Changing room chat: Two consonants and a vowel - PNE

THE rivalry between Lancashire neighbours Blackpool and Preston North End was spelled out to the nation on Channel Four quiz show Countdown.

Viewers of the show - most of whom are old enough to remember the sides' glory days in the 40s and 50s - saw a conundrum featuring the letters PNECRISIS.

It turned out a Seasiders fan who works as a producer on the show was poking fun at his relegated rivals. Preston fans might yet have the last laugh, though, with the Tangerines close to the drop themselves.

Don't look back in anger if you lose

BOOKIES William Hill are never slow to find a gimmick to encourage even more punters to part with their cash.

And, with Man City in the FA Cup final tomorrow, they are cashing in the club's most famous fans. With Noel and Liam Gallagher bound to be at Wembley, a number of Oasis-based specials are on offer including that the brothers are seen on ITV's coverage at least six times (7/2). It's 10/1 that a City player is booked for diving (Roll With It) and 7/1 that a Blues player is carded for for dissent (Stop Crying Your Heart Out).