Newcastle United must rely on bitter rivals Sunderland for massive favour

Newcastle United have the slimmest of slim chances of making the play-off. They travel to Bristol City knowing that anything less than victory will put a definite end to their hopes.

Even if they do win, they will have to rely on their local rivals Sunderland who host Crystal Palace at the Stadium of Light to help them. Palace are in the driving seat, just needing a point to confirm that play-off spot, at least. Birmingham and Charlton are only three points ahead of them, and meet on the last day of the season, so there is still a chance of automatic promotion.

Sunderland, having recently announced new investment from Bay FC, will not roll over easily and could possibly do their neighbours a favour.

Mel Reay and her team still have their targets and, with the increase in money available in the summer, some will be playing to convince the owners of minimal disruption to the squad ahead of next season.

It is Durham who, it could be argued, have the most to play for this weekend. They welcome Sheffield United, a team they have already met on three separate occasions in three different competitions this season.

A win would help either team as they try to keep away from the single bottom relegation spot. Durham are two points ahead of Portsmouth (who incidentally meet Crystal Palace on the final day), while Sheffield United have a four-point cushion.

Going into this weekend, Durham will probably be the most confident. A strong performance last time out at home against Bristol City is backed up by a great record - only losing twice in the league at Maiden Castle this season.

Sheffield United, on the other hand, suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat at the hands of Ipswich earlier this week; their conquerors are the fourth team still at risk.

The Blues will hope to have their safety assured by Sunday evening, as next week they travel to Gateshead Stadium for the final flourish against Newcastle.

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