Race for the Playoffs: 22 April

Burton Albion 3-0 Stevenage Borough
18 April 2008
The Pirelli Stadium, Burton

This was a big blow. Despite perhaps being the better side during the first half, chances simply weren't converted and in the second half a succession of individual errors contrived to hand a much-improved home side the three points. Clark Masters hadn't exactly looked the part between the sticks in Alan Julian's regrettable absence, and it was he who failed to claim a high ball that gifted Burton a first goal. Ashley Westwood conceded what is probably his 18585th penalty since joining Boro' although TV replays suggest Boro' were hard done by, and the third... well by that point who cares.

Coupled with other results, Stevenage now sit three points adrift of the playoff zone - an area where they have occupied for more or less the whole season. A superior goal difference is Boro's primary weapon now. But it pre-supposes two wins in the last two games against teams from the bottom six fighting for their lives. And then Burton v Exeter on the last day could be a big deal. But who knows - we'll know more after tonight's fixture at home to Northwich. Cambridge go to Torquay, while Burton and Exeter are expected to pick up victories.

Tomorrow could be a half full or a half empty day. We'll have to see which...