It was one of the most exciting 'end of season' matches that will set The Cherries up for the new season, in August.Having been in second place in the league, for much of last season, and dropping back at the beginning of the year; the loss of manager Eddie Howe (to Blackburn) and the appointment of Lee Bradbury (initially as caretaker manager, before being given the job full-time) it was a roller-coaster season.
Having managed to maintain a place in the play-offs; it was Huddersfield against whom they were pitted, for the semi-finals. Having already played them twice, during the normal season; and both matches being drawn; it was a nail-biting end; which culminated in a penalty shoot-out.
At this point, I should say I'm not a fan of penalties, to get the end result. I appreciate that there isn't really any other way; unless they re-introduce the Golden Goal. It is such a shame that two evenly matched teams have to resort to seeing who can score the best of 5. Might as well forget the previous 2 hours and just line up in front of the goal!!
Personally, I'm extremely proud of the boys; they've worked hard, played well (most of the time) and have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with. Maybe immediate promotion to the Championship would have been too much; but they are well placed to start the next season.
The cheque book is out, and Eddie Mitchell is spending as he sees fit. He's also selling; which is good for the boys moving up to bigger clubs; but let's hope they are replaced with equally competitive players.
It's also been noticed that league one is predominantly northern, which means two things:
1. There is less chance of a full-house at Dean Court; reducing the gate receipts
2. More travel for the team (and less chance supporters will follow)
How will they do?
Only time will tell.
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