Johnson plays down celebrations

10:49am Wednesday 14th May 2008

Bristol City boss Gary Johnson warned his players to keep the champagne on ice after Tuesday's thrilling Coca-Cola Championship semi-final victory over Crystal Palace.

The Robins will now face either Hull or Watford at Wembley after goals in extra time from Lee Trundle and Michael McIndoe earnt them a 4-2 aggregate victory.

Fans flooded on to the Ashton Gate pitch at the final whistle as the Wembley dream became a reality but Johnson said: "There's a way to celebrate. They have got to be happy but they have still got to play this game in 10 days time."

He added: "I don't think they dare (drink), I wouldn't even say they could or they couldn't.

"You can enjoy yourself in the right way, can't you? If you go out and get blotto then you are not going to be ready in 10 days time in my opinion.

"But they know the rules, we're still in the season and they can enjoy themselves in the summer."

It was a first play-off semi-final defeat in six attempts for Palace boss Neil Warnock.

"There are a few tears in the dressing room but it is probably one of the most successful seasons I have had given the raw materials I started with," he said.

"They have all been revelations and I couldn't be prouder."

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