Showing 1 - 10 of 69
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.
Isak's long-drawn transfer saga a sign of the times
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 06/09/2025
» It is a relief for all football fans that the sorry saga of the Alexander Isak transfer from Newcastle to Liverpool has finally been resolved. Only time will tell who will benefit most although Isak's agent is no doubt sporting the biggest grin after the record £125 million transfer.
Queens of Europe: Hann and her pride revel in glory
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 02/08/2025
» The public enthusiasm which greeted the victory of England's Lionesses over world champions Spain in the women's Euro 2025 final in Switzerland last Sunday is an indication of just how far the women's game has progressed in recent years. The high standard of football throughout the tournament made it a pleasure to watch.
Mixed emotions on Ange's departure from Tottenham
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 14/06/2025
» There have been differing reactions to the departure of Ange Postecoglou as manager of Tottenham Hotspur. However, the reality was that winning the Europa trophy was not enough to disguise what had otherwise been a grim season with Spurs finishing 17th in the Premier League.
Hard road ahead for Leeds and Burnley
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 26/04/2025
» While the hectic Easter schedule resolved some key promotion and relegation issues in the English Football League there are plenty of teams that still don't know what division they will be in next season. It will all be sorted in the coming days whether by direct promotion, relegation or through gruelling playoffs.
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.
Blazing Red Dragons producing plenty of fire in League One
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 07/09/2024
» The early international break can be a bit irritating for Premier League fans but football still carries on in the lower leagues in England where there have been some interesting developments as the season unfolds.
Welsh Dragons enjoy red carpet welcome
Sports, Nobby Piles, Published on 27/07/2024
» For many clubs and their players pre-season tours can be bit of a chore, but you won't hear anyone from the Welsh club Wrexham complaining.