Revealed: This is what will happen to Sunderland, Lincoln, Blackpool and Oxford in the play-offs - according to simulation
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In the first semi-final, Blackpool ran out 3-2 winners against Oxford United on aggregate after overcoming a first-leg deficit to see off Oxford United and continue their fine run of form in the playoffs.
The Seasiders boast a 70% win ratio in playoff matches going into the tie and have won promotion via the playoffs in each of the three EFL leagues.
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Hide AdBut that record looked under threat when Oxford emerged from the first leg with a 2-1 advantage during the simulation.
But Neil Critchley’s men overturned the deficit in the second leg to reach the final at Wembley Stadium.
As for Sunderland’s clash against Lincoln City, the Black Cats will apparently run out 4-2 winners on aggregate according to Football Manager.
Somewhat surprisingly to Sunderland fans given his form, Josh Scowen bagged a goal for his side during the simulation, whilst Jordan Jones also found the net.
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Hide AdJake Vokins also scored from the bench before Denver Hume’s 74th minute long-range thunderbolt all but wrapped things up.
According to the simulation, however, the final at Wembley against Blackpool will not go Sunderland’s way.
The decisive moment in the match came after 33 minutes when Grant Ward was tripped just inside the area.
Sullay Kaikai stepped up and dispatched the penalty to give Blackpool what would prove to be a decisive advantage as Critchley’s men defeated Sunderland by a single goal to win the play-off final and reach the Championship.