The National League season comes to a dramatic close this weekend as two huge clubs, Oldham Athletic and Southend United, meet at Wembley for a playoff final which will see the winner return to the EFL. With Oldham finishing in fifth place and Southend in seventh, separated by just five points, this should be a close-knit encounter, and one with huge pressure on it for both sides.
Oldham enter the match in strong form, boasting four wins from their last six, including beating Halifax in the playoff quarter-finals and York City in the semi-final to set up this Wembley trip. York were by far the best team in the playoffs, finishing with double figures more points than every other contender, and so to hammer them 3-0 away from home was a huge statement from Micky Mellon's side. Their goal difference of +16 during the regular season highlights a well-rounded approach, blending offensive prowess with defensive stability.
Southend come into this game unbeaten in six, and showed resiliency of their own, needing to win both playoff games away from home, overcoming Rochdale and Forest Green. Their six-match unbeaten streak showcases their ability to secure results, though a goal difference of +11 throughout the season hints at the occasional defensive vulnerability.
Historically, Southend have held an advantage, winning 13 of their last 30 encounters with Oldham. This psychological edge might benefit The Shrimpers, especially when taking into account the 1-0 win they picked up over Oldham earlier in the season. However, Oldham's recent defensive improvement, including three consecutive clean sheets, could shift the dynamics.
This should be a very close game and very difficult to call. Oldham had to beat the better opposition in their two playoff games leading into this one. However, Southend got the better of Oldham earlier in the season. Whichever team can get over the line will secure a move back to the English Football League (EFL), a place where both of these historic clubs belong.
Oldham Athletic - Southend United Key Facts
Southend United have a strong historical advantage over Oldham Athletic, winning 13 out of the last 30 encounters, which includes 6 victories in their last 15 visits to Oldham, highlighting their dominance in this fixture.
Southend are currently unbeaten in their last 6 matches, indicating a solid run of form that could translate into confidence and performance on the pitch.
Oldham have managed to keep a clean sheet in their last 3 matches, suggesting a potential improvement in their defensive capabilities, which could impact the total goals scored in the upcoming match.
Oldham Athletic vs Southend United Betting Predictions
Primary Bet:Over 2.5 Goals @ 23/20
The match between Oldham Athletic and Southend United is anticipated to be a high-scoring affair, with a probability of "over 2.5 goals" calculated at 69.81%. Oldham averages 1.62 goals per match at home, while Southend averages 1.55 goals on the road. Historical encounters between these teams have yielded an average of 2.2 goals per match. Despite Oldham's recent defensive improvements, the cup final setting often promotes an attacking style of play, making this bet a compelling choice.
Secondary Bet:Oldham Win @ 29/20
Oldham's current form positions them as strong contenders for victory. They are on a three-match winning streak and have successfully converted 85% of their 1-0 leads into wins. Although Southend remain unbeaten in their last six matches, Oldham's momentum in this critical fixture enhances the likelihood of an "Oldham win". With a probability of 35.77% and favourable odds, this bet provides value for those backing the hosts.
