06/5/09

This season’s Conference Play-off Finals have now taken shape following the completion of the Semi Final matches last weekend.

The Blue Square Premier Final looks likely to attract a bumper crowd to Wembley on Sunday 17th May as it involves two clubs who both have a long and proud history in the Football League.

Torquay United secured their place despite a 1-0 defeat at Histon in Monday’s Semi Final second leg. The Gulls won the first leg 2-0 and managed to go through to the final despite the reverse at the Glassworld Stadium.

Histon’s neighbours Cambridge United looked to have blown their chance of an appearance in the Final after losing the first leg 3-1 away at Stevenage Borough.

However, an exciting return match at the Trade Recruitment Stadium saw the Amber and Black Army book their trip to Wembley after a 3-0 victory and a 4-3 aggregate win.

Stevenage still get to travel to Wembley though as they  face York City in the FA Trophy Final this Saturday, although manager Graham Westley has a tough task in helping his players get over the disappointment of the Play Offs.

In the Blue Square South Play Offs, Hayes & Yeading overturned a 2-4 first leg defeat at home to Eastleigh by winning the second leg 4-0 after extra time.

They face Hampton & Richmond who beat Chelmsford 3-1 in the first leg and claimed a goal- less draw at home in the second leg. The final is on Thursday 7th May at Hampton.

The Blue Square North Final will be between Gateshead and AFC Telford. Telford lost to York in the FA Trophy semi final but they overcome a spirited Play Off challenge from Alfreton Town, whilst Gateshead beat Southport 2-1 on aggregate.

The North Final is on Friday May 8th and all matches will be screened live on Setanta Sports.