Suggestions for lead-up to a Philidor's mate?

I have been watching for an opportunity to pull off a smothered mate of the Philidor variety for a year or so now, and still no luck. Not everyone I play against is brilliant, average is 1500-1600, which is about my level. Specificallly I'd like to catch my father, who is currently only about 1400 or so, and who I'm sure would not see it coming if I can just manage to get the trap set. I've looked through many games online where masters have made it happen but I can't seem to lure anyone down the garden path :  (

Can anyone suggest some common opening or midgame strategies that are particularly effective in creating opportunities for this tactic?

Nobody has given this any thought?