Championship Play-Offs: Outright Winner Tip

It what looks like one of the toughest Championship play-offs in many years, Blackpool look like a decent value bet to return to the Premier League after only a one year absence.  The Seasiders are a best price 7/2 (StanJames) to triumph at Wembley on 19 May.

First of all Ian Holloway’s side must overcome Birmingham City (11/4 Betfred) over two legs. The two teams finished one point apart after 46 matches so there is little to separate the pair on paper. Furthermore, none of the sides in the play-offs have lost for at least six games so form isn’t the same telling indicator it sometimes can be.

Where I feel that the Tangerines may have the edge is in terms of experience. They won these play-offs two years ago and a number of the same players will still be in the dressing room with that invaluable memory locked in the bank. The likes of Matt Gilkes, Ian Evett and Gary Taylor-Fletcher can tell the youngsters what to expect. When you throw in Barry Ferguson and Kevin Phillips you see that Blackpool have no shortage of players who have been there and done it.

The Blues have had an exhausting season that has included a Europa League run; it’s a big ask for them to find their best for these extra games as well. With Chris Hughton heavily linked with the West Brom post and off-field financial problems continuing, their preparations are hardly ideal.

I think Ian Holloway can take advantage and take his side back to Wembley. There they would either face West Ham (17/10 Boylesports) or Cardiff City (17/4 Sportingbet) - two sides who have choked on big occasions a few times before. There must be every chance that the great entertainers of the 2010-11 Premier League season will make a return.

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