Most people in England will tell you they are a fan of a Premier League club. This doesn’t exactly mean they are glory hunters; Premier League matches are broadcasted everywhere, and people tend to support the biggest teams in their area. Nonetheless, in a league filled with ridiculous amounts of money, the same teams are always dominating and there are regular VAR mistakes. It really makes you wonder why it’s regarded as the best league in the world, doesn’t it?
If you drop one level lower, this is where the Championship comes into play. Most fans know what it is, but not the magic it possesses and the weekly drama that goes on. In my own eyes and many alike, England’s second division has quietly emerged as one of the most unpredictable and demanding leagues in the world – and no, that’s not me saying that as a biased QPR fan. If you don’t agree with me, follow a Championship team for a year and we can then have a conversation.
In a league filled with 24 teams and 46 games played in a season, teams constantly have to rotate due to the physical demands of playing up to twice a week. This makes every match completely unpredictable and ultimately means the underdogs often prevail on matchdays. This might stress out some fans (including myself), but it makes a great watch as a neutral. The unpredictability of the league also means any team can get promoted or relegated.
Each team has their own style of play, but it always seems that when it comes to matchday, it’s all thrown away. Long throw-ins, direct play and counter attacks seem to come for free with each Championship club. There is no VAR, so there is no waiting five minutes for a decision, which makes the game far better flowing then any of the top leagues. If a referee decides on something, that’s final. #
Every club in the Championship has a strong fan base with love from every corner of the stadium. Teams aren’t as polished as Premier League sides but that’s what makes the Championship so great. Gritty derbies and passionate fans make it all that more exciting. If you haven’t gone to a Championship game, try and watch a local side and I can guarantee the start of your proper football experience.
