WITH the Coca-Cola Championship season just beyond its half-way mark, it is time to reflect on crystal ball predictions made by Evening Star football correspondent ELVIN KING before a ball was kicked.

WITH the Coca-Cola Championship season just beyond its half-way mark, it is time to reflect on crystal ball predictions made by Evening Star football correspondent ELVIN KING before a ball was kicked.

1. Where will Town finish? - In the top ten, leaning towards higher than that, rather than lower.

This one looks like proving correct.

2. Who will get automatic promotion? - Charlton, Watford.

Still got a reasonable chance - although Tony Mowbray at West Brom might have something to say about it.

3. Who will make the play-offs? - West Brom, Southampton, Sheffield United, Preston.

Not so good here. Preston have slipped badly after last season, while I anticipated Bryan Robson getting the boot early enough for the Blades to use their parachute money and make an impact. George Burley continues to be hit by off-field problems at Southampton.

4. Who will go down? - Scunthorpe, Barnsley, Blackpool.

Barnsley look like proving me wrong, but other two still in the running.

5. Which managers will get the sack? - Bryan Robson, Simon Davey, Peter Taylor, John Gregory, Peter Grant, Tony Pulis.

Three out of six isn't bad with Robson surely out soon. Full marks to Davey for continuing to surprise while Pulis, who hasn't stayed many places long, also deserves praise.

6. Which player will score the most goals? - Marlon King (Watford.)

He was high in the running before a £5 million fee agreed for a move to Fulham.

7. Who will break through to become a star for Town? - Tommy Smith.

Has been hit by injury and illness, but his FA Youth Cup display on Wednesday confirmed his huge potential.

8. Which largely unknown player from another club will take the Championship by storm? - Clive Platt (Colchester).

Has scored six goals and featured in the majority of Colchester's game. Done okay in a struggling team.

So, as my former form teacher used to write on my school reports - could do better. But not too bad - and, as all beleagued managers say, there are still plenty of points to play for!