Season Preview - Bristol City

Vital QPR takes a look at Championship side Bristol City

FACTS & FIGURES

Founded: 1897

Nickname: The Robins

Ground: Ashton Gate - 21,497

Manager: Steve Coppell

SELECTED HONOURS

First Division: Runners Up - 1906-07

Second Division: Champions - 1905-06

Third Division South: Champions - 1922-23, 1926-27, 1954-55
Football League One: Runners Up - 2006-07

FA Cup: Runners Up - 1909
Welsh Cup: Winners - 1934
Football League Trophy: Winners - 1985-86, 2002-03

RECORDS

Record Attendance: 43,335 v Preston North End (February 15, 1935)

Record league victory: 9-0 v Aldershot (December 28, 1946)

Record league defeat 0-9 v Coventry City (April 26, 1934)

Record Buy: £2,250,000 - Nicky Maynard from Crewe Alexandra

Record Sale: £3,500,000 - Ade Akinbiyi to Wolverhampton Wanderers

Record Appearances: John Atyeo - 645 - 1951-1966

Record Goals: John Atyeo - 314 - 1951-1966

PREVIEW

Built on the hard work of Gary Johnson, Bristol City surprised many by climbing to the heady heights of the playoffs - 90 minutes away from Premier League action.

The disaster of second season syndrome struck with Gary Johnson paying the price for a poor run of form, with Keith Millen more than steadying the ship in the latter stages of the season.

The form of Nicky Maynard was also a positive in a relatively forgetful season, with a stunning strike at Loftus Road assuring he drew the plaudits in a drab campaign.

Prediction: 6

Given the above it may seem a little bizarre that I am tipping the Robins for a playoff finish - there is one major factor in proceedings however, Steve Coppell.

The experienced boss has a history of getting a good impact on arrival and a couple of additions married with what should be a re-motivated squad could spell trouble for the Championship.

While Coppell has been keen to play down the club's ambitions, I would be very surprised if they weren't challenging in the higher echelons come the end of the campaign.

What do you think? - Let us know!




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