Championship play-offs

Dan Neil Reveals the Hidden Influence of Chris Mepham in Sunderland’s Rise

May 16, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Dan Neil has hailed Chris Mepham as Sunderland’s unsung hero, praising the Bournemouth loanee for his immense contributions both on and off the pitch. Despite being ever-present throughout the regular season, Mepham was dropped for the play-offs following Dan Ballard’s return to fitness—a decision that proved decisive in Sunderland’s push for promotion. Still, Neil was quick to highlight Mepham’s professionalism and influence behind the scenes, calling him “an unbelievable character” who played a major role in uniting the squad. Whether it was offering advice, backing his teammates, or lifting spirits during away trips, Mepham’s impact extended well beyond the starting eleven.

Frank Lampard Hails Coventry as ‘Better Team’ — But His Surprise Message About Dan Ballard Steals the Spotlight

May 14, 2025 RAYMOND 0

“He was fantastic,” Frank Lampard said of Sunderland defender Dan Ballard, praising his commanding presence across both legs of the Championship play-off semi-final. “You could sense he was the one with real presence at the back.” Despite the heartbreak of Coventry’s defeat, Lampard expressed pride in his team’s performance, believing they were the better side overall. “We got back in the game and the feeling was we would go on and win it,” he reflected. “That’s football—it can be cruel in critical moments.”

Blades Tear Through History: Ruthless Sheffield United Crush Bristol City 3-0 (6-0 Agg) – Baldock Emerges as Key Figure in Play-Off Storm with Bigger Glory Beckoning

May 13, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Sheffield United’s march to Wembley was more than just a dominant display—it was a night steeped in history and emotion. Their 3-0 victory over Bristol City, sealing a 6-0 aggregate win, didn’t just book a place in the final; it matched the biggest winning margin in a two-legged English play-off tie, a record untouched since 1993. But as the final whistle blew at Bramall Lane, it wasn’t the scoreline or Wembley chants that filled the air—it was the name of George Baldock. The late wing-back’s memory overshadowed the moment of triumph, with supporters singing his name and players holding aloft a Greek flag in tribute. In a performance defined by composure and heart, the Blades not only made history—they honored it.

After Regis Le Bris Snubbed Coventry, Chris Rigg’s Stunning Reaction Leaves Sunderland Manager Speechless

May 13, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Despite the disappointment of being left out of the starting XI, 17-year-old Chris Rigg responded with maturity and determination that deeply impressed Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris. Having been a consistent presence all season, Rigg could have taken the decision personally — but instead, he embraced the team’s goals and made his mark when it mattered most. Introduced in the second half, it took him just 11 minutes to help tip the tie in Sunderland’s favour. Le Bris later praised both Rigg’s attitude and impact, calling his reaction “impressive” and highlighting the vital role such players play in a tightly contested play-off campaign.

Lampard’s Lions Hunt Redemption: Can They Break Sunderland’s Grip and Ignite a Comeback?

May 12, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Frank Lampard faces a pivotal night as he prepares Coventry City for a must-win clash at the Stadium of Light, aiming to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit against Sunderland. With tactical decisions under the spotlight, Lampard may turn to key figures like Ben Wilson, making a sentimental return to his boyhood club, and Ephron Mason-Clark, whose return from injury offers a potential spark. The big question remains whether Wright leads the line or shifts wide to accommodate other attacking options. One thing is certain: Coventry will need a bold performance to keep their Wembley dream alive.

Liam Manning Fires Warning to Liverpool as Bristol City Plot Dramatic Play-Off Revival Against Sheffield United

May 11, 2025 RAYMOND 0

“We’re definitely not down and out; that has to be the mindset of everybody,” Liam Manning declared ahead of Bristol City’s uphill second-leg clash against Sheffield United. Reflecting on famous football comebacks—from Liverpool’s unforgettable Champions League triumph in 2005 to Sheffield Wednesday’s play-off heroics—Manning has used these moments to fuel belief within his squad. Despite trailing 3-0 from the first leg and facing the challenge of overturning that deficit away from home, the City head coach remains defiant. “It’s only half-time,” he insisted. “They scored three in one leg—why can’t we?”

Hostility Reignited: Coventry City and Sunderland’s Fierce Rivalry Since ’77 Reaches Boiling Point as Bragging Rights Hang in the Balance

May 11, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Coventry City’s hopes of reaching Wembley hang in the balance as they head into Tuesday’s second leg of their Championship play-off semi-final against Sunderland trailing 2-1. A costly late mistake by Milan van Ewijk handed the Black Cats a crucial edge, but the Sky Blues remain defiant. With a storied rivalry dating back to 1977—fueled by controversy, resentment, and decades of tension—this clash is about more than just promotion. For Sunderland fans, it’s a chance to avenge the infamous final day of the 1976/77 season, while for Coventry, it’s an opportunity to overcome history and write a new chapter under Frank Lampard’s leadership.

Fuming Frank Lampard Warns ‘It’s Not Over’ as Sunderland Outsmarts Coventry in Tactical Showdown

May 10, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Coventry City face a daunting task in the second leg of their play-off semi-final after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Sunderland at the CBS Arena. Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, the Sky Blues were undone by a tactically disciplined Black Cats side who executed a low-block, counter-attacking game plan to perfection. A late defensive error sealed Coventry’s fate on the night, leaving manager Frank Lampard visibly frustrated but defiant in his post-match comments: “It’s not over.” The passionate home crowd created a stirring atmosphere, but familiar issues—missed chances and costly mistakes—once again threatened to derail City’s promotion hopes.

Showdown Set: Sunderland Ready to ‘Get Hammered’ in Explosive Play-Off Clash with Arch-Rivals Coventry

May 4, 2025 RAYMOND 0

Tension is running high in the North East as Sunderland prepare for a daunting play-off semi-final clash against long-time rivals Coventry City. After a string of poor results, Black Cats fans are bracing for the worst, with many predicting a heavy defeat. Coventry, who have proven a consistent thorn in Sunderland’s side, head into the tie with a psychological edge, having remained unbeaten in their last ten encounters. Despite their own recent dip in form, the Sky Blues’ dominant 3-0 win in March still looms large — a reminder of the challenge that awaits Sunderland. As frustration mounts, some supporters have gone as far as to call the club’s late-season collapse “embarrassing” and fear the play-off tie could be over after the first leg.

Clashing Fates: Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough Collide in a Finale of Drama, But Owls’ Bitter End Tells a Darker Tale Beyond Football

April 21, 2025 RAYMOND 0

As Middlesbrough chase a late surge into the Championship play-offs, all eyes will be on the off-pitch drama at Hillsborough this Easter Monday. While Boro find themselves reinvigorated by a dramatic last-gasp winner against Plymouth, Sheffield Wednesday’s season spirals into chaos. Manager Danny Rohl’s blunt assessment—that his players aren’t good enough for his style of football—has only deepened tensions between himself, chairman Dejphon Chansiri, and a divided fanbase. With Wednesday winless at home since New Year’s Day and sitting on the league’s worst post-January record, the narrative in Sheffield has shifted from football to survival—not on the pitch, but as a stable club.