Even Chris Moore, the arch-optimist of a chairman, has begun to think about having a full year in which to reach division one but insists there will be no let-up until it is mathematically impossible for it to happen this season.
Cambridge played in the LDV final, their first-ever cup final last Sunday at the Millennium Stadium, although they were hammered 4-1 by Blackpool. In stark contrast they will be relegated if they fail to beat Athletic and other results go against them.
On Easter Monday Athletic travel to the McAlpine Stadium where Huddersfield will be defending a seven-match unbeaten home run and Lou Macari's side hope to consolidate their play-off place after their surprise relegation on the last day of last season.