Showing 1 - 10 of 21
Another FA Cup opportunity for the Silkmen
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 14/02/2026
» With seven Premier League teams away to lower league sides in this weekend's fourth round of the FA Cup, there is the potential for an upset or two, which is the essence of this competition.
The umpire who became a legend
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 27/09/2025
» The widespread tributes to cricket umpire Harold 'Dickie' Bird who passed away this week at the age of 92 show how much he was admired in the cricketing world. It is extremely rare for an official in any sport to be acknowledged in such a manner, but Bird was someone special. He was an eccentric character and the subject of many anecdotes.
Bantams hope for magic touch
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 12/04/2025
» Despite having a population approaching half a million the West Yorkshire city of Bradford has underachieved when it comes to football bragging rights. However, Bradford City are hoping this season will see a much-needed change in fortune, even if it is just a small step.
Nervous times in England as lower division clubs battle for glory
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 05/04/2025
» As the English football season approaches the business end there are some terrific skirmishes going on in the lower divisions of the Football League. Much depends on how the players can adapt to the pressure of striving for promotion or fighting relegation. It is grassroots football at its best.
From the Ammies to the Posh
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 12/10/2024
» While most football fans know the nicknames of clubs in the Premier League and Championship they are probably less familiar with those in the lower divisions. Some simply reflect a team's colours or a variation on the club name. But many provide an insight into the cultural and economic environment of towns and regions where the clubs first developed.
Leicester poised for return to top flight
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 27/04/2024
» In similar fashion to the Premier League there is an intense three-way battle for the honours in the Championship although Leicester City look like a good bet for a speedy return to top flight action.
Tough times for clubs in the ‘Steel City’
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 13/04/2024
» Football fans in Sheffield can be forgiven if they are currently feeling a strong sense of déjà vu. Three seasons ago in March 2021 the opening paragraph in this column read: “It has not been a good year for football fans in the city of Sheffield, with United almost certain to drop out of the Premier League and Sheffield Wednesday clinging on by their fingernails in the Championship relegation battle.”
Not an easy task for Rooney to create 'no fear' playing style
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 14/10/2023
» The October international break is a time when football managers in England, whose teams have been underperforming, look nervously over their shoulders.
Ashes drama sparks headlines war in England and Down Under
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 08/07/2023
» Whatever one's views of the controversial "stumping" of Jonny Bairstow in the second Ashes Test it will always be remembered for the astonishing scenes at Lord's, considered to be the home of cricket since it was established in 1814.
Massive day for Sky Blues and Hatters
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 27/05/2023
» The third club to join already promoted Burnley and Sheffield United in the Premier League next season will be decided in the play-off final at Wembley today and features two unlikely teams -- Luton Town and Coventry City.