Monthly review: The rivals

Whilst Preston haven`t had the best of results this month and with injuries to Whaley and McKenna the month has ended sourly. However compared to our rivals, things could be worse.

Firstly, our inferior rivals to the West. On a high note after beating the mighty Aldershot in the cup, Blackpool thought they could face Chelsea in the fifth round. However, mid table Championship side Norwich brought them down back to earth and during the same month their promotion hopes died. The two sided fortress of Bloomfield road hosted 3 games in February, which the seasider`s lost all three of. Also in February, Blackpool picked up only 1 point, away at Forest before their victory at Oldham yesterday. However, they still remain eighth and outside the top 50 clubs in England. Their bubble has well and truly burst for this season!

Next to the minnows of Turf Moor, where Steve Cotterill has managed to steer promotion hopefuls Burnley into relegation threatened clarets. After an amazing start to the season, Burnley have now gone 15 games without a win and their last win came in November 2006. The Dingles are moving home, back to League 1, where they can enjoy playing football on the beach at Blackpool.

Next in line are Derby. Billy Davies masterminded Derby`s route to a 6 point lead at the top of the championship, but at the end of February they sit outside the top 2 in third. Derby won once in February and they have lost their last three games. Amongst the bad results, the dwarf has been sent to the stands on various occasions and there are rumours of an unsettled camp at Pride Park.

Finally, we can`t forget the mighty Leeds United. Their demise from Champions league semi finalists just a few years ago, to rock bottom of the championship has been pleasurable for many a fan. One win, one draw and four defeats are the results for February and seeing Leeds at the bottom of the table is a shame. Never nice to see a big club fall from grace.

Oh well, couldn`t have happened to a nicer club ey?