Manning experiences emotional rollercoaster

Bristol City boss Liam Manning experienced all the emotions as the Robins secured a Championship play-off spot for the first time in 17 years.

Ross McCrorie scored twice inside five second-half minutes to earn a 2-2 draw with Preston North End but there was an anxious wait after full-time for Blackburn Rovers' game at Sheffield United to finish as a draw.

Had Rovers scored a second goal at Bramall Lane that would have knocked City out of the top six but instead they can look forward to a play-off semi-final against Sheffield United with Thursday's first leg at Ashton Gate.

"I have no idea how I am feeling, to be honest. Exhausted, stressed, happy, over the moon, proud - what an afternoon," Manning told BBC Radio Bristol.

"We made real hard work of it but I spoke to the lads beforehand and there's a lot made now about styles and philosophies, and we spoke about us to underpin everything with the culture we have got.

"It says on the shirts 'always believe' and we have done that numerous times now, and you see it today - it's a fantastic group of lads.

"I said to them, irrespective of what happens today, I couldn't be more proud of them and what they've done, so I'm delighted.

"I have had a tough six months. I spoke to the lads beforehand, 'today is everything'.

"There's no expectation or pressure on us so we have got to go and be brave and enjoy it. You see today the lads give everything for the shirt."