The72's writers offer their West Brom vs Preston North End prediction ahead of the Championship clash on Saturday. West Brom come into their final day clash with Preston North End knowing that a point will almost certainly be enough to secure their place in the Championship play-offs.
The Baggies have been 5th for the vast majority of the season but a run of three straight defeats puts them 6th in the Championship table and within Hull City's reach ahead of this weekend.
A win would confirm a play-off place, and a draw would likely do the same given the vastly better goal difference of Carlos Corberan's side. A defeat, and a Hull win would see West Brom make a shock drop out the top six.
Image courtesy of: ANDREW BOYERS/REUTERS. Preston meanwhile come into the game with nothing to play for.
Ryan Lowe and co had been in the chasing pack for a play-off spot but after an upturn in form, they've now lost four in a row without scoring and look set for a mid-table finish.
The Lilywhites are ultimately a club looking to break into the play-off picture but for next season, they'll need to break the stigma that they're a perennial mid-table side and make a real charge with more consistent form and a more potent attack.
Latest Stories Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game...
James Ray "This sudden drop in form has made for an unnecessarily nervous end to West Brom's season. They had a play-off spot firmly in their grasp but a late stutter puts the pressure on coming into the final day.
"Thankfully, they're playing a Preston side who are on the beach and in equally poor form. That should make the hosts big favourites for a win though it's not guaranteed.
Image courtesy of: ED SYKES/REUTERS. "While I don't see them winning, I'll say West Brom secure the play-offs by the skin of their teeth. I see them drawing while Hull City win, meaning Corberan and co just about make the top six on goal difference."
West Brom vs Preston North End prediction: 1-1 Harry Mail "West Brom have been in really poor form and they should have already booked their place in the play-offs.
"The Baggies are tripping up over the line and need to get a result here with Hull City on a roll.
"Preston North End have been on the beach for weeks now and have lost their last four games on the spin.
"Carlos Corberan is lucky that he isn't playing a team who have something to play for and the Lilywhites' defending over recent times has been awful.
"The hosts need something and I can see them getting a win in front of their own fans."
West Brom vs Preston North End prediction: 2-0