National League expert previews play-offs and praises Southend United
NATIONAL League expert Sam Collyer says Southend United have enjoyed a successful season however their play-off campaign ends.
The Shrimpers head to fourth placed Rochdale on Thursday night for an intriguing play-off eliminator encounter.
But Collyer believes Blues should be proud of the progress made in recent months even if promotion is not achieved.
“It’s no doubt there have been a few ups and downs in Southend’s season, with Kevin Maher even being questioned by some,” said Collyer, who covers the National League for DAZN.
“But for them to dig deep, make the play-offs on the final day and to finish on the form that they did, for me that puts this season down as a successful one. “
And Collyer feels Blues’ lack of a natural goalscorer makes their achievements even more impressive.
“Scoring goals has been a slight issue for some time now, and losing Harry Cardwell at the start of the season made it an uphill battle from the get go.
“To then go on and lose Bim Pepple in January too and still make the top seven is extremely impressive.
“And with the momentum the Shrimpers are taking into the play-offs, I think they will feel a good level of confidence that they can go and shock a few.”
Blues’ first task comes against Rochdale, who finished the season in fourth.
And Collyer is expecting a keenly contested clash.
“I think the play-off clash with Rochdale will be very technical,” said Collyer.
“They’re two sides who look to play attractive football going at it.
“Both sides don’t tend to rush their build-up play and look to use precision to break down opponents, which can make this tie somewhat of a chess match for the two managers.”
And that could make the centre of the park crucial.
“The key area for me will be the battle in midfield,” said the analyst.
“With the styles of play both sides opt for, control in the midfield and the ability to find space in the pockets and break lines is crucial to creating chances throughout the 90 minutes.
“I feel whoever can take control of the game and dominate possession will be the side who eventually comes out on top.”
However, Collyer still feels York City will be the hardest team to beat.
“There is no doubt for me that York are the play-off favourites,” said Collyer.
“To finish the season on 96 points, as well as picking up some impressive momentum at the back end of the season, it puts them in a great position to go and clinch promotion.
“However, a long break between the season’s end and the semi-final tie will be a hurdle to overcome, as it gives Adam Hinshelwood the task of ensuring the players stay match sharp and ready for the biggest game of their season.
“With the playoffs always throwing curveballs each season, by no means do I think it will be an easy task for York.
“But going into it I feel they will be the clear favourites to win the lot.”
