EFL

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Watch Cheltenham’s Alfie May score goal of the season contender with outrageous volley from halfway line

      by

      ALFIE MAY scored TWO goal of the season contenders in Cheltenham’s 3-0 thrashing of Peterborough.But one outrageous effort in particular will live long in the memory.
      Alfie May attempted an outrageous volley from miles out
      The ball looped over keeper Will Norris and into the back of the net
      May scored another superb goal after half-time in a 3-0 winCredit: Rex

      The result moved Cheltenham seven points clear of the relegation zone and dealt Darren Ferguson’s side another blow in their play-off ambitions.
      And it was May stole the show with a pair brilliant strikes.
      The best of them came completely out of the blue – a long throw down the line was flicked on to the striker, who took one touch before attempting an outrageous effort on goal.
      From just inside the Peterborough half – and all the way over on the touchline – May struck the ball perfectly on the volley.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      His team-mates and whole crowd then watched in disbelief as it floated towards the net.
      The ball looped over Posh goalkeeper Will Norris – who had been on the edge of his box – before bouncing into the back of the net.
      Norris desperately tried to claw at it but couldn’t stop the ball crossing the line.
      And May wasn’t done there, despite scoring the goal of his life.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      After half-time he scored another spectacular strike after smashing a loose ball into the top corner from the edge of the box.
      Fans were stunned by May’s first effort and praised the hitman on social media.
      One supporter said: “That first goal is ridiculous.”
      Another added: “Take a bow son 👏🏻”
      And a third said: “It’s the best double you’ll ever see.”
      May himself was delighted with the effort, hailing it a “crazy” goal.
      He said post-match: “It’s probably a crazy goal to see — but what a feeling when it went in.
      “I didn’t really have any other options, so I thought, ‘I’m having a pop here’.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I know everybody was thinking ‘what are you doing?’
      “But I got really good contact with it. That’s probably the best goal I’ll ever score.” More

    • 175 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Sky ‘getting serious’ over EFL rights offer but could lose games to BT Sport

      by

      SKY is ‘getting serious’ about the size of its offer for EFL coverage with the TV contracts now up for grabs.The broadcaster does not want to lose out on the prize of Championship coverage as bids go in before Thursday’s meeting.
      TV contracts are now up for grabs for EFL coverageCredit: Getty
      Sky Sports are ‘getting serious’ with the size of their offerCredit: AFP
      But the streaming specialists Viaplay and BT Sport’s new partners want a slice of the action.
      Sky is anxious not to lose subscribers, with many in the EFL community.
      Suspended Match of the Day host Gary Lineker has already been offered a more conventional new role by BT Sport as part of their planned summer revamp to become TNT Sports.
      They want the ex-England star, 62, to be the face of their new venture, which includes Premier League and Champions League coverage.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      The popular presenter was suspended from presenting the Beeb’s flagship Premier League highlights show amid an ongoing dispute with the BBC over his tweets.
      Lineker previously worked for BT Sport between 2015-2021 and has presented Match of the Day since 1999.
      He decided to step down to watch his beloved Leicester on their European journey in the Europa Conference League last season, with Brendan Rodgers’ side reaching the semi-final.
      And Lineker was at the King Power Stadium today to watch the Foxes in action against Chelsea after becoming expectedly free.
      Most read in EFL
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK
      It comes as the veteran broadcaster sparked a free speech row when he compared the Government’s plans to ban migrants arriving on small boats from settling in Britain with “1930’s Germany”.
      The BBC said Lineker’s criticism of the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill on Twitter was a “breach of our guidelines”.
      The pundit was then forced to step back from presenting duties on the flagship football show – that he’s presented since 1999 – until a “clear position” on his social media use is agreed.
      But his suspension sparked chaos as scores of Match of the Day co-hosts refused to appear in solidarity with the veteran presenter.
      Ian Wright, Alan Shearer, Jermaine Jenas, Alex Scott, Mark Chapman and Micah Richards all refused to fill in amid the chaos.
      The show’s commentary team are also standing down – meaning the show will go without presenters, pundits or commentators.
      It means the show will be highlights only and will last just 20 minutes. More

    • 250 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Bradford keeper catches ball ‘miles’ outside his own box and only gets yellow card… but fans think they know why

      by

      BRADFORD goalkeeper Harry Lewis caught the ball miles outside his own box this afternoon… but was NOT sent off.The stopper was in action for his side as they travelled to Newport County in League Two.
      Harry Lewis caught the ball with no one around himCredit: Sky Bet League Two via Twitter
      Lewis, 25, caught a high ball several metres outside his box in a moment of madness on 21 minutes.
      Much to Newport’s fury, the keeper was only shown a yellow card, despite his deliberate handball.
      Their official Twitter account posted: “Absolutely unbelievable.
      “Bradford keeper Harry Lewis catches a long ball miles out of his goal and only gets a yellow for it.”
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Newport share their Rodney Parade home ground with rugby teams Dragons and Newport RFC.
      During today’s match, rugby lines were clearly visible on the pitch, and may have put Lewis off.
      Fans believe that the reason he wasn’t sent off was that he didn’t directly prevent a goalscoring opportunity with his catch.
      One wrote: “It was a yellow card as no one around him so not a goal scoring opportunity but agreed the lines aren’t acceptable at this standard.”
      Most read in EFL
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FOOTBALL BETTING SITES IN THE UK
      A second tweeted: “Did it stop a goal scoring opportunity? No. Move on stop crying.”
      Another disagreed: “That’s literally the worst decision I’ve ever seen a ref give in a game live.”
      But a Bradford fan responded: “You know the rules don’t you? There’s no reason for a red, it wasn’t goal scoring.”
      Newport were left even more furious 15 minutes later, when Andy Cook fired Bradford into the lead.
      They levelled on the hour mark, however, via Liam Ridehalgh’s own goal. More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Robbie Savage swells with pride in ‘beautiful moment’ live on TV after Man Utd star son Charlie scores first career goal

      by

      ROBBIE SAVAGE beamed with pride live on TV as his son Charlie scored his first career goal.The younger Savage, 19, is on the books at Manchester United.
      Robbie Savage fist pumps after Charlie’s goalCredit: BT Sport
      The former midfielder was visibly emotionalCredit: BT Sport
      Charlie has been in League One action for Forest GreenCredit: Rex
      He made one senior appearance for the Red Devils, prior to going out on loan in January.
      Savage joined up with League One side Forest Green Rovers, managed by former Prem hardman Duncan Ferguson.
      Charlie plays as a defensive midfielder, a chip off the old block in that regard.
      And in his fifth appearance for Rovers, he has managed to net his first goal.
      READ MORE ON MAN UTD
      Just 12 minutes into Forest Green’s clash with Bristol Rovers, Savage rifled a left-footed effort into the roof of the net.
      Dad Robbie learned of the goal while appearing on BT Sport Score.
      While viewers were being given an update from Leicester’s clash with Chelsea, Savage Sr yelped with excitement.
      Asked what had happened, Robbie beamed: “My boy scored!”
      Most read in EFL
      BETTING SPECIAL – BEST SPORTS BETTING APPS IN THE UK
      He threw his fists into the air in pure elation and repeated: “My boy!”
      The goal was Savage’s first senior strike in six appearances – five for Forest Green and one for Man United.
      It put his loan side 1-0 up on the day, but unfortunately the 12th minute lead didn’t last long.
      John Marquis equalised for Joey Barton’s side seven minutes later.
      And Scott Sinclair made it 2-1 to the Gas on 26 minutes.
      Savage made his Man United debut under Ralf Rangnick last season, coming on for the final minute of a 1-1 Champions League draw with Young Boys at Old Trafford.
      He was also an unused substitute in their final Prem game of last term.
      Prior to joining Forest Green he had been limited to United’s Under-21s side this season – playing 13 times in the PL2 and four games in the EFL Trophy.
      Savage, 19, has made one senior appearance for Man UnitedCredit: AFP More

    • 200 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Premier League striker who once cost £13.5m joins relegation-threatened League One side Morecambe on free transfer

      by

      EX-EVERTON striker Ouymar Niasse has finally found a new club – League One strugglers Morecambe.The former £13.5million Senegal star, 32, has been club-less since Burton Albion released him last summer.
      Nine-cap star Ouymar Niasse has joined his sixth English club in MorecambeCredit: Rex
      Shrimps boss Derek Adams has opted for experience with ex-Senegal ace NiasseCredit: Alamy
      The Yorkshire Post say Niasse kept fit by training with non-league teams West Didsbury and Chorlton.
      He previously played Premier League football for the Toffees, plus Hull City and Cardiff on loan.
      And after seven years in England he insists he’s delighted to sign for a close-knit club like the Shrimps.
      Niasse said: “It is fantastic to be here and to join the club. 

      “When I spoke to the manager (Derek Adams) and staff it was clear that there is a togetherness and unity here that I want to be part of.”
      Niasse’s big break came with Turkish top-flight club Akhisar Belediyespor in 2013.
      But it was during two years at Russian team Lokomotiv Moscow that he caught Everton’s eye.
      He landed a £13.5m move to Goodison in 2016 on a 4.5-year deal.
      Most read in EFL
      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      But he lost favour under Ronald Koeman, who said: “(If) Niasse likes to play football he needs to leave Everton.”
      Temporary stints with Hull and Cardiff were followed by short spells for Championship side Huddersfield in 2021 and League One Burton last year.
      And he’s now landed another short-term deal – with the aim of keeping fourth-bottom Morecambe up.
      Morecambe have brought in Niasse as they battle to stay In League OneCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      EFL fans could face soaring TV bills in huge blow with split rights between Sky and Scandinavian group mooted

      by

      EFL chiefs want bids for TV rights delivered by March 23 with Sky and Scandinavian group Viaplay battling for the best packages.There is every chance of a split in coverage for the next telly deal, starting in 2024-25, which is sure to spark much debate before the contracts are sorted.
      There could soon be a new Tella-vision deal for the EFL but Nathan Tella and his Burnley team-mates seem set to return to the Premier LeagueCredit: Rex
      Blackburn congratulate Harry Pickering after he opened up the Championship promotion race by sinking second-placed Sheffield United on SaturdayCredit: Reuters
      Swedish streaming giant Viaplay is emerging as a frontrunner – capable financially of nabbing some of the many packages available.
      It puts Sky’s position as the leading provider for the EFL is under serious threat.
      They’ve held the live rights since 2002 but new competition means Sky might need to almost double its £119 million deal to keep exclusive coverage.
      Another twist is that lower-division clubs are happy to consider a separate deal, which would include more live games.
      READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
      The EFL is looking for increased TV revenue for its clubs down the divisions.
      But it also wants to adjust to changing way viewing habits, which increases the chance of more streaming being brought in.
      Rights for the Championship, League One, League Two, EFL Cup, EFL Trophy and play-offs are available from 2024-25.
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
      And the Viaplay group has been steadily picking up sports contracts.
      Most read in EFL
      It bought the UK-based Premier Sports for more than £30million last year and aims to launch in America soon.
      EFL Chief Commercial Officer Ben Wright said last week: “Our objective remains to find the right mix of maximising value, increasing volume and providing a great viewing experience through evolution and innovation.” More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      We’ve proved we’re ready for the Premier League and we’re going to do well there, says Burnley star

      by

      JOHANN BERG GUDMUNDSSON reckons Burnley have proved they are Premier League ready.The Championship leaders sit 12 points in front of Sheffield United and an impressive NINETEEN ahead of third-placed Middlesbrough before a trip to Blackpool today.
      Johann Gudmundsson has been a tower of strength for Burnley
      Clarets and Iceland winger Gudmundsson, 32, said: “This team is improving every day.
      “But we know if we want to get into the Premier League and  stay there we’ve got to keep improving as there’s a big gap in quality between there and the Championship.
      “But I wouldn’t give it a second thought — we’re going to do well in the Premier League.”
      Burnley’s transformation under boss Vincent Kompany, who was appointed last summer, has been extraordinary.
      The Belgian has introduced a completely different style of play to ex-gaffer Sean Dyche.  
      Gudmundsson said: “It’s a lot more detailed as Vinnie goes into the opposition a lot and how we can exploit different weaknesses and how he wants us to play. We now try to play from the back and make angles for everybody and get everyone having the ball.
      “We’ve done really well and, of course, we’re playing in a different league, so that is a factor as well.
      “The Championship is not as hard as the Premier League, which everybody knows. It’s a big step to that.
      Most read in Championship
      Vincent Kompany has been a breath of fresh air at Turf Moor
      “We want to return to the Premier League and showcase our talents.”
      The Clarets are bossing possession and have scored 68 league goals already this season.
      They have also maintained the hard work-rate and organisation that made them successful under Dyche.
      Gudmundsson said: “When Vinnie came in, he told us that everything we do is about scoring goals.
      “We want to score as many goals as possible from every phase possible and we’ve shown that throughout this season. There have been so many different goalscorers. We look dangerous in every phase and, for the opponent, that is hard to play against.
      “We were able to adapt to the new styles because so much work and so many meetings took place.
       “There was a lot of time spent on the training pitch where the manager was getting across his ideas.
      “He’s shown a lot of videos of us, telling us what we can do better.
      “It’s been an incredible amount of work but it worked fantastically.”
      Experienced Gudmundsson believes his game has improved, too.
      He added: “It was a long time under Dyche so it was good to try something new  and Vinnie’s ideas have suited how I wanted to play.
      “For me, it’s a bit more on the ball and not as much running off the ball, which suits players like me.
      “Tactically, I think I’ve improved with the  different aspects that the manager  brings into the games. You can see he changes formation quite a lot in midfield and up front.
      “It’s being more tactically  aware on  how he wants us to play.
      “I just enjoy being on the pitch as much as I can.
      “I’m not getting any younger but as long as I can enjoy my football and stay on the pitch, that is good.”
      Kompany is just as demanding as Dyche when it comes to work-rate and mental toughness.
      Gudmundsson added: “Even though we keep the ball a lot, we work hard to get it back as quickly as possible.
      “The intensity and the running stats are high. We’ve kept it as high as we used to  as it’s the identity of the club — but we play a lot more football now.
      “The aggression, the pressing, everything is there — and we need to keep hold of that.
      Read More on The Sun
      “That will take us far when you have that base of hard work  and football comes after that.”
      Blackpool boss Mick McCarthy reckons this is the worst possible fixture for his second-bottom strugglers, but added: “Out of adversity comes strength.” More

    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Oxford United SACK manager Karl Robinson after 3-0 loss to Bristol Rovers continues dire slump

      by

      OXFORD UNITED have sacked manager Karl Robinson.The club announced they have parted ways with the 42-year-old following a 3-0 home defeat to Bristol Rovers.
      Oxford have sacked Karl RobinsonCredit: Getty
      Robinson took charge in 2018 and twice reached the League One play-offs, losing in the 2020 final to Wycombe.
      Oxford released a statement confirming Robinson’s departure.
      It read: “Oxford United can confirm the departure of Karl Robinson who leaves his role as Head Coach at the club with immediate effect.
      “The Board would like to thank Karl for his hard work and efforts in the five years since he joined but recent results and performances mean that a change is needed.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “The search for a new Head Coach will be thorough and extensive and is already underway.
      “While that work is undertaken the existing coaching staff of Craig Short, Leon Blackmore-Such and Wayne Brown will take charge of the First Team with their immediate focus being our next game, away at Lincoln City on Saturday.”
      Oxford are on a run of eight games without a win and are 17th in League One, just four points above the relegation zone.
      It is a farcry from their form last season, when Robinson led the club to an eighth-placed finish, missing out on the play-offs by just seven points.
      Most read in EFL
      HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL More