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He won't let record go without a fight
THOSE Blades fans looking for a lucky omen, anything, to help ease those nerves before Sunday afernoon makes it all much worse might cast their minds back to the last time.
So here's the omen. Who did United face in their last match before promotion to the Premier League in 2006?
Yes, Crystal Palace.
Somewhat different scenario, of course, to that sunny afternoon with its carnival atmosphere. United were already up.
So, does Neil Warnock want his beloved Blades to go up and will he be offering them a helping hand? Yes and ... er, no.
There might be conspiracy theories in the bars of both Birmingham and Reading. But I'm inclined to think Warnock won't soft-pedal.
Perhaps the former Blades boss likes the fact that he was the last manager to take United to the top flight and doesn't fancy losing that tag to Kevin Blackwell.
He'll have his Palace players fired up, for sure. At least United know they really need the win. If they do I think it'll be enough.
Of course, if Birmingham win at Reading the Midlands side will be up, but I think Reading might win. Even then United would still need victory.
As for Barnsley, their last day centres on the other end of the table; they need a point if Norwich win at Charlton.
Now the worst-case scenario for Barnsley might be Norwich winning and Simon Davey's men drawing when they get to the last 10 minutes at Plymouth.
That's because the last 10 minutes has been pretty dodgy territory for Barnsley.
A Barnsley-supporting mate urged me to check out how many points goals in the last 10 minutes have cost Barnsley.
So I did, and found out that it's 12.
n It was no surprise when referee Howard Webb came out and admitted his mistake at Old Trafford. In fact, I'd be surprised if, having been made aware after the game of his error, he didn't want to go on TV straightaway and admit he'd got it wrong.
As a member of the media, I'm all in favour of it. But refereeing chiefs aren't keen.
Webb has earned a reputation for getting the big decisions right. One big decision wrong in a season is pretty impressive going in this most difficult of jobs.
Just 48 hours later, there he was fronting up at The Star and Green 'Un sports awards evening. Late into the evening,, he avoided not one eager diner or ducked out of any explanation.
Blokes at the top of their profession don't often volunteer lots of time, but Webb proved once again he is generous with his.
Got a view? Add your comment below.
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Friday 10 February 2012
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