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The current league table makes for healthy viewing for all Bristol City supporters. Many had written off our chances just a few weeks ago, so our current position of fourth may come as something of a pleasant surprise for many of the doubters. Obviously when Brighton were promoted we had hoped to use their previous alphabetical advantage to push us up to third place, but unfortunately Barnsley’s relegation to the second division saw these hopes dashed on the final day of last season. Similarly, had Brentford taken the play-off promotion spot we would again have moved up one position, but despite their use of the ‘lucky’ South dressing room, this was not to be. Several supporters aired their concerns about the threat posed by big spending Wigan, but with the Latics currently languishing in one of the relegation positions, their cash-splashing exercise is now looking distinctly rash. Stockport also find themselves at the wrong end of the table despite spending heavily over the summer break, again proving success cannot be bought. Luton currently occupy 11th position, but with Tony Thorpe and Steve Robinson already on board, and Mickey Bell and Mark Lever believed to be on their wanted list, few would bet against a final position of 7th for the Hatters. Whether Cheltenham can hold onto their current 6th position is unlikely. Their squad lacks depth, and a couple of injuries to key players could well see them fall by the wayside. But the pre-season installation of the mighty Robins as 12-1 fourth favourites for promotion already looks like being spot on. And with Cardiff just one place beneath us, early indications point to a potentially enormous two-legged play-off against our local rivals. The board, players and manager deserve great credit for this early showing. For it must be remembered that this position - three spots higher than we finished last year - has been achieved despite the loss of 20 goals a season man Tony Thorpe and limited resources to bring in any new players. It's nothing short of a miracle. Well done lads. |
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