Even the most optimistic Shrewsbury fans would not have believed they would currently be one game from the Championship a year ago.

The Shrews were widely tipped for relegation after an underwhelming 2016/17 campaign that saw them finish just two points above the drop.

Yet, after a remarkable season, they are now preparing for a second visit to Wembley in the space of just two months.

At , they represent great value to make it over the line.

Shrewsbury spent just 21 days outside of the top three this season – fewer than any other side – and racked up 87 points, a total that would have seen them promoted automatically in each of the previous two seasons.

But despite finishing eight points above fourth-placed Rotherham, Paul Hurst’s side are unlikely to run away with it.

Shrewsbury’s success has been built on a solid defence, conceding the second-fewest goals in the division with 39.

They traded one-goal victories with Rotherham in the regular season, so another tight affair looks likely.

That would suit Shrewsbury, who won 19 of their 25 league victories by a margin of one, and recorded consecutive 1-0 victories over Charlton in the semi-finals.

Rotherham’s recent games have been similarly low-scoring, with fewer than three goals in five of their last seven.

So it makes sense to back under 2.5 on Sunday, which is available at .

Shrewsbury’s measured approach has served them well in knock-out football this season as well, having reached the final of the Checkatrade Trophy last month.

Although Paul Hurst’s side were beaten by Lincoln on the day, that recent Wembley experience could prove invaluable.

Much will depend on the performance of influential midfielder Jon Nolan if Shrewsbury are to win promotion and take their place in the second tier for the first time in 29 years.

The energetic midfielder has been a key presence for his side this season, playing in 43 league games out of 46.

The 26-year-old scored a delicious half-volley to win the semi-final first leg against Charlton, bringing his tally for the season into double figures.

Nolan also netted in a 2-1 victory at Rotherham back in November and is available at  to repeat the feat.

And while the Millers have also been defensively solid this season, they look vulnerable after conceding twice against Scunthorpe in their semi-final first leg.

The opener came from a Michael Ihiekwe own goal, which set the tone for his performance over both matches.

The 25-year-old was eventually substituted after 52 minutes in the return fixture and, with the pressure on, looks liable to make another mistake.

Ihiekwe has been issued with nine cards so far this season and another shaky performance could easily see him add to that.

Recommended bets

Shrewsbury to win promotion –

Under 2.5 goals –

Jon Nolan to score anytime –

Michael Ihiekwe to be carded