A waterlogged pitch meant that the first-leg of the play-off semi-final between Crawley Town and MK Dons had to be rescheduled for Tuesday night.
It’s fair to say that there were a fair few angry MK Dons fans but seeing the pictures of the pitch and the amount of rainfall in such a short space of time, it hardly comes as a surprise. Nonetheless the EFL have quickly rescheduled the game to Tuesday night and the game will be just as exciting.
Both sides ended the season rather solidly, though not exactly in the best of form. The Dons would finish the better of the two, losing just once in their last six games, however questions have been raised of their defensive capabilities.
During that final six game spell, they’d concede 14 goals and if you take into account the fact that they lost 5-0 to Stockport County the game before this spell, it doesn’t exactly make for great reading for Mike Williamson’s men.
Crawley, although not exactly known for their attacking exploits, could well take advantage of their opponents defensive weaknesses in this first leg. Scott Lindsey has done a phenomenal job this season, proving many pundits wrong and a 2-0 win over Grimsby Town as well as results around them going their way, would see them make the final play-off spot.
It should prove to be a rather interesting tie, which based off of recent form, really could go either way.
Here’s how two of The Real EFL’s writing team see the game panning out…
“After Monday’s postponement, we’ll finally get to see the two sides open their play-off campaigns in what should be an intriguing game.
“For Crawley even to be in the Play-Offs is a huge achievement and they’ve looked one of the strongest teams in the league over the second half of the season. Similar comments can be applied to MK Dons who have been revolutionised since Williamson took charge.
“The first leg could be rather trappy with neither side wanting to give the other an advantage heading into the second leg. They’ll be goals in this one, but they could be cancelling each-other out and for that reason, I see this one being a draw.”
Crawley Town 2-2 MK Dons
“The job Scott Lindsey is nothing short of phenomenal and he thoroughly deserves this play-off place. It’s no secret that many (including us) tipped them for relegation, and it was staggering that he wasn’t nominated for the League Two Manager of the Season.
“MK Dons will be a tough ask and Crawley really need to make home advantage pay tonight. However, their recent form at the Broadfield Stadium hasn’t been great and Mike Williamson’s side will be confident.
“The hosts will be well aware that their opponents have shipped 11 goals in their last three games and may go for the jugular. Plenty of goals here, with Crawley edging an enthralling encounter.”
Crawley Town 3-2 MK Dons
