09, 2024, 10:17:10 pm
I don’t think Crawley’s fixtures are easy. They’ve got Barrow who are above them plus 3 teams fighting for their lives. They’d be easier fixtures IMO if they were against mid-table teams with nothing to play for.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on April 09, 2024, 10:17:39 pm
The poor goal difference is like being an extra point behind. If we keep winning that will be chipped away at. At the minute there is no pressure on the group, can they do it if the pressure is on and we need to say, win the last game? Fantastic the turnaround, what has caused this, why were we so bad before? It just shows that the signings made were good enough.

The underperformance of either the manager and players or both stopped us winning the league that we should have. As it is great that we are doing well now but can’t help feeling disappointed at what could have been. Getting promoted would soften that blow.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 09, 2024, 10:18:10 pm
Is it really 67 years since we last won 7 in a row? Well I’m optimistic it’s going to be 8 , 9 , 10 and then 11

It's more than 67 years.

77 years.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pancho Regan on April 09, 2024, 10:22:07 pm
im made up for those that lumped on a top half finish. they must be looking at some healthy cash outs tonight
Thanks nr, I’m one of them!

I’m buzzing - Skybet offering me £205 to cash out tonight for my £50 bet.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on April 09, 2024, 10:24:12 pm
The poor goal difference is like being an extra point behind. If we keep winning that will be chipped away at. At the minute there is no pressure on the group, can they do it if the pressure is on and we need to say, win the last game? Fantastic the turnaround, what has caused this, why were we so bad before? It just shows that the signings made were good enough.

The underperformance of either the manager and players or both stopped us winning the league that we should have. As it is great that we are doing well now but can’t help feeling disappointed at what could have been. Getting promoted would soften that blow.
Getting promoted will soften the blow?
Getting promoted will be the most incredible achievement in our history!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyOsmond on April 09, 2024, 10:36:39 pm
The poor goal difference is like being an extra point behind. If we keep winning that will be chipped away at. At the minute there is no pressure on the group, can they do it if the pressure is on and we need to say, win the last game? Fantastic the turnaround, what has caused this, why were we so bad before? It just shows that the signings made were good enough.

The underperformance of either the manager and players or both stopped us winning the league that we should have. As it is great that we are doing well now but can’t help feeling disappointed at what could have been. Getting promoted would soften that blow.

How can a manager underperform?
You either have:
A. A good manager who doesn't have the right players at his disposal who does poorly.
B. A good manager with the right players, who does well.
C. A poor manager, who has good players who does alright.
D. A poor manager with poor players who does poorly.

We've gone from A to B based on players returning from injuries and Adelakun and few other January signings. I don't see how managers "under perform".
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on April 09, 2024, 10:42:43 pm
They don’t get the best from what they have. To me there has always been a good squad of players there he wasn’t getting the best from them. The players also were underperforming to their abilities. The addition of Adelakun seems to have invigorated quite a few players around him.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 09, 2024, 11:31:43 pm
Sky bet offering me £1050 off a £270 stake
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 10, 2024, 09:27:01 am
I don’t think Crawley’s fixtures are easy. They’ve got Barrow who are above them plus 3 teams fighting for their lives. They’d be easier fixtures IMO if they were against mid-table teams with nothing to play for.
It’s always harder playing teams that are fighting for their survival, than teams pushing for promotion, especially in the last few games of the season. There’s always some last dramatic twists and turns in both promotion, playoff’s and relegation, let’s hope we can pull this massive twist off.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: StocksArmy on April 10, 2024, 10:57:03 pm
I feel its still a massive task to keep up this run of consecutive wins but, if we do make the playoffs I would back us to win them.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: i_ateallthepies on April 11, 2024, 07:58:33 am
I think Tuesday perhaps was a sign that the rigours of the repeated high-intensity game being played by us is beginning to sap the collective energy, perfectly understandable if that is the case.  Hope I'm completely wrong but the further we go the greater will be the fatigue.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 11, 2024, 08:48:50 am
Sat is top of form table vs bottom
Of form table ( based on last 10 games)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 11, 2024, 08:59:09 am
I think Tuesday perhaps was a sign that the rigours of the repeated high-intensity game being played by us is beginning to sap the collective energy, perfectly understandable if that is the case.  Hope I'm completely wrong but the further we go the greater will be the fatigue.

I was thinking the same. I marvel at them being able to reset after each game, which have taken some real effort physically and mentally to maintain the high standards.

Between games, the coaching staff and medical staff must be working overtime to keep the players at peak levels ready for the next game. The art of man management really comes into play.

I suppose a factor that will help them is they're counting the games down and getting nearer to the goals they've set. They still have the chance of achieving something epic.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on April 11, 2024, 09:11:07 am
I think Tuesday perhaps was a sign that the rigours of the repeated high-intensity game being played by us is beginning to sap the collective energy, perfectly understandable if that is the case.  Hope I'm completely wrong but the further we go the greater will be the fatigue.

I was thinking the same. I marvel at them being able to reset after each game, which have taken some real effort physically and mentally to maintain the high standards.

Between games, the coaching staff and medical staff must be working overtime to keep the players at peak levels ready for the next game. The art of man management really comes into play.

I suppose a factor that will help them is they're counting the games down and getting nearer to the goals they've set. They still have the chance of achieving something epic.
right now, I'd say Dave Rennie has the 2nd most important job off the pitch after grant..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 11, 2024, 09:38:28 am
I think Tuesday perhaps was a sign that the rigours of the repeated high-intensity game being played by us is beginning to sap the collective energy, perfectly understandable if that is the case.  Hope I'm completely wrong but the further we go the greater will be the fatigue.
I think you have to give Walsall some credit for making us possibly look a little lethargic.
They are a decent side and they came with a game plan to upset our flow. It worked until we scored and then the game opened up a little more and we had a bit more space to play our game.

I didn’t think we looked tired in the 2nd half. In fact I thought we had more energy than Walsall for most of the 45 + 6 mins played. ( yes it was 6 played not 5 as shown on the board )
In the last 10 mins or so Walsall tried to throw the Kitchen sink at us but we just allowed them to have the ball mostly in areas that didn’t hurt us and we hit them on the break. ( apart from the free kick when they scored and possibly only one other chance to score )
We though had 3/4 really good chances in the 2nd half on top of the goal we scored.

Yes we will have had some tired legs on Wed Morning but I am sure our coaching and physio staff will give them the appropriate training and rest balance they need over the 3 days before the next game v Accrington.

The next instalment awaits us. The excitement & tension is building game on game.
No one absolutely no one, i am quite sure including GM expected this scenario.



Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Copps is Magic on April 11, 2024, 09:44:03 am
Sat is top of form table vs bottom
Of form table ( based on last 10 games)

Wow. Are you trying to jinx us?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 11, 2024, 09:48:08 am
Sat is top of form table vs bottom
Of form table ( based on last 10 games)
I was keeping quiet on that one.  :zzz:

No worries we are a juggernaut at present. Bring on the Accies. No fear.  :)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 11, 2024, 09:55:03 am
At this time of the season, especially without significant team changes game after game due to injury, the team will be full of confidence and should know what it’s doing.  Meaning that training could be limited to specific game planning for the next fixture on top of recuperation from the last.  General fitness should t be an issue.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 11, 2024, 12:58:55 pm
I think Tuesday perhaps was a sign that the rigours of the repeated high-intensity game being played by us is beginning to sap the collective energy, perfectly understandable if that is the case.  Hope I'm completely wrong but the further we go the greater will be the fatigue.
I think you have to give Walsall some credit for making us possibly look a little lethargic.
They are a decent side and they came with a game plan to upset our flow. It worked until we scored and then the game opened up a little more and we had a bit more space to play our game.

I didn’t think we looked tired in the 2nd half. In fact I thought we had more energy than Walsall for most of the 45 + 6 mins played. ( yes it was 6 played not 5 as shown on the board )
In the last 10 mins or so Walsall tried to throw the Kitchen sink at us but we just allowed them to have the ball mostly in areas that didn’t hurt us and we hit them on the break. ( apart from the free kick when they scored and possibly only one other chance to score )
We though had 3/4 really good chances in the 2nd half on top of the goal we scored.

Yes we will have had some tired legs on Wed Morning but I am sure our coaching and physio staff will give them the appropriate training and rest balance they need over the 3 days before the next game v Accrington.

The next instalment awaits us. The excitement & tension is building game on game.
No one absolutely no one, i am quite sure including GM expected this scenario.

Camps, the board at 90 minutes shows the minimum of extra minutes that will be played.
Walsall scored a goal and we made another substitution when McGrath came on.
That is where the extra minute came from mate.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 12, 2024, 12:25:03 pm
The Opta supercomputer now gives us an 8.2% chance of finishing in a play off place, after we beat Forest Green it was a 0.2% chance.

A lot still to do obviously but it now appears to be a realistic (1 in 10 ish) chance of actually happening, who’d have thought!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Jonathan on April 13, 2024, 04:40:17 pm
Well…
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 13, 2024, 04:56:07 pm
Update on max points available:

1st Stockport - 95
2nd Mansfield - 88
3rd Wrexham - 88
4th MK dons - 80
5th Barrow - 79
6th Crewe - 76
7th Crawley - 74
8th Rovers - 73
9th Walsall - 71
10th Wimbledon - 68

All eyes on Crawley v Barrow Tuesday night.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 13, 2024, 04:56:42 pm
Another superb performance today. Other results have all totally gone in our favour. If you just keep winning then others will make mistakes. Big shout out for another clean sheet!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 13, 2024, 04:58:09 pm
Update on max points available:

1st Stockport - 95
2nd Mansfield - 88
3rd Wrexham - 88
4th MK dons - 80
5th Barrow - 79
6th Crewe - 76
7th Crawley - 74
8th Rovers - 73
9th Walsall - 71
10th Wimbledon - 68

All eyes on Crawley v Barrow Tuesday night.

Barrow are going to be knackered. Played 70 mins today with 10 men and then a must win game on Tuesday night against Crawley. Then over to play us next Saturday while we are sat on our arses midweek. Don't know who the guy was that Barrow had sent off but it was straight red so he won't be playing against us. Hope he is crucial to them.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 13, 2024, 05:00:23 pm
With barrow playing Crawley they both can’t get those maximum points.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 13, 2024, 05:00:47 pm
Can’t believe since I posted that we are a point off the playoffs, we sure can do it, Come on Rovers what a day
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ChrisBx on April 13, 2024, 05:02:09 pm
Bloody hell!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 13, 2024, 05:03:34 pm
With barrow playing Crawley they both can’t get those maximum points.

Absolutely, same with us and Barrow next Saturday.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 13, 2024, 05:03:48 pm
Roy of the rovers stuff
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 13, 2024, 05:08:06 pm
Next Saturday will be another cup final for us against Barrow, all we can do is get behind the team even more than ever and get them over the line for 9 straight wins, we all got to dream now.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 13, 2024, 05:10:08 pm
The last game of the season could be interesting
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 13, 2024, 05:10:30 pm
We need a Barrow win or a draw Tuesday night. Either result means for the first time it’s in our own hands, win every game and we’re in the playoffs. Unbelievable.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Peebles Rover on April 13, 2024, 05:15:55 pm
We need a Barrow win or a draw Tuesday night. Either result means for the first time it’s in our own hands, win every game and we’re in the playoffs. Unbelievable.

I’m not so sure about that, Barrow have to play Crawley and us away, then home to Bradford and Mansfield. 4 tough fixtures
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Scooter on April 13, 2024, 06:56:45 pm
If Crawley don’t win against Barrow and we do win our last 3 games - we will defo be in the playoffs. It’s that straightforward
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 13, 2024, 07:25:55 pm
Now I know this sounds silly and I would snap anyone’s hand off to finish 7th but we could now mathematically finish 5th. Yes that’s crazy.

If we did we get a home game in the 2nd leg which is a little more advantageous.

Yes i know let’s just get in those play offs.  :)
 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 13, 2024, 08:25:07 pm
I would absolutely hate it if it came down to the last game at Gilld
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 13, 2024, 09:18:15 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.

We obviously weren’t that far away!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dickos1 on April 13, 2024, 09:21:18 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.

We have improved but not been to the level of a top 6 team. Yes we have had the points haul of a top team but the performances haven’t matched. We will start levelling out in the coming weeks.

I think since this point the performances have continued improving. And just keep getting better and better.
Lots of predictions suggesting we wouldn’t reach 60 points. We’re looking good at getting over 70 now
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: andysly on April 13, 2024, 09:41:19 pm
Whatever happens between Barrow and Crawley will have pro's and con's for us.
I'd settle for a draw and Barrow to have a couple sent off
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 13, 2024, 11:56:19 pm
I would absolutely hate it if it came down to the last game at Gilld

The likely alternative is we don't make the playoffs.

I'll take a ball-clencher at the Priestfield ta very much.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pliskin on April 14, 2024, 01:06:47 am
Even a week ago playoffs still seemed like a long shot. Looking at the table and the fixtures now, it's impossible to deny that we have a very real chance.

Three tough games to go.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BobG on April 14, 2024, 04:35:11 am
This is quite a useful link:

https://www.soccerstats.com/formtable.asp?league=england4

From it, I see that in the last 12 games  Rovers have scored more goals than everybody else, let in less goals than everybody else, 2 goals in 8 games, and scored more than 20% more points than everybody else too. I can't  think of another occasion this has happened in 50+ years supporting Rovers.

BobG
 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 14, 2024, 11:04:06 am
This is quite a useful link:

https://www.soccerstats.com/formtable.asp?league=england4

From it, I see that in the last 12 games  Rovers have scored more goals than everybody else, let in less goals than everybody else, 2 goals in 8 games, and scored more than 20% more points than everybody else too. I can't  think of another occasion this has happened in 50+ years supporting Rovers.

BobG
What a amazing run, just at the right time, and there’s more to come.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: donnyallday on April 14, 2024, 11:59:09 am
I always thought we were 3/4 games short of making the play offs, we timed our run just a tad late.It's been truly truly remarkable seeing as it seems we have given most teams 25 games start. That's Rovers for you. No team will relish playing us to the final. Unreal.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 15, 2024, 06:52:50 am
18000 views of this thread.
People are starting to take note of what’s going on.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on April 15, 2024, 07:28:45 am
Just had an interesting thought this morning (very unusual, I know!). But, IF we do make the play-off’s, how likely is it that a certain Mr Miller could be in the squad? I’m sure I heard GM say George was back ‘on the grass’ training.

Anyone know anything?

It would certainly add a bit of interest to the play-off games and a huge boost to the squad just to see him back. One to keep an eye on, for sure.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dutch Uncle on April 15, 2024, 10:14:33 am
Humble pie time. Here is what I said on 18 March, 6 games ago, on this thread:

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse).



Although the overall points targets are not too bad – I would rate the 70/30/10% chances for us guessed above, for if we can get that total of points, as now 95/40/20

Where I have totally failed is in not nominating us as the form team. My ‘no chance’ comment was meant as ‘no chance of us getting that number of points’. Now it is a very real chance.

I have to say McCann’s ploy of starting a new table, and saying to the players I want you to win that table, is a total management masterstroke worthy of Shankly, Clough or Ferguson. In the beginning it was showing confidence in the players ‘you can do this’, but it has now evolved into a wonderful way of lifting pressure. The pressure is all on those teams above us looking down. Whatever happens from here on in, this staggering, once in a long lifetime run, means we have a club to be proud of, a season to remember, football to enjoy, and good reason for great optimism next season, in whatever division.

Well done everyone, but especially GM    :scarf: :scarf:
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on April 15, 2024, 08:22:18 pm
We have only 6 wins less than Stockport!!   A better start and we were getting autos!!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 15, 2024, 11:59:23 pm
Humble pie time. Here is what I said on 18 March, 6 games ago, on this thread:

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse).



Although the overall points targets are not too bad – I would rate the 70/30/10% chances for us guessed above, for if we can get that total of points, as now 95/40/20

Where I have totally failed is in not nominating us as the form team. My ‘no chance’ comment was meant as ‘no chance of us getting that number of points’. Now it is a very real chance.

I have to say McCann’s ploy of starting a new table, and saying to the players I want you to win that table, is a total management masterstroke worthy of Shankly, Clough or Ferguson. In the beginning it was showing confidence in the players ‘you can do this’, but it has now evolved into a wonderful way of lifting pressure. The pressure is all on those teams above us looking down. Whatever happens from here on in, this staggering, once in a long lifetime run, means we have a club to be proud of, a season to remember, football to enjoy, and good reason for great optimism next season, in whatever division.

Well done everyone, but especially GM    :scarf: :scarf:


I wouldn't be too hard on yourself Dutch for saying we had no chance back then. We had much less than a 0.1% chance. This sort of run happens once in a lifetime for any specific club outside the artificial world of east Manchester. To all intents and purposes, the chance of us gaining 25-27 points from those last 9 matches and 38-40 out of the last 15 games was as close to zero as makes almost no difference.

Fortunately for us, "almost" is still doing a lot of heavy lifting. Although we need to remember that it's still only a 20-ish percent chance that we do it even from here and not being too downhearted if we don't.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 16, 2024, 12:04:29 am
If we do end up just missing out, that 92nd minute winner for Crewe in the away match is going to hurt like hell. The task ahead of us from here would have been a hell of a lot easier if we'd held out that day, but there was such a brittleness in our defence back then it wasn't a surprise when it came.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 16, 2024, 12:31:25 am
Just had an interesting thought this morning (very unusual, I know!). But, IF we do make the play-off’s, how likely is it that a certain Mr Miller could be in the squad? I’m sure I heard GM say George was back ‘on the grass’ training.

Anyone know anything?

It would certainly add a bit of interest to the play-off games and a huge boost to the squad just to see him back. One to keep an eye on, for sure.
Just had an interesting thought this morning (very unusual, I know!). But, IF we do make the play-off’s, how likely is it that a certain Mr Miller could be in the squad? I’m sure I heard GM say George was back ‘on the grass’ training.

Anyone know anything?

It would certainly add a bit of interest to the play-off games and a huge boost to the squad just to see him back. One to keep an eye on, for sure.

That very thought occurred to me too having seen Miller feature in this video.

https://youtu.be/GFTlHDMqa_E?si=6PgyWQyZ1Oz_-DNl

Whether he was actively taking part in full training I don't know but given Biamou's enforced absence, a cameo from George would be brilliant, even if a few mins from the subs bench. What a boost that would be.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 16, 2024, 07:28:07 am
Just had an interesting thought this morning (very unusual, I know!). But, IF we do make the play-off’s, how likely is it that a certain Mr Miller could be in the squad? I’m sure I heard GM say George was back ‘on the grass’ training.

Anyone know anything?

It would certainly add a bit of interest to the play-off games and a huge boost to the squad just to see him back. One to keep an eye on, for sure.
Just had an interesting thought this morning (very unusual, I know!). But, IF we do make the play-off’s, how likely is it that a certain Mr Miller could be in the squad? I’m sure I heard GM say George was back ‘on the grass’ training.

Anyone know anything?

It would certainly add a bit of interest to the play-off games and a huge boost to the squad just to see him back. One to keep an eye on, for sure.

That very thought occurred to me too having seen Miller feature in this video.

https://youtu.be/GFTlHDMqa_E?si=6PgyWQyZ1Oz_-DNl

Whether he was actively taking part in full training I don't know but given Biamou's enforced absence, a cameo from George would be brilliant, even if a few mins from the subs bench. What a boost that would be.

What a great video that was to watch.
A very special day for the young lad.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ForsolongaRover on April 16, 2024, 01:32:52 pm
Humble pie time. Here is what I said on 18 March, 6 games ago, on this thread:

My gut feeling, taking into account we have a terrible goal difference:

27 points from 9 games = 73 points - 70% chance playoffs
25 points from 9 games = 71 points - 30% chance playoffs
24 points from 9 games = 70 points - 10% chance playoffs

Anything less 0%

Basically no chance

Edit: BTW, since 3 points per game introduced in 1981-82, and using points per game for seasons where less than 46 games played, average points for 7th place is 71.6. With all the teams challenging this year someone will have a very good run to take 7th (assuming none of the top 6 collapse).



Although the overall points targets are not too bad – I would rate the 70/30/10% chances for us guessed above, for if we can get that total of points, as now 95/40/20

Where I have totally failed is in not nominating us as the form team. My ‘no chance’ comment was meant as ‘no chance of us getting that number of points’. Now it is a very real chance.

I have to say McCann’s ploy of starting a new table, and saying to the players I want you to win that table, is a total management masterstroke worthy of Shankly, Clough or Ferguson. In the beginning it was showing confidence in the players ‘you can do this’, but it has now evolved into a wonderful way of lifting pressure. The pressure is all on those teams above us looking down. Whatever happens from here on in, this staggering, once in a long lifetime run, means we have a club to be proud of, a season to remember, football to enjoy, and good reason for great optimism next season, in whatever division.

Well done everyone, but especially GM    :scarf: :scarf:

What you said originally WAS sensible; subsequent events have been exceptional.

Talking of “Tables”, I used to like SOD’s interviews and he always stressed performances over results, which I could go along with, but what I found irritating and it was difficult to believe that he claimed he never looked at the Table. We were a joy to watch frequently, but might a little more success have been squeezed out if he had valued results more in the way he steered the team?

I’d say the Table is the one thing that all fans are very interested in and players too and McCann is surely more results-driven than either of the two of his best predecessors (Ferguson and SOD) - Penney was before on-line access for me.

So his approach which combines sensitivity with the overriding need to win encapsulated in the relative measure of the Table is admirable. That is what a manager needs to instil into his players. Performing well has to be correlated to winning.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 16, 2024, 09:42:32 pm
Even with wallsall
Winning tonight it’s completely unreal
That a playoff slot is now in rovers hands . Just keep winning .
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 16, 2024, 09:44:02 pm
I think tonight’s results were what we expected, it’s amazing to say now that, it’s all in our own hands now, who would have thought that 5 weeks ago
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 16, 2024, 09:44:46 pm
Barrow used 4 subs tonight. Some early in the game. Injuries?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 16, 2024, 09:46:14 pm
Walsall draw would have been pretty much a perfect night for us. But like has been said, we now decide our own fate.

Really, really need the take care of business on Saturday. Massive game
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 16, 2024, 09:46:27 pm
Barrow used 4 subs tonight. Some early in the game. Injuries?
I’m full of confidence that we can beat Barrow
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 16, 2024, 09:47:14 pm
Even with wallsall
Winning tonight it’s completely unreal
That a playoff slot is now in rovers hands . Just keep winning .

It's that simple and we've known this for sometime now, except we were more reliant on others slipping up.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: StocksArmy on April 16, 2024, 09:48:10 pm
Beat Barrow and i believe.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 16, 2024, 09:50:54 pm
I like the look of the table tonight. Overtaking Crawley is in our own hands, but we’ve also got Barrow and Crewe to consider.

We have the opportunity on Saturday to take points off Barrow.

Crewe have got to play Wrexham and then Colchester last game of the season, easy to see them dropping points too.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 16, 2024, 09:51:46 pm
There’s definitely going to be some more twists and turns left this season. It’s football and when is it ever that straight forward?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: normal rules on April 16, 2024, 09:58:26 pm
Colchester’s main centre half got a straight red card. 90+6. Violent conduct. That’s him out for the rovers game.
Cheque is in the post to him. Lol.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 16, 2024, 10:03:56 pm
Three match ban so his season is done.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: streathamdave on April 16, 2024, 10:11:01 pm
Looking at form and remaining fixtures not sure how much Crewe will have in the tank either.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 16, 2024, 10:13:42 pm
It's definitely worth absorbing this incredible moment, when before there was uncertainty, now there is certainty. Form, PPG matters not, we CAN do this.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: donnyguy on April 16, 2024, 10:14:47 pm
Crewe 12:30 kick off on Saturday against Wrexham
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 16, 2024, 10:15:39 pm
Still loads of possible outcomes with the few games remaining for all sides..  all we can do is do our best to win on Saturday and see what happens elsewhere.  Forget we’ve won 8 on the bounce and how unlikely it is to win 9, just treat it as a new game.

No pressure then!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 16, 2024, 10:20:26 pm
Crewe could very easily lose their last 2 games
Home to Wrexham & away at Colchester.

There are so many permutations.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: philsky on April 16, 2024, 10:21:13 pm
It’s madness. Why was I glued to bbc L2 coverage tonight !!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 16, 2024, 10:26:59 pm
Walsall will fancy their chances now as well
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 16, 2024, 10:34:28 pm
Looking at form and remaining fixtures not sure how much Crewe will have in the tank either.

For once this season, I want Wrexham to get a cricket score on Satdi
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: StocksArmy on April 16, 2024, 10:34:57 pm
Walsall will fancy their chances now as well

If Walsall win their last 2 to get in, they will deserve it. 2 hard games they have.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 16, 2024, 10:38:15 pm
If we want to go deeper into it (I'm not sure I have the mental capacity) there are now more teams who could consider themselves to be 'on the beach'.

Stockport confirmed Champions with Wrexham and Mansfield confirmed promoted. Congratulations to them but they have nowt to play for other than professional pride so we can't expect them (Wrexham & Mansfield) to do us any favours or any of the other teams who's got nowt to play for (Bradford!!)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dknward2 on April 16, 2024, 10:44:34 pm
Wrexham and Mansfield can still finish 2nd or 3rd so will both keep up trying to win could be interesting if Crewe don't win any of their last games
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 16, 2024, 10:45:11 pm
I think that Walsall 90th minute winner could be quite significant, and is a bit of a kick in the knackers actually. I now think they could be our biggest contenders for 7th place. That winning goal could now mean the difference between having to win 2 of our last 3, or all our last 3. This obviously becomes irrelevant depending on Crawley and barrows last games.

Could be a massive goal that come the end of the season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 16, 2024, 10:49:14 pm
Wrexham and Mansfield can still finish 2nd or 3rd so will both keep up trying to win could be interesting if Crewe don't win any of their last games

I think they'll take the opportunity to rest players and being in some of their peripheral players. Hope I'm wrong like!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: andysly on April 16, 2024, 11:14:50 pm
Walsall's goal was a downer but otherwise this week has been good to us, even Colchester's win works for us. If they are safe come next Tuesday night we can go there and play a less motivated side, remember the disaster at Hartlepool..........
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 16, 2024, 11:48:36 pm
Wrexham and Mansfield can still finish 2nd or 3rd so will both keep up trying to win could be interesting if Crewe don't win any of their last games
Fergie isn’t manager of either Wrexham or Mansfield thankfully. They would be on the beach if he was.
So hopefully they will both be going flat out to finish 2nd
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 16, 2024, 11:51:42 pm
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
BST do you remember posting this. Yes of course you do.   :facepalm:   :)
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 16, 2024, 11:57:15 pm
I think that Walsall 90th minute winner could be quite significant, and is a bit of a kick in the knackers actually. I now think they could be our biggest contenders for 7th place. That winning goal could now mean the difference between having to win 2 of our last 3, or all our last 3. This obviously becomes irrelevant depending on Crawley and barrows last games.

Could be a massive goal that come the end of the season.
I am thinking Crewe might lose their games and we will only need 2 wins and a draw to overtake them.
Barrow, Walsall & Rovers could finish 5/6/7th. Not necessarily in that order of course.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 17, 2024, 12:52:13 am
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
BST do you remember posting this. Yes of course you do.   :facepalm:   :)


Yes of course I do, and I was right at that time. We'd just picked up 17 points from the previous 8 games. Excellent but not the once a century stuff that we needed.

Anyone who genuinely thought we were likely to win the next 6 on the bounce doesn't know much about football or probability.

It's still odds on that we won't end up getting 42+ points from our last 17 games. And (I shouldn't need to say this, but, y'know...this place) I'll be climbing the walls if we do.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: turnbull for england on April 17, 2024, 06:12:08 am
Should it not come off, and allowing for the hope and excitement we have bear in mind if we make it to playoffs we will most likely be at worst a  draw off our best ever run of wins in our entire history, just hope there's no over reaction .From where we were in Jan to now has lit a fire back within the club and fans so whatever happens next year is going to be something to look forward to
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: i_ateallthepies on April 17, 2024, 08:03:55 am
It certainly is finally in our own hands but let's not get carried away, that very well might require that we win another three games on the spin.  Only two months ago that was a feat that we could only dream about.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 17, 2024, 08:08:53 am
I think there's some reality checks needed here.

If we make the playoffs, we'll have had to win something like 42 points from the last 17 games.

That's equivalent to 113 points over a full season.

It's better than even Penney's juggernaut of a team managed in the best spell of form I have ever seen from a Rovers side in Autumn 2003.

We have improved a lot, but we are a long way off being that good.
BST do you remember posting this. Yes of course you do.   :facepalm:   :)


Yes of course I do, and I was right at that time. We'd just picked up 17 points from the previous 8 games. Excellent but not the once a century stuff that we needed.

Anyone who genuinely thought we were likely to win the next 6 on the bounce doesn't know much about football or probability.

It's still odds on that we won't end up getting 42+ points from our last 17 games. And (I shouldn't need to say this, but, y'know...this place) I'll be climbing the walls if we do.
I am not having a go at you. Just read your post back and thought wow. We really have almost pulled off something very very special. We are not there yet but it’s getting close. Just got to hold our nerve now.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 17, 2024, 08:36:48 am
Whatever happens, I think this thread plus the '200/1'thread, could do with being stickied at the top for future reference, whenever we feel deflated. Just a reminder how things can change.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 17, 2024, 08:48:45 am
Crewe could very easily lose their last 2 games
Home to Wrexham & away at Colchester.

There are so many permutations.
I would think our last 3 games will be the hardest 3 of the seat, now that the pressure is on, with it been in our own hands. Our last 8 wins have been amazing but there was no pressure on the team then. I’m sure Grant will be able to settle them down and they will carry on this remarkable run
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 17, 2024, 08:55:37 am
I think we will average around 1.5 points per game in the remaining games.that leaves us on less than 60 points.
We have passed the 60 points, come on Rovers
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: turnbull for england on April 17, 2024, 09:12:39 am
I think we will average around 1.5 points per game in the remaining games.that leaves us on less than 60 points.
We have passed the 60 points, come on Rovers


Let's be fair, all reasonable predictions said same. Matt le tissier wouldn't have putva quid on this run and he thinks government can make the sun shine
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Butchers Red on April 17, 2024, 09:34:31 am
Hang on, there's another side to worry about now - just heard it on SKY

Doncarrrrrster !

Muppets.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 17, 2024, 09:58:17 am
I wouldn’t have thought the Disney documentary would be happy at Wrexham giving up and settling for 3rd instead of going all out for runners up. If they get beat that leaves them with a max available of 73 same as us, but with a better goal difference.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: big fat yorkshire pudding on April 17, 2024, 10:27:32 am
It's still a tough ask but now it's a mini league for us that we've barged in to.  One nobody expected.

Pressure is on a bit now, there's a bit of expectation so how we cope with that is intriguing.  Three tough games to come, it's gonna be a rollercoaster and one we're still not favourites to win.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 17, 2024, 10:57:57 am
Rovers at 12/1 for promotion looks good to me.

Crewe and Barrow poor in the last third of the season. No momentum at present.

And we’ve beat MK dons under their new manager pretty convincingly even before we became a juggernaut.

Only recently showed we’re a better side than Walsall too if they sneak in.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Prez on April 17, 2024, 11:25:35 am
It’s worth noting that Bradford have a big say in the run in. They are away to Walsall on Saturday and then away to Barrow on Tuesday.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 17, 2024, 01:13:00 pm
It's like building a house of cards or playing Jenga you fear the worst and expect at any time for it to come crashing down.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 17, 2024, 02:00:57 pm
Everything to gain, nothing to lose. Same as before the previous 8 games and beyond.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: pib on April 17, 2024, 10:28:01 pm
Now it’s in our hands my mindset has completely shifted, despite my best efforts to stop it, to being really nervous now and hoping with everything that we do it.

Before it was a case of, we only have an outside chance anyway so let’s just keep it going as long as possible.

I hope the players have a stronger focus and mentality than me because I’m really building up these 3 games in my head now.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 17, 2024, 11:53:32 pm
Now it’s in our hands my mindset has completely shifted, despite my best efforts to stop it, to being really nervous now and hoping with everything that we do it.

Before it was a case of, we only have an outside chance anyway so let’s just keep it going as long as possible.

I hope the players have a stronger focus and mentality than me because I’m really building up these 3 games in my head now.

You're not alone. It's human nature. Although we now know we can, we've never been in possession of a play off spot so it's up to us to go and grab it. The fans of Crawley, Barrow and possibly Crewe are the ones probably bricking it.

We've just got to overcome this and make sure positive vibes continue to be transmitted from the stands to the pitch and help the players get into the groove.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Michael Shaw on April 18, 2024, 12:40:08 am
Of course we will be in league one next season. Rovers are unstoppable and have the right mindset to keep winning. I really don't understand the doubt in the minds of fans.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 18, 2024, 08:19:28 am
Now it’s in our hands my mindset has completely shifted, despite my best efforts to stop it, to being really nervous now and hoping with everything that we do it.

Before it was a case of, we only have an outside chance anyway so let’s just keep it going as long as possible.

I hope the players have a stronger focus and mentality than me because I’m really building up these 3 games in my head now.

I have read through some posts of the last few days and have noticed a shift in thoughts of quite a few posters.
As I said a couple of days back, it is sometimes better to be the hunter, rather than the hunted.
Let’s just keep hunting lads, let the others worry about us.


You're not alone. It's human nature. Although we now know we can, we've never been in possession of a play off spot so it's up to us to go and grab it. The fans of Crawley, Barrow and possibly Crewe are the ones probably bricking it.

We've just got to overcome this and make sure positive vibes continue to be transmitted from the stands to the pitch and help the players get into the groove.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: LondonRover1 on April 18, 2024, 08:21:31 am
It's been fascinating listening to McCann's pre and post match interviews since we've been on this run. He's never really allowed himself to be drawn into talk of the playoffs usually answering with some form of 'we want to finish the season strong and see where we go'. When asked what his thoughts were on the best winning run in 77 years he said that truthfully he hadn't given it much thought at all.

Someone posted the link to the Crawley manager interview after their defeat to Colchester at the weekend. Not only did he publicly question his own players professionalism but he also started talking about what it would be like on the 27th April to secure the playoffs, since then they've dropped points at home to Barrow are bottom half of the form table on the last 6.

No doubt Grant and Cliff will be keeping the focus of the players on the game ahead. Do that for the remaining games and the table will take care of itself.

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: StocktonRover on April 18, 2024, 08:22:31 am
Just putting this out there, if we win our next 2 games and the other results go our way, we could be celebrating a play off slot after the Colchester game Tuesday night.

For now, take 1 game at a time and if we win we look at the possibilities again and move onto rhe next game.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 18, 2024, 08:24:42 am
We have to win on Saturday for me. Finishing up with 2 long distance away games in the space of 3 days isn’t ideal really, is it.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 18, 2024, 08:26:16 am
We have to win on Saturday for me. Finishing up with 2 long distance away games in the space of 3 days isn’t ideal really, is it.

No, but two games in five days isn’t unusual.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: philsky on April 18, 2024, 08:27:34 am
Everything to gain, nothing to lose. Same as before the previous 8 games and beyond.

It absolutely is. Although worse as you dont have any choices
It's like building a house of cards or playing Jenga you fear the worst and expect at any time for it to come crashing down.

Yes, 100%. Been waiting for the fall for three games now but we seem to be getting better
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: philsky on April 18, 2024, 08:29:13 am
We have to win on Saturday for me. Finishing up with 2 long distance away games in the space of 3 days isn’t ideal really, is it.

I wonder if they'll stay down given the situation. But then I guess they wouldn't get the relative calmness of their home life - ffs, arguing with myself now !
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on April 18, 2024, 08:40:17 am
Come on lads and lasses, are we turning into a bunch of wet lettuces?

What a place to be in, after the previous 2.5 seasons (and quite a lot of this one, to be fair). We’re actually in control!

Hang on, you’ll have to excuse me, I’ve got to change my underwear again. :s
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on April 18, 2024, 09:10:44 am
This is the first game where the dynamic has changed to “it’s in our hands”. This can have an affect on performance. Hopefully it doesn’t stop us doing what we have been doing in recent games.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: RoversInSpain on April 18, 2024, 09:14:32 am
Someone posted this and I think it’s really a massive upside for us, in that with all the injuries and the 3 on loas in January our squad is much fresher. Probably got 6 first teamers who have barely done half a season.
3 games in a few days no problem
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 18, 2024, 09:46:09 am
Make no mistake. Our players are chomping at the bit and can't wait to get out there. If there were any doubts, we wouldn't have won 8 in a row. We haven't had to rely on luck, we've won these games on merit, including being reduced to 10 men v Crawley.

McCann has all the experience we could ever wish for to handle these situations. Plus, we have Woody on the pitch who's been there and done it many times. 100% trust and belief in our team.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dutch Uncle on April 18, 2024, 10:31:44 am
Come on lads and lasses, are we turning into a bunch of wet lettuces?

What a place to be in, after the previous 2.5 seasons (and quite a lot of this one, to be fair). We’re actually in control!

Hang on, you’ll have to excuse me, I’ve got to change my underwear again. :s

Not sure 'taking back control' works all the time Alan  :lol: :lol: :chair:
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: McCammon egg n chips on April 18, 2024, 10:36:23 am
Make no mistake. Our players are chomping at the bit and can't wait to get out there. If there were any doubts, we wouldn't have won 8 in a row. We haven't had to rely on luck, we've won these games on merit, including being reduced to 10 men v Crawley.

McCann has all the experience we could ever wish for to handle these situations. Plus, we have Woody on the pitch who's been there and done it many times. 100% trust and belief in our team.

This is fair. A few people said before the run we'd need to be lucky but it's not been about luck. We've ground out single goal leads - think last few moments v Wrexham for example or away to Crawley down to 10 men. The defending has been excellent. We've deserved our points. In which game have we come away thinking we were the second best team? I can't think of any.

It's a complete mindset adjustment after 3 years of terrible football but let's face it. We are now a decent team, playing decent football. I don't think that's going to fade away suddenly.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 18, 2024, 11:40:18 am
Make no mistake. Our players are chomping at the bit and can't wait to get out there. If there were any doubts, we wouldn't have won 8 in a row. We haven't had to rely on luck, we've won these games on merit, including being reduced to 10 men v Crawley.

McCann has all the experience we could ever wish for to handle these situations. Plus, we have Woody on the pitch who's been there and done it many times. 100% trust and belief in our team.

This is fair. A few people said before the run we'd need to be lucky but it's not been about luck. We've ground out single goal leads - think last few moments v Wrexham for example or away to Crawley down to 10 men. The defending has been excellent. We've deserved our points. In which game have we come away thinking we were the second best team? I can't think of any.

It's a complete mindset adjustment after 3 years of terrible football but let's face it. We are now a decent team, playing decent football. I don't think that's going to fade away suddenly.

It's not been ALL about luck.

But denying that luck has had ANY role is silly.

Luck always plays a role in football.

We've not conceded any goals from snatched shots that were going wide till they hit a defender's arse and looped into the top corner.

We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

We've had a reasonable toss of the coin with injuries.

Mullins chose to finish off a shot that may well have been going in, and gave the linesman the chance to make a hairline decision in our favour.

If luck played no role, football would be as boring to watch as most Rugby League games where the stronger side wins 8 out of 10. It's precisely because the side that plays better on the day often doesn't win that makes football such a edge of the seat watch.

We've played very well.

We've had the help of a little luck.

Let's hope those two things continue over the last week.

PS. As I said earlier, I'm sure Stockport were a good team playing decent football when they won their 13th game in a row. But they only won one of the next 8.

That can happen at any time and it's the beauty of football that good sides don't inevitably win.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Mike_F on April 18, 2024, 12:04:52 pm
We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

I agree with most of what you've said but on this point in isolation I'd argue that we have seen some bad decisions including a terrible call not to give us a free kick and dismiss the defender who took down Haks when he was clean through on Saturday but we've fortunately been playing well enough to win despite some poor calls from the officials. Likewise the West Stand Lino vs Walsall was appalling but we prospered despite him.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Filo on April 18, 2024, 12:37:35 pm
We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

I agree with most of what you've said but on this point in isolation I'd argue that we have seen some bad decisions including a terrible call not to give us a free kick and dismiss the defender who took down Haks when he was clean through on Saturday but we've fortunately been playing well enough to win despite some poor calls from the officials. Likewise the West Stand Lino vs Walsall was appalling but we prospered despite him.

We were denied 2 stonewall pens at Sutton which would have given us 2 more points
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 18, 2024, 01:37:43 pm
We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

I agree with most of what you've said but on this point in isolation I'd argue that we have seen some bad decisions including a terrible call not to give us a free kick and dismiss the defender who took down Haks when he was clean through on Saturday but we've fortunately been playing well enough to win despite some poor calls from the officials. Likewise the West Stand Lino vs Walsall was appalling but we prospered despite him.

Accepted. But we tend to gloss over balancing mistakes that go for us. At Crawley they had a clear penalty denied when a lad was pulled down in a goalmouth scramble.

My point is that there haven't been any decisions go against us that have denied us points. Arguably one or two ones that have eased our path to wins. And that requires a bit of luck.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 18, 2024, 01:38:39 pm
We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

I agree with most of what you've said but on this point in isolation I'd argue that we have seen some bad decisions including a terrible call not to give us a free kick and dismiss the defender who took down Haks when he was clean through on Saturday but we've fortunately been playing well enough to win despite some poor calls from the officials. Likewise the West Stand Lino vs Walsall was appalling but we prospered despite him.

We were denied 2 stonewall pens at Sutton which would have given us 2 more points

Wasn't part of this run that I'm talking about.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 18, 2024, 04:03:36 pm
We have to win on Saturday for me. Finishing up with 2 long distance away games in the space of 3 days isn’t ideal really, is it.

Colin, why is it two games in three days matey.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: McCammon egg n chips on April 18, 2024, 04:43:50 pm
Make no mistake. Our players are chomping at the bit and can't wait to get out there. If there were any doubts, we wouldn't have won 8 in a row. We haven't had to rely on luck, we've won these games on merit, including being reduced to 10 men v Crawley.

McCann has all the experience we could ever wish for to handle these situations. Plus, we have Woody on the pitch who's been there and done it many times. 100% trust and belief in our team.

This is fair. A few people said before the run we'd need to be lucky but it's not been about luck. We've ground out single goal leads - think last few moments v Wrexham for example or away to Crawley down to 10 men. The defending has been excellent. We've deserved our points. In which game have we come away thinking we were the second best team? I can't think of any.

It's a complete mindset adjustment after 3 years of terrible football but let's face it. We are now a decent team, playing decent football. I don't think that's going to fade away suddenly.

It's not been ALL about luck.

But denying that luck has had ANY role is silly.

Luck always plays a role in football.

We've not conceded any goals from snatched shots that were going wide till they hit a defender's arse and looped into the top corner.

We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

We've had a reasonable toss of the coin with injuries.

Mullins chose to finish off a shot that may well have been going in, and gave the linesman the chance to make a hairline decision in our favour.

If luck played no role, football would be as boring to watch as most Rugby League games where the stronger side wins 8 out of 10. It's precisely because the side that plays better on the day often doesn't win that makes football such a edge of the seat watch.

We've played very well.

We've had the help of a little luck.

Let's hope those two things continue over the last week.

PS. As I said earlier, I'm sure Stockport were a good team playing decent football when they won their 13th game in a row. But they only won one of the next 8.

That can happen at any time and it's the beauty of football that good sides don't inevitably win.

Yeah we can over analyse tiny moments from lots of matches and say there was a bit of luck here or there. Was it Walsall match they had a few tight calls on whether the ball was over the net etc. Of course as part of any game of football there are things that happen by chance.

My point is I don't think that is responsible for our run. I don't think it's down to luck/chance/whatever.

The other thing that people often forget when saying luck has played a part is how many chances we've missed that if you were to take them again are likely to go in. Open goal against Crawley. Incredible tight offside for Adelakun the other week. The list goes on. I'd say there's as many of them as there have been things like scoring direct from a Corner.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Mike_F on April 18, 2024, 04:48:56 pm
We've not had any spectacularly bad decisions by the officials go against us.

I agree with most of what you've said but on this point in isolation I'd argue that we have seen some bad decisions including a terrible call not to give us a free kick and dismiss the defender who took down Haks when he was clean through on Saturday but we've fortunately been playing well enough to win despite some poor calls from the officials. Likewise the West Stand Lino vs Walsall was appalling but we prospered despite him.

Accepted. But we tend to gloss over balancing mistakes that go for us. At Crawley they had a clear penalty denied when a lad was pulled down in a goalmouth scramble.

My point is that there haven't been any decisions go against us that have denied us points. Arguably one or two ones that have eased our path to wins. And that requires a bit of luck.

Yep, point taken on the bit in bold. Partisan, me?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Prez on April 18, 2024, 05:05:22 pm
Just want to say this about Saturday. If we don’t win and results go against us I sincerely hope there is not an ounce of negativity at the ground or on here. This is a free hit for us. No one expected us to be in this position. So let’s embrace it and whatever the result on Saturday I truly hope a large amount of the fans clap the team off and wait for them to come back on, and show their appreciation for such an astonishing and historical run. I certainly will be.

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 18, 2024, 05:49:28 pm
When I posted this on March 18th Rovers we’re 18th in L2 with 46points and had played 37 games. We were a massive 11 points off the last playoff place, then that belonged to AFC Wimbledon. We all know the rest. Every game since then has been our cup final, and all these wins as given the fans something that we have all missed for 2 1/2 years, I want to say a big thank you to the team & Club and to show my appreciation I don’t mind if my voice goes at Saturdays game to Barrow, let’s make some noise and hope that this remarkable run continues. Remember the last 8 wins in a row, if there had been 1 little slip up, we wouldn’t have been in this great position we find ourselves.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 18, 2024, 10:52:18 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: pib on April 18, 2024, 11:04:21 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.

Blimey, Bramhall’s made a few new signings there.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 18, 2024, 11:40:48 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.

Blimey, Bramhall’s made a few new signings there.

Lo-Tutala
Molyneau
Adelakun

On the bench.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 18, 2024, 11:42:22 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.

Blimey, Bramhall’s made a few new signings there.

Lo-Tutala
Molyneau
Adelakun

On the bench.

Have another go.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 18, 2024, 11:46:40 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.

Blimey, Bramhall’s made a few new signings there.

Lo-Tutala
Molyneau
Adelakun

On the bench.

Have another go.

Luke Molyneux passed late fitness test.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 19, 2024, 08:08:03 am
Key games on Saturday and my predictions
Crew 0 Wrexham 2
Doncaster 3 Barrow 1
Sutton 1 Crawley 1
Walsall 0 Bradford 0
Mansfield 2 Gillingham 1
Tranmere 0 Wimbledon 3
Notts County 1 Colchester 2

The Notts County result will be great for us if Colchester win, they will secure their place in L2, lose and they will have to win against us for any chance of their survival in L2
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 19, 2024, 09:42:44 am
We have to win on Saturday for me. Finishing up with 2 long distance away games in the space of 3 days isn’t ideal really, is it.

Colin, why is it two games in three days matey.

My reading of it is the 3 days in between games "in the space of 3 days", might be wrong though
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 19, 2024, 10:23:25 am
Key games on Saturday and my predictions
Crew 0 Wrexham 2
Doncaster 3 Barrow 1
Sutton 1 Crawley 1
Walsall 0 Bradford 0
Mansfield 2 Gillingham 1
Tranmere 0 Wimbledon 3
Notts County 1 Colchester 2

The Notts County result will be great for us if Colchester win, they will secure their place in L2, lose and they will have to win against us for any chance of their survival in L2

Get an accy on!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 19, 2024, 10:28:46 am
Key games on Saturday and my predictions
Crew 0 Wrexham 2
Doncaster 3 Barrow 1
Sutton 1 Crawley 1
Walsall 0 Bradford 0
Mansfield 2 Gillingham 1
Tranmere 0 Wimbledon 3
Notts County 1 Colchester 2

The Notts County result will be great for us if Colchester win, they will secure their place in L2, lose and they will have to win against us for any chance of their survival in L2

So many variables keeping it exciting. It would be nice if Colchester were on the beach for our game with them, but if not and it goes down to the final game they would need to beat Crewe, which might end up being a result we need!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyOsmond on April 19, 2024, 01:27:36 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.

Blimey, Bramhall’s made a few new signings there.

Lo-Tutala
Molyneau
Adelakun

On the bench.

Have another go.

Luke Molyneux passed late fitness test.

McCaan will be thrilled.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Dutch Uncle on April 19, 2024, 02:24:22 pm
Key games on Saturday and my predictions
Crew 0 Wrexham 2
Doncaster 3 Barrow 1
Sutton 1 Crawley 1
Walsall 0 Bradford 0
Mansfield 2 Gillingham 1
Tranmere 0 Wimbledon 3
Notts County 1 Colchester 2

The Notts County result will be great for us if Colchester win, they will secure their place in L2, lose and they will have to win against us for any chance of their survival in L2

Very much the optimist Upton - that would be a near enough totally perfect set for results for us  :scarf:
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 19, 2024, 03:53:34 pm
Ideally what we want is for Colchester to be safe, and Gillingham out of play off contention, before we play them.

Still need to win tomorrow first.. looking forward to reviewing the options come 5pm tomorrow!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: StocktonRover on April 19, 2024, 08:30:06 pm
http://www.sitdownorwellstealyourclub.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=9802&sid=5ed48a33791f72cc8e2145e816b9d083

Looks like MK have more faith in us doing it than some of our fans
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dknward2 on April 19, 2024, 09:07:39 pm
http://www.sitdownorwellstealyourclub.com/phpbb2/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=9802&sid=5ed48a33791f72cc8e2145e816b9d083

Looks like MK have more faith in us doing it than some of our fans

Never seen another team genuinely fear playing us, that's fantastic
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: les@donr on April 19, 2024, 11:01:20 pm
For a perfect Saturday we need Wallsall Wimbledon Harrogate and Crawley to lose.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 19, 2024, 11:09:50 pm
I'd say we want Wimbledon to win.

They can only get 68 points and if we don't better that ourselves, we very likely ain't making 7th place anyway.

But if Wimbledon still have a tiny chance next week, they might be more incentivised to take summat off Walsall who ARE still a serious threat to us.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 19, 2024, 11:47:44 pm
Lo-Titula.

Wood.

Craig.

Bailey.

Molyneaux.

Adelukan.

Ironside.

Seven players who will not let us down come Saturday.

You can sleep easy.

Blimey, Bramhall’s made a few new signings there.

Lo-Tutala
Molyneau
Adelakun

On the bench.

Have another go.

Luke Molyneux passed late fitness test.

McCaan will be thrilled.

‘DYSLEXIC’s OF THE WORLD UNTIE!’
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 20, 2024, 10:52:33 am
Crewe v Wrexham 12.30 kick off today. Let’s hope for a hefty Wrexham win to give us more routes to solidify our top 7 finish!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: nice one rovers on April 20, 2024, 11:42:04 am
Cheering on Sutton and Bradford as well today.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 20, 2024, 01:28:59 pm
Crewe v Wrexham 12.30 kick off today. Let’s hope for a hefty Wrexham win to give us more routes to solidify our top 7 finish!

Wrexham two up at half time.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Prez on April 20, 2024, 01:36:14 pm
I think 2 wins and a draw would do it for us, as long as one of those wins is today. This would give us 71 points. COME ON ROVERS!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 20, 2024, 05:53:14 pm
We’re can I start, we’ll the Ref and west stand Lino tried very hard to spoil our party, but we triumphed in the end. The best game I’ve seen involving Rovers for a few years now. Grant your substitutions were sublime, changed the game completely, the Rovers bandwagon continues, the dream is still on .
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 21, 2024, 11:25:22 am
I hope I have to cancel my holiday, May 5-12th say no more :coat:
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 21, 2024, 11:39:36 am
I think 2 wins and a draw would do it for us, as long as one of those wins is today. This would give us 71 points. COME ON ROVERS!!

No "think" about it. 71 points is mathematically certain to clinch 7th place. Potentially, though unlikely, it'd clinch 5th place.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 22, 2024, 10:41:34 am
I think 2 wins and a draw would do it for us, as long as one of those wins is today. This would give us 71 points. COME ON ROVERS!!

No "think" about it. 71 points is mathematically certain to clinch 7th place. Potentially, though unlikely, it'd clinch 5th place.

Watch this space.   More to follow.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 22, 2024, 10:54:44 am
I think 2 wins and a draw would do it for us, as long as one of those wins is today. This would give us 71 points. COME ON ROVERS!!

No "think" about it. 71 points is mathematically certain to clinch 7th place. Potentially, though unlikely, it'd clinch 5th place.

Which means, we have to aim for 73. No compromise.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 22, 2024, 12:08:16 pm
If we get to Wembley will VAR be in play?

Its use in ruling out the late Coventry winner yesterday was heartbreaking.

I’d bin it altogether, it ruins the game. But while it is here, either it’s used in every game in a competition or not at all.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: belton rover on April 23, 2024, 09:39:20 pm
I have a number of goals in my head for our run in, to chalk off one by one:
1. Climb above Notts County
2. Climb above Bradford
3. Top half
4. Top 10
5. 7th

One step at a time.
No 1 crossed off.
No 2 crossed off.
No 3 crossed off.
No 4 crossed off.
f**k me!
And there goes No. 5.
I need to add a sixth now: promotion.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 23, 2024, 09:49:04 pm
This amazing run continues, I predicted 22 points from the last 9 games, we have 24 with 1 game to go, it’s quite amazing because 1 slip up, like a draw would have had us out of the playoffs, just amazing can’t quite believe it, Also when was the last time we scored 4 goals in 2 consecutive matches
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dknward2 on April 23, 2024, 09:51:41 pm
It's 3 matches in a row scoring 4
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 23, 2024, 10:00:45 pm
One more point guarantees the play offs.

In fact, we only need to better any of crewe, Crawley or Barrow’s results - even if we lost, and Crewe also lost by the same margin, we would be ok. Or if we lost and Barrow didn’t win..

I can’t believe we have come this far so quickly..  it is going to happen, isn’t it.?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 23, 2024, 10:07:58 pm
In those immortal words (and the biggest understatement of all time) We've given it a right good go!

Omg. This thread has to be saved for prosperity. A historic record of all our feelings, hopes, dreams, reality checks,  the emerging of light at the end of a dark tunnel. It's all here. And it's not over....
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: roversontheup on April 23, 2024, 10:10:13 pm
I’m glad I’m not a sports journalist reporting on Rovers at present. Would have run out of descriptions and superlatives to use. Maybe resort to …”just read last report and repeat!”
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Bills view on April 23, 2024, 10:26:06 pm
Just reading through this thread from the beginning.

Unfathomable what we are doing.

Everything crossed we keep the run going for a few more games.

The team will gain legendary status.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 23, 2024, 10:28:21 pm
I’m glad I’m not a sports journalist reporting on Rovers at present. Would have run out of descriptions and superlatives to use. Maybe resort to …”just read last report and repeat!”

Might get a mention on Calendar and Look North tomorrow seeing as Leeds aren’t playing tonight.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 23, 2024, 10:31:25 pm
I’m glad I’m not a sports journalist reporting on Rovers at present. Would have run out of descriptions and superlatives to use. Maybe resort to …”just read last report and repeat!”

Might get a mention on Calendar and Look North tomorrow seeing as Leeds aren’t playing tonight.
Just reading through this thread from the beginning.

Unfathomable what we are doing.

Everything crossed we keep the run going for a few more games.

The team will gain legendary status.

Yes, I hope someone can find some words, cos I'm really struggling to make sense of all this.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: andy didcott on April 23, 2024, 10:41:24 pm
I’m finding it hard to believe this is happening.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pancho Regan on April 23, 2024, 10:48:34 pm
One more point guarantees the play offs.

In fact, we only need to better any of crewe, Crawley or Barrow’s results - even if we lost, and Crewe also lost by the same margin, we would be ok. Or if we lost and Barrow didn’t win..

I can’t believe we have come this far so quickly..  it is going to happen, isn’t it.?

I think Barrow have lost it, their morale must be rock bottom.

Of course, the fact we have sneaked into the play-offs at the last minute due to our incredible run of wins, means we still need a point to avoid anyone pushing us out.
But who would ever have imagined we'd be in this position with one game to go?!

Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Fal on April 23, 2024, 10:57:36 pm
I think what I am loving is the togetherness of our fan base, no longer arguing between ourselves and just living in the moment!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Peebles Rover on April 23, 2024, 10:59:17 pm
If this whole thread was turned into a book, you simply wouldn't believe it! Totally surreal what we've done to this point. Just get it over the line now!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: turnbull for england on April 23, 2024, 11:06:40 pm
I think what I am loving is the togetherness of our fan base, no longer arguing between ourselves and just living in the moment!


There's always off topic
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 24, 2024, 08:17:05 am
One more point guarantees the play offs.

In fact, we only need to better any of crewe, Crawley or Barrow’s results - even if we lost, and Crewe also lost by the same margin, we would be ok. Or if we lost and Barrow didn’t win..

I can’t believe we have come this far so quickly..  it is going to happen, isn’t it.?

I think Barrow have lost it, their morale must be rock bottom.

Of course, the fact we have sneaked into the play-offs at the last minute due to our incredible run of wins, means we still need a point to avoid anyone pushing us out.
But who would ever have imagined we'd be in this position with one game to go?!

Wild sounds dejected. His team aren’t doing the basics he says.

https://x.com/barrowafc/status/1782890979315298737?s=46

The problem here is that I fear Barrow will drop out and Bradford will sneak in. They have momentum unlike the others. They have an easy home game v Newport on Saturday.

A Bradford play-off final would have a tremendous atmosphere though. All the other clubs have small fanbases.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 24, 2024, 08:25:21 am
One more point guarantees the play offs.

In fact, we only need to better any of crewe, Crawley or Barrow’s results - even if we lost, and Crewe also lost by the same margin, we would be ok. Or if we lost and Barrow didn’t win..

I can’t believe we have come this far so quickly..  it is going to happen, isn’t it.?

I think Barrow have lost it, their morale must be rock bottom.

Of course, the fact we have sneaked into the play-offs at the last minute due to our incredible run of wins, means we still need a point to avoid anyone pushing us out.
But who would ever have imagined we'd be in this position with one game to go?!

Wild sounds dejected. His team aren’t doing the basics he says.

https://x.com/barrowafc/status/1782890979315298737?s=46

The problem here is that I fear Barrow will drop out and Bradford will sneak in. They have momentum unlike the others. They have an easy home game v Newport on Saturday.

A Bradford play-off final would have a tremendous atmosphere though. All the other clubs have small fanbases.

Hmmm, we always appear to struggle against Bradford and their physicality. Would rather they didn’t make it all if I’m being honest. Would be some playoff final though - I reckon between the 2 clubs we’d get close to 60k there
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 24, 2024, 08:40:43 am
If this whole thread was turned into a book, you simply wouldn't believe it! Totally surreal what we've done to this point. Just get it over the line now!
It’s proper Roy if the Rovers stuff, if someone said you got to win 10 on the trot to get into the playoffs, you would have thought Omg no way can a team do that, I knew we would go on quite a great run, but I’m lost for words with this run.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 24, 2024, 08:44:15 am
My mate Bob is a builder who is currently doing some work for me.

I asked him that very question & without any further prevarication he simply answered “Yes we can”!”.

I never argue with Bob.
Good old Bob
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfcsteve on April 24, 2024, 08:48:35 am
Has anyone ever done what we’ve done before? Climb from such a low starting point to a play off place?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Barmby Rover on April 24, 2024, 08:52:00 am
Has anyone ever done what we’ve done before? Climb from such a low starting point to a play off place?

Sunderland
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 24, 2024, 10:16:44 am
If this whole thread was turned into a book, you simply wouldn't believe it! Totally surreal what we've done to this point. Just get it over the line now!
It’s proper Roy if the Rovers stuff, if someone said you got to win 10 on the trot to get into the playoffs, you would have thought Omg no way can a team do that, I knew we would go on quite a great run, but I’m lost for words with this run.

But basically, that's what some people did and, put a bet on it. The threads are here for all to see.

The other thing I find remarkable is the timing. The virtual impossible, becoming improbable, to possible, to probable, while others faulted, like the parting of the waves.

If BSTs description of Penney's 'Juggernaut' team is apt, then what describes this team? A Nuclear shock wave? Flattened everything in its  path at an alarming rate, leaving devastation behind. Tsunami even?

It feels like there's an unworldly force at work.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: drfchound on April 24, 2024, 02:31:29 pm
Has anyone ever done what we’ve done before? Climb from such a low starting point to a play off place?

Sunderland

Barnsley,  Bristol Rovers.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: NickDRFC on April 24, 2024, 03:18:38 pm
Has anyone ever done what we’ve done before? Climb from such a low starting point to a play off place?

Sunderland

Barnsley,  Bristol Rovers.

I was having a look at some of those turnarounds earlier.

Barnsley were 21st in the table after 22 games and then in their last 24 games, they only lost 3 times. They drew 5 and won 16 - 2.21 points per game. The start of that run was the best bit - 7 consecutive wins - but they actually had a bit of a slow end to the season, winning only 3 of their last 7 games.

Bristol Rovers were as low as 23rd after the 2nd game and 20th after the 10th, but maybe a bit early for comparison. After 20 games they were 16th, but then went on a run that saw them lose only 3 times in the next 26. They also drew 6, meaning 17 wins and a very similar PPG to Barnsley - 2.19. 4 consecutive wins was their best run, and 9 in their last 12 propelled them to 3rd.

Sunderland were bottom of the table after losing their first 4 games, and although they recovered they were still stuttering at game 26, when they were 12th. What followed was the most impressive run of these 3 teams - 3 draws and just the 1 defeat in 20 games. 2.55 PPG and 17 unbeaten at one stage, although a best of only 5 wins on the bounce. What was more impressive was that Sunderland capped it with a title triumph.

These are all more sustained runs than we've had, but none matched the 10 wins on the bounce. Our 13 wins and 2 draws from our last 16 also put us at 2.56 PPG, so just above Sunderland. I'd say that Sunderland's is the most impressive turnaround of those 3, but ours is arguably just as remarkable.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 24, 2024, 05:32:28 pm
No one as ever been in our position after 36 games, and gone onto make the playoffs
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Paul Simpson on April 24, 2024, 05:43:18 pm
Fairytale stuff! I still can’t believe what the club have achieved from such a poor position due to terrible bad luck at the beginning of the season. Hats off to everybody involved including us supporters!! Long may the run continue
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on April 24, 2024, 06:00:05 pm
I'm not saying I fore saw it, but in about October time, I. Commented that if we are anywhere near the top 7, at game 30, we were in with a chance, as the remaining games had a majority of sides that I thought were not gonna be play off material.  I was wrong about crewe, crawley and barrow, but right about the possibility of picking up a good chunk of points.  Shame I never bet..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 25, 2024, 04:58:26 pm
I'm not saying I fore saw it, but in about October time, I. Commented that if we are anywhere near the top 7, at game 30, we were in with a chance, as the remaining games had a majority of sides that I thought were not gonna be play off material.  I was wrong about crewe, crawley and barrow, but right about the possibility of picking up a good chunk of points.  Shame I never bet..
I don’t understand your post, at game 30 we were 20th on 32points close to the drop, so at game 30 we were way off 7th
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: colincramb on April 25, 2024, 05:30:35 pm
It really is remarkable this run. Should we win on Saturday, we will have won just shy of a quarter of the total 46 league games in one go. Insane
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: adamtherover on April 25, 2024, 05:59:40 pm
I'm not saying I fore saw it, but in about October time, I. Commented that if we are anywhere near the top 7, at game 30, we were in with a chance, as the remaining games had a majority of sides that I thought were not gonna be play off material.  I was wrong about crewe, crawley and barrow, but right about the possibility of picking up a good chunk of points.  Shame I never bet..
I don’t understand your post, at game 30 we were 20th on 32points close to the drop, so at game 30 we were way off 7th
I was more meaning about from game 30,which I think was Sutton, we had a realistic chance of picking up a large amount of points, which we did, imagine if we were anywhere near mid table at game 30, we would have got autos....
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Drover on April 25, 2024, 07:04:55 pm
I remember admiring Cambridge utd in 1989-90 season,they was 16th in the old 4th Division on 1st April and finished the season 6th,after also suffering from a bad fxiture congestion,playing games sat,mon,wed,sun and fri,mon,wed,sat,playing something like 14 games in 5 weeks and then went on to win the play-offs,not quite as low as we was,but it shows there is no surprise for the form team to win the play-offs,now who would you say that is this seasons play-offs?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: RoversInSpain on April 25, 2024, 07:20:52 pm
I'm not saying I fore saw it, but in about October time, I. Commented that if we are anywhere near the top 7, at game 30, we were in with a chance, as the remaining games had a majority of sides that I thought were not gonna be play off material.  I was wrong about crewe, crawley and barrow, but right about the possibility of picking up a good chunk of points.  Shame I never bet..
I don’t understand your post, at game 30 we were 20th on 32points close to the drop, so at game 30 we were way off 7th
I was more meaning about from game 30,which I think was Sutton, we had a realistic chance of picking up a large amount of points, which we did, imagine if we were anywhere near mid table at game 30, we would have got autos....
After Sutton, game 29 we were 22nd, game 30 we beat Tranmere and shot up to 20th..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Herbert Anchovy on April 25, 2024, 07:34:14 pm
I was chatting to one of my West Ham pals about Rovers today. Nobody in the football world can believe what’s we’re doing here, it just doesn’t make sense!

If I’m totally honest though, I feel oddly ambivalent whether we get promoted or not. I think that it’s because I’m just relieved that we’ve turned the season around so I’m quite happy whatever happens. And that’s exactly why I’m not a football manager!!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 25, 2024, 08:01:26 pm
I'm not saying I fore saw it, but in about October time, I. Commented that if we are anywhere near the top 7, at game 30, we were in with a chance, as the remaining games had a majority of sides that I thought were not gonna be play off material.  I was wrong about crewe, crawley and barrow, but right about the possibility of picking up a good chunk of points.  Shame I never bet..
I don’t understand your post, at game 30 we were 20th on 32points close to the drop, so at game 30 we were way off 7th
I was more meaning about from game 30,which I think was Sutton, we had a realistic chance of picking up a large amount of points, which we did, imagine if we were anywhere near mid table at game 30, we would have got autos....
After Sutton, game 29 we were 22nd, game 30 we beat Tranmere and shot up to 20th..
So after game 30, not at game 30?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 25, 2024, 09:06:47 pm
I'm not saying I fore saw it, but in about October time, I. Commented that if we are anywhere near the top 7, at game 30, we were in with a chance, as the remaining games had a majority of sides that I thought were not gonna be play off material.  I was wrong about crewe, crawley and barrow, but right about the possibility of picking up a good chunk of points.  Shame I never bet..
I don’t understand your post, at game 30 we were 20th on 32points close to the drop, so at game 30 we were way off 7th
I was more meaning about from game 30,which I think was Sutton, we had a realistic chance of picking up a large amount of points, which we did, imagine if we were anywhere near mid table at game 30, we would have got autos....
After Sutton, game 29 we were 22nd, game 30 we beat Tranmere and shot up to 20th..
So after game 30, not at game 30?
confused, but let’s enjoy this remarkable feat,
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 27, 2024, 05:01:46 pm
Yes we f*cking can!!

Get in.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BawtryRed on April 27, 2024, 05:03:11 pm
Get in !  RTID
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 27, 2024, 05:04:44 pm
22nd to 5th in 17 games, 42 points to boot..
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 27, 2024, 10:31:27 pm
Oh yes we can do it, just celebrating in Butlins Skegness 80s weekend just had over 50 of us singing proclaimers I would walk rover version happy days
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 27, 2024, 10:51:02 pm
Just incredible.

This achievement is as close to impossible as football is capable of producing.

Just revel in it. You'll never see the like again.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 27, 2024, 10:54:18 pm
Skybet odds for play off winners:

MK Dons 5/4
Doncaster 9/4
Crewe 4/1
Crawley 5/1

How are we not the favourites?!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyOsmond on April 27, 2024, 11:00:25 pm
The Barrow turnaround was the biggest result of the season.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 27, 2024, 11:22:37 pm
Love these days knew we could do it read my post from the beginning, come on u Rovers
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Pancho Regan on April 28, 2024, 12:02:58 am
Just incredible.

This achievement is as close to impossible as football is capable of producing.

Just revel in it. You'll never see the like again.

Just look back over some of your posts six weeks or so ago, looking at our chances statistically.
What we’ve done is nothing short of astonishing.

And I’m not having a go at you BST, not at all.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 28, 2024, 12:27:23 am
Just incredible.

This achievement is as close to impossible as football is capable of producing.

Just revel in it. You'll never see the like again.

Just look back over some of your posts six weeks or so ago, looking at our chances statistically.
What we’ve done is nothing short of astonishing.

And I’m not having a go at you BST, not at all.

That's fine Pancho.

I stand by every word of what I said. The run of 10 wins, starting from where we were is something that you'd see once every couple of hundred years.

The fact that we did it doesn't in anyway invalidate that judgement.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: hoolahoop on April 28, 2024, 01:38:53 am
Yet we always seem to do the seemingly impossible and when we least expect it to happen.
The wake up call from that 2nd half could be just what we need going into these 3cup finals

RTID
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on April 28, 2024, 02:27:02 am
Just incredible.

This achievement is as close to impossible as football is capable of producing.

Just revel in it. You'll never see the like again.

Just look back over some of your posts six weeks or so ago, looking at our chances statistically.
What we’ve done is nothing short of astonishing.

And I’m not having a go at you BST, not at all.

That's fine Pancho.

I stand by every word of what I said. The run of 10 wins, starting from where we were is something that you'd see once every couple of hundred years.

The fact that we did it doesn't in anyway invalidate that judgement.

keep digging my friend and the world laughs with you

people gain respect on here by the Quality of there posts not the Quantity - meaning posting for postings sake
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Nudga on April 28, 2024, 07:44:05 am
Yet we always seem to do the seemingly impossible and when we least expect it to happen.
The wake up call from that 2nd half could be just what we need going into these 3cup finals

RTID

Hey Hoola, it's been a while. Hope you're keeping well mate.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: IDM on April 28, 2024, 11:04:25 am
Skybet odds for play off winners:

MK Dons 5/4
Doncaster 9/4
Crewe 4/1
Crawley 5/1

How are we not the favourites?!

League positions probably.  MK comfortably finished 4th.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on April 28, 2024, 11:42:25 am
Just incredible.

This achievement is as close to impossible as football is capable of producing.

Just revel in it. You'll never see the like again.
That was a huge statement BST. Who is YOU
You can’t say no one on this forum will never see it again.

The odds are massively against of course but it could happen. Maybe not Rovers but another Club.

I am certainly not expecting to see it again at age almost 69 the odds for me are much worse than for say a 19 year old.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 28, 2024, 11:48:00 am
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on April 28, 2024, 11:58:32 am
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monte_Carlo_method


get across that Italian border into Monte Carlo with it's artificial beach my boy
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on April 28, 2024, 12:04:29 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

This statement is going to blow peoples minds BST. MK are favourites because they have been better than us not only all season BUT also in the last 12 games. BUT WE WON TEN IN A ROW THEY CRY…
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 28, 2024, 12:07:38 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

I think this entire thread answers you're own question BST.

Stats are great in retrospect but can kill the hope and excitement of beating the odds looking forward. It's one of the main factors in why we keep turning out week in, week out, rain or shine.  Since I started supporting Rovers, I keep experiencing 'Once in a Lifetime' moments.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 28, 2024, 12:13:09 pm
DBR.

I disagree.

I've been perfectly capable of simultaneously being perfectly aware of how vanishingly unlikely it was for us to do this, while suspending disbelief every Saturday/Tuesday.

My apologies if other people can't do that and have got upset at someone pointing out the first of those.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on April 28, 2024, 12:22:28 pm
DBR.

I disagree.

I've been perfectly capable of simultaneously being perfectly aware of how vanishingly unlikely it was for us to do this, while suspending disbelief every Saturday/Tuesday.

My apologies if other people can't do that and have got upset at someone pointing out the first of those.

That's what I mean. Other people don't always react well, even if you're putting forward, a sound, reasoned and statistically supported perspective. But it's good to have both. 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on April 28, 2024, 12:33:00 pm
DBR.

I disagree.

I've been perfectly capable of simultaneously being perfectly aware of how vanishingly unlikely it was for us to do this, while suspending disbelief every Saturday/Tuesday.

My apologies if other people can't do that and have got upset at someone pointing out the first of those.


I can completely compartmentalise what I know is likely happen vs what I would like to happen. I’ve literally had 10s of thousands riding on Donny not winning, travelled half way across the country to watch them and been extracting when they have scored. Work that one out. Just wired differently. 
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Mike_F on April 28, 2024, 12:53:58 pm
Right it's about time we gave credit for this run where it's due. And that's to me.

At the end of the Sutton match the players and staff were clearly chuffed to have snatched a point. In the clarity that one gets from sinking a steady dozen pints pre-match I told them in no uncertain terms that they needed to do much better and if they accepted that performance it was no wonder they were heading for a relegation battle.

They clear thought "that bloke knows what he's on about, let's pull our fingers out." The rest is history.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: GazLaz on April 28, 2024, 12:55:28 pm
Right it's about time we gave credit for this run where it's due. And that's to me.

At the end of the Sutton match the players and staff were clearly chuffed to have snatched a point. In the clarity that one gets from sinking a steady dozen pints pre-match I told them in no uncertain terms that they needed to do much better and if they accepted that performance it was no wonder they were heading for a relegation battle.

They clear thought "that bloke knows what he's on about, let's pull our fingers out." The rest is history.

Sometimes they just need a different voice telling them they need to do better…
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Alan Southstand on April 28, 2024, 01:06:16 pm
A bit like GM telling the lads “we’ve achieved nothing yet…….promotion is an achievement”?

What a motivator he is.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 28, 2024, 05:52:14 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

God I wish I was as clever as you.

You do realise there’s a reply button where you can politely reply to people directly?

I just thought it strange we weren’t favourites, it didn’t “rile me up”.

Since we signed the 3 loanees we are a different team. In all the form tables since then (5,10,15,20) we are above MK Dons.

And we have a more experienced manager, these are big games and IMO that is a factor that the bookies might not take in to account.

AND we beat them comfortably before we even signed those players.

*edit* there’s also that Lewington v Molyneux mismatch should we play them
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 28, 2024, 06:03:35 pm
Cancelled my holiday to be there on the 10th not bothered we what I’ve lost. I want to say again , Can we do it P2 ? Win the playoffs
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 28, 2024, 06:06:02 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

This statement is going to blow peoples minds BST. MK are favourites because they have been better than us not only all season BUT also in the last 12 games. BUT WE WON TEN IN A ROW THEY CRY…
Gaz tell me you are just taking the p@ss with that statement
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 28, 2024, 06:06:19 pm
Realistically I think we will end up with 61-62 points
Not thinking realistically I’m hoping we can get 67-68
Come on U Reds
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on April 28, 2024, 06:07:15 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

This statement is going to blow peoples minds BST. MK are favourites because they have been better than us not only all season BUT also in the last 12 games. BUT WE WON TEN IN A ROW THEY CRY…
Gaz tell me you are just taking the p@ss with that statement
Who says this?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Chris Black come back on April 28, 2024, 06:09:28 pm
We’ve never lost a final in our history have we?

Stoke, 2003
Cardiff, 2007
Wembley, 2008

Should we make it, that’s a record to be proud.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 28, 2024, 06:23:04 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

This statement is going to blow peoples minds BST. MK are favourites because they have been better than us not only all season BUT also in the last 12 games. BUT WE WON TEN IN A ROW THEY CRY…

What have Mk dons been better at in the last 12 games; conceding a f*ck tonne of goals? I am open minded about it but can you dumb it down for us simple folk please?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on April 28, 2024, 06:36:09 pm
Last 17 games
Mkd  w9 d4 l4
Dr  w13 d3 l1
Mmmmmm!
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Bills view on April 28, 2024, 06:39:37 pm
Probably my favourite performance before the unbelievable started was against MK Dons.

Nothing to fear if we are anywhere near that level. Obviously Crewe first.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: danumdon on April 28, 2024, 07:16:05 pm
I think some on here are putting the cart before the horse.

What we have just done in the final third of this season would be unbelievable if we had not demonstrated it too all. That's now done and dusted, i like many on here was quite happy to see us finish well and have the momentum for next season to kick on.

The fact we have done that and more now brings a different conundrum into the offing.We are all now desperate for us to go on and complete the job but we have to stay focused, we go again and need to beat a team at a time starting with Crewe over two legs.

GM has the right attitude to this, he knows he has a team capable to do this but it needs to be done methodically.

Four teams all wanting the same prize, we will have to earn it, no one will give it us because we have just done the nigh on impossible.

Calm heads and precision planning will see us complete the job.


Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Filo on April 28, 2024, 07:18:55 pm
I think some on here are putting the cart before the horse.

What we have just done in the final third of this season would be unbelievable if we had not demonstrated it too all. That's now done and dusted, i like many on here was quite happy to see us finish well and have the momentum for next season to kick on.

The fact we have done that and more now brings a different conundrum into the offing.We are all now desperate for us to go on and complete the job but we have to stay focused, we go again and need to beat a team at a time starting with Crewe over two legs.

GM has the right attitude to this, he knows he has a team capable to do this but it needs to be done methodically.

Four teams all wanting the same prize, we will have to earn it, no one will give it us because we have just done the nigh on impossible.

Calm heads and precision planning will see us complete the job.




Agreed, and not a word about a final until the two legs are done, do not tempt fate
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: wilts rover on April 28, 2024, 07:22:33 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

This statement is going to blow peoples minds BST. MK are favourites because they have been better than us not only all season BUT also in the last 12 games. BUT WE WON TEN IN A ROW THEY CRY…
Gaz tell me you are just taking the p@ss with that statement

MK Dons last 12 - w6 d2 l4
Rovers last 12 - w10 d2

you would presume he is?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Ye-Aul-Tavern on April 28, 2024, 07:33:11 pm
MK to bottle it and lose to Crawley. You read it here first.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on April 28, 2024, 09:43:08 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

God I wish I was as clever as you.

You do realise there’s a reply button where you can politely reply to people directly?

I just thought it strange we weren’t favourites, it didn’t “rile me up”.

Since we signed the 3 loanees we are a different team. In all the form tables since then (5,10,15,20) we are above MK Dons.

And we have a more experienced manager, these are big games and IMO that is a factor that the bookies might not take in to account.

AND we beat them comfortably before we even signed those players.

*edit* there’s also that Lewington v Molyneux mismatch should we play them

For what it's worth, I wasn't replying to you. Apologies that wasn't clear. In fact I hadn't and haven't seen your post. It's a general comment about many responses over the past few months. And a little joke hidden in there.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on April 28, 2024, 10:14:54 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

God I wish I was as clever as you.

You do realise there’s a reply button where you can politely reply to people directly?

I just thought it strange we weren’t favourites, it didn’t “rile me up”.

Since we signed the 3 loanees we are a different team. In all the form tables since then (5,10,15,20) we are above MK Dons.

And we have a more experienced manager, these are big games and IMO that is a factor that the bookies might not take in to account.

AND we beat them comfortably before we even signed those players.

*edit* there’s also that Lewington v Molyneux mismatch should we play them

For what it's worth, I wasn't replying to you. Apologies that wasn't clear. In fact I hadn't and haven't seen your post. It's a general comment about many responses over the past few months. And a little joke hidden in there.

My mistake. I saw Gaz’ reply to you that ridiculed my post and assumed yours also was.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: andysly on April 28, 2024, 10:25:55 pm
MK 3-0 H win and 1-2 Away loss when we gave them a 2 goal start then battered them
Crawley 2-0 wins H and A
Crewe 2-0 H win and 2-3 A. Lost to almost last kick

We have nothing to fear based on those previous results
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Colin C No.3 on April 28, 2024, 11:11:46 pm
Why do assessments based on probability so rile some people?

Of all the things in the world to get upset about.

I guess it's because there are three kinds of people.

Them that understand statistics and them that don't.

Oh how I laughed.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on May 01, 2024, 09:08:30 pm
Im gutted that I’m away on holiday for the play off home leg, tried to cancel but her-in-doors has put her foot down, so will be watching it in the nearest bar that’s got it on. So can we do it part 2. And get to the play off final? Yes for sure we can
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Campsall rover on May 01, 2024, 10:25:05 pm
Who is to say Crawley won’t beat MK Dons.

No one is talking about Crawley. Very foolish in a two horse race
 v MK Dons
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: streathamdave on May 02, 2024, 07:41:41 am
I would not be surprised at all if Crawley beat them over 2 legs.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ravenrover on May 02, 2024, 09:42:51 am
My lovely wife has relented on the holiday front and has allowed me to buy my home ticket for the Crewe game
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ForsolongaRover on May 02, 2024, 10:07:21 am
I would not be surprised at all if Crawley beat them over 2 legs.

If you had to choose a wild card it would be Crawley and of course MKD let Sutton score 4 in their last match. That would be profoundly unsettling for them.



Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on May 02, 2024, 10:43:03 am
MK's recent form is bizarre.

They've scored 26 and conceded 23 in their last 10 games.

Must be a wild ride.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: dknward2 on May 02, 2024, 11:05:39 am
Did mk rotate the team for the last match of the season as they had nothing to play for?
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on May 02, 2024, 06:53:14 pm
My lovely wife has relented on the holiday front and has allowed me to buy my home ticket for the Crewe game
Mine won’t
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: Upton Rover on May 04, 2024, 02:17:48 pm
No, we can't. But there are still reasons to be cheerful if we continue to improve and have a strong finish.

Considering how we started the season and how we finished last season, a top half finish would be pretty spectacular. Also correct me if I'm wrong, but it would be the first time we've actually improved on the previous season's finish since McCann was here last time. That's the first sign of actual progress as a club in years. That could be massive going into next season.

I agree with this. There are still a lot of fantasists out there, but we have shown since the turn of the year what a good side we can be, and if we do finish above last season, that will be the first progress for several seasons.

While a number of existing squad players have definitely upped their game in the last few months, it is obvious the difference made by TLT, Craig, Adelakun and most recently Biamou. It is fairly likely that three of that four are not going to be here next season.

That’s disappointing but it is much more valuable that McCann is still able to identify and attract quality players. That bodes well for recruitment this summer when we have a lot of the current wage bill rolling off contracts and provides a major opportunity to invest in new talent.
Title: Re: Can we do it?
Post by: ncRover on May 07, 2024, 08:59:54 pm
*smug face*