It’s looking more like Bournemouth as Barnsley set to face Brentford

Today’s results took things one huge step closer to deciding the line up in the play off semi finals with it looking increasingly likely that the Swans will face Bournemouth although Barnsley could await should the Cherries slip up against Stoke.

Brentford’s win over Watford this afternoon saw them secure third place in the Championship table whilst the Swans moved three points clear of both Bournemouth and Barnsley courtesy of our win over Derby.

A point against Watford next Saturday will see us secure that 4th placed finish and a likely two legged play off against a Bournemouth side especially when you factor in Barnsley are entertaining Champions Norwich.

That is not to say that the unexpected won’t happen and like many Swans fans I am sure there is a preference to face Barnsley ahead of Bournemouth but from here what will be will be.

The other significance of this afternoon’s win is that the Swans past the 80 point barrier which was the total achieved by Brendan Rodgers side back in 2010/11.  Avoiding defeat at Watford next Saturday will see Steve Cooper’s side achieve the best tally we have ever achieved at this level and credit for that will always be due.   The football may not be the most attractive but the statistics at times can speak for themselves.

Next week’s permutations

1. Brentford are guaranteed third place.   The Swans – barring a 12 goal swing to Barnsley – will not finish 6th so Brentford are facing a play off against Bournemouth or Barnsley as well.  The second leg will be at Brentford due to their higher league position.
2. The Swans will finish 4th or 5th meaning they will face the side that finishes in the opposite one of those places.   A point at Watford or Bournemouth failing to win will mean the second leg will be at the Liberty.  If we lose and Bournemouth win then it will be at the Vitality Stadium.
3. If Bournemouth beat Stoke at home then they will secure a tie against the Swans.  Or if they match or better the Barnsley result.  If they fare worse than the Tykes then it will be Brentford that await.
4. Barnsley have the toughest game as they face the Champions.  If they better Bournemouth’s result then they play the Swans, if they don’t then they play Brentford.  It is probably much simpler for them as whoever they play the first leg will be at Oakwell.

Next Saturday’s Championship Fixtures