April 30 2006

Iain Dowie

Iain Dowie believes Palace have the measure of play-off rivals Watford.

Defeat against Sheffield United on Sunday meant Palace finished sixth and can now look forward to a play-off semi-final against Adrain Boothroyd's side.

Dowie revealed his players can't wait to get started as they try to win promotion via the play-offs for the second time in three years.

He has no worries about facing Watford after the 3-1 win against the Hornets at Selhurst Park earlier this season.

Dowie said: "We've got Michael Hughes and Andy Johnson to come back into the side for the Watford games and they are critical players for us.

"Watford finished third so they're the third best team in the league, but we feel that if we're switched on then we are a match for most sides."

"There's a lot of confidence in the squad and we'll go into the Watford games believing in ourselves."

Meanwhile Blades boss Neil Warnock tipped Palace to win the play-off battle and join his side in the Premiership.

He said: "It's going to be very close but I think Palace have got the best team.

"They would be my tip if all their players are fit."