1897/98 Division 1 - Week 6
West Bromwich Albion vs. Walsall
Walsall have to be pretty happy with their start as after what was a pretty poor last season, the side are now in 4th and only a single point of top spot after 5 weeks. Their opponents this week are another West Midlands side in West Brom who sit in 14th but are currently clear of playoff danger. West Brom were the side to open scoring in the 13th minute but were met in the 39th as Walsall equalised. The match was very equal with both sides having even chances but it was West Brom who made theirs count, scoring in the 79th minute to take the win.
Derby County vs. Sunderland Albion
Both of these sides currently only have a single win and while Sunderland will be happy with their result so far, it has got to be hard not to be disappointed as a Derby fan after competing for the title last season. Derby fans will be happy with their display here, controlling the game and scoring in the 55th and 85th minutes for a fairly cruisy win.
Newton Heath vs. The Wednesday
A fairly average start to the season which is a better look for a Newton Heath side that has been expected to struggle than for a Wednesday side who after years of trying to push into the top group now look as if they have fallen away. The Wednesday were left frustrated after Newton Heath scored in the 11th minute and kept control of the ball for most of the match but never making any more chances. Wednesday meanwhile managed to create chances but failed to convert any, costing them another 2 points.
Liverpool vs. Crewe Alexandra
It was just over a year ago Crewe sent Liverpool down to Division Two in the playoffs, so for the side from Merseyside this is a good chance for some revenge, although that could prove difficult with Crewe having had a good start to the season so far. This one was frustrating watching. Really, really frustrating watching. Liverpool were in complete control of the match and absolutely should have won. Fortunately for Crewe however, the side seemed to be distinctly unaware of the goal's location and after 90 minutes of football, never found it, resulting in a draw Liverpool fans will hope to never hear about again.
Preston North End vs. Aston Villa
Preston need a win here as they are already 3 points away from safety, but their opponents Aston Villa are not an easy side who will definitely be looking to pick up some momentum after what is not a great start for the side who are usually found in the top 5. It's disappointment for Preston in the 61st minute as after being equally matched throughout the full game, Preston would go on to lose out by a single goal.
Middlesbrough Ironopolis vs. Darwen
Middlesbrough would be wanting to pick up a win here as they have 0 points in all their matches so far, but Darwen are one of the better sides this season who consistently have high scoring games, which could be really bad for the Irons who have not scored. A surprisingly low scoring game and Ironopolis put in a good effort, but it is not enough as Darwen score in the 68th minute and take their 6th straight loss.
Blackburn Rovers vs. Bootle
Bootle got off to a rough start this season, but these two sides are now potentially competing for the title, much like a few years ago. With both side just behind the league leaders, this could be an important match for both sides. Blackburn hit them early with an 8th minute goal, but Bootle were quick to equalise in the 25th. The reigning champions seem to lack their cutting edge this season and suffered a goal in the 83rd to give Blackburn the win.
Sheffield United vs. Woolwich Arsenal
Two sides who were once in the relegation battle are now looking to potentially be the best in the division with both having only lost one match so far this season. Even a draw would keep Arsenal top, but a win would put them clear at the top. It is a tight match-up, but one had that extra little bit of class, winning with an 80th minute goal and keeping themselves top of the league as Arsenal win once again.
Badges for the clubs have been decided, so I'm going to prep the voting lists and get those sent out. Over the next week I'll start announcing the first group of clubs admitted to the league. For those sent a list to choose from, you will have until Division 1 - Week 12 to pick your teams, which is when I'll start getting ready to announce those teams.
- DinoKea
The 32 applicant sides, with 9 spot currently available. I'll send through the full lists to the people, but this is a good teaser for those interested