Stevenage would be most people's sentimental choice. Similar to the Lincoln side of the 2002-2007 period, they have been challenging for promotion near enough every single season, missing out every time. Last season a final appearance appeared to be the minimum of what they'd have expected after a 3-1 win over Cambridge in the first leg of the semi finals at Broadhall Way, however, a disastorous second leg saw Cambridge pull it back to 3-3 on aggregate before Scott Rendell scored a 119th minute minute winner.

Stevenage also have a favourable run of games coming up, facing many teams in the lower half, including the bottom side Grays. The deciding game as to who will win automatic promotion will realistically come on the 30th, when Oxford travel to Stevenage.

Even if Oxford don't get automatic promotion, a ten point gap to a place outside the Playoffs virtually guarantees a place in the end-of-season lottery. At the moment they will be joined by Luton Town, Rushden and Diamonds and Kettering Town, meaning there is a possibility of one of two local derbies in the final, either Oxford vs Luton or Rushden vs Kettering. York sit one place outside of the Playoffs with only AFC within a decent shout of catching anyone.

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