LEE CLARK has vowed there will be no slacking as Huddersfield Town aim to post a final-day win against Brentford ahead of their second League I play-off campaign in succession.
Southampton’s 3-0 victory at Plymouth on Monday effectively sealed the second automatic promotion spot alongside champions Brighton, where third-placed Town won 3-2 last Saturday.
That means a play-off semi-final showdown with the team finishing sixth – either Bournemouth or MK Dons.
The club have confirmed first-leg ticket arrangements for either eventuality, with 4,100 available to Town fans if it’s MK a week tomorrow (12.45) and 1,333 if it’s Bournemouth.
But Clark’s concern is very much the visit of the Bees, who will be aiming to bounce back after their 3-0 home defeat by Southampton last Saturday.
“We know from recent experience that they will stretch us,” said Clark, whose side won 1-0 at Griffin Park in March, when skipper Peter Clarke hit a late winner.
“They’re strong, physical and organised and will give us the kind of test we need.
“I certainly don’t want anyone taking their foot of the gas, and while I don’t think that will be the case, this game provides a chance for players to stake their claim.
“We always watch them closely in training, and I’m confident that all of them are up for the challenges ahead.”
Unbeaten in 24 league games, Town can chalk up a fifth successive win against Nicky Forster’s men, and take their club-record points tally to a final 89.
Clark has no fresh fitness worries ahead of the game, and confirmed that Anthony Pilkington is making good progress after having the cast removed from his left leg (he suffered a broken fibula and ankle dislocation on March 8).
But keeper Alex Smithies, sidelined by a knee problem since March 15, has been ruled-out of any play-off involvement, meaning experienced pair Ian Bennett and Nick Colgan will be in the spotlight.
